Built by Operators. Driven by Values. Designed for Impact.

We are a consultancy built by seasoned operators delivering real‑world strategies and execution for clients in the Gulf and beyond.

Let’s Work Together

We Are Not Traditional Consultants

Ajwa Strategy was founded by seasoned operators, not career consultants. We’ve built companies, led turnarounds, scaled schools, launched products, overhauled operations, and worked inside some of the toughest and most dynamic environments — from early‑stage startups to regulated sectors and complex family enterprises.

We know what works because we’ve used it ourselves. That’s what sets us apart. We combine strategic clarity, cultural intelligence, and real‑world execution to help organizations of all sizes — in the Gulf and beyond — move faster, think sharper, and grow smarter.

Our Philosophy

A Founder‑Led Approach

Ajwa is powered by a network of practitioners with deep domain expertise — from procurement and finance to education and people strategy. At the center are co‑founders Alex Barreto and Dr. Ayesha Shaikh, who together bring over five decades of leadership in digital transformation, business design, education reform, and organizational development.

Their proprietary Trio Framework System anchors our approach:

“We don’t deliver presentations. We deliver systems that stick.” — Alex Barreto

Where We Help

Business Strategy & Operating Models

Design and refine strategic direction and operating models tailored to your context.

Education Design & School Transformation

Enable schools to innovate and scale effectively, from curriculum to accreditation.

Org Design, HR & Leadership Alignment

Craft organizational structures and people strategies that foster performance and alignment.

Procurement, Cost Optimization & Vendor Strategy

Optimize sourcing, supply chain, and vendor relationships to drive efficiency.

Financial Modeling, KPIs & Commercial Storytelling

Turn numbers into narratives and models that drive decisions.

Digital Product & Data Strategy

Align your digital roadmap and data strategy with your overall business goals.

Our Team of Practitioners

Alex Barreto

Founder | Digital Strategy, Product, Business Design

30 years in digital transformation, product leadership, and innovation. Creator of the Trio Framework System.

Dr. Ayesha Shaikh

HR & Ops Strategist | Org Design, Performance

Expert in people strategy and HR transformation across sectors. Co‑founder of Ajwa.

John Brewer

Education Consultant | Curriculum & School Reform

Leads international school reform and accreditation across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.

Gary Gibbons

School Development Specialist | Startups, Curriculum, Accreditation

Veteran global school director, leading school launches and improvements in complex regions.

Sajjad Dildar

Procurement & Cost Optimization Specialist

Expert in vendor negotiations, sourcing, logistics, and operational cost efficiency.

Ebrahim Gheewala

CFO | Commercial Finance & Storytelling

Bridges finance with business storytelling. Specializes in pricing, investor reporting, and strategic modeling.

Haider Anwar

Fintech & Digital Transformation Advisor

Former banker and SaaS executive. Specialist in risk, finance tech, and go‑to‑market strategy.

Let’s Build Together

Email us at hello@ajwastrategy.com

Based in Kuwait, we serve the Gulf and beyond.