Nasreen Shiraz, Executive Director, Transteel
Emotional Intelligence, Compass In Navigating Challenges & Guiding Team
As the Director of Transteel, I’ve had the privilege of seeing firsthand how qualities often associated with women—like emotional intelligence, empathy, and effective communication—play a pivotal role in shaping strong, successful leadership. These qualities, often overlooked in traditional views of leadership, are essential not just for building positive relationships but for driving the growth and success of the organization. In my journey from starting as a home marker to now leading operations, emotional intelligence has been my compass in navigating challenges and guiding my team. EQ allows me to understand my own emotions and those of others, which is critical for building trust and fostering a collaborative, supportive work environment. This leads to stronger teamwork, higher employee morale, and a more resilient company culture—key factors in scaling and sustaining success.
Leaning on Organization, A Systematic Approach To Problem-Solving, & Ability To Adapt
Joining Transteel, the challenge of changing long-held mindsets was daunting, but I saw it as an exciting opportunity. Rather than allowing the challenges that come with being a woman in a male-dominated industry to hold me back, I chose to embrace them as a catalyst for change.
The key qualities that have propelled my success are organization, a systematic approach to problem-solving, and an ability to adapt. These qualities allowed me to bring a fresh perspective to the business, ultimately driving significant improvements in our operations. By introducing streamlined processes, fostering a culture of continuous learning, and being adaptable to the evolving market demands, I was able to make a real impact. What initially seemed like an uphill battle became an empowering journey, not just for me but for the entire team. We learned to embrace change and create a work environment that values both innovation and tradition, ultimately leading to growth and success for Transteel. I am happy to say that now, we have 2 women in leadership roles in Transteel and I am honoured to foster this change.
Advice For Aspiring Women Leaders
My advice to anyone feeling uncertain or hesitant is simple: It’s never too late to make a change. You’ll never know if you’re capable of something new or if you’ll even enjoy it unless you take that first step. Life is about taking risks, making mistakes, and then having the courage to pick yourself back up and keep going. Embrace the opportunities that come your way, live freely, and remember that growth often comes from stepping out of your comfort zone.
