About Beyond Cubicles
📢 #BeyondCubicles is a weekly LinkedIn series created by Carolina D’Souza, born out of her own experience transitioning from a corporate career to independent consulting. Since its launch in June 2024, the series has evolved into a platform that showcases the inspiring journeys of several founders who have redefined the traditional 9-to-5.
Through authentic narratives, #BeyondCubicles highlights themes of courage, resilience, and purpose. The stories feature individuals from diverse industries—ranging from tech and education to wellness and adventure—who share their experiences of stepping away from conventional roles to pursue passion-driven careers.Â
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✨ Note: All features in this series are unpaid and shared as a way to honor and amplify real stories of transformation.
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“It’s been a rollercoaster ride, but one I cherish.”
After eight years in the same job, Abha knew she needed a change. With two kids at home, she craved flexible working hours and the freedom to work remotely.
Her journey began with online courses, where she discovered the potential of new technologies like AI to transform the way people work. The earnings from freelance gigs she took on while still employed fueled a new passion: helping others achieve the same freedom.
In 2023, Abha took a leap of faith. She quit her job and fully embraced her new path as a digital PR and media communications specialist, brand journalist, writer, and AI enthusiast. Her mission? To empower working mothers and female solopreneurs to earn their first dollar online.
“New technology today enables anyone to build or create literally anything they want to online,” says Dubai-based Abha. “The sky is the limit.”
Yet, the transition wasn’t without its challenges. The instability of income as a solopreneur weighed on her mind, and the isolation sometimes felt overwhelming. “You really have to make an effort to interact with people, whether for networking, opportunities, or just staying connected both online and offline communities,” she says.
Despite the ups and downs, Abha has experienced profound personal and professional growth since becoming a solopreneur. “It’s been a rollercoaster ride, but one I cherish,” she reflects. She’s confident she’s on the right path to long-term freedom and financial independence. “I can now plan my day and do things for myself, and for that, I’m incredibly grateful. I have no choice but to succeed!”
Her advice to aspiring solopreneurs? “Take that leap of faith. Set a date, trust your decision, and go for it.”
She also emphasizes the importance of having a robust financial plan for those initial days. “Remember, not everything will go as planned. Opportunities will come and go, and things often turn out differently than expected. Stay positive and patient,” she advises. “The only true failure is giving up.”