2025 will always stand out to me as the year of community.
Not just in scale or visibility — but in depth, intention, and purpose.
This was a year defined by connection. By building spaces where people felt seen, supported, and challenged to grow. A year of leading, mentoring, and shaping communities that go beyond transactions and evolve into ecosystems of belonging.
As a Community & Membership Expert based in Dubai, my work across the MENA region has always centered on one belief:
👉 Community is not a nice-to-have. It’s a strategic growth engine when built with care.
Scaling Communities with Intention
One of the most defining chapters of 2025 was continuing to scale the WE Global Network, a global community supporting women in business. What made this experience powerful wasn’t just growth in numbers, but clarity in purpose — connecting women with structure, care, and opportunities that truly mattered.
This year also marked the launch of the Led By Community – Dubai Chapter, where I partnered with global leaders to shape a thriving hub for community professionals in the region. Together, we cultivated an ecosystem rooted in learning, shared leadership, and meaningful connection — a space where community builders could grow alongside one another.
These experiences reinforced what I see repeatedly in my work across Dubai and the MENA region:
Strong communities are designed, not improvised.
From Behind the Scenes to the Stage
2025 also stretched me beyond my comfort zone — and onto more stages.
From speaking at WE Global Network events, to stepping onto my first virtual global stage at The Loop – 24Hr Global Community Summit, and later addressing regional audiences at The Mining Show and Conversations That Count with Mission Visible, each experience strengthened my conviction in community-led leadership.
The stage was never the goal.
It was the outcome of years spent doing the work — building credibility through contribution, consistency, and care.
The Quiet Wins That Matter Most
Beyond the visible milestones were the quieter, steadier wins — walking alongside founders, leaders, and community builders as they navigated uncertainty, growth, and clarity.
One journey that stayed with me deeply this year was working with Marina Dsouza to bring the Connecting Minds Community to life. What began as conversations evolved into a purpose-driven ecosystem. Supporting her in shaping vision, defining pillars, and watching the community unfold exactly as intended reminded me why I do this work.
At some point, I wasn’t just advising — I became part of a team that felt like home.
The Lesson I’m Carrying Into 2026
If there’s one truth I’m taking forward, it’s this:
The power of community isn’t in the size of the crowd — it’s in the depth of connection.
Micro-communities and intentional spaces are rising for a reason. Real transformation happens when you focus on helping one member succeed. The ripple effect always follows.
This year also taught me how to receive recognition without deflection.
Instead of saying “I haven’t done enough,” I now say thank you — with gratitude and grounded confidence.
Because impact doesn’t need to be loud to be real.
Resilience, Faith, and Moving Forward
Challenges showed up, as they always do. Falling down is part of the journey. What matters is how quickly you stand back up.
One mantra grounded me throughout the year:
No one is coming to save me.
Alongside the words of my dear friend Nancy, which stayed with me deeply:
“You are very resilient, Anjum. I know you will do it.”
As I step into what’s next, I’m holding close to the power of كُن (KUN — Be):
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Be intentional
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Be brave
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Invest in growth and peace
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Let go of what no longer serves
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Continue creating spaces where people belong, grow, and transform
Because the truth about community is this:
Some communities last a lifetime.
Some serve us for a season.
But every connection matters.
Let’s Continue the Conversation
What role has community played in your life this year?
If you’re building, leading, or rethinking a community in Dubai, the UAE, or across the MENA region, I’d love to connect.
