Meet Juhaina Edres, a visionary entrepreneur who transformed her passion into thriving ventures in Dubai. From founding an e-commerce skincare company to establishing a dynamic community for female expats, Juhaina’s journey reflects determination, resilience, and a commitment to fostering genuine connections. Her ventures include freelance interior design projects and the empowering community, House of Sorority. Juhaina’s story is a testament to the transformative power of following one’s heart, seizing opportunities, and creating spaces where personal growth and shared success flourish.
1) Can you share more about your journey from studying interior design in the UK to becoming an entrepreneur in Dubai? What inspired this transition?
From the beginning, I’ve always had a dream of relocating to Dubai and establishing my very own business, be it in the field of interior design or any other area that truly ignites my passion. I firmly believe in taking charge of one’s own destiny and seizing every opportunity that comes your way. Dubai, in my eyes, stood out as the ideal destination that could turn my aspirations into a reality.
2) Leaving a successful career to pursue entrepreneurship is a bold move. What motivated you to take this step, and what challenges did you face during the transition?
Upon gaining firsthand experience working for someone else, it became very clear that it was not the path I was meant to follow. I felt confined, lacking the freedom to fully unleash my true passion. While some suggested that it might have been the specific company I worked for, deep down, I always knew my motivation lay in building something from scratch.
Embarking on this transition was not without its fair share of challenges. Financial concerns, the need to connect with the right individuals, and the fear of failure all loomed large. Nevertheless, I recognized that if I didn’t take the leap and give it my all, I would forever be haunted by regret.
It’s often said that with great risk comes great reward, and I firmly believe that to be true. By venturing into the unknown, I embraced the opportunity to carve my own path, pursue my passions, and ultimately find fulfillment in my entrepreneurial journey.
3) Managing three businesses simultaneously is no small feat. Could you tell us about each of your businesses and how you balance your time and efforts among them?
In 2020, amidst the COVID lockdown, I embarked on an entrepreneurial journey fueled by passion. Despite having no prior experience, I established an e-commerce skincare company called Jai & Co. Through extensive research, I began handcrafting a range of skincare products, including serums and body butters. I created a website, launched social media channels, and successfully sold products through my online platform. Additionally, I even opened a pop-up store in Boxpark Shoreditch.
Simultaneously, I managed to balance freelance interior design projects, initially focusing on designing boutique stores in London and Oman. However, recognizing the significant time commitment
required, I enlisted the help of a graphic designer and social media manager to handle Jai & Co’s
social channels. Observing their workflow, I realized that I could potentially offer similar services within the realm of interior design.
After careful consideration, I made the decision to shift my focus towards offering interior and graphic design services. This led to the closure of Jai & Co, allowing me to fully dedicate my efforts to design.
4) Relocating to a new country can be both exciting and challenging. How did your move to Dubai impact your entrepreneurial pursuits, and what opportunities did it bring to the table?
Relocating to a new country indeed brings a mix of excitement and challenges. In the case of Dubai, my move had a profound impact on my entrepreneurial pursuits. Dubai’s dynamic business landscape and entrepreneurial ecosystem presented a multitude of opportunities for me to explore and capitalize on.
Of course, challenges were also present, such as navigating cultural differences and adjusting to a new market. However, these challenges were outweighed by the numerous opportunities that Dubai offered, ultimately propelling my entrepreneurial pursuits to new heights.
In summary, my move to Dubai had a transformative impact on my entrepreneurial journey. It provided fertile ground for growth, access to diverse markets, and a supportive ecosystem that nurtured my ventures. The city’s unique blend of excitement and challenges fueled my determination to succeed, ultimately shaping my path as an entrepreneur.
5) House of Sorority sounds like a fantastic initiative for female expats. What inspired you to start this community, and what impact has it had on the lives of like-minded women in Dubai?
When I first moved to Dubai, I was filled with excitement and anticipation. But as the days turned into months, I found myself yearning for something more—genuine friendships. The kind that uplifts you, supports you and stands by you through thick and thin.
I had a vision of being part of a dependable community—a network of support that I could rely on for anything. I tried various apps, hoping to find this sense of connection and camaraderie. However, I found that the conversations often lacked depth and direction.
That’s when I realized the need for a platform like House of Sorority—a place where meaningful connections are made, where conversations lead to collaborations, and where every member is part of a supportive and empowering sisterhood.
The House of Sorority is more than just a network; it’s a sisterhood. It’s about having each other’s backs, celebrating our victories, big or small, and supporting each other through our struggles. It’s about empowering each other to be the best versions of ourselves.
My mission is simple: to create a community of like-minded women sharing the same journey of moving to a new country to build their dream lives. A community where every woman feels seen, heard, and valued. A community that embodies the essence of true friendship.
The community has become a source of inspiration, encouragement, and empowerment for our members. By creating a safe and inclusive space, House of Sorority has helped women navigate the challenges of living abroad, celebrate their achievements, and overcome obstacles together. It has become a catalyst for personal growth, self-discovery, and building lasting connections.
6) As a successful entrepreneur and the founder of House of Sorority, what advice would you give to aspiring female entrepreneurs looking to start their own businesses or communities?
Just start! Although daunting at first, it’s a beautiful and rewarding journey that you will never regret
taking.
7) Can you share a memorable experience or achievement from your journey that has been particularly meaningful to you, both personally and professionally?
Starting my own business was huge, but the real game-changer was when I followed my dream and moved to Dubai. It wasn’t just a personal win; it seriously upped my business game within the first year, turning it into a super exciting chapter of my adventure.
8) Your commitment to personal growth and helping others is evident. How do you continue to evolve as an entrepreneur and inspire others within your network?
By staying open to new ideas and approaches and designating strong leadership.
9) In your opinion, how can the intersection of passion, determination, and a desire for connection drive individuals to achieve their goals and make a positive impact in their communities?
Passion fuels purpose, determination pushes through obstacles, and a desire for connection builds networks of support, creating a powerful synergy that not only propels you toward your goals but also fosters a supportive community that thrives on shared success.
10) Looking ahead, what are your future goals and aspirations, both in your entrepreneurial endeavors and in your work with House of Sorority?
I’m all in with House of Sorority, my most successful venture yet, not just in metrics but in fulfilling my creative passions and being able to help other people. This business blends all my loves into one. My entrepreneurial journey has equipped me with the skills to make this a success. I’ve found my true calling in bringing joy to others and pursuing my passions wholeheartedly. My future goal is to make House of Sorority the go-to community for finding genuine friendships in Dubai.