MUSCAT, NOV 4
Omani executive coach Ghaya al Barwani has earned global recognition from the International Coaching Federation (ICF) in the Distinguished Coach category, receiving an Honourable Mention during the ICF Converge Conference held on October 24, 2025 in San Diego, USA.
Al Barwani, who holds the MCC and ACTC credentials, was recognised for her work in coaching senior executives, supporting organisational change and developing national talent, in addition to enhancing the visibility of the ICF Oman Chapter.
Speaking exclusively to the Observer, Al Barwani reflected on her achievement:
“Receiving this international recognition from the International Coaching Federation (ICF) is both humbling and deeply meaningful. On a personal level, it affirms my commitment to coaching with heart — combining strategic clarity with empathy and delivering measurable impact with cultural sensitivity”.
She added: “This moment is not just about me. It reflects the power of a growing coaching movement in Oman and the wider MENA region. Whether it’s helping a national hospital raise over $10 million through a leadership coaching initiative, or empowering young Omani women with over 490 coaching sessions through programmes like Sidrah and Basmat Rahma — this award celebrates the ripple effect of coaching when applied with purpose”.
Al Barwani noted that the recognition also carries wider significance for the profession: “For the coaching profession in our region, this recognition brings global visibility to the quality, ethics and innovation emerging from local coaches and initiatives. It signals to organisations, government bodies and emerging leaders that coaching is not a luxury — it’s a transformative tool for sustainable development. I hope this inspires more investment in coaching as a strategic driver of human potential and societal progress”.
With the accolade, Al Barwani joins a select group of globally recognised coaching leaders celebrated for measurable impact, ethical practice and advancement of the coaching profession.
Commenting on the award, ICF Chief Executive Officer Magdalena Nowicka Mook said this year’s honourees represent “excellence in professional coaching and its impact on individuals and organisations worldwide”.
ICF Global Board Chair Shweta Handa-Gupta noted that the awardees “demonstrate how coaching contributes to positive change across societies”.
Al Barwani’s work spans advancing the visibility and growth of the ICF Oman Chapter while driving initiatives that strengthen national talent development. She led the Basmat Rahma — Coaching for Good programme, which delivered over 490 coaching sessions to 120 young Omani women through Lahunna Oman’s Sidrah initiative.
Further details on her programmes and publications are available at www.ghayabarwani.com. She has also supported senior leaders and executive teams through transformation and public–private collaboration, alongside publishing the Leadership Imperative 2025 white paper and developing the Executive Playbook as a strategic resource for organisations.
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