The Goumbook team is characterized by its commitment for sustainability, environmental protection, and social impact. Since 2009, Goumbook has had the immense privilege to count on dedicated and highly skilled people who have made the company what it is today: mainly women from different nationalities, and with different professional specialties and backgrounds, who have contributed with their experience and knowledge to generate positive impact in the UAE and beyond.
Tatiana Antonelli Abella
Founder & Managing Director
Tatiana founded Goumbook in 2009. Today Goumbook manages different projects such as Give a Ghaf, the first tree planting program in the Middle East, Trees Matter, to encourage conservation and restoration of crucial ecosystems in partnership with the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment – MOCCAE; Drop It – Rethink Plastic, to help reduce single use plastics; Eat It or Save it, to drive awareness about food waste in partnership with UAE Food Bank, and Take a Breath, highlighting the need to monitor and improve indoor air quality, proposing solutions focused on human health, circular economy and nature based approaches. Take a Breath was recently endorsed by MOCCAE.
In 2020, Goumbook was proud to conceptualise, and project manage Dubai Can, a campaign by H.H.Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai.
More recently, Goumbook initiated its first regional programme, the MENAT Regenerative Agriculture Venture Programme, looking at solutions related to food systems, climate change mitigation & adaptation, carbon sequestration, soil health, water scarcity, desertification, biodiversity loss & food security.
In June 2023, Goumbook launched the MENA Oceans Summit under the patronage of MOCCAE, and later in December, at COP28, the same Network in partnership with the UN to accelerate collaboration, partnerships and action for the oceans in the region.
In April 2019, Tatiana started Forward Talks, a podcast highlighting leaders and professionals who, through their work, entrepreneurship and commitment, promote positive impact and sustainability in the region.
During her 19 years in the UAE, Tatiana has garnered a strong reputation: considered one of UAE’s top environmental influencers, she contributes regularly to media and events in her role as a green leader in the country. In 2021 Tatiana was nominated by LinkedIn as a UAE Top Voice in Sustainability. In 2022, she was awarded the Mother Teresa Award for Environmental Stewardship and Excellence. In 2024, she was selected by Boston Consulting Group as a V60, one of 60 top visionary women transforming the MENA region.
Samantha Kayruz
Strategy & Sustainability Impact Director
Samantha’s experience stems in the corporate world where she held regional and strategic positions across different industries, from Advertising & Communication, Business Strategy, E-commerce, Startups, Automotive, FMCG, and Food Retail to name a few. Just before joining Goumbook in 2020, she headed a global initiative tasked to develop, support and implement startup innovation solutions to tackle the UN SDGs and global pressing social and environmental issues, in conjunction with the various United Nations entities.
Samantha holds a Bachelor in Business Administration from the American University of Beirut, an Executive Masters in Marketing & Sales from ESADE & Bocconi Universities, a “Business Sustainability Management” Certification from Cambridge University and a “Leading Sustainable Corporations” Certification from Oxford University’s Saïd Business School program, as well as being ESG GRI “Global Reporting Initiative” trained.
With a foot in the corporate world and another in the sustainability space, Samantha believes that purpose and profit can coexist, benefiting the economy, society and the environment to drive positive lasting impact.
Nicola Lee
Corporate Relations & Partnerships Director
Nicola has more than 14 years’ professional experience in the UAE with a focus in non-profits and social sustainability.
She specializes in aligning to corporations sense of Purpose, attaining ESG and SDG objectives, relationship development and management, local governance and strategic planning and growth.
Nicola joined Goumbook in May 2023 supporting our initiatives including MENA Oceans Summit, Regenerative Agriculture Venture Programme and Take a Breath.
Carolin Hussein
Advocacy & Development Director
Having studied in Germany and Egypt, Carolin started her career at a grassroots NGO in Cairo working on various projects ranging from economic development and community empowerment to health and social inclusion.
Carolin’s goal is to make a difference for the public. For her that means working on a few key issues, with an emphasis on social and environmental projects that can foster new ideas, establish cross-sectoral partnerships, and achieve tangible results that serve the public interest. Looking for a meaningful and impactful assignment, she joined Goumbook in 2020, sharing the enterprise’s approach that driven by the power of knowledge we can raise awareness, invigorate civic life and ultimately help solve today’s most challenging problems.
Lama Saleh
Programme Development & Partnerships Director
Emilie Rebert
Education and Collaboration Director
Emilie is an experienced Project Manager with 20+ years of leading projects in multi-cultural environment, with the ability to lead and gather people around the same objective, and to get tangible results. Emilie is also a Climate Fresk facilitator.
Conscious of the effects of climate change on the natural world, she wants to use her talents to the service of nature conservation.
Emilie joined Goumbook in 2024 to manage the Education pillar and she is in charge of Project Development and Collaboration Management with a focus on Education and Awareness.
“The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it” – Robert Swan
Anuradha Bhattacharya
Programme Development & Partnerships Senior Manager
Anuradha has 12 years’ experience driving research led program development, outreach strategies, project management and strategic partnerships for diverse knowledge sharing platforms across the energy, sustainability and development sectors in the MENASA regions.
She has a strong grasp of technical concepts in energy, climate and sustainability, and has developed and delivered content strategy and event programming, for multi-stakeholder projects for diverse virtual and in-person platforms including leadership accelerators, strategy and technical workshops, circular economy led capacity building community projects and digital publications. She is currently also pursuing a Certified Sustainability Manager course majoring as a SDG specialist (SDG frameworks and ISO26000 integration for organisations) by VERIFY Sweden.
Momina Raza
Project Manager - MENA Oceans Initiative
Currently serving as Project Manager for the MENA Oceans Initiative at Goumbook, Momina supports the conceptualization of program structures and develops comprehensive project planning frameworks for programs, including the MENA Oceans Network. She has worked with esteemed organizations such as the Global Green Growth Institute as a consultant, contributing to impactful projects like the Sustainable Consumption and Production Plan and the Green Agenda Report.
Momina’s expertise encompasses sustainability advocacy, climate change mitigation, qualitative research, gap analysis, and monitoring and evaluation of green initiatives. With a passion for advancing circular economy solutions, she is known for her strategic thinking and collaborative approach, committed to driving meaningful change toward a sustainable future.
Rebecca Talbot
Business Development & Campaign Senior Manager
Rebecca has over a decade of professional experience in education, waste management, and sustainable community development, with a strong focus on driving meaningful change.
Having co-founded Precious Plastic Gambia in 2022, this played a key role in her mission to tackle plastic pollution through waste-to-value programs and educational initiatives.
Rebecca joined Goumbook in September 2024 and leads sustainability campaigns focusing on reducing single-use plastics, promoting circular solutions, and engaging young citizen scientists to collect data on plastic pollution along the UAE’s coastline.
Philippa Hallé
Programme Development & Partnerships Senior Manager
Philippa has 18 years of experience across Europe, Egypt, and the UAE, specializing in marketing and management. Over the past 10 years, she has focused on sustainability, empowering artisans, supporting NGOs, and improving corporate environmental practices. At Goumbook since September 2024, she supports Eat It Or Save It, Fair Care, and Take a Breath initiatives.
Marie Deschamps
Programme and Partnerships Director - MENAT Regenerative Agriculture Programme
Marie is a strategic and globally experienced professional with dual master’s degrees in engineering and business, underpinned by 20 years of marketing leadership within multinational corporations.
Driven by a commitment to creating a sustainable future, she pivoted her career in 2023 to focus on sustainability.She obtained certificates from the Cambridge Judge Business School and the Cambridge Institute for Sustainable Leadership (CISL). Most recently, she graduated from the Chief Sustainability Officer Professional Education Program at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
In August 2024, Marie joined Goumbook as part of the MENAT Regenerative Agriculture Initiative team, where she contributes her expertise to advancing sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural practices in arid and water-scarce regions.
Roya Mokhtabad
Senior Programme Manager
Roya Mokhtabad is an accomplished programme manager specialising in sustainability, strategic partnerships, and international relations. At Goumbook, she is senior manager of the MENAT Regenerative Agriculture Initiative, building partnerships with leading global organisations such as FAO, UNCCD, UNU, and SAFTA, while driving outreach to academic institutions and stakeholders across the region. Roya also oversees the “Forward Talks” podcast, showcasing Goumbook’s commitment to raising awareness around various climate and sustainability topics with subject matter experts.
Claire Guitard
Project Manager
Preserving the surrounding nature through simple gestures or habits has always been a concern.
After many years in Africa in logistics and procurement and also involved in charity organizations, I joined Goumbook in 2023 as Project Manager for Save the Butts – Waste to value campaign, bringing people together for a more sustainable environment and promoting circular economy.
Karen Moubarak
Project Manager
With a Masters degree in International relations and business from the University of Barcelona, Karen has been in the UAE for 17 years most of which she worked in Advertising and Communications with a special focus on global FMCG brands.
After a short break to take care of her two small little girls, she asked herself what world and legacy are we leaving behind for them and decided it was time to dedicate her skills and time to a more tangible and urgent cause. She joined Goumbook in February 2024 supporting the circular economy team and is now Campaign Leader of UNISOAP initiative.
Nasrin Suleiman
Business Development & Campaign Senior Manager
Nasrin, an advocate for environmental conservation, transitioned from impactful roles in Turtle and Elephant Conservation in Kenya to join the ‘Goum Team’ in 2013. Armed with a degree in Environmental Management, her journey began with active participation in the Give A Ghaf Tree Planting Program, aligning her aspirations with Goumbook’s environmentally-centered mission.
In 2020, Nasrin took on the role of Campaign Leader, showcasing her dedication and adaptability. Responding to the demand for large-scale tree planting, she led the Trees Matters initiative, collaborating globally and locally to plant Mangroves and keystone species.
Nasrin’s contribution extends beyond projects; she drives growth and opportunities through strategic initiatives and private-sector partnerships..
With a vision for impactful environmental change, Nasrin amplifies Goumbook’s mission, aiming to foster sustainable growth and inspire a global commitment to conservation.
Janelle Lopez
CSR & Engagement Senior Manager
Janelle is a dynamic professional spearheading Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Employee Engagement initiatives at Goumbook. Her career is marked by over 12 years of valuable working experience, complemented by an educational background in Architecture and Interior Design.
A passionate advocate for sustainability, Janelle brings creativity and dedication to her role. She collaborates with corporate clients, orchestrating meaningful team-building activities that leave a lasting impact. Her commitment ensures that participants not only enjoy a memorable experience but also gain valuable insights from each engagement. Beyond her role, Janelle works closely with campaign managers, providing crucial support in awareness-raising initiatives and handling organizational and administrative tasks.
In addition to her commitment to sustainability, Janelle is a passionate advocate for animal welfare. She is actively supporting initiatives in the Philippines and in the UAE. Janelle’s dedication extends beyond corporate realms, embodying a holistic approach to creating a positive impact on both the environment and the well-being of animals.
A true artisan at heart, Janelle finds joy in creative pursuits, including drawing, painting, baking, and sewing. Her goal is to inspire others through her work, creating a positive impact and leaving a lasting legacy of change.
Cecilia Romero
Implementation Manager
Cecilia, founder of the social enterprise Manta & Rebozo, is driven by a commitment to social impact.
Collaborating with Goumbook has been a transformative experience for her. She gained insights that helped refine her operational strategies and reinforced the importance of aligning business goals with social values.
As the Implementation Manager of the “Take a Breath” awareness campaign, Cecilia specializes in orchestrating comprehensive air quality studies from concept to implementation. Her role involves seamless coordination of suppliers, implementing targeted solutions, adept budget management, and fostering effective communication with diverse entities involved in the study. The campaign aims to improve indoor air quality and its impact on health by encouraging the monitoring of indoor air quality, understanding the source of pollutants, and empowering targeted actions to mitigate the dissemination of allergens and pollutants in our ambiance to transform the quality of the air we breathe.
Omaima Sirelkhatim
Education & CSR Manager
Omaima aims to lead impactful projects that not only enhance the Environmental Education Curriculum but also foster sustainable practices.
Her goal is to drive positive change by cultivating a culture of environmental consciousness, influencing both educational landscapes and corporate social responsibility paradigms. In her role at Goumbook, Omaima is excited to contribute meaningfully to the team, anticipating the creation of substantial positive change within the community.
Omaima holds a BSc Hons degree in Environmental Studies and Disasters Management, with a major in Organizational Management. Additionally, she is certified in Training of Trainers (TOT) and is an Advanced First Aid Attendant certified by Sanid. This academic foundation serves as the bedrock for her effective management of educational and CSR endeavours.
Hagar Haggag
Education & CSR Facilitator
Hagar has been working in the field of learning & development for more than 10 years and she finds true joy in interacting with diverse human beings through facilitating learning experiences to help people reach their true potential. She has project management background and worked in the civil society sector where she handled various projects related to unemployment, active citizenship, women empowerment and entrepreneurship.
Hagar believes in leaving the world better than we found it and has consistently worked to incorporate sustainable practices into her daily life. In 2024, she joined the Education team at Goumbook where she enjoys facilitating workshops to encourage youth & adults to take better care of the planet.
Prachi Goel
Programme Manager
Prachi is the Programme Mnager of MENAT Regenerative Agriculture venture. In this role, she manages the accelerator program, aligning it with the principles of sustainability and regenerative practices. Her expertise in content creation, social media, and design collaboration is integral to communicating Goumbook’s vision.
Prior to joining in early 2024, Prachi founded two e-commerce startups in Mumbai, India. DearCows, an app-based A2 milk delivery service, expanded into health foods, while Ecosys introduced eco-friendly capsule cleaners, promoting the practise of refill-reuse of existing plastic bottles. In 2022, she continued her entrepreneurial journey in Dubai as a Business Development Manager at Liquid of Life, enriching her experience in sustainable business strategies.
At Goumbook, Prachi applies her diverse skill set to drive impactful projects, focusing on efficiency through automation and workflow management across various initiatives.
Milena Bonomi
Campaign Manager
Milena has over 13 years of experience within multinational corporations, where she successfully led customer services global teams, balancing strategic leadership with operational excellence. She is skilled in managing diverse stakeholders, finding effective solutions to complex challenges, driving operational improvements in high-pressure environments, and leading large-scale global projects.
Julie Chesterfield
Project Manager
I’m a decarbonisation project manager based in the UAE, currently studying Corporate Sustainability and Innovation at Harvard. Over the past year, I’ve been deepening my knowledge to transition my career from marketing strategy in the luxury fashion industry to sustainability—a field I’ve always been passionate about. As an impact ambassador, I focused on educating others about sustainability causes and participating in environmental activities. Outside of work, I’m an avid diver, fascinated by the underwater world—a hobby that inspires my commitment to protecting our planet and its ecosystems.
Gilda Castro Rios
Creative
Gilda is an experienced creative professional with over 10 years in Dubai, UAE. Passionate about non-profit organizations and sustainable businesses, Gilda is known for building brands and leading creative teams while guiding clients to better understand creative processes. She holds degrees in Management, Design, Digital Marketing, and Cultural Experiences. Fluent in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, she thrives in global, multicultural environments. With a client-focused approach and a proven track record of delivering innovative creative solutions, Gilda drives success in impactful, purpose-driven projects.
Pooja Sridhar
Social Media Expert
Pooja brings over a decade of experience in digital advertising and marketing in the UAE, with a proven track record as a marketing expert driving revenue growth and strategic implementation.
In May 2024, Pooja joined Goumbook as a part of the Marketing and Communications team. She leverages her extensive expertise across industries such as FMCG, automotive, banking, retail, CSR events, and airlines to manage social media, newsletters, and brand communications. Her efforts focus on driving engagement and amplifying the impact of Goumbook’s 12 sustainability-focused initiatives, ensuring that each project aligns with the organization’s mission and resonates with its diverse audience.
Danielle Buendia
Visual Content Coordinator
Danielle Buendia is the Creative Coordinator at Goumbook, where she uses her six years of digital marketing experience to create engaging online strategies. With a Bachelor’s degree in Foreign Service and a major in Diplomacy, she has a strong grasp of international relations and communication. Danielle was chosen to represent her university at the United Nations in New York for the National Model United Nations, where she took part in discussions on key global issues like climate change, human rights, and global security.
She continues to make significant contributions in both the digital marketing arena and the global discourse on pressing issues.
Cherelyn Bitoca
Finance
Cherelyn is a finance professional with over 15yrs of experience in various industries. A graduate of BS Accountancy. I obtained my expertise in Accounting making me a valuable asset in the finance department where I served. “I believe my experience across different sectors has helped me equip my understanding in financial operations and ability to adapt to the unique challenges of each industry I’ve worked.”