Managing the world of international higher education can feel like an overwhelming task for students. With countless universities, programs, and countries to choose from, the decision-making process can feel daunting. Students must consider factors like academic reputation, cultural fit, language requirements, and financial implications. The need for expert guidance has never been more critical.
Meet Dr. Mariam Shaikh, a seasoned navigator of the educational world and founder of MS Education Consultants. With over 35 years of experience spanning from preschool ownership to senior leadership roles at prestigious international universities, she has emerged as a ray of hope for students seeking clarity in their educational journey.
Born in Mumbai and a long-time resident of the UAE, Mariam brings a unique East-meets-West perspective to the table. Her brainchild, MS Education Consultants, founded in 2020, is rapidly becoming the go-to resource for students and institutions alike, bridging gaps and opening doors in the competitive world of global education.
Her expertise in student recruitment, marketing, strategic development, and international relations has not gone unnoticed. In a significant milestone, MS Education Consultants was recently appointed as the official ‘Middle East Strategist’ for the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada—an example of the company’s growing influence and her visionary leadership.
As universities around the globe navigate shifting demographics and the challenges of digital transformation, her expertise is incredibly valuable. Her company goes beyond simply offering admissions guidance; it takes a comprehensive approach to education consulting that highlights the importance of experiential learning and career development.
In an era where the right education can be a passport to global opportunities, Dr. Mariam and MS Education Consultants stand ready to guide the next generation of learners. By demystifying the international education domain, they’re not just solving a problem—they’re shaping futures, one student at a time.
Let us learn more about her journey:
Vow to Empowerment and Leadership
Mariam is a strong advocate for active participation in public forums and the expansion of professional networks. Throughout her career in higher education, she has engaged in numerous conferences and served as a spokesperson for the sector on various news channels, both domestic and international.
Through these platforms, she has shared insights about the world-class educational facilities and programs available at international university campuses. Her role as a Brand Ambassador has taken her on extensive travels, both independently and with university delegations.
In addition to her professional endeavors, Mariam has held significant leadership positions. She has proudly served as the President of the Indian Ladies Association for multiple consecutive years and is an active member of the Canadian Business Council. Furthermore, she has been appointed as the International Advisor for the Youth Union Council of India and is involved with the UAE-Africa Initiative. As President of Education Leadership at the Commonwealth Entrepreneurs Club and the Country Ambassador for the World Women Leadership Congress 2022, Mariam continues to make her mark. She is also a member of the Indian Women in Dubai network and serves as a Youth Empowerment Mentor for the Entrepreneurship Cell at the prestigious IIT Mumbai.
A significant aspect of Mariam’s journey has been her dedication to mentorship and support for students, whom she views as the leaders of tomorrow. Passionate about empowering others, she strives to enhance her efforts in supporting women entrepreneurs. This commitment is realized through her involvement in various international entrepreneurship groups, where she serves as a board or advisory member. In these roles, she has the opportunity to mentor, advise, and share her experiences with women embarking on their entrepreneurial journeys.
Journey of MS Education Consultants
The driving force behind Mariam’s entrepreneurial venture, MS Education Consultants, was a profound commitment to student success. With a steadfast mission to support students in transforming their dreams into reality, she aimed to mentor them while maintaining focus on their career goals and aspirations.
Recently, Mariam received an Honorary Doctorate in Transformational Educational Leadership from Harvard-affiliated Mother Teresa University. This honor was awarded in recognition of her insightful study paper on international education opportunities for students worldwide, which aimed to guide them in developing their career goals through the best resources available globally.
Mariam’s landmark paper sought to establish educational affiliations worldwide, providing students with a comprehensive roadmap to achieve their dreams through her new venture in Dubai, MS Education Consultants—a name that aspires to be synonymous with excellence in education. Her vision is clear: to help students target their aspirations and strive to be the best in the world.
Having served as a senior leader at various universities across Canada and Dubai, Mariam embarked on her entrepreneurial journey with MS Education Consultants, continuing her mission of assisting students globally. Her passion lies in advising and mentoring students to make informed choices about their university education. She experiences the same excitement as her students when they reach their study destinations and achieve their career aspirations.
In January 2020, Mariam decided to retire from her role as Vice President of Amity University, Dubai, and return to Mumbai to manage her home and art gallery. However, the onset of the lockdown left her stranded in Mumbai for seven months. This challenging period, marked by restrictions and social disconnection, prompted her to reconsider retirement. With a renewed sense of purpose and ambition, she realized she was not ready to step away from her career; instead, she was inspired to pursue a new dream and set new goals.
Establishing her own company had always been a lifelong ambition for Mariam. Motivated by the belief that “it is never too late to set a new goal or dream a new dream,” she initiated the process of setting up MS Education Consultants from her desk in Mumbai, ultimately returning to Dubai, her home for 37 years, to reignite her passion.
At the core of MS Education Consultants is a commitment to providing a comprehensive solution for students applying to universities in the UK, US, Canada, Australia, Dubai, Europe, Malaysia, and India. The consultancy offers guidance through the application process, program selection, career perspectives, internship opportunities, housing assistance, visa support, and any other resources needed to ensure a smooth and enriching student journey. With over 35 years of experience leading international universities, Mariam and her team stand apart from other providers.
Beyond standard information on programs, rankings, and scholarships, the consultancy adopts a holistic approach, advising students on new programs, developing skills for university readiness, and preparing for the cultural adjustments of studying abroad. They emphasize the importance of soft skills, such as teamwork and resilience, alongside technical skills, while also focusing on mental health and well-being, serving as mentors and guides throughout the process.
Today’s students face a multitude of challenges, from academic pressures and family expectations to social media distractions and the transition to independence. Supporting them through this journey is crucial for their well-being. Purpose-driven guidance instills confidence and equips students to navigate university life successfully.
Mariam firmly believes in the transformative power of education and its role in shaping a better society for future generations. She advocates for international exposure and cultural integration as essential components of fostering a tolerant and progressive global community.
MS Education Consultants is dedicated to continuous innovation, offering new solutions, training programs, workshops on future career perspectives, and mentorship initiatives for aspiring young entrepreneurs.
One of Mariam’s latest initiatives is the launch of the Student Cultural and Higher Education Experience Program. In her previous role as Vice President of International Partnerships, she successfully established multiple MOUs with institutions in the US, Austria, India, and China to promote internationalization and cross-cultural student mobility. Notably, she was among the first to bring 120 Chinese students to study in Dubai.
The future of international mobility lies in blending physical and digital experiences to reach a broader range of students. While the number of internationally mobile students in higher education has increased, it still represents only 2.6% of the total global student population. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the potential of online learning innovations, demonstrating that student exchanges can adapt to global health and political challenges.
Now is the time to reimagine student mobility, ensuring that more students can benefit from international experiences in ways that consider both their well-being and the planet’s health. The creativity and innovation displayed during the pandemic must be harnessed to facilitate both physical and virtual student mobility, promoting greater cross-cultural awareness and skills.
MS Education Consultants encompasses several key areas of focus:
University Admissions
Through extensive experience with undergraduate and graduate applications, the consultancy offers student-centered guidance for admission into degree programs that align with students’ academic and vocational aspirations. They assist students in pursuing higher education across over 400 universities in the UAE, USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and Europe.
Education Consultancy
Promoting the United Arab Emirates as an educational hub, MS Education Consultants encourages the growth of educational institutions in new markets. They provide advice on new campus startups, student recruitment strategies, effective marketing budget utilization, and government accreditation, all aimed at enhancing student experiences.
Online Training
Through valuable partnerships, the consultancy facilitates training courses led by industry professionals to enhance skills and knowledge. They support the launch of innovative learning programs offered by leading providers, catering to both young and adult learners.
Acknowledging Challenges and Empowering Women in Business
Mariam has undoubtedly encountered numerous challenges throughout her professional career, from the uphill battles of achieving her goals to navigating fierce competition. She firmly believes that anyone who cultivates smart habits and maintains a positive “Can Do” attitude can achieve success. Mariam emphasizes the importance of being mindful, saying that even a few deliberate changes in behavior and mindset can yield significant rewards.
Throughout her journey, Mariam has faced many obstacles, each one serving to strengthen her resolve and shape her into the professional she is today. She is a determined individual who knows precisely what she wants, setting her sights on her goals and refusing to lose focus until they are achieved.
Women in business often grapple with a myriad of challenges, and for Mariam, one of the most significant was her transition from a senior professional role at a university to becoming an entrepreneur. The most striking adjustment she had to make was the absence of a regular salary at the end of each month. The entrepreneurial landscape demands constant vigilance and effort, often referred to as “hustling,” to generate necessary funds.
Many women feel pressured to adopt a stereotypically “male” demeanor in business—competitive, aggressive, and, at times, harsh. However, Mariam believes that true success as a female CEO lies in authenticity. She encourages women to remain true to themselves and to find their own voices, which is essential for overcoming preconceived expectations.
“Be yourself, and have confidence in who you are,” she advises. This transition can be daunting, as it marks a departure from the company identity one has been associated with for years. Fortunately for Mariam, the trust and expertise she accumulated over 35 years in the education sector served as invaluable assets, as she was already well-regarded for her achievements.
While not all startup founders seek investors to launch their businesses, those who do understand the challenges of the pitching process do. Raising capital can be particularly daunting for women-owned businesses. Although Mariam has not yet needed to pursue this avenue, she recognizes that as her business grows, she will need to be prepared to pitch effectively.
Mariam highlights the existence of women’s groups that provide coworking spaces for female entrepreneurs, fostering inspiration and support through funding and educational workshops. These initiatives are vital to empowering women in the business realm.
At some point, most women CEOs find themselves in male-dominated industries or workplaces that may not readily acknowledge their leadership roles. “As a female entrepreneur in a male-dominated industry, earning respect can be a struggle for many women,” she notes. Yet, Mariam considers her experience as a woman entrepreneur in Dubai to be a blessing.
The landscape of empowerment, entrepreneurship, and growth in Dubai is remarkable. With women holding two-thirds of public sector positions in the UAE and nearly a third of senior decision-making roles in the government sector, the evolving role of women in Dubai reflects the emirate’s rapid growth in recent decades. Contrary to popular misconceptions, Dubai stands at the forefront of female empowerment and entrepreneurship in the global business arena.
Balancing Work and Life
Stress and work pressure are universal experiences. Effectively managing these challenges is crucial for productivity, happiness, and overall well-being.
Approach to Pressure
Mariam approaches work pressure with a strong dedication to her responsibilities. As a self-proclaimed workaholic, she embraces the extra hours necessary to achieve excellence. With meticulous planning and organization, she structures her schedules well in advance, ensuring that she remains focused on her deliverables while balancing other demands on her time. Her passion fuels her relentless energy, allowing her to shine in her professional endeavors. Colleagues often refer to her as a “Glucose Shot,” as her enthusiasm radiates to those around her, contributing to her happiness.
Importance of Work-Life Balance
For Mariam, maintaining a healthy work-life balance is the cornerstone of her success and happiness. She is fortunate to have the unwavering support of her husband and children, who understand the time commitment her career demands. Collaborating with exceptional teams throughout her journey has also played a pivotal role in her achievements.
As a transformational leader, Mariam has cultivated a work environment where she can delegate tasks effectively, allowing her to manage her time optimally. She emphasizes the importance of planning and strategy, consistently prioritizing her tasks to ensure a productive week.
Striving for Harmony
In a society that often prioritizes work over personal well-being, Mariam recognizes the necessity of creating a harmonious work-life balance. This balance is not only vital for her physical, emotional, and mental health but also essential for her career advancement. A well-maintained balance leads to reduced stress, a lower risk of burnout, and an overall enhanced sense of well-being—benefits that extend to both employees and employers.
Mariam believes that achieving work-life balance involves flexibility. Some days may require longer hours, while others allow for personal pursuits. The key is to focus on realistic scheduling rather than perfection. Balance is a gradual process, not a daily expectation.
Prioritizing Health and Well-Being
While work is a significant part of life, it should not dominate it. Mariam emphasizes the importance of enjoying her work enough to look forward to each day. She advocates for prioritizing physical, emotional, and mental health through simple practices like daily meditation or exercise.
Mariam understands the value of unplugging from work. Taking breaks from the outside world is essential for recovery and creative thinking. Whether it’s a short staycation or an extended vacation, she recognizes the importance of time off to recharge both physically and mentally.
Nurturing Relationships
Mariam also stresses the importance of making time for loved ones. While her career is important, it should not overshadow personal relationships. She suggests creating a calendar for family and romantic dates to ensure quality time together, even amidst a busy schedule.
Setting boundaries is another crucial aspect of maintaining balance. Mariam encourages establishing clear work hours and separating personal time from work responsibilities. This might involve using different devices or accounts for work and personal matters, allowing for a clearer division between the two.
Those who successfully navigate the balance between work and life often cite the benefits of flexible work schedules. Recent research indicates that many employers have embraced this flexibility, allowing employees to tailor their work environments to better suit their lifestyles.
In a world that is always “on,” finding balance is a deeply personal journey. For Mariam, relaxation comes from spending quality time with her family, playing board games with her grandson, swimming, shopping, designing her own clothes, and networking with friends. In conclusion, Mariam’s story serves as a reminder that achieving a fulfilling work-life balance is attainable through dedication, strategic planning, and a commitment to personal well-being.
Managing Customer Trends
Each new year heralds a wave of evolving customer trends and expectations. Savvy business leaders recognize the importance of blending established insights with innovative strategies to connect with current and prospective customers, both in the present and in the future.
Marketing Philosophy
Mariam believes that effective marketing hinges on several key strategies. She emphasizes the importance of engaging with audiences on social media, distinguishing one’s brand through a commitment to excellence, and operating with a clear purpose and vision. Utilizing the right tools for search engine optimization (SEO) and digital marketing is essential for reaching target audiences.
Furthermore, Mariam values word-of-mouth referrals and client testimonials, noting that many of her clients come through recommendations. Networking within relevant groups provides valuable exposure, while active participation in industry conferences and workshops offers opportunities to showcase her business.
The Importance of Timely Outreach
Mariam advocates for timely outreach to capture customer interest at the beginning of the year, particularly through new and improved methods that align with the realities of the 2023 marketplace. She has found that operating as a purpose-driven company in a competitive market serves as a key differentiator and enhances brand consideration. Clients and candidates assess her company’s attributes against others, finding meaning in a commitment to addressing persistent issues. Leading with an inspiring purpose fosters meaningful connections.
Content Relevance and SEO
Relevant content tailored to address business needs consistently yields positive results. This year, search engines have significantly updated their algorithms, prioritizing relevance and quality in search results. Mariam focuses on the synergy between content, SEO, and search engine marketing as a central tenet of her strategy.
Nurturing New Mediums
Mariam makes it a priority to explore new mediums that may have been previously overlooked. She conducts analyses of past performance, reallocating budgets from underperforming events to test innovative approaches. For instance, with the rise of remote work, direct mail marketing has gained traction, proving more effective than ever. Additionally, she encourages researching top influencers in the industry to forge partnerships that can elevate brand visibility.
The Power of Timing
Timing is crucial in marketing. Generating buzz in anticipation of the new year, along with offering discount codes or limited-time promotions, can accelerate customer purchases.
Addressing Broader Consumer Demands
Mariam emphasizes the necessity of considering both the functional and emotional needs of customers. Increasingly, consumers seek social and environmental commitments from brands. Crafting value propositions that incorporate a cause or purpose not only meets customer demands but also enhances societal well-being. When communicated effectively, this approach can transform into a competitive advantage.
Understanding customers on a deeper level is essential. Demonstrating how solutions positively impact prospective clients fosters personal connections built on trust and purpose. Utilizing customer stories in various formats—such as videos, blogs, podcasts, and infographics—can significantly enhance sales. By refining messaging, improving offers, and nurturing brand growth, maintaining a strong share of voice becomes vital in developing a robust customer pipeline.
At the core of Mariam’s marketing strategy lies educational content. Producing valuable, search-optimized content—whether written, audio, video, or visual—is a critical initiative that companies should prioritize now to ensure readiness for the new year. Generating visits and leads through insightful content not only bolsters sales efforts but also drives new pipelines and fosters sales growth.
A Day in the Life of Mariam
Mariam embraces a flexible work schedule, believing in the importance of completing tasks rather than adhering to set hours. Her typical day begins with a meeting alongside her team members, where they collaboratively outline the week’s agenda. Together, they organize marketing materials and engage in communication with students and their parents through emails and WhatsApp, addressing any inquiries that arise.
Throughout her day, Mariam attends various events and holds one-on-one meetings. She also participates in regional meetings, connecting with representatives from other areas to exchange information about their respective territories and provide updates on applicant numbers and data analysis.
Despite her busy schedule, Mariam prioritizes her physical well-being. She makes a concerted effort to carve out an hour for the gym, recognizing that staying fit and energized is essential to managing her demanding work life.
Words of Wisdom
Maraiam’s advice to other Women Entrepreneurs is “Build something that you are passionate about. As an Entrepreneur, you have to have the passion and drive to stay the course.”
‘It is entirely up to us to challenge our boundaries, our comfort zones, and get out and see what else is out there in the world and what else is possible, and give ourselves a shot to go a little bit deeper, a little bit further!’
Celebrating Remarkable Achievements in Education and Leadership
In a remarkable display of dedication and excellence, the recipient of numerous prestigious awards has established herself as a leading figure in education and entrepreneurship. Her accolades include the GCC Woman Leadership Award in 2019, the Global Super Achiever Award in 2020, and the Lifetime Achievement Award in the same year. She was also honored with the Woman of Wonders Award and the Achievers Award in Entrepreneurial Venture in 2021, alongside the Excellence in Mental Health—World Health Award and the SHE Business Woman Award.
In 2021, she stood out as the only nominee from the UAE for the Outstanding Contribution to the Education Industry at the PIEoneer Awards. Her commitment to educational excellence was further recognized when she received the Global Excellence in Education Award from H.E. Sheikh Eng. Salem Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Civil Aviation in Ras Al Khaimah, and the Prestigious Fame Times International Excellence Award, supported by the World Book of Records, the UK, and the South Asian Chamber of Commerce.
Under the patronage of the Private Office of H.E. Sheikh Ahmed Bin Faisal Al-Qassimi, she was acknowledged for her Outstanding Contribution to the Education Industry in 2021. Her achievements continued to flourish with the Business Excellence Award in 2022, followed by recognition in the UAE WIM Top 50 Global Awards for Excellence in Education and the Indian Women Awards in the same category.
Culminating her extraordinary accomplishments, she was awarded the Entrepreneur Award at the Emirates Women Award 2022 by H.H. Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, further solidifying her status as a trailblazer in her field. Her journey exemplifies a commitment to excellence and a profound impact on education and women’s leadership.
Professional Affiliations
The individual is affiliated with several esteemed organizations that reflect a commitment to community, education, and entrepreneurship. These affiliations include:
- Student Safety UK: An organization dedicated to enhancing the safety and well-being of students across the UK.
- Commonwealth Entrepreneurs Club: A network that fosters collaboration and growth among entrepreneurs from Commonwealth nations.
- Ladies in Business Global Community Group: A supportive platform for women in business, promoting networking and empowerment on a global scale.
- UAE Africa Education Initiative: An initiative aimed at improving educational opportunities and resources in Africa.
- International Women Entrepreneurs Group: A community that connects and supports women entrepreneurs worldwide.
- World Education Community: An organization focused on advancing education and learning opportunities globally.
- Indian Women in Dubai Network: A network that empowers Indian women living in Dubai through professional and personal development.
- Social Media Networking Groups in UAE & GCC: Groups with a collective audience of over 50,000, dedicated to fostering connections and collaborations in the digital space.
- Youth Empowerment Mentor with IIT E-cell Mumbai, India: A mentorship role aimed at empowering young entrepreneurs through guidance and support.
- International Advisor for the Youth United Council of India: An advisory position that contributes to the development and empowerment of youth in India.
These affiliations illustrate a strong dedication to fostering growth, safety, and empowerment within various communities.
Passion for Refugee Education
Mariam collaborates closely with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to offer scholarships to student refugees. She firmly believes that education is a fundamental right for all children, regardless of their circumstances. Mariam understands that access to education can empower refugee children and youth to overcome the significant challenges they encounter.
For boys and girls who have been compelled to escape violence and persecution, the chance to pursue their studies represents a beacon of hope. It allows them to envision a brighter future and unlock their true potential. Through her initiatives, Mariam is dedicated to transforming the lives of these young individuals and fostering resilience in the face of adversity.
