Juan Towairit – a Saudi voice in Consulting and motorsport

A consultant by day and motorsport marshal by passion, Juan is carving out her own lane, both in the fast-paced world of Consulting and on the racing circuit. Empowered by the Kingdom’s evolving landscape and inspired by her father’s legacy, her journey is a testament to how following your interests fearlessly and making an impact can lead to exciting opportunities.

What drew you to a career in Consulting and where there any specific challenges you encountered as a Saudi female in that field?

I started my career in accounting, but I was looking for something more challenging, fast-paced, and less repetitive. Consulting offered exactly that, with a steep learning curve that keeps me on my toes and constant exposure to new industries and problems to solve. I love that every project is different, bringing fresh challenges and opportunities to make an impact. What’s most rewarding is knowing that our work isn’t just about strategy or problem-solving; it drives meaningful change for our clients, the country, and society as a whole.

The challenges I’ve faced weren’t specific to being Saudi or female. In fact, I feel very empowered by my country and our firm’s leadership to pave the way in this industry. The support and opportunities available today are opening doors for more women to thrive in consulting, and it’s exciting to be part of this evolving landscape.

You’ve been at the heart of some of Saudi’s biggest events and platforms such as LEAP, Biban, Misk. What’s one conversation or moment that shifted your perspective?

During a conversation with an entrepreneur at Biban, I had a moment of realization about the incredible position I’m in. Consulting gives me access to knowledge across different industries, exposure to market gaps, and insights that I can one day leverage for my own entrepreneurial ventures. It shifted my perspective; I wasn’t just helping others build their businesses; I was also gaining invaluable experience that could shape my own future. It made me appreciate how lucky I am to be growing in such a dynamic environment, surrounded by innovation and endless opportunities.

How do you see Saudi Vision 2030 influencing opportunities for young female professionals like yourself?

Saudi Vision 2030 has completely transformed opportunities for young female professionals like myself. It’s not just about career growth; it’s about being able to explore and experiment with hobbies and passions that weren’t always accessible before, whether in sports, arts, or entrepreneurship. Nothing feels impossible anymore. There’s a real sense of momentum, and with the support of so many government entities, there are always ways to improve, develop, and carve out new paths. It’s an exciting time to be part of this change and to contribute to the Kingdom’s evolving landscape.

Motorsport marshaling is such a unique and intense sport. What first sparked your interest, and how do you keep that passion alive?

My dad used to compete in drag racing, which is what first sparked my interest and got me involved in the racing community. Just like him, I’m a big thrill seeker and adrenaline junkie, so motorsport marshaling was a natural fit. Being on track gives me an unmatched rush; it’s where I feel most alive, fully present in the moment, and able to disconnect from the world of slides and dashboards. The intensity, precision, and camaraderie in the racing community keep my passion alive, and every event reminds me why I fell in love with the sport in the first place.

What mindset helps you sustain both your career and personal interests?

I believe in balance, doing something for my future (work) and something for myself now (my hobbies). It’s important to have an outlet outside the office, and being on track gives me that. Motorsport helps me disconnect, reset, and come back to work with fresh energy and a clear mind. Having that passion outside of my career keeps me motivated and prevents burnout. It’s all about finding what fuels you, both professionally and personally, and making space for both.

What advice would you give to young Saudi women who want to break into consulting or other male-dominated spaces like motorsport?

My advice is to be patient and stay determined. Breaking into consulting or motorsport—or any male-dominated space—comes with challenges, but every step you take now is paving the way for other women and young girls to follow. It’s not always easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding. Most importantly, stay confident, embrace the learning curve, and remember that you are just as deserving to be in that space as anyone else.

When you’re not consulting or at the track, what’s your ‘reset’ ritual that keeps you grounded?

You’ll likely find me somewhere by the beach, belly laughing with friends and family, or at the nearest matcha shop. Quality time with loved ones, along with taking moments to reflect and be grateful, is what truly keeps me grounded. No matter how fast-paced life gets, those simple joys help me reset and stay balanced.