We’re looking forward to introducing you to Dr. Hanaya Ali Pharm.D., MBA. Check out our conversation below.
Hanaya, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
As a female CEO leading Sunshine and Smiles Summer Camp I protect my first 90 minutes because discipline is my edge. I wake up at 6 a.m. and head to the gym to ground myself and build the energy I need to lead at a high level. I get ready with intention because confidence starts with how you show up for yourself. By 8 a.m. I have checked in with my priorities and reminded myself that I am building a business that impacts families and shapes our community in Boca Raton, FL. These habits are not luxuries for me they are non negotiables that fuel my leadership. If you want to grow as a CEO, start by owning your morning and you will own your day.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Hanaya Ali, the CEO of Sunshine and Smiles Summer Camp in Boca Raton and I lead a family-run team that creates unforgettable summers for kids. We were recently named the Best Summer Camp in South Florida and right now we are in prime time planning for an amazing season ahead. What makes us unique is that we do field trips every day to keep children active and engaged. Every day at our camp is designed to spark curiosity and build confidence in every child. My role is to set the vision and make sure every experience delivers on our promise of fun and growth.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who taught you the most about work?
Coming from an immigrant family and being a first-generation American, I always felt I had something to prove. I wanted to be great and make all of my parents’ sacrifices worth it. Like any parent, mine dreamed of me earning a degree, so I became a pharmacist. But even as I achieved that milestone, I knew my destiny was bigger. I worked side by side with my dad in his company and learned everything I know about leadership, hard work, and running a business from him. He taught me the value of integrity, the importance of perseverance, and how to lead with both strength and heart. Watching him navigate challenges while always keeping the family and team at the center inspired me to take those lessons and build something of my own. My parents’ sacrifices were never just for me to succeed, they were a blueprint for creating impact, and I carry that responsibility every day in my work.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self to trust her instincts and believe in her own strength. Even when the path feels uncertain it is worth taking risks and following your passions. It is okay to stumble and learn along the way and it is okay to put yourself first sometimes. Every challenge and every decision is preparing you to lead with confidence and purpose.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I am committed to giving back to children in Egypt and creating opportunities they rarely receive. Too many are stuck in cycles of poverty and do not have access to the resources or guidance that can help them thrive. My goal is to open doors and inspire confidence so these children can see that their potential is limitless. No matter how long it takes I want to help them dream bigger and know that the world is full of possibilities waiting for them.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. When have you had to bet the company?
When we first started Sunshine and Smiles Summer Camp we had to bet everything on our strategy. After launching, it took two weeks before seeing our first registrations. Those early days were full of uncertainty and required a lot of patience. Once momentum picked up, it became all about showing the community the value of what we were building. Since then the camp has grown exponentially, proving that taking risks and trusting your vision really pays off.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.snscamp.com
- Instagram: @snscampboca
