Upon graduating with an honours degree in Accounting and Finance from the University of Wales, Aberystwyth; Dato’ Yatina Tan Sri Yahaya made the natural progression into corporate banking until the unfortunate passing of both her parents. As the legal administrator to her parents’ estate she assumed the senior executive role in several private and public listed companies at the young age of 25 assuming responsibility of a workforce in excess of 30,000. She remained corporately active for 17 years whilst raising 6 beautiful children.

An ardent knowledge seeker and a multi-linguist, Dato’ Yatina is conversant in 5 languages. Having recently completed 2 postgraduate studies in Mathematics Teaching and Masters in Education, she is now seeking to pursue her Doctorate. She also partook in the MBA program at the University of Western Australia in 2000. A true believer in giving knowledge to make a difference, she champions Nelson Mandela’s “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world”. This motivated multi-lingual educator currently works with special needs education, continuously learning to implement new teaching strategies dedicated to reaching out to students of all learning styles.

What inspires you?

Women who overcome their limitations to not only succeed but also attain a position where they are able to further inspire and contribute to those who are in need. Limitation ends with determination.

What would you tell your 18 year old self?

Life is full of surprises, filled with treats and challenges. Never take anything for granted and appreciate the little treats that life brings you. Always be prepared and think 2 steps ahead for any decision that you make and the consequences that decision making will bring. There are no short cuts to success, any short cut will only end in a cut in your success itself.