Breaking Barriers, Building Futures: How Nihal Al-Saleh Is Redefining Inclusion Through Life Skills Hub

In an era where inclusion is becoming a societal imperative rather than a moral option, Nihal Al-Saleh, founder of Life Skills Hub (LSH), is reshaping what it means to empower individuals of all abilities. Under her leadership, the Qatar-based social enterprise has grown into a thriving community space where people with special needs build confidence, independence, and meaningful connections.

Nihal’s mission began at home. Her son, who is on the autism spectrum, and her typically developing daughter were among the first to join LSH’s programs. What started as a personal search for a more inclusive environment for her children evolved into a purpose-driven career.

“I wanted my children to grow up understanding inclusion not as a concept, but as a lived experience,” she shares. Her son’s newfound confidence and her daughter’s early empathy became the spark that opened her eyes to a larger systemic gap—a missing link between therapy, school environments, and real social development.

Conversations with co-founders Mika Permenter and Nicole Alexander turned this realization into action. Together, they helped shape Life Skills Hub into a social enterprise grounded in community, belonging, and practical skill-building.

A Hub for Independence

LSH’s programs prioritize social, communication, daily living, and vocational skills. As learners grow, they transition into training that prepares them for independent adulthood and participation in the workforce. Accredited specialists and volunteers work side by side to ensure each individual is supported holistically.

“The most powerful change is seeing society recognize the potential that has always been there,” Nihal notes. “These individuals aren’t just being included—they’re contributing.”

Challenging Barriers to Employment

One of her most urgent goals is dismantling the structural and attitudinal obstacles that prevent people with special needs from accessing meaningful work. She pushes companies and policymakers to rethink outdated hiring practices, address accessibility gaps, and design roles that highlight individual strengths.

“There’s a misconception that hiring people with special needs is a risk,” she says. “What we see every day is the opposite—they bring resilience, creativity, and loyalty.”

Through internships, supported placements, and partnerships with employers, LSH is ensuring its learners gain real-world experience and the confidence that comes with it.

Inclusion as a Mindset, Not a Mandate

True inclusion is not about compliance—it’s about culture. “Design systems where belonging is automatic,” she highlights. “Inclusion shouldn’t be an afterthought; it should be built in from the start.”

A Story of Growth: Yousuf’s Journey

Among the many success stories is Yousuf, who entered LSH as a young child struggling with everyday routines. With consistent support, he began trying new foods, trusting his surroundings, and building communication skills—gradually shifting from singing his needs to expressing them with intention. His transformation reflects what becomes possible when patience and the right environment align.

Scaling the Vision

Looking ahead, Life Skills Hub is deepening partnerships with ministries, businesses, and developers to create structured pathways from education to employment. The goal: move beyond awareness campaigns to real, systemic inclusion.

“Our vision is a future where individuals with special needs are seen as colleagues and creators,” Nihal says. “Not someday—now.”

Leadership, Advocacy, and a Message to Young Women

As an Omani woman leading transformative change in the Gulf, Nihal’s voice carries both authority and authenticity. Her journey—from corporate energy roles to championing special needs inclusion—is rooted in courage and purpose. “You don’t need perfect conditions to lead,” she says. “Start where you are, and let your determination carry you forward.”

Her message to young women: use your voice, act boldly, and refuse to wait for permission to create impact.

Through her leadership, Nihal Al-Saleh is redefining what inclusion can look like—proving that when the right support is in place, every person has the potential to thrive. Life Skills Hub stands as a testament to that belief, and to her unwavering commitment to building a future where everyone truly belongs.

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