Embracing the Power of Connection: Sheikha Al-Otaibi’s Journey
The Relentless Pursuit of Passion
Meet Sheikha Al-Otaibi ’25, a dynamic force fueled by one core passion: the art of cold-calling. Unlike most, Sheikha revels in those crucial moments of connection, where words transform strangers into allies. "If you ask me to talk, I am going to talk," she shares with infectious enthusiasm.
From Fashion Dreams to Entrepreneurial Ventures
Initially, Sheikha arrived at Babson College with aspirations anchored in the fashion industry. Guided by her natural gift for [networking](https://entrepreneurship.babson.edu/networking-in-five-steps/)*, she scouted valuable internships in fashion marketing and [supply chain](https://entrepreneurship.babson.edu/career-in-retail/)*. Fast forward to her second summer, and she found herself interning at Jimmy Choo, a renowned fashion powerhouse. Yet, the reality deviated sharply from her dreams.
"I was quite shocked. I thought, ‘I don’t know if this is for me,’" reflects Sheikha. The glamour and dazzle of the fashion world faded in the light of spreadsheets and data analysis—an unexpected discomfort for someone who thrives in conversation.
A Pivot Towards Clarity
Just when doubts began to creep in, fate intervened at a networking event alongside friend Sebastian Paredes ’23. With her customary charm and conversational prowess, Sheikha secured one of their first clients for a staffing venture. "By just talking to them," she notes, marking a significant turning point. This encounter reignited her passion for connection and ushered in a new entrepreneurial dream.
A Rising Star in Staffing
Enter Interlix Staffing, a venture dedicated to connecting businesses with remote talent from Latin America. As a co-founder, Sheikha’s efforts landed her a spot in [Forbes](https://www.forbes.com/sites/robertreiss/2024/01/17/the-one-practice-great-entrepreneurs-have-in-common/)*, a proud feather in her cap.
Looking ahead, she aims to not only grow Interlix but also to utilize her experiences through Babson’s [Summer Venture Program](https://www.babson.edu/entrepreneurship-center/startup-acceleration/summer-venture-program/)*. As a passionate content creator on [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheikha-al-otaibi/)*, her videos impart wisdom and encouragement to aspiring female founders, revealing the raw essence of entrepreneurship, including tips on cold-calling potential clients.
Reflecting on Her Roots
Al-Otaibi’s journey began in Boston, with transitional experiences in Saudi Arabia before settling in Southern New Jersey. She recalls her childhood entrepreneurial spirit, selling paper flowers outside local businesses. "I realized I was always searching for my thing," she reflects. Despite her initial misalignment with the fashion industry, she discovered that her true passion lies in connecting with people and understanding their motivations.
Finding Community at Babson
Two days before her freshman year, Sheikha secured a role at the Babson Phonathon, cementing her growth in sales and networking. "It felt like home," she recalls, and this environment propelled her to become a scholar in the [Green Leadership Program](https://entrepreneurship.babson.edu/len-green-ultimate-entrepreneur/)*. Guided by mentor Professor Len Green, her leadership blossomed through various opportunities, including acting as a teaching assistant for classes focused on entrepreneurial innovation.
Gratitude flows from her as she reflects on her supportive community at Babson. The network of professors, friends, and alumni made her journey not just manageable but overwhelmingly empowering. With the Babson Globe—a symbol of global unity—serving as her favorite campus oasis, she embraces her dual-cultural identity: "I am proud of my name, half-Saudi Arabian and half-American," she asserts, refusing to hide her story.
A Remarkable Graduation Ahead
As Sheikha prepares to grace the stage as the Commencement speaker for her class, memories of her internship at Jimmy Choo linger in her mind. While the fashion ambitions shifted, her growth journey stands untainted. “I got to do my dream job because of Babson and what I’ve learned here," she expresses, recalling the initial fears of being a first-generation student.
With her sights set on the future, Al-Otaibi recognizes the one vital lesson she learned: to sell herself. This journey epitomizes the power of connection—a reminder that sometimes, all you need is to have the confidence to share your story.
If you’re intrigued by Sheikha’s journey and want to explore more about the impact of networking and entrepreneurship at Babson, discover Babson’s offerings and join a community fostering innovation and success.
