An In-Depth Interview with Wasan AlMalki, Founder of Al Brashdi& AL Malki Trading LLC

Welcome to our exclusive interview with WasanBadar Al Malki, an inspiring entrepreneur from the Sultanate of Oman. In this interview, we delve into Wasan's journey, her business ventures, and the innovative concepts she's introduced to the market. Wasan's story is one of resilience, creativity, and dedication to her family and business. 

Join us as we explore her path from a multifaceted career to becoming the founder of Thy Yard Park, where she pioneered groundbreaking initiatives such as BMTel in the telecommunications field. Despite facing challenges, including the impact of Covid-19, Wasan's determination has propelled her forward, positioning her brands as notable players in Oman's business landscape. 

Through this interview, you'll gain insights into Wasan's vision for her company's growth, her strategies for fostering teamwork and innovation, and the unique challenges she faces as a female CEO in the business world. Dive into Wasan's story and discover the inspiration and dedication behind her success.

A Journey of Passion and Dedication

Tell us something about you, your early life and education?

WasanBadar Al Malki, a native of the Sultanate of Oman, embodies the essence of a dedicated mother, a supportive wife, a loving daughter, and an inspiring sister. With a rich background in various fields and experiences, including Marketing, Customer Services, Human Resources, Supply Chain, and ICV, her journey has been one of diverse learning and growth.

"I am a mother of two wonderful boys, a wife to a supportive husband, a daughter of inspiring parents, and the eldest sister of 3 amazing siblings," says Wasan, painting a picture of her familial bonds as the foundation of her life. "My career journey has been quite dynamic. I've had the opportunity to explore different fields, each teaching me valuable lessons."

After six years of navigating through various specialties, Wasan made a pivotal decision—to transition from a stable job to entrepreneurship, driven by a desire to build a legacy for her family while making cherished memories with them. "Leaving a stable job wasn't easy, but I was driven by the vision of creating something meaningful for my family and myself," she shares.

Graduating from London's Greenwich University with a solid background in International Supply Chain and Purchasing, Wasan embarked on her entrepreneurial journey with determination and a visionary mindset. "Personal development, family, and business expansion are the cornerstones of my life," she emphasizes. "I strive to inspire others by being positive and maintaining an unwavering dedication to my goals."

Beyond her professional pursuits, Wasan finds joy in exploring the world, extending a helping hand to those in need, and indulging in literature. Her multifaceted interests reflect her holistic approach to life, where personal growth and societal contribution go hand in hand.

Tell us about the business and its presence in the target market?

In 2018, Wasan and her husband embarked on a bold entrepreneurial journey, launching Al Brashdi& Al Malki Trading LLC. The company, operating in three distinct sectors—Thy Yard Container Parks, Telecommunications, and supplying and customizing containers—has rapidly made its mark in Oman's business landscape.

"We established our company with a vision to innovate and make a positive impact," Wasan explains. "Our flagship initiative, Thy Yard Container Parks, has been instrumental in shaping our presence in the market." Despite facing the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic during their launch, Wasan and her team persevered, determined to realize their vision.

"The pandemic presented significant hurdles, but we refused to be deterred," she says. "We worked tirelessly to position Thy Yard as a notable brand recognized for its innovative concept and support for SMEs." The result of their perseverance was the unveiling of Oman's trailblazing brand, Thy Yard Park, in 2021—a testament to their dedication and resilience.

"Thy Yard Container Parks represent more than just physical spaces," Wasan emphasizes. "They are vibrant hubs of activity, fostering entrepreneurship, creativity, and community engagement." Through their innovative concept, Thy Yard has become a beacon of hope for small and medium-sized enterprises, providing them with a platform to thrive even in challenging times.

"Our journey wasn't without its challenges, but every obstacle only strengthened our resolve," Wasan reflects. "Today, Thy Yard stands as a testament to our commitment to innovation and our belief in the power of entrepreneurship to drive positive change."

Future Ventures and Growth Plans

What are some of the growth and expansion plans you have in your pipeline?

In 2021, Al Brashdi& Al Malki Trading LLC marked a significant milestone with the launch of their first brand, Thy Yard Park, in the Sultanate of Oman. Despite facing numerous challenges and years of hurdles in obtaining approvals, Wasan and her team succeeded in bringing their innovative concept to life.

"Launching Thy Yard Park was a journey filled with obstacles, but we never wavered in our determination," Wasan recalls. "As the first Omanis to embark on such a project, the road was far from easy. But as they say, 'Who said women can't do it all?'"

Their perseverance paid off, as Thy Yard Park quickly gained traction in the Sultanate of Oman, attracting visitors from all around. "The response to Thy Yard Park was overwhelming," Wasan says proudly. "It validated our belief in the concept and fueled our ambition for further expansion."

Fast forward two years, and Al Brashdi& Al Malki Trading LLC is poised for even greater heights. "We are currently in the process of franchising the Thy Yard brand, with a vision for global expansion," Wasan reveals. "Additionally, in 2021, we ventured into the telecommunications field with the launch of our second brand, BMTel."

Collaborating with major telecom companies such as Ericsson and Motorola, BMTel aims to revolutionize the telecommunications landscape in Oman and beyond. "Our company is driven by a clear mission and vision," Wasan emphasizes.

"Our mission is to establish a strong foundation of long-lasting relationships with stakeholders and shape the future of entertainment and dining," she explains. "We are committed to providing platforms for showcasing community potential and nurturing entrepreneurial spirit through innovative ideas and concepts."

"Our vision is to impart sustainable and quality services to the community," Wasan continues. "We strive for matchless consistent services for everyone, every day, redefining social life with experiences and tireless efforts."

"The journey began with the Thy Yard project in Muscat, a one-of-its-kind and refreshing concept," Wasan concludes. "And we continue to innovate and lead in our industry, driven by our passion for making a difference."

How has the year been for your company?

"In any business, there are always ups and downs," acknowledges WasanBadar Al Malki. "But we've learned to navigate through them with careful planning and resilience."

Al Brashdi and Al Malki Trading have weathered the storms of the business world by ensuring they have robust risk mitigation plans, conducting thorough financial forecasting, and analyzing market and economic trends. "These strategies have been crucial in helping us overcome challenges and capitalize on opportunities," Wasan explains.

"This year, we've seen significant success, particularly in relation to our Container Park concept," she continues. "We've witnessed growth and a positive reception in the market, which has fueled our motivation to expand further."

The responses from customers and stakeholders have been encouraging, driving the company's confidence in its direction. "In the telecommunications sector, we are collaborating with many major companies, delivering high-end quality projects on time," Wasan adds. "We've recently secured multiple contracts to implement creative and innovative container parks in Oman."

Reflecting on the year's achievements, Wasan expresses excitement about the future prospects for their business. "Despite the challenges, we remain optimistic and focused on delivering excellence in all our endeavors," she concludes.

Innovation and Adapting to the Market

What does your business offer as per the current competitive market?

"In the current competitive market, Al Brashdi and Al Malki Trading offer a diverse range of services tailored to meet the evolving needs of our customers," explains WasanBadar Al Malki.

"Our portfolio includes the innovative Container Park concept, telecommunication services, and supplying containers," she elaborates. "These offerings cater to different sectors, ensuring that we stay competitive and relevant."

One of the flagship offerings, the Container Park concept, goes beyond just providing container spaces. "In Thy Yard, it's not just a container park; we're creating a community-based hub," Wasan emphasizes. "Here, we support, encourage, and empower SMEs, providing them with the necessary tools to grow."

Through Thy Yard, Al Brashdi and Al Malki Trading are fostering an ecosystem where small and medium-sized enterprises can thrive. "We actively market their businesses and provide them with the resources they need to succeed," says Wasan. "It's about creating a supportive environment where businesses can flourish."

In a competitive market where innovation is key, Al Brashdi and Al Malki Trading stand out by offering unique solutions that address the diverse needs of their customers.

What measures do you think employees and organizations can take to build effective teamwork and unity?

Building effective teamwork and unity within an organization is crucial for success. Some measures that we apply in our organizations can that foster a collaborative and cohesive environment:

● Clear Communication: We encourage open and transparent communication channels among team members to ensure everyone is informed and aligned.
● Establish Common Goals: Company goals are well defined and communicated clear that everyone can work towards collectively, fostering a sense of purpose and unity.
● Promote Trust and Respect: Cultivate a culture of trust and mutual respect among team members, allowing for open dialogue and constructive feedback.
● Encourage Collaboration: We create opportunities for collaboration through team projects, brainstorming sessions, and cross-departmental initiatives to promote teamwork.
● Provide Training and Development: We Invest in training programs that enhance team members' skills and promote professional growth, increasing their confidence and contribution to the team.
● Recognize and Appreciate: Acknowledge and appreciate the efforts of team members, fostering a positive work environment and boosting morale.
● Celebrate Successes Together: Acknowledge and celebrate team achievements to boost morale, motivation, and a sense of unity.

Embracing Innovation for Future Growth    

Tell us about the company’s focus and investment in research and innovation

At Al Brashdi and Al Malki Trading, our company places a strong focus on research and innovation to stay at the forefront of the industry. We are dedicated to exploring new ideas, technologies, and trends that can enhance our products and services.

Our investment in research and innovation is evident in our dedication to staying updated with the latest market trends, consumer preferences, and technological advancements. We actively seek opportunities to collaborate with industry experts, conduct market research, and invest in cutting-edge technologies that can drive our business forward, we are in the process of introducing a new experience with Container running by AI system . Creating concepts where people can enter the containers and have a VR experience related to Oman Tourism or Investment in Oman.

By prioritizing research and innovation, we aim to not only meet the current needs of our customers but also anticipate future demands and stay ahead of the competition. Our commitment to continuous improvement and creative thinking underscores our belief in the value of innovation as a driver of growth and success.

Who made it possible?    

When building my business, I drew inspiration and support from various sources. My parents provided guidance and motivation, instilling in me a strong work ethic. My spouse offered unwavering encouragement and belief in our vision. Friends and family stood by us, offering their support and cheering us on through every challenge. 

Their collective support was instrumental in our success and growth. When we went to our friends and family and told them about the concept, Our parents, close family and friends supported us through the way. My Mother and Father are always there to support and I would like to give them a special thank you because if it wasn’t for them,  this wouldn’t have been possible. I hope one day I can return half of what they gave us.

What are some of the challenges you face regarding catalyzing innovation? and being female CEO in business?

As a female CEO, I have faced unique challenges in catalyzing innovation. One challenge is overcoming gender biases that can sometimes overshadow my ideas and contributions. Additionally, there may be limited access to networks and resources crucial for fostering innovation. It is essential to navigate these barriers by advocating for diversity and inclusion, building strong partnerships, and continuously leveraging my strengths and expertise to drive innovation within the company.

Building strong partnerships as a female CEO to drive innovation involves several key strategies:

● Networking: I had actively participate in industry events, conferences, and networking groups to connect with potential partners and collaborators. Building a strong professional network can lead to valuable partnerships for innovation.
● Seek Out Diversity: Look for partners who bring diverse perspectives, skills, and backgrounds to the table. Embracing diversity in partnerships can lead to more innovative ideas and solutions.
● Mutual Benefits: Ensure that partnerships are mutually beneficial, with clear goals and expectations outlined from the start. Both parties should see the value and potential for innovation in the partnership.
● Transparency and Trust: Build partnerships based on transparency, trust, and mutual respect. Clear communication and trust are essential for fostering successful collaborative innovation efforts.
●Embrace Risk-taking: Encourage a culture of experimentation and risk-taking within partnerships. Innovation often requires stepping outside of comfort zones and taking calculated risks to drive meaningful change.

Any tips for startups looking to get onto the similar pathway?

For startups looking to embark on a similar pathway of focusing on research and innovation, here are some valuable tips to consider:

● Define Your Vision and Mission: Clearly define your company's vision and mission, outlining your long-term goals and objectives in the innovative space you want to explore.
● Embrace a Culture of Innovation: Foster a culture that values creativity, experimentation, and out-of-the-box thinking. Encourage employees to share ideas and take calculated risks to drive innovation. 
● Invest in Research: Allocate resources to research market trends, consumer behavior, and emerging technologies that can inspire innovative solutions and products.
● Build Strategic Partnerships: Collaborate with industry experts, academic institutions, and research organizations to leverage their expertise, resources, and networks for innovation.
● Stay Agile and Adaptive: Remain flexible and responsive to changing market dynamics and adapt quickly to new opportunities and challenges.
● Encourage Continuous Learning: Promote a learning culture where employees are encouraged to upskill, stay updated with industry trends, and participate in training programs to enhance their innovative capabilities.
● Seek Customer Feedback: Listen to customer feedback and incorporate their insights into your innovation process to ensure that your offerings meet their needs and expectations.
● Protect Intellectual Property: Safeguard your innovative ideas and inventions through patents, trademarks, or copyrights to maintain a competitive edge in the market.
● Monitor Competitors: Stay informed about your competitors' activities and innovations to identify gaps in the market and differentiate your offerings.
● Celebrate Successes and Learn from Failures: Acknowledge and celebrate successful innovations while also learning from failures to continually improve and iterate on your ideas.

By following these tips and committing to a strategic approach to research and innovation, startups can position themselves for success in a competitive and dynamic business landscape. Embracing a culture of creativity, learning, and forward-thinking can set the foundation for sustainable growth and differentiation in the marketplace.

In conclusion, WasanBadar Al Malki's journey exemplifies the power of determination, innovation, and unwavering dedication to her dreams. From navigating diverse career paths to founding her own company, Wasan has proven that with passion and hard work, anything is possible. 

As she continues to expand her business and introduce pioneering concepts to the market, we invite you to connect with WasanAlMalki on LinkedIn to stay updated on her latest endeavours. Follow her journey, gain insights into entrepreneurship, and be inspired by her commitment to excellence. Together, let's celebrate the achievements of this remarkable entrepreneur and join her in shaping the future of business. Connect with Wasan on LinkedIn today and embark on a journey of growth and inspiration.

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