Could you introduce yourself to our members?
Hello! I’m Nada Al Balushi, founder of Muscat Veterinary Center and Muscat Grooming Center in Oman. I’m a licensed veterinary technologist or ‘vet tech’. In case you’re not familiar with this qualification, it originates in the US and bears similarities to a RVN role. I’m also a certified veterinary business leader.
I’m passionate about reshaping the veterinary sector through advocacy, education and community engagement.
Could you tell us a little bit about the Muscat Veterinary Center – and your role?
Our clinic is one of the leading veterinary practices in Oman and we’re known for our ethical stance, excellent clinical care and client-focused service. We’re committed to promoting responsible pet ownership, raising awareness through educational activities for children from nursery age right up to university. We also run programmes to increase understanding of animal welfare and about caring for stray animals in Oman.
In my role, I oversee day to day operations and am responsible for business development, strategic collaborations and community outreach.
Could you tell us a little about how your career has progressed and what this has taught you about leadership in the profession?
I started out in academia at Sultan Qaboos University’s veterinary histopathology lab, transitioned into a clinical role and eventually stepped into business leadership and entrepreneurship.
Along the way, I realised that leadership in our field extends well beyond running a veterinary business. It’s about inspiring teams and leading with purpose.
I enjoy mentoring veterinary students and helping them grow in confidence and capability. Leadership has taught me that investing in people is just as important as investing in practice infrastructure.
Any high points in terms of your career (so far!) that you would like to share or challenges overcome?
Founding Muscat Veterinary Center and watching it grow into a respected practice has been one of my proudest achievements.
Earlier this year, I received the Animal Advocate of the Year Award at the Fluxx Awards in Hong Kong. These Awards recognise business pioneers, healthcare leaders and changemakers. And, in 2024, I was recognised as one of the Top Ten Female Leaders and Innovators by global platform Entrepreneur Media.
More recently, being invited to serve on the WSAVA Advocacy Committee is further recognition of my long-standing commitment to shaping animal welfare policy.
A challenge I overcame was pushing through cultural barriers and stereotypes around pet ownership and female leadership in Oman. Here, animals are often misunderstood and undervalued so I’ve worked to change perceptions – showing they are sentient beings, feeling joy, pain and fear just like us.
Through workshops, awareness campaigns, and dialogue, I’ve challenged both outdated views on animal welfare and the biases I faced as a woman in leadership. Today, I speak with confidence, backing my voice with knowledge, empathy, and experience – no matter who’s in the room
Facing this challenge has shaped me into a more compassionate and determined leader.
You recently participated in the VMG’s first ShareSPACE session. What did you find most valuable?
ShareSPACE was energising and validating. I found so much value in the honest, open dialogue on offer. Being able to share real challenges and hear how others navigate them was very empowering. It reminded me that we are all in this together.
Did you attend this year’s VMG Congress? If so, again, what did you most enjoy about it? It’s great to hear you’re hoping to join us again next year!
I attended VMG Congress in April 2024 – it was fantastic. I wasn’t even a VMG member at the time and knew no one. I’d found out about it while researching veterinary leadership opportunities worldwide and decided to attend by myself. I was intrigued, a little shy, and unsure what to expect.
Once there, I was welcomed with warmth and kindness. I had fantastic conversations, exchanged ideas and met inspiring people. The sessions were thought-provoking, and I gained insights into UK-based organisations and businesses supporting the veterinary profession.
It was such an enriching professional experience, I can’t wait to attend again next year!
Do you have any advice for veterinary leaders or aspiring leaders considering joining the VMG or getting involved with its initiatives?
Be prepared to step out of your comfort zone. Say yes to opportunities, engage with your team and don’t be afraid to ask for help or support.
Leadership can feel lonely at times, but caring for those who care is one of the most fulfilling parts of the journey. VMG offers a community where your voice matters and where you’ll find both inspiration and genuine connection.
