omen
2023 Entr epr eneurs to Watch
2023
Dynamic Women
Inspiring and Mo va ng Quali es of Women Entrepreneurs who have created a Difference in the Progressive Society
Her Power
Acknowledging the Impac ul Contribu on of Women Leaders in Today's World of Development
The Journey of The Journey of Innovations, The Innovations, The
AAstheworldcontinuestoevolve,women entrepreneursaremakingsignificantstridesand reshapingindustriesacrosstheglobe.Their visionaryleadership,innovativeideas,andrelentlesspursuit ofsuccesshaveearnedthemrecognitionassomeofthe mostinfluentialfiguresinthebusinessworld.
Asweembarkonnewhorizons,itisessentialtohighlight andcelebratetheachievementsofthesetrailblazingwomen whoarepoisedtomakeaprofoundimpact.Thesewomen havebrokenbarriers,shatteredglassceilings,andachieved remarkablesuccessintheirrespectivefields.Theyarenot onlypioneersbutalsocatalystsforchange,driving innovationandchallengingconventionalnorms.Their entrepreneurialjourneysserveasasourceofinspirationand motivationforaspiringentrepreneurs,particularlywomen, whoseektomaketheirmarkinthebusinessworld.
andtheirpotentialtomakealastingmarkonthebusiness landscapein2023andbeyond.
Asweexplorethejourneysofthesewomenentrepreneurs, itiscrucialtorecognizetheirresilience,determination,and unwaveringcommitmenttotheirvision.Theyhave overcomeobstacles,seizedopportunities,andfearlessly pursuedtheirdreams,settinganexampleforaspiring entrepreneursaroundtheworld.
Fromtechnologyandfinancetofashionandsustainability, theirdiverseindustriesreflectthebreadthanddepthoftheir impact.Byhighlightingtheirstoriesandthevaluesthey embody,wehopetoshedlightonthetransformativepower ofwomen'sentrepreneurshipandinspireotherstopursue theirentrepreneurialdreams.
Inaneramarkedbyglobalchallengesandunprecedented opportunities,womenentrepreneursarepoisedtoshapethe futureofbusiness,sparkinnovation,andcreatepositive change.Theiraccomplishmentstranscendindustriesand demonstratethepotentialforwomentoexcelin traditionallymale-dominatedsectors.Theirbusinessesnot onlygenerateeconomicgrowthbutalsocontributetosocial progress,environmentalsustainability,andgenderequality.
ThelatesteditionofInsightsSuccess,“The10Most InfluentialWomenEntrepreneurstoWatchin2023,” shedslightontheseremarkablewomen,showcasingtheir entrepreneurialprowess,theirimpactontheirindustries,
Getreadytobeinspiredbythestoriesoftheseinfluential womenentrepreneurswhoareattheforefrontofdriving change,innovation,andsuccessinthebusinessworld.
Flip through the pages and have a delightful read!
Networking to be a Phenomenal Success
Deputy Editor
Abhishek Joshi
Visualizer
David King
Senior Sales Managers
Sihanee M., Rouniyar A.
Marketing Manager
Jordan, Adams
Technical Head
Jacob Smile
Technical Specialist
Prachi Mokashi
SME-SMO Executive
Sagar Lahigade
Editor-in-Chief
Merry D'Souza
Executive Editor Assistant Editor
Jenny Fernandes
Circulation Manager
Robert Brown
Art & Design Director
Ankita Pandharpure
Anish Miller
Associate Designer
Revati Badkas
Business Development Manager
Tim, Saurabh Mane
Sales Executives
Joe, Gaurav Gurav
Business Development Executives
Steve, Joe
Digital
Marketing Manager
Dominique T.
Research Analyst
Frank Adams
Database Management Technology Consultant
Stella Andrew
sales@insightssuccess.com
May, 2023
David Stokes
AparajitaRoy Co-founderand Founder,byWoman
BrookeWaupsh CEO
DianaRichardson CEO&Founder
KornChainLimited KornChain.com
Dr.PriscillaSchelp Founder&CEO
EstherWojcicki Co-founder
GinniRometty Co-chairman
GiovannaR Sessi-Knott Founder
GraziellaGallelli OwnerFounder andCEO
HaciaAtherton CEO&Founding Director
LexisSerot Founder
Aparajitaisworkingontechnologyprogrammesthatinvolve multipleintegrationsandcomplexdataflows.
Brookeiscommitedtothemissionofbuildinggirlsofcourage, confidenceandcharacter,whomaketheworldabetterplace. Swoovy swoovy.com
OrchidsRetreat orchidsretreat.co.uk
NetworkxGmbH Networkx.app
Dianahaspouredherheartandsoulintocraftinganexperience thatnotonlyhealsthebodyandmindbutalsonourishesthe soul.
Dr.Priscillahassuccessfullytransformedmycareerandhave becomeaSuperconnectorthatconnectsorganizationsand individualsglobally.
EstherisanInternationallyknowneducator,consultant,and speakerwithademonstratedhistoryofworkingintheelearningindustry Tract tract.app
OneTen oneten.org
TheMorphbagbygsk themorphbag.london
Transderm transderm.com
EmpoweredWomen InTrades ewitrades.com
Ginniisaleader,innovatorandconvenerwhobelievesthat howweworkandleadisasimportantaswhatweachieve.
GiovannaRSessi-KnottheMorphbagbyGSKwithamission toempowerwomenthroughhandbagsthathavetheirbusy lifestyleinmindandaresoversatilethattheycancolouradapt totheircapsulewardrobe.
GraziellaGallelliisadynamicCEOandFounderof TransdermaSerumsandanadroitleader.
HaciaAthertonisaCourageCoachandSpeakerwho empowersemergingleadersandprofessionalstoachievetheir fullpotential.
LexisSerotisdrivenbyapassionfortransforminglivesand providinglife-changingexperiences. LittleWins littlewins.com
.
You see, I have ADD; when I work on the right things in my way, I literally have superpowers. I believe it is like that for most people if you give them the freedom to decide HOW they can achieve their goals – because you allow them to leverage their strength.
Dr. Priscilla Schelp Founder & CEO networkx GmbH
Howdoyoumeetpeople?Itisadistinctfactorthat manypeopleexperiencewhileexploringto connectwithpeopleoutsideofwork.Oneobvious approachistojoinaclubthatalignswiththeirinterestsand encountersthepublicwithsimilarpassions.
Thenexttroublebecomesoffindingasuitableclubtojoin, butthereisadistinctlackoftransparencyinthecurrent clublandscape.Whichclubhaswhatactivities,whatare theirentryrequirements,whatistheapplicationprocess like,etc.Therearemanyquestionsandnotenoughanswers; callingorvisitingeveryindividualclubbecomesonemore obstaclethatholdsbusyadultsbackfromsigningupwitha club.Alsoyoucannotjustcallupaclubbutyouneedone ortwocurrentclubmemberstorecommendyousocanvisit orjoinaclub.
Dr.PriscillaSchelpnoticedthisnecessityanddecidedto developnetworkx(www.networkx.app),anAI-based platformthatprequalifiesandmatchesinnovators, visionaries,andchangemakerswithexclusiveclubsaround theworld.
Ononehand,clubapplicantsgetequippedwiththenetwork theyneedtomaketheirvisionsandideascometolife, enablingthemtocontributetotheworldandthefuture.On theotherhand,networkxservesthelegacyoftheclubsto bringthemintothefuturebyprovidingthemwithyounger, suitable,andmotivatedmemberstorevitalizethemand enablehealthyexpansionwhilemaintainingexclusivityand stayingtruetotheirpurpose.Dr.Schelpgotintooneofthe bestGermanmanagementclubsattheageof19bywinning aJuniorManagementAward.Herconsultingworktakesher aroundtheglobe,whereshehasjoinedseveralamazing clubsinvariouscountries.
BesidesbeingtheCEOatnetworkx,Dr.Schelpalsoserves asaConnection&CommunityBuildingConsultant specializinginhelpingclientsbuildandmaintainworldclassnetworks&communitiestailoredtotheirindustries. Sheoffersconsultationstoexecutivesonimproving companyculture,teamcollaboration,andemployee satisfactionandretention,providingactionableguidance thatresultsinaboosttooverallfirmperformance.
Dr.Schelpispassionateabouthelpingclientsfeelmore confidentincommunicatingandconnectingwithothers,as wellasaddressingtheirpersonalandprofessionalworries andneeds.Shewastheleadauthoronthebestselling networkingbooknamed, “Become your Superself: Connect with Yourself to Connect with Others.”
Inanexclusiveinterviewwith Insights Success, Dr. PriscillaSchelpsharesherjourneyofsuccessdespiteher challengeswithADD;howsheusestrust,freedom,anda flexibleleadershipstyletoleadatnetworkx;andhow networkxistransformingtheclubbingindustry
Below are the highlights of the interview: Brieflydescribeyourprofessionaljourneyupuntilnow.
Myprofessionaljourneystartedquiteearly.Iwasalwaysa fanoftakinganactiverole.Ibeganwithvoluntaryworkat theageof16andjoinedthepoliticaltraineeprogramof Germany’sconservativepartyat17.Throughoutmy professionallife,Ivolunteeredtoworkwithvariousgroups thatalsopartiallymixedorraninparallelwithmymain professionalposition.
Bytheageof19,Ihadalreadyreceivedmyfirst managementawardfromoneofGermany’smost prestigiousmanagementclubsandhavejoinedmultiple clubsaroundtheworldsincethen.Ialsoplacedparticular emphasisonlearningthroughoutmyprofessionalcareer, undertakingmaster’sanddoctoratedegrees,incubators, acceleratorprograms,andreadinganythingIcouldfindon subjectsthatinterestedme.Intotal,Ireceived9 scholarships,notbecauseofmygrades(theyweregood, butduetomyADD,whichwasnotamazing),butthanksto mystrongwill,passion,andtheimpactIhadalreadymade atsuchayoungage.
Regardingmymainjob,Iwasanemployeeformostofmy life.Istartedinconsultingin2012,quicklyfindingmy focusonriskmanagementconsultingforboardsoflarge companies(EnterpriseRiskManagement-ERM)andrisk
I do not believe in working hours; I believe in achieving objectives in a trust-based culture.
managementforlargeconstructionprojectsorNGOsacross theglobe.
Afewyearslater,Iwasluckytojoinaconsultingfirmasa managerthatalsowantedtobuildupaventurecapitalfund. EventhoughIdidnothaveabackgroundinthis,Iendedup beingthemanagerofateamof15people.WorkinginVC wasaneye-opener.EverythingIhadpreviouslydoneat workfeltdullandboring.
Bychance,Ilaterbecameamoderatorinpolitics.Ilearned alotthere.EventhoughIinterviewedinterestingpeople, suchasthevicepresidentoftheEuropeanParliament, membersofvariousgovernments,oppositionleaders,and diplomats,eventmoderationdidnotpayenoughtoliveoff, soItookajobasamanageratanAutomotivesupplier. Theyallowedmetocontinuewithmymoderationandmy doctorate.Inmid-2021,Ihadtheideaformystart-up,andI havesuccessfullybuiltitupsincethen.Atthesametime,I wasalsoappointedtomyfirstboardpositionwithawellregardedfoundation.Thiseventfulyearwascompletedby earningmyDoctorateinRiskManagementintheUKand publishingmyfirstbestsellerbook.
Whatchallengesdidyoufacealongtheway?
Ihadtodealwithmanychallenges,especiallybecauseI startedinconsultingwhenIwasquiteyoung–ataround 19.Boardmembersweremostlymaleandolder.Ihadto quicklylearnhowtobetakenseriously.Ifacedseveral challengesinTheBig4firms.Theirfocusisverymuchon makingzeromistakes,andtheyareverydetailoriented.In lowerprofessionalgrades,itisalotaboutcreatingpretty andflawlessdocuments—especiallyPowerPoints.Iwas greatconceptionally,butthiswasnotvalued.Iwasalways drivenbyafearofmistakes,andmystrengthsdidnothelp memuchinthatregard.
Apartneratafirmoncetoldme,“Priscilla,youwillmakea greatmanagerorpartner.However,youcannotskiplevels; youhavetogothroughtheselowerones.”Ilearnedhowto disciplinemyselfandfocusondetails–Ilearnedto improvemyweaknessesandleadthewaymybossesdid. TheBig4arenotcompaniesthatallowyoualotof freedomorcreativity WhenIlatergotintoVentureCapital, itmademeseehowthepreviousculturehadinhibitedme. Mybossgavemelotsoftrustandfreedom.Thisenabled metoliveoffmystrengthanddevelopmyownleadership andworkingstyle.Itwasaliberation;Icouldbemyselfat workandleveragemystrengthinsteadofhidingmy weaknesses.
Whatsignificantimpacthaveyoubroughttoyour industry?
Youcouldsaymystart-upnetworkxbringsdigitalizationto theclubindustry–ifyouwanttocallitthat.Butmore importantly,networkxprotectstheclubs’legacyand preparestheclubsforthefuture.Itautomatessourcingand preselectionofclubapplicantsfortheclubs.networkxmain contributionisrejuvenatingclubsandincreasingdiversity andinclusioninclubsaroundtheworld.Insimplewords, webringamazing,young,diverse,good-hearted, passionate,andpurpose-drivenpeopleintotheclubs.
TellusaboutnetworkxGmbHanditsfoundationpillar. networkxisaleadgenerationplatformforexclusiveclubs suchasbusiness,privatemember,service,polo,golf,yacht,
automobile,artsandmore.Ithelpsclubstherebysolvetheir overaging,diversity&inclusion,financial,growthand expansionproblemsbysourcingandqualifyingsuitable candidatesfortheclubs.
Howdoesnetworkxpromotesworkforceflexibility,and whatisyourroleinit?
Weareveryflexibleandoperateglobally.Wehavepeople workingfromhomeandsometimesfromourclubs.Wedo nothaveanestablishedoffice.Yousee,IhaveADD,whenI workontherightthingsinmyway,Iliterallyhave superpowers.Ibelieveitislikethatformostpeople.Ido notbelieveinworkinghours;Ibelieveinachieving objectivesinatrust-basedculture.
Amazingpeoplearethemostimportantthinginmylife, andIseegreatpeopleashumangemstones.Iamgratefulto workwithmanyofthese.Everypersonisdifferentand needsdifferentthings.Idonotbelieveinoneleadership style.Ihavevalues,butIadjustmystylebasedontheneed andpreferencesofeachperson.
Ibelieveingreatpeople,intrust,kindness,passion,and purpose.ThepeoplethatIwanttoworkwithornetwork withalsowantthatintrinsically,soIdonotpushthem.I selectwell,andthenItrustthattheyknowinwhichway theycanworkbest.
Whatisyourtakeontechnology’simportance,andhow areyouleveragingit?
Ourvalueisnotthetechnologynetworkxbrings;forus, technologyisanenabler Weareaplatform,andthis platformenablesustoscale.Also,withmachinelearning andAI,wearegettingbetterandbetteratanalyzingand improvingclubsasecosystemsandcommunities.
Whatwillbethenextsignificantchangeinyour industry,andhowareyoupreparingforit?
Theclubindustry,ifyouwanttocallitthat,isaveryold andestablishedsector.Peoplehavealwaysmetandformed groups–eventhoughtheymightnothavecalledthem clubs.Meetingphysicallyissomethingquitetraditional. Mostclubsarebehindindigitalizationandhaveonlyhad theirfirstpushbecauseofCOVID,whenmanyclubsat leastpartiallyswitchedtovirtualmeetings.
Ithinkclubsarenowkeentodigitalize;theyneedabackup plantoadjusttheirclubandkeepitaliveincasesomething likeCOVIDhappensagain(virtualandmixedmeetings). Tobehipper,someclubsarenowlookingatthemetaverse, NFTs,etc.Also,trendssuchasdiversity,inclusion,and sustainabilitywillneedtobeaddressedfollowing requirementsbylaworindividuals.Thesustainabilitytrend especiallyappliestoeventsponsors.Clubswillonlyget eventssponsorediftheyandtheireventsarecontributingto theSDGgoals.
However,Ibelievethebiggesttrendwillbecollaboration andco-creationbetweenclubsandalsoclubsandtheir members–intherealanddigitalworld.
Whatareyourgoalsintheupcomingfuture?
Withnetworkx,wewanttocontinuemakingtheclub applicantsandclubsweworkwithhappy Wealsowantto publishmorematerialthathelpspeopletobuildupaworld classnetwork!Wewanttofurtherexpandand internationalize.Weareholdingourfirstnetworkxawards attheNationalPoloChampionshipatthePoloparkBerlin incooperationwith“Polo&LifestyletheLondon Magazine,”andtheRedClub.Wearelookingforwardto thatbecomingasuccess!
Whatadvicewouldyouliketogivethenextgeneration ofaspiringbusinessleaders?
Startyourfirstbusinessasearlyasyoucan.Youcandoit, justgetstarted!WhenIwasyoung,Ineverconsidered beingafounder;Ionlysawthishugeresponsibilityand financialrisk.IknewIneededtogetexperienceandbig namesinmyCVtoo.Butmyadviceistothinkbigandjust start!Networkasearlyasyoucan.Youdon’thavetobe experiencedandsuccessfultohaveagreatnetwork;itisthe otherwayaround;youneedagreatnetworktomakeyour dreamscometrue!
Betweenthewords‘Why’and‘Whynot,’thereis
onlyonesyllableofdifference,butthatonesyllable changesone’swholeattitudeandapproachtothe world.Itisthedifferencebetweenthedreamersandthe settlers,betweenthosewhoachieveandthosewhostagnate.
AparajitaRoy,Co-founderof KornChain-ablockchain techstart-upinLondon,andFounderof by Woman-a women-dedicatedartbrandinIndia,exemplifiestheattitude thatdarestobemore.
AparajitastartedhercareerattheReserveBankofIndiain 2017.Sincethen,shehasbeenresearchingtechnologythat shapesthewaypeoplehold,transfer,andspendmoney digitally.AtKornChain,sheworksonbusinessapplications ofblockchainintheconsumerloyaltyindustry,therecent onebeingCentralBankDigitalCurrencies.
Herpassionforhandicraftsledhertolaunchawomen-led women-focusedartbrandinIndia–byWoman.She,with herteam,isonamissiontobuildanartcommunity&an equal-opportunityplatformof/forwomenartists&art sentinels.Theyaimtomakehandmadeartmoreaccessible toartadmirersandpreserveitslegacythroughgenerations.
AparajitawasapostgraduatestudentattheUniversityof Nottingham,UK.ShewontheLongstandingVolunteer Awardin2021andwasinvitedforalecture(webinar)atthe UniversityofOklahoma.
Let us dive into the attitude of a challenger who achieves.
ConqueringArenas
“I believe every challenge is an opportunity to grow, and just like every other (co)founder, I have had a fair share myself,” expressesAparajita.Sheavoidstheword
‘a woman founder’whiledescribingherjourneyasshe believesthattherearemanycommonchallengesfacedby menandwomeninthetechnologydomainthatneedtobe addressedjustasmuchasthosethatarequitespecificto womenfounders.
Historically,however,therearedataandincidentsthatshow thatwomenfacemorechallengesorneedtomakeanextra efforttoattainwhatamanmight,givenverysimilar circumstances.OneprominentchallengethatAparajita highlightswouldbeaccesstoequityfinance.Asperdata, only16%oftotalequityinvestmentgoestostart-upswith femalefounders,and3%goestostart-upswithall-female foundingteams.
Aparajitaisoftheopinionthatmanytimesinvestorsseeka pieceofthemselvesinthefounderwhiledecidingtoinvest. It’stoughtoconvinceamantoseeawomanandfind similargritandvalueswhentheirbiasescorrupttheir judgmentandwhentherearehardlyanywomenexamples intheindustry.So,womenhavetorelyagreatdealonfacts andprojectionswhilepitchingandmakinganextraeffort. “This isn’t saying men founders get funding without having their numbers add up,” saysAparajita, “However, early on in a start-up, gaining investors’faith plays a key role.”
Thetechnologyindustryismale-dominated,withonly1/3rd oftheworkforcebeingfilledbywomen.ButAparajita rejectsfeelingintimidated.Shedeclares, “You call it a challenge? I see this as a scope to make an impact and be heard. I bring some of the unique ideas at KornChain and back them up with tremendous courage. I have an attitude of ‘Why not?’and ‘Let us…’and my team has been extremely welcoming of my ideas which I see the shape as our product offerings every day.”
Technology industry is male-dominated, with only 1/3rd of the workforce being filled by women. You call it a challenge? I see this as a scope to make an impact and be heard. I bring some of the unique ideas at KornChain and back them up with tremendous courage.
ThefoundationpillarofKornChainisthepeopleonthe team.Theyareahugelyself-motivatedteamthatbrings someofthebestexpertisefromthepaymentsindustrybut arealsohungrytomakepositivechangehappenfast.The companywasincorporatedinJanuary2018,butin2020it washitbythepandemic.
Thefounder,AnimeshGhosh,kepttheteam’sspirit pumpedwithhiscrystal-clearvision,andtheybuiltoneof themostresilienttechnologyproducts.Todayataturning pointinthecompany’shistory,theproductsmoothlyfitsthe requirementsofbuildingtheecosystemforCentralBank DigitalCurrencies.
AtKornChain,peopleareoutputfocused.Theycompriseof asmallteamlocatedmilesawayfromoneanotherand promoteworkforceflexibilityinordertogaintrust.But trustworksbothways.Becausetheteamenjoyshigher degreesofflexibility,theyarealsoconsciousofwhenand howtheydeliver
“As a Co-founder, it is equally my responsibility to keep both sides in check. I do that by practicing a high work ethic, adjusting my schedule in times of need, and making my team feel very comfortable in reaching out for a task at odd hours and, at the same time, making them aware that taking time off will only mean I will return fresh and full of ideas,” addsAparajita.
AparajitarevealsthatCentralBankDigitalCurrenciesare abouttobringoneofthemostsignificantshiftsincurrent times,andnotjustthepaymentsindustry.Theconcept wouldsoundnewtomost,butglobally;paymentsystems havebeenmeetingthepurposeofaCBDCbitbybit.She givestheexampleofUPIinIndia–oneofthebiggest governmenttechinitiativesthatmadeIndiatheleading digitallytransactingcountryin2021-22.
“KornChain has been one of the pioneering start-ups to research on this novel ask of having a Central Bank-backed digital currency, and we have a very mature product that can deliver on multiple requirements of a CBDC ecosystem,” sharesAparajita.
SpeakingofthebuddingartbrandbyWoman,Aparajita saysthattheyhaveonlyjustbegun.Shehasplanstogrow theorganizationbyaddingmorewomenartistsfrom
diverseartisticbackgroundsandcollaboratingwithbrands toshareknowledge&alignallthiswiththeirprimary missionofappreciation,preservation&propagationof handmadeart.Tothateffect,thecompanyiscollaborating with Prashast,whichpromoteshandcraftedproducts procuredfromartisansbelongingtoanunderprivileged socio-economicsettinginIndia.
Aparajitadeclares, “We are building a movement together, one partner at a time.”
“Technological advancement to me is achieving greater natural human connectivity where human capabilities become a limitation– to solve problems, ease processes and make room for the new,” saysAparajita.
Sheexplainsitwithanexample:Toaddressphysically unattainabledistancestocommunicate,peopleonceusedto writelettersandthenmakeatelephonecall.Todaythereare videocalls.Theaskhasalwaysbeenone–tobeableto communicateface-to-facesuchthatonecansee,hear,and feelanother.Theevolutionoftechnologyhastakenyearsto fulfilthatoneaskandwillcontinuetodosoasmore avenueslikeartificialandvirtualrealitiesareexplored. That’stheimportanceoftechadvancement.
Blockchainisonesuchtechnologythatshewouldn’tcall disruptivebutratherfoundational,asitisheretoevolve howpeople,processes,andthesocietyfunctions.Aparajita hasbeenaskedoverandover, “Do we even need blockchain?” Shewonders, “How do I go about answering that it is the most logical answer to many of the process and time-related challenges we face in a world of increasingly erasing boundaries?”
Aparajitahasalignedbothherprofessionalandpersonal goalstomakethebestof2023atbothKornChainandby woman,sheurgesaspiringbusinessleaderstokeepanopen mind,learnandletlearn. “You can become a leader only if you are empathetic and willing to solve even the simplest of problems. Because simple asks lead to big innovations!” sheconcludes.
Diana Richardson CEO & Founder ORCHIDS RETREAT
Asthesunrisesoverthelushgreenhillsandthebirds
begintochirp,asenseofpeaceandserenity envelopesthelandscape.It'stheperfectsettingfora placetounwind,rejuvenateandconnectwithoneself.
AndattheheartofthistranquillityisDianaRichardson, Founder&CEO,whohascreatedOrchidsRetreatfor thoseseekingsolacefromthestressesofmodernlife.Diana haspouredherheartandsoulintocraftinganexperience thatnotonlyhealsthebodyandmindbutalsonourishesthe soul.Withapassionforwellnessandadeepunderstanding ofthehumanspirit,shehasbecomeaniconicfigureinthe worldofretreats,inspiringcountlessindividualstoembark ontheirownjourneysofself-discoveryandtransformation. Nestledinthesereneandlushsurroundingsofthe countryside,OrchidsRetreatistheepitomeofluxuryand relaxation.Theretreatoffersguestsauniqueopportunityto escapethehustleandbustleofeverydaylifeandimmerse themselvesinatranquiloasisofcalm.
Withworld-classamenitiesandexceptionalservice,every aspectoftheretreatisdesignedtoprovideatruly rejuvenatingandmemorableexperience.Whetheronemay seeksolitudeoradventure,theretreatoffersarangeof activitiestosuitalltastes,fromindulgentspatreatmentsto outdoorexcursionsinthebreath-takinglandscape.
Let's dive into insights into Diana's journey to venturing into the service industry as an entrepreneur!
OrchidsRetreats'Foundation
ThefoundationpillarofOrchidsRetreatistohelpothers puttheirbestfaceforward.
AccordingtoDiana,thefoundationofOrchid'sretreatis basedonthisbelief, "We believe in natural beauty and helping make others look and feel better about themselves.”
Diana'sprofessionaljourneybeganin2000whenshewasat UniversityinLasVegas;shewasstudyingcommunication andSpanishlanguageandworkedinaspaattheLuxor.She hasbeenpassionateaboutthebeautyindustrysinceshewas nineyearsoldandoverthepastthreedecades,thatpassion hasbeenembeddedfurtherandimprintedonmanyothers throughtreatment,educationandamongstherpeers.
Shehassuccessfullybuilttwostart-upsfrom£0tosix figuresandnowhasacoachingbusinesstohelpothers growanddeveloptheirskillsetandbusinessacumen.Sheis nowtheCEOofoverfivecompanies,sharesherexpertise onaPodcastcalledGlowgetter–BeautyEntrepreneur 101,andistheproudwinnerofoverthirtyindustryawards fromaPHABServicestar(thebeautyindustry'sMichelin star),BABTACandCIBTACBeautyTherapistoftheYear andmanybusinessawards.
OrchidsRetreatisaboutcommunityspiritandteamwork. Theretreathasseveralteammemberswhoareworking motherstoenableflexibleworkinghourstosuitchildcare responsibilitiesofferingtheopportunityfornewlyqualified andtrainingtherapiststojointheteamhelpingthemgain industryexperiencetobuildastrongskillsetandfoundation intheindustry
The skin is our biggest organ; we only get one face, and we are here to help educate and demonstrate how to put your best face forward.
Mentoringnewindividualstoindustryandprovidingavery strongsupportnetworkthatpromoteseducationand equality Asafounderandamother,sheleadsbyexample. Whiletalkingaboutpersonalandprofessionallife,Diana says, "Family comes first, and maintaining a work-life balance is important to our team's wellbeing."
ThesignificantimpactthatDianahasbroughttothe industryissharingherknowledgeandexpertisewithother professionals,inspiringup-and-comingtherapiststhrough teachingandhelpingthemfurtherdeveloptheirskillsetand educatingherclientsabouthowtobetheirownskinexperts andputtheirbestfaceforward.
Dianahasnotbecomeanovernightsuccess,withovertwo decadesofexperiencetherehavebeenmanychallenges alongtheway.Thepandemichitherindustryhard,but therehavebeenalotofotherobstaclesalongher
professionaljourney.Shehashadtostartoverinthe businessworldseveraltimes–thefirstbeingin2013when shehadbothwristsinthermodynamicsplintsduetoinjury Shegrewthebusinessfromonlyfewclientsintoanawardwinningbespokesalonin2016alsowinningtheBABTAC andCIBTACBeautyTherapistoftheYearandGold AwardsforhercontributiontotheBeautyIndustry.
In2021choosingtoswimupstream,Dianaprevailed againstchallengespresentedbytherestrictionsoftheglobal pandemic.Sheturnedthechallengeintoanopportunity whenalocalsalonwasclosingtosignafifteen-yearlease andtakeonasix-treatmentroomclinic.Shewasa solopreneuratthispointwhichispresentlyexpandedtoa teamof10beauty,aestheticandholistictherapistsoffering awidevarietyoftreatmentstotheircommunity.
Attheendof2021,Dianaenteredacyclingchallengeto ridearoadbikefromLands'EndtoJohnO'Groats, basicallythelengthoftheUK.AfterDay3,Diana'shands werelikeclawsfrombeinginthesaddlefortwelvehoursa day.Unfortunately,shehadtostepoutofthe960-milerace
andwastoldthathercareerasatherapistwasover.Her incredibleresiliencetofighttheoddspushedherthrough monthsoftreatmentandphysiotherapytobebackinthe treatmentroomthreemonthslaterandgoontowinUK BeautyTherapistoftheYear2022.Diana'sgritand determinationtohelpotherspropelsherthroughchallenges andhermindsetistocreateopportunitiesoutofobstacles.
Technologyisanassettotheindustry,asitevolvessodo thetreatmentsandwaysthatcanfurtherhelpretreat clientele.Whetherthat'sthroughdigitalservices,online bookingsystemsandcommunicationchannels,social mediaortechnologyinthetreatmentroom.Diana's perspectiveonadaptingandbenefittingfromtechnology, shesaid, "We are constantly learning, developing and leveraging new treatments and technological opportunities."
Thenextsignificantchangeintheindustryistheaftermath ofexcessBotox,fillers,etc.Everyoneisbigonplumping andquickresults.Dianamentions, "Soon we will have to help client's re-tone their skin and help to treat people after they've overdone it on the aesthetics."
Naturalskincareandbeautyarethewayforward,and educatingpeopleabouthowtolookafterandtreattheirskin throughprofessionaltreatmentandhomecareistheservice foundation.Sheadds, "The skin is our biggest organ; we only get one face, and we are here to help educate and demonstrate how to put your best face forward."
Diana'sgoalinthenearfutureistoauthorabookandhave itpublished.Shewouldalsoliketofurtherdevelop SignatureDCoachingtolaunchanOrchidsRetreat FranchisemodelacrosstheUKandinternationally.She wouldliketocreateahouseholdnamebrandandislooking atexpandingherartisanskincarerangeAurumDto distributetoawidernetworkandfurtherdevelopintobeing acategoryofone.
Diana'sadviceistodreambig,designyourdestinyandtake imperfectaction.Sheshares,"Welearnaswegrowand develop;justgetstarted!"
have created a Difference
Intoday'srapidlychangingworld,women entrepreneursareleavinganindeliblemarkonsociety bycreatingsuccessfulbusinessesanddrivingpositive change.Thesevisionarywomenhavenotonlyshattered stereotypesbutalsoinspiredandmotivatedotherswiththeir exceptionalqualities.Thisarticleaimstohighlightthe inspiringandmotivatingqualitiesofwomenentrepreneurs whohavemadeasignificantdifferenceincreatinga progressivesociety.
VisionaryLeadership:
Womenentrepreneurspossessaremarkableabilityto envisionpossibilitiesandopportunities.Theyhaveaclear senseofpurposeanddirection,whichguidestheirdecisionmakingprocess.Throughtheirvisionaryleadership,they inspireotherstothinkbeyondconventionalboundaries, leadingtoinnovativesolutionsanddrivingsocietal progress.
ResilienceandPerseverance:
Resilienceandperseverancearekeyqualitiesexhibitedby successfulwomenentrepreneurs.Theyfacenumerous challenges,setbacks,andobstaclesontheirentrepreneurial journey.However,theirdetermination,tenacity,andability tobouncebackfromfailuresenablethemtoovercome adversityandachievetheirgoals.Theirresilienceservesas apowerfulsourceofmotivationforothersfacingsimilar challenges.
EmpoweringOthers:
Womenentrepreneursarenotjustfocusedontheirpersonal success;theyarededicatedtoempoweringothers.
Theycreateinclusiveworkplacesthatvaluediversity, provideopportunitiesforgrowth,andfosterasenseof belonging.Bynurturingandempoweringtheiremployees, theycontributetotheoveralldevelopmentofindividuals andthesocietyasawhole.
EmbracingCollaboration:
Successfulwomenentrepreneursunderstandthepowerof collaborationandthevalueofbuildingstrongnetworks. Theyactivelyseekoutpartnerships,alliances,and mentorshipopportunities.Bycollaboratingwithothers, theyleveragecollectiveknowledge,resources,and expertisetocreateamoresignificantimpact.Their collaborativeapproachinspiresotherstoworktogether, fosteringacultureofcooperationandmutualsupport.
SocialResponsibilityandSustainability:
Womenentrepreneursoftenembraceastrongsenseof socialresponsibilityandprioritizesustainabilityintheir businesses.Theyrecognizethattheiractionscanhavefarreachingconsequencesbeyondprofitability Theyintegrate socialandenvironmentalconsiderationsintotheirbusiness models,strivingtocreateapositiveandlastingimpacton society.Theircommitmenttosocialresponsibility motivatesotherstoaligntheirbusinesseswithsustainable practices.
BreakingBarriersandInspiringChange:
Womenentrepreneursarecatalystsforchange,challenging societalnorms,andbreakingbarriers.
Byachievingremarkablesuccessintraditionallymaledominatedindustries,theyinspireotherwomentopursue theirentrepreneurialdreams.Theirachievementsserveasa testamenttothelimitlesspotentialofwomen,encouraging otherstostriveforgreatnessandmakeadifferencein society
Successfulwomenentrepreneursunderstandtheimportance ofpayingitforward.Theyactivelyengageinmentoring andsupportingaspiringentrepreneurs,particularlywomen. Throughtheirguidance,advice,andencouragement,they helpothersnavigatetheentrepreneuriallandscape, overcomeobstacles,andrealizetheirpotential.Their mentorshipservesasasourceofinspirationandmotivation foremergingentrepreneurs.
Womenentrepreneursoftenbringfreshperspectivesand innovativeideastothetable.Theypossessanaturalability tothinkoutsidetheboxandcomeupwithcreativesolutions tocomplexproblems.Theirentrepreneurialventuresare oftenfueledbytheiruniqueinsightsandnovelapproaches, inspiringotherstoembraceinnovationandpushthe boundariesofwhatispossible.
Womenentrepreneursareknownfortheirstrongsenseof empathyandcompassion.Theyunderstandtheneedsand aspirationsoftheircustomersandstakeholdersonadeeper level.Byputtingthemselvesinothers'shoes,theydevelop products,services,andbusinessmodelsthatcatertothose needs,creatingapositiveimpactonindividualsand communities.Theirempatheticapproachmotivatesothers toprioritizecompassionintheirownentrepreneurial endeavors.
Womenentrepreneursoftenusetheirplatformstoadvocate forsocialchangeandaddresspressingsocietalissues.They leveragetheirinfluence,resources,andnetworkstoraise awarenessanddrivemeaningfulactionontopicssuchas genderequality,environmentalsustainability,andsocial justice.Throughtheiradvocacy,theyinspireotherstouse entrepreneurshipasatoolforpositivesocialtransformation.
Successfulwomenentrepreneursunderstandtheimportance ofcontinuouslearningandpersonalgrowth.Theyactively seekoutopportunitiesforprofessionaldevelopment,attend workshopsandconferences,andengageinlifelong learning.Byembracingagrowthmindset,theyinspire otherstoinvestintheirownpersonalandprofessional development,fosteringacultureoflearningand improvement.
Womenentrepreneursoftenserveasrolemodelsfor achievingwork-lifebalance.Theydemonstratethatitis possibletobuildsuccessfulbusinesseswhileprioritizing personalwell-being,family,andrelationships.Byfinding harmonybetweentheirprofessionalandpersonallives,they inspireotherstostriveforabalancedandfulfillinglifestyle.
Womenentrepreneursfaceuniquechallengesduetogender biasandstereotypes.However,theirabilitytoovercome thesebarriersthroughdeterminationandresilienceserves asapowerfulmotivationforothersfacingsimilar circumstances.Theybreakdowngender-basedlimitations andinspirewomentopursuetheirentrepreneurial ambitions,regardlessofsocietalexpectations.
Theinspiringandmotivatingqualitiesexhibitedbywomen entrepreneurswhohavemadeadifferenceinsocietyare trulyremarkable.Theirvisionaryleadership,resilience, commitmenttosocialresponsibility,andcollaborative approachinspireotherstopursuetheirentrepreneurial dreamsandcreatepositivechange.Bycelebratingtheir achievementsandamplifyingtheirvoices,wecaninspirea newgenerationofwomenentrepreneurswhowillcontinue toshapeaprogressivesocietyforthebettermentofall.
Afteranintensecareerasafinanceexecutivein
internationalbanking,onemaywonderwhat motivatedGiovannaRSessi-Knotttotakethe plungeintoentrepreneurship.Theinspirationtocreatea bettereverydaybagwasbornoutoffrustrationwhen,once shebecameamother,gettingreadyinthemorningturned intoacompletechallenge.
Giovanna'snewlifestyleasaworkingmotherrequiredher togetdressedinoneoutfitandasetofaccessoriesthat wouldneedtobesuitablefromtheboardroomtothe playgroundandthendatenight.
Sheneededherwardrobeandaccessoriestobeasversatile asshewasoccupiedwithexecutingmultipletasksfromday tonight.Everymorning,crossingLondonBridgeonthe waytowork,shenoticedthatshewasnottheonlyonewith thatchallenge.
Mostwomenwouldcrossthebridgewearingsneakers, carryinganextrabagwithstilettoes,adesignerhandbag andadifferent-lookingbagwithalaptop.Thisuniformdid notexactlyscreamstyle.
ThisinstigatedGiovannatothinkabouthowtoimprove thisunfortunatelookandimpracticalwayofdealingwith themulti-taskingchallenge.Aftermonthsofreflectionand nightsonthedrawingboard,shecameupwiththeideaofa colour-coordinatedsetofhandbags.Givenherpastcareer, managingthefinancesofherstart-upbusinesswasnota problem.
Sheestablished The Morphbag by GSK with a mission to empowerwomenthroughhandbagsthathavetheirbusy lifestyleinmindandaresoversatilethattheycancolour adapttotheircapsulewardrobe.
Tellusmoreaboutyourcompanyanditsmissionand vision;howdoesitthrivetowardsenabling advancementsinthedynamicbusinessarena?
Thekeychallengewaslearningeverythingelsethereisto know–e.g.,sourcingmaterialsandproduction,developing awebsite,managingphotoshoots,executingdigital marketing,developingblogsandnewsletters,and relentlesslynetworking.
Myvisionistopromoteasustainablewayoflifeby creatingmulti-purposeandseasonlesshandbagsthatare basedoncolour-analysistoperfectlyaccessoriseindividual wardrobesandincentivisewomentochoosewell,buyless andbuildcapsulewardrobestoallowthemtostyle themselvesperfectlyandeffortlesslywhilecurbingoverconsumption.
Enlightenusonhowyouhavebeenimpactingtheniche throughyourexpertiseinthemarket.
WhilemyMorphbagsarevegan(madefromrecycledPU leather,Petacertified,VeganSocietyTrademark)andthus ethical&sustainablyproduced,whatmakesthemuniqueis thattheyaresustainableintheirveryDNAbytheir versatilityandtheirtermsofuseandstylingoptions.They are"slowfashion"inthetruesenseoftheword,andwe havewonawardseverysingleyearsinceourlaunchforour uniqueconcept.
Whatarethefundamentalsthatyouimplementtodrive bettermentwithintheworkcultureofyour organization?
Thefundamentalsofmycompanyareembeddedinour businessstrategythroughtheUnitedNationsSustainable DevelopmentGoalsweareworkingtowardsin
“ “
My vision is to promote a sustainable way of life by creating multi-purpose and seasonless handbags that are based on colour-analysis to perfect accessories individual wardrobes and incentivize women. ”
collaborationwithTheConsciousFashionandLifestyle Network.
Thereare17SDGsintotal,andwehaveidentified4SDGs askeydriversforourbusiness–keytargetsthatalignwith ourbusinessmodelanddesiredimpact.TheseareSDG12 ResponsibleProductionandConsumption,SDG13Climate Action,SDG15LifeonLandandSDG17Partnershipsfor theGoals.
Describeindetailthevaluesandtheworkculturethat drivesyourorganization.
TheMorphbag,byGSK'sfoundationalvalues,isbasedon fourfundamentalgoals:
I.Tobreakthemisconceptionthatveganleather compromisesonlookandqualityandtoreducethedemand foranimalleatheranddeforestationduetocattlefarming. Wealsoplant1treeintheAmazonRainforestforevery handbagsoldtosupportOneTreePlantedreforestation effortsintheAmazon.
II.Toencouragesustainableshoppingbyofferingaproduct thatofferssomuchversatilitythatitminimisestheneedto keepshoppingtoservedifferentusesorstylingpurposes. III.Toempowerwomenbytailoringhandbagdesignsto theirmulti-taskinglifestyleandtotheirdesireforeffortless style.
IV.Tobuildacommunityofwomenthatempowerswomen throughsharinginspirationalpersonalstoriesinThe EmpoweringMorph-MomentInterviewSeries.
Undeniably,technologyisplayingasignificantrolein almosteverysector.Howareyouleveraging technologicaladvancementstomakeyoursolutions resourceful?
Mybusiness'smostimportanttechnologicaladvancements areresearchintovegan,ethicalandbio-degradable materials.Themostimportantsteptocombatclimate changeistoreduceoverconsumption,usematerialsalready incirculation,andcreatematerialsthatcanbio-degrade.
What,accordingtoyou,couldbethenextsignificant changeinyoursector?Howisyourcompanypreparing tobeapartofthatchange?
Thefashionindustryhasbeenamajorculpritinclimate
changeandthelossofbiodiversity.Circularbusiness modelsarethefuture,andwearealreadyseeinganincrease ofthesecondarymarketwithpre-lovedfashionstoresand fashionexchanges.TheMorphbagcollaborateswiththe Smartworks charitybydonatingshowsamples.
Wheredoyouenvisionyourselftobeinthelongrun, andwhatareyourfuturegoalsforyourcompany?
Iamdevelopingnewcollectionsaimedatwomenwith differentlifestyles,usingnewsustainableandethical materials.Iamnowworkingonaprojectthatwould supportlocalartisansandtheiruniquecrafts.
Whatwouldbeyouradvicetobuddingentrepreneurs whoaspiretoventureintothedynamicbusinessarena?
Weareoperatinginaverysaturatedmarket,anditis essentialtoresearchexhaustivelytofindanicheinwhichto operatewithoutbeingswallowedbythefiercecompetition oflargeplayersandfastfashion.Passioninwhatyouare doingisimportantforresilience;uniquenessofproposition iskeyforsurvival.
Intoday'sworld,womenleadersaremakingsignificant andimpactfulcontributionsacrossvariousfields, includingtechnology,business,science,politics,and socialdevelopment.Theirvisionaryleadership, determination,anduniqueperspectivesareshapingthe worldweliveinanddrivingpositivechange.Inthisarticle, werecognizeandcelebratetheinfluentialrolethatwomen leadersplayintheworldofdevelopment,highlightingtheir contributionsandtheimportanceofgenderdiversityin achievingsustainableprogress.
Womenleadersareattheforefrontofdrivinginnovation andtechnologicaladvancement.Theyarebreakingbarriers intraditionallymale-dominatedfieldssuchasartificial intelligence,cybersecurity,biotechnology,anddata analytics.Bychallengingstereotypesandovercoming genderbiases,womenleadersarerevolutionizing industries,introducingnovelideas,andleading groundbreakingresearchanddevelopmentprojects.Their contributionsarereshapingthetechnologicallandscape andpavingthewayforamoreinclusiveanddiverse future.
Womenleadersareinstrumentalinpromotingand achievingtheUnitedNations'SustainableDevelopment Goals(SDGs).Theychampioninitiativesfocusedon eradicatingpoverty,advancinggenderequality,improving accesstoeducationandhealthcare,andcombatingclimate change.Throughtheirleadershiprolesingovernment,nonprofitorganizations,andinternationalinstitutions,women leadersaredrivingpolicychanges,mobilizingresources, andadvocatingforsocialandenvironmentaljustice.Their effortsarecreatingamoreequitableandsustainableworld forfuturegenerations.
Womenleadersarededicatedtoempoweringmarginalized communitiesandadvocatingfortheirrights.They recognizetheimportanceofinclusivityandactivelywork towardsbreakingdownsocietalbarriers.Through grassrootsinitiatives,communityengagement,andsocial entrepreneurship,womenleadersareuplifting underprivilegedindividualsandprovidingthemwith opportunitiesforeducation,economicempowerment,and leadershipdevelopment.
Byamplifyingmarginalizedvoicesandaddressingsystemic inequalities,theyarefosteringgreatersocialcohesionand progress.
Womenleadersaretransformingbusinesspracticesby promotingdiversity,inclusivity,andethicalleadership. Theybringfreshperspectivestoboardroomsandexecutive positions,challengingtraditionalbusinessnormsand fosteringculturesofcollaboration,empathy,andfairness. Womenleadersprioritizeinitiativesthatpromotework-life balance,mentorshipprograms,andequalopportunitiesfor careeradvancement.Theirleadershipstylesemphasizethe importanceofemotionalintelligence,empathy,and relationshipbuilding,leadingtomoreinclusiveand sustainablebusinesspractices.
Womenleadersserveaspowerfulrolemodels,inspiringthe nextgenerationofleaders.Throughtheirachievements, resilience,anddetermination,theybreakdownsocietal barriersandencourageyounggirlsandwomentopursue theirdreamsandaspirations.Byactivelyengagingin mentorshipprograms,speakingatconferences,andsharing theirexperiences,womenleadersprovideguidanceand supporttoaspiringleaders,empoweringthemtoovercome obstaclesandreachtheirfullpotential.Theirmentorship andadvocacyeffortsfosterapipelineofdiversetalentthat willcontinuetodrivedevelopmentandprogress.
Womenleadershaveplayedcrucialrolesinadvocatingfor peaceandsecurityatlocal,national,andinternational levels.Theyhavebeeninstrumentalinconflictresolution, peacebuildingefforts,andpromotingdialogueamong diversegroups.Byprioritizingpeacefulresolutionsand addressingtherootcausesofconflicts,theycontributeto stabilityandcreateanenvironmentconduciveto development.
Womenleadershaverecognizedtheimportanceofdigital inclusionandbridgingthegenderdigitaldivide.Theyhave championedinitiativestoenhancedigitalliteracy,expand
accesstotechnology,andpromotewomen'sparticipationin thedigitaleconomy.Throughtheirefforts,theyenable womentofullyparticipateinthedigitalrevolutionand benefitfromitsopportunities.
Womenleadershavebeenattheforefrontofempowering marginalizedcommunities,includingindigenouspeoples, refugees,andpeoplewithdisabilities.Theyhavefoughtfor theirrights,providedplatformsfortheirvoicestobeheard, andimplementedpoliciestoaddresstheirunique challenges.Theircommitmenttoinclusivityensuresthatno oneisleftbehindinthejourneyofdevelopment.
Womenleadershavemadesignificantcontributionsto strengtheninggovernanceandpromotingaccountability Theyhaveadvocatedfortransparency,foughtagainst corruption,andworkedtowardsbuildinginstitutionsthat areresponsivetotheneedsoftheircitizens.Their leadershipfosterstrustinpublicinstitutionsandcreatesan environmentconducivetosustainabledevelopment.
Thecontributionsofwomenleadersintheworldof developmentarediverseandimpactful.Throughtheir leadership,theyhavereshapedpolicies,advancedgender equality,fosteredinclusivedevelopment,andchampioned variouscauses.Itisimperativetoacknowledgeand celebratetheirachievementswhilecontinuingtopromote theirinclusionandsupporttheirendeavors.Byrecognizing andamplifyingthevoicesofwomenleaders,wecancreate amorejust,equitable,andprosperousworldfor everyone.
Intheeraofimprovementandadvancement,theworld
iswitnessingtherightfultransformationinwomen achievingtheirgoalsinthedynamicbusinessarena. Fromgrabbinganopportunity,workingtirelesslytocrafting anupgradedfuture,women'ssuccessstoriesareevidentin courageanddetermination.
Bringingchangewithexceptionalskillsintermsof pursuingandexcellingincareersdefinesatransformational leader.Pavingtheirpathsthroughchallengesandwalking throughwithconfidenceandcommitmenttoredefiningthe respectivesector
HaciaAtherton,theCEOandFoundingDirectorof EmpoweredWomeninTrades,standsoutasacoherent leaderfootinginthestepstoredefineleadershipand influencingcareersforwomenintrading.
DrivingAustralia'seconomicrecoverytoahigherlevel, Haciaisenablinggrowthastheforemostprospectfor womenbysimplifyingemploymentpathwaysand connectingthemwiththerightopportunities. HaciaestablishedthefoundationofEmpoweredWomenin Trades(EWIT)withthevisiontoincreasewomen's representationintrades.Haciaisbridgingthetradeskills gapbyfacilitatingemploymentofwomenintrade-based industries,whileprovidingthemwithactionableresources tosupportathrivingcareer
InsightsSuccessinterviewedHaciaontheprocesses supportingtradeindustriesandwomenbysimulating changebyaligningsupportandadvancement.
Let's delve into the intercepts of the interview
Pleasetellusaboutyourselfandyourprofessional tenuresofarintheniche.
Asanentrepreneurialtrailblazerincourageousleadership,I amdedicatedtotransformingcorporatemanagementto embodyvulnerability,compassionandempathyaspartof thenewarchetypefordynamicindustryleaders.Passionate aboutPositivePsychology,Iempowerleaderstoexpand theirremarkablepotentialwhilecreatingpsychologically safeandthrivingworkplacesforall.
AstheCEO&FoundingDirectorofEmpoweredWomenin Trades,Iamrevolutionizinghowtrade-basedindustriesin Australiaattract,supportandretainfemaleswithincareers inskilledtrades.
MytransformationalideologywasdevelopedafterI sustainedcrushinginjuriesinalife-threateningequestrian accident.BeingtoldImayneverwalkagaininany meaningfulway;Irealizedthatsuccessisarelative concept,whichmustconstantlyberedefined,andthat advancementinlifeisprimarilybasedonone'sabilityto implementincrementalgoals,which,whenachieved, aggregateintoforward-propellingmilestones.
Enlightenourreadersaboutyourcompany,highlighting itssignificanceinthedynamicbusinessarena.
EmpoweredWomeninTrades'(EWIT)purposeistobuild aninclusivecommunity,connectingstakeholderstoanew worldofopportunityandcementingafoundationfor rewardingcareerswhilstboostingdiversityintrades-based industries.
As the CEO
&
Founding Director of Empowered Women in Trades, I am revolutionizing how trade-based industries in Australia attract, support and retain females within careers in skilled trades.
“ “
InAustralia,womenrepresent3%ofskilledtrades,and throughourinnovativeimmersiveprograms,ourultimate goalistoseethis3%turninginto30%by2030.
In2022,whichwasourinauguralyear,wesawover500 femalesandnon-binarypeoplegraduatefromourprograms, whichincreasedcourageandanewappreciationforskilled trades.Lastyear71%ofgraduatesfromourExperience Tradesprogramwerenotworkinginthetrades,ortradebasedindustriesand100%ofourprogramparticipants wouldrecommendtheprogramtoafriend.
Whatweretheinitialchallengesafterventuringintothe niche,andwhatarethechallengesnow?
Startingupabusinessisalwayschallenging;youface financialconstraints,humancapitallimitations,andselfdoubtstartstocreepin.IactivelyusePositivePsychology interventionssuchasgratitudepracticestosupportmyself andmyteamtoovercomeself-doubtandensurewealways embraceagrowthmindset.Therewillalsobenew
challengesaroundthecorner.However,Ibelievethat problemscanbeopportunitiesandovercomingobstacles.
Whatisyourcurrentroleatyourcompany,andhowdo youinculcatethecrucialfundamentalsthathelpyour organizationscaleitsprogress?
AsCEO,IamresponsibleforsettingthevisionofEWIT andworkingwithmyteamtodevelopourstrategic direction.Isetmedium-andlong-termgoalsformyteam andworkwiththemtodevelopaplantoachieveourgoals. Ianalyzewhoourtargetaudienceis,whatourcompetitors aredoingandwhatmarkettrendsareappearing.
WhataretheUSPsthatmakeyourcompanystandout inthemarket?
AtEWIT,weempowerpeoplebyincreasingtheircourage anddeterminationtofindacareerpathwaytheyare passionateabout.Wealwaysworkwithintegrityand compassiontosupportourmembersalongthejourneyto
thrivingwithinskilledtradesindustries.Ourprogramsare innovativeandaredisruptinghowwomenandnon-binary peopleareseenwithintrade-basedindustries.Weaimto transformmindsetsandthecultureofthetraded-based industriesfromoneoftoxicitytopositivity.
Beinganexperiencedleader,sharewithusyouropinion onhowtechnologyistransformingthemodernbusiness arena,andwhatadvancementswecanexpectinthe future.
Technologyistransformingthemodernbusinessarenain numerouswaysrevolutionizingthewaycompaniesoperate, interactwithcustomersandcompeteinthemarketplace. Herearesomewaystechnologyischangingthebusiness landscape:
Ÿ Bigdataanalytics:Themassiveamountofdatagathered bybusinessescannowbeanalyzedtoprovideinsights intocustomerbehavior,markettrends,andoperational efficiency.
Ÿ Mobiletechnology:Theriseofmobiletechnologyhas madeiteasierforbusinessestoreachcustomersonthe goprovidingamoreconvenientandaccessible experience.
Ÿ Socialmedia:socialmediahasbecomeessentialfor businessestoconnectwithcustomersandbuildbrand awareness.Companiescannowusesocialmedia platformstoadvertise,engagewithcustomers,and providecustomersupport.
Overall,technologyistransformingthemodernbusiness arenaincountlesswaysenablingcompaniestooperate moreeffectively,reachnewcustomersandgaina competitiveadvantageinthemarketplace.
Whatwouldbeyouradvicetotheaspirantswhoare willingtoventureintotheindustry?
Myadvicetoothers.
Ÿ Developaclearvisionbeforeembarkingonanybusiness venture.It'sessentialtohaveaclearvisionofwhatyou wanttoachieve.Yourvisionshouldbespecific, measurable,realisticanditshouldguideallofyour decisions.
Ÿ Focusoninnovation;thisisacompetitiveadvantage.In today'sfast-pacedbusinessenvironment,innovationis essentialforabusinessleader Youshouldcontinually lookforwaystoimproveyourproducts,servicesand processesandbeopentonewideasandtechnologies.
Ÿ Prioritizecustomersatisfaction:You'llfindcustomersare thelifeandbloodofyourbusinessandtheirsatisfaction shouldbethetoppriorityfocus.Ensureyoubuildstrong relationshipswithyourcustomerbaseandalwaysstrive toexceedtheirexpectations.
Ÿ Stayinformed.Asabusinessleader,youshouldalways stayinformedaboutthelatesttrends,technologiesand bestpracticesinyourindustry.Continuallyseekout learningopportunitiesandbeopentofeedbackand constructivecriticism.
Apersonalexperiencethatledtothelaunchofan
onlinecommunitydedicatedtoconnectingfamilies ofchildrenwithdisabilitiestosearch,buy,sell,and donatedurablemedicalequipment,LittleWinswasborn.
FounderLexisSerotiskeenonhelpingatleastoneperson strugglingwiththeinabilitytoaccessthenecessary equipmenttoimprovetheirqualityoflifetoalleviatethe burdenofthisproblem.
Lexisreflectsonherjourneyasanentrepreneurandleader below:
Hercompanywasbornfromapersonalstrugglewhenone ofhertwinssufferedaskullfractureduringanemergency C-sectiondeliveryresultinginacerebralpalsydiagnosis.
However,theinformationandresourcesavailabletoher werelacking.Thisrealizationinspiredhertocreatea solutionforothersfacingsimilarchallenges.Despitenot havingacollegedegree,Lexiswasdeterminedtomakea difference.Overtheyears,shehasmetmanyparentsand caregiverswhofeelthesameway,andhersolutionhas proventobehelpful.Lexisisproudtohavecreated somethingthatpositivelyimpactspeople'slives.
LittleWinsaimedtoaddressbothissues,providinga360 approachthatincludedone-to-onesupportanda communityforfamiliestosharetipsandconnect.The problemoflimitedmobilitywasacommonone,affecting peopleallovertheworld.However,Lexisbelievedthe burdencouldbelessenedbycomingtogetherand supportingeachother.
Lexissawmanyproblemswhichneededsolutionsasshe lookedaround,fromessentialequipmenttoadaptive silverware.TheexcitementofbuildingtheLittleWins communitykepthermotivated,andshealwaysturnedto thefoundingprinciplesfornewideas.Lexisrecognizedthat thesolutionsneededtocomefromagroupeffortand constantlyaskedforinputandfeedbackfromeveryone involved.ThepioneeringspiritofLittleWinswasinpaving anentirelynewwaytogether,withthepowerofcommunity behindit.
IntegrityisacorevalueforLittleWins.Lexisasserts, "We believe in doing the right thing and being good stewards of the resources and relationships entrusted to us." LittleWins alsovaluesempowerment,providingmemberswithaccess tothetoolsandresourcestheyneedtoimprovetheirlives. Compassionisalsocritical,withthecompanycaringabout itsmembersandtheirfamiliesandofferingasupportive environment.
AsLexisbegantohelpmoreandmorepeople,hervision expandedtoamoreholisticapproach.Thegoalwasto providethenecessaryequipmentanddispeltheloneliness feltbyfamiliesdealingwiththesechallenges.Lexissaw thatacquiringtheessentialtoolswasnotstraightforward andthatmanyfamiliesfeltaloneintheirstruggles.
Lexisemphasizestheimportanceofintegrityanddoingthe rightthingtoberesourcefulandalsorelationshipstewards. Shealsospeaksaboutthevalueofempowermentand providingaccesstotoolsandresourcesthatcanimprovethe livesofLittleWins'members.Anothercriticalvaluefor Lexisiscompassion.Shecaresdeeplyaboutthemembers andtheirfamiliesandseeksajudgment-freeenvironment thatfosterscommunityandgeneratesmoresuccessful
Lexis Serot Founder Li leWins
outcomes.Additionally,shevaluesrespectfordifferences andfollowsthroughoncommitmentswhiletaking ownershipofresults,whichiswhyaccountabilityis essentialtoLittleWins.Lexisiscommittedtolivingby thesevaluesandmakingdecisionsthatalignwiththem, makingLittleWinsuniqueinitsapproach.
Lexisbelievesincreatingaworkenvironmentmorelikea family,whereeveryoneworkstogetherandunderstandsthat everyoneishuman.Sheencouragesherteamtotaketime offifneededandcelebrateseachother'ssuccesses, regardlessoftheirpositioninthecompany.Lexishandselectsherteammembers,sometimesnotnecessarily becauseoftheirprofessionalbackgroundbutbecauseof theirpassionforlearningandwillingnesstoworkhard.In hersmallcompany,everyonewearsmanyhats,andthereis easeandflowtotheworkdrivenbyasharedacceptanceof thecompany'svaluesandcultivatingeachperson's interests.ToLexis,thisiswhatmakeshercompanyunique andsuccessful.
Lexishadabreadthofexperiencethattookmuchworkto comeby.Havingworkedcountlessjobssinceherteenage years,frombeingajanitortoamodel,ahousekeepertoa
Lexis believes in creating a work environment more like a family, where everyone works together and understands that everyone is human. She encourages her team to take time off if needed and celebrates each other's successes, regardless of their position in the company.
bartender,Lexishadgainedanimpressivearrayofskills thatsheknewcouldbeappliedtocreatinganonline company.Havingbeenunabletoaffordcollege,Lexis learnedessentiallifeskillsonthejob,suchascleaning, takingcareofothers,andorganizationalskills.This understandingledhertodesignLittleWins,amarketplace tobuy,sell,andtrademedicalequipmentandsuppliesthat werefreeanddesignedforbusypeople.Lexiswasproudof theflowoftheplatform,knowingthatpeopleneededmore
timetojumpthroughhoopsandanswerendlessquestions. LittleWinswasdesignedtomaketheirliveseasier.Its successinthenichemarketwasbecauseitcateredtopeople whoweretryinghard.Lexisknewthatherlifeexperience hadplayedasignificantroleinthedesignofLittleWins. Shewasn'tsureifshewouldhavebeenabletocreate somethingcomparableifherlifehadbeenmoreaccessible.
Lexishasbeenworkingonaprojectforthepastthreeyears thatsheisexcitedtorolloutsoon.Onedaywhileshopping formedicalsuppliesforherdaughter,shewasremindedof apastsadevent,whichpromptedhertocomeupwithan ideaforamedicalsupplysubscriptionbox.Theboxwould eliminatetheexperienceoffeelingbummedoutabout buyingmedicalsuppliesandinsteadbringasmileto people'sfaceseverymonth.Itwouldalsofeatureanew storyorartworkeverymonth.Lexisspentthelastthree yearsbuildingLittleWins,gettingpeople'sfeedback,and ensuringitmettheirneeds.Nowthatitisalmostready,she isexcitedtoreleaseittothefoundingmembersbefore launchingittoeveryone.Lexisalsoplansatransportation solutiontohelppeoplewhohavetotakeabustoatrainto walkwhentheycan'tgettheirmedicalsupplies,butthat willbereadynextyear.Herdrivingforcebehindthese projectsisfairnessandthedesireforeveryonetohavean equalopportunityforagoodqualityoflife.
Lexisispassionateaboutadvocatingforindividualswho areimmobileandnonverbal.Sherecognizestheimportance ofeyegazesystemsasameansofcommunicationand acknowledgesthattheyarecostly.Lexishasaimedto implementthesesystemsandBraille,sound,vision,and othercontactformsfora360-degreeapproachto accessibility.Shebelievesitiscrucialtoconsiderallthe differentwaysindividualscommunicate,includingsmell, taste,sound,andsight.Lexisisexcitedabouttheincredible innovationsandlovespartneringwithcompaniestomakea difference.Shereachesouttocompaniesthatshethinksdo wellandpresentsherideasforservingthemassivegroupof peoplewhomakeupthecommunityofLittleWins,andthey areeagertocollaboratewithher.
Lexisbelievesthatwhenitcomestoproblem-solvingin MedTech,it'sessentialtofocusontherootcauseofthe
problemandstaycalmwithallthevariables.Todothis,she suggestsimaginingthesolution;sometimes,theanswer couldcomefromthemostunexpectedplaces.She emphasizestheneedtodreambigandstartsmallwiththe problem,focusingonthattinypartandbuildingonitfrom there.Thoughtheprocesscanbefrustratingand overwhelming,sheadvisesobservingwhatothersaredoing andlookingoutforpotentialsolutionsthatmightberightin frontofone'sface.Shebelievesthatwiththetechnologywe havetoday,solutionsaremoreaccessiblethaneverbefore, andoneshouldthinkoutsidetheboxtofindthem.
