Womens Era Archives

A SUCCESSFUL HEALTHRENEUR WITH A BEAUTIFUL SOUL, SUPPORTING PEOPLE TO HEAL FROM THE ROOT

Growth wit hout its growing pains—although a fallacy—appears an effortless possibility when represented by tenacious forces who have pioneered and moulded the landscape of female empowerment and leadership in modern industries, such as the healthcare sector.

One such character in the pantheon of pioneers is Dr. Uzma Raheem. The daughter to pioneering histopathologist, Dr. Mohammed Abdulraheem—credited for the founding of the first medical laboratory in the Kingdom—Dr. Uzma Raheem set out to create her own legacy in the fields of psychology and special needs during their infancy in the region in the 90s.

Although her journey began as most fresh graduates’: at an entry-level job, working under rigid industry standards of the time, it soon became evident to Dr. Raheem that the axion on which the special needs sector functioned was deficient in its stringent inability to adapt and collaborate with differing perspectives.

As a staunch proponent of holistic therapy, the more singular approach to treatment her workplace employed served as the launching-pad for her to finally stand up and strike out on her own, only 9 months after joining the workforce, in 1998.

Finding HOPE and Success

The genesis of HOPE for Exceptional Needs occurred in 1999, in two rooms, when Dr. Raheem decided to treat private clients as a matter of supplementing her income. Soon thereafter, demand for her services increased—as they were inevitably wont to do in a landscape of untapped potential dependant on word of mouth advertising.

This unforeseen growth led to the venture’s expansion from a home-based operation to the apartment next door in 2000, where Dr. Raheem’s initial capacity of 6 clients grew to 9. 2004 saw another growth spurt as HOPE moved to its first independent building with a capacity of 50, and in 2007, they moved into two buildings with a capacity of 238.

Through all its years, HOPE, and by extension, Dr. Uzma Raheem, innovated through the creation of Saudi Arabia’s first multilingual and multicultural centre for special needs, employing novel and holistic therapy programs hitherto unseen in the Kingdom, such as occupational, play, hydro, and hippotherapy; and the use of SOAP (subjective, objective, assessment, plan) notes to ensure quality control and the furthering of research. HOPE has also been the first to provide free counselling for parents, and free screenings for disabilities and disorders across four major cities of the country: Riyadh, its home-base, Jeddah, Al-Khobsr, and Madinah.

Over its 25 years of existence, HOPE’s excellence, and its founder’s prowess and leading expertise have been recognized by multiple significant bodies, totaling at 41 nominations, and 15 wins, including—but not limited to—the UNDP and the EU’s Challiot Award for Human Rights.

Almaseerah and the Woman at its Helm

From psychologist, to founding director of HOPE, to PhD in clinical psychopathology, to CEO at Almaseerah center, Dr. Uzma Raheem has maintained a standard of operation that distinguishes all her ventures with her proverbial Midas’ touch.

As with HOPE, under Dr. Raheem, Almaseerah centre has grown into a business that upholds values of ‘healing from the root’.

“Unlike other centers, where the focus is placed on symptoms, we seek the root, to heal from the root. We assess brain functionality and the nervous system and tailor therapies accordingly,”- explains Dr. Raheem. “Every two months, we host free training, awareness, and counselling for parents, and mothers and parents (as couples) separately. This program is called Learning to Repair the Wound.”

Almaseerah functions with the level of excellence it is renowned for due to its proactive and diligent staff, all of whom are trained under Dr. Raheem’s tutelage, and who are thereafter entrusted with the integral task of SOAP note-taking for the sake of research and quality control.

Its greatest distinction is as a consolidated entity that provides ‘comprehensive solutions in behavioral science’ in an industry that is largely focused on pediatrics, autism, or Down syndrome, and does not address co-morbidities or other disabilities and disorders.

In the ever-evolving world of technology, the way Almaseerah stays ahead of the curb is through the use of AAC (Augmented and Alternative Communication) with children who struggle, especially with verbal communication, and Dr. Raheem hopes for greater technological implementations to fuse with her nature and learning-based approach as the venture expands.

Picture of the Future

On the subject of expansion, the inevitable conclusion for a new venture such as Almaseerah is the double-sided coin of physical and service expansion.

Dr. Raheem recognizes the gap of consolidated services that still remains in the Kingdom’s healthcare industry, and as is evident by her career and efforts thus far, the goal post only keeps moving forward.

With an aim to expand not just its facilities, through Almaseerah, Dr. Uzma Raheem hopes to initiate Saudi Arabia’s first center that will accommodate both special needs, and general mental health, thus offering therapies and services across the board.

About the Author:

Marwa Hussain is a fiction writer and freelance book coach/editor specializing in character work. She is currently working on her debut novel: a YA Urban Fantasy and fairytale retelling that blends everyone’s childhood favorite stories, but with a dark twist. You can learn more about her writing and services via @inkpotandpages on Instagram.

Carrie Cook: Breaking the Glass Ceiling and Conquering Success in a Male-dominated Industry

In this edition of Tycoon Success Magazine, we have featured the story of Carrie Cook, a real estate marvel and investment lending expert. Cook holds two consecutive executive-level roles: CEO of Preferred Trust Company and President of Ignite Funding.

Carrie has over 18 years of real estate expertise, specializing in private lending. She also holds a mortgage broker license from the Arizona Department of Financial Institutions and the Nevada Mortgage Lending Division, as well as a Retail Trust Company license from the Nevada Financial Institutions Division.

Carrie embarked on her inspirational journey at Ignite Funding after the real estate crash. She joined the company as president when nobody believed the company could survive. While most were running from the fire, Carrie put on the necessary protective armor and ran into the burning building and rebuilt the company from scratch.

With her proven abilities and remarkable skills, she later joined Preferred Trust as the CEO and rebuilt it. Working at Preferred Trust broadened her knowledge of custodial services, IRS guidelines, and banking regulations.

Carrie’s Distinctive Approach to Maintaining Transparency

Carrie sees transparency as a chance to allocate resources wisely, create increased value for customers and communities, and ensure the companies’ long-term success. She believes that certain principles universally enhance transparency in business, whether you’re a small business owner or part of a large corporation.

Carrie also believes authenticity is crucial. Adding unnecessary embellishments to transparency efforts can distract from the main message or even cause harm. Instead, it’s vital to demonstrate expertise and authenticity both as a company and as individuals. Rather than relying on generic imagery or paid referrals, providing insight into the people behind the business helps build trust.

Carrie stresses the importance of disclosing relevant information to those affected. Keeping essential details limited to a “need-to-know” basis can harm reputations when they inevitably become public knowledge.

Furthermore, Carrie advises taking prompt action when issues arise. Addressing problems proactively often demonstrates accountability and helps maintain trust with stakeholders, preventing the spread of negative assumptions.

An Overlay of the Companies

Carrie believes outsourcing is nothing but a shortcut. It’s easy for anyone to act as a broker and walk away once a deal is funded. It’s important to stay engaged, service the loan, stand behind the underwriting, and take responsibility for collecting assets if the borrower faces difficulties.

This is where Ignite Funding’s philosophy differs from that of other mortgage brokers. It believes in long-term sustainability, which means saying yes to these questions and rolling up its sleeves to deliver top-quality investments to its investors. To ensure high quality, Ignite Funding controls the entire process internally, keeping a close eye on all aspects of its offerings.

When clients invest, they stay with the team throughout their investment journey. This builds integrity, confidence, and trust in clients, which sets the company apart in the industry.

On the other hand, Preferred Trust stands out in the custodial industry primarily because it maintains all its services in-house. It provides guidance to small—to mid-size businesses and resources for promoting the concept of tax-deferred or tax-free investment income. Preferred Trust’s marketing team and IRA experts serve as an extension of resources to its company partners.

The Recipe for Success

Carrie firmly believes that growth and sustainability come from the people with whom one surrounds oneself. Street and book smarts are crucial for guiding a company’s future. A leader needs to lead people to believe that nothing is impossible.

Carrie’s exceptional leadership inspires a culture of curiosity among her team. She advises leaders to challenge themselves by venturing into unfamiliar territory and taking action to address challenges as they arise. Furthermore, she encourages them to delegate responsibilities and make space for strategic growth.

Leading in this manner fosters trust and loyalty among team members, who witness tangible results and get motivated to follow, regardless of circumstances. This approach cultivates a robust management team and empowers employees to excel, as they are held to high expectations.

However, Carrie never dreamed of being “the boss.” She adores her team atmosphere, which enables her to achieve things that others would consider impossible.

“I believe this is my true talent. I never sit still. I am always looking for the next advancement. The “there is always more to accomplish” motto makes superstars. Some would say that I am never satisfied, and they are correct because no one should settle for good. It is not worth my time if it is not better than a four-letter word. Make it a five-letter word or more extensive, and I will be in,”– she explains.

Leveraging Technological Advancements

Carrie firmly believes that technology should always be built with a user’s needs in mind. First, one must establish how users in and outside the organization will communicate with the system. Internal user interaction is essential because it determines how productive a user will be in accomplishing tasks and their overall job experience.

If the system doesn’t meet expectations, it affects employee satisfaction. While 90% of users may be content with basic functionality, the feedback from the remaining 10% seeking improvements is invaluable. Paying attention to this feedback through surveys allows for continual improvement of the user experience.

Carrie also feels it’s necessary to be ready to have platform management forever. The good part about platform management is that you can keep improving and changing adaptability and growth. When banks halted lending on construction loans, Carrie and her team swiftly adjusted their system to accommodate construction loans with a draw-down strategy and took over bank loans that were not being financed. Such agility is rare among lenders.

The success and flexibility of a corporation in the face of market change depends on its technological infrastructure.

Leaving a Legacy Behind…

As a woman business leader, Carrie still faces stigma and fights daily to make her voice heard in male-dominated industries. Some might even say that Carrie’s courage and determination rival that of any man. She sincerely hopes that women won’t hesitate to pursue leadership roles in industries typically dominated by men. It’s time for them to step forward, demonstrate their strength and confidence, and show they are just as capable as anyone else.

Future Prospects

Carrie’s primary focus is on driving Ignite Funding’s growth by introducing a real estate fund. This move aims to expand the company’s presence in states where multi beneficiary lending is regulated as a security product. The challenge lies in integrating this new product while maintaining the core operation of offering collateralized real estate investments.

She is also excited to expand Preferred Trust’s footprint in B2B relationships and educate small—to midsize businesses about raising capital through retirement accounts.

Proscovia Nabbanja: The Leading Lady Behind UNOC, Empowering the Growth and Sustainable Development of Uganda’s Petroleum Industry

The narrative here is to bring your attention to Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC) – a venture that strives to drive sustainable growth in the oil and gas sector by promoting national involvement and forging strategic alliances. At the forefront of this, we have highlighted the tale of Proscovia Nabbanja’s crucial roles in shaping Uganda’s petroleum sector and establishing the nation as a major player in the world energy landscape.

In the key position of CEO at UNOC, Proscovia is responsible for executing the company’s corporate strategy and plans, overseeing the business facets of state participation throughout the petroleum value chain, encompassing upstream, refining, transportation, and storage, and discovering fresh, profitable ventures. She started off working for the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development as a geologist. In academics, she earned a Master of Science in Petroleum Geoscience from the prestigious Imperial College of Science, Technology, and Medicine in London, a Bachelor of Science in Geology and Chemistry from Makerere University, and a Master of Business Administration from the Imperial College Business School in London.

To gain a better understanding of how she contributes to alleviating Uganda’s energy scenario, we conducted a one-on-one virtual interview with Proscovia Nabbanja. Based on the conversation, we crafted this exclusive story, which will shed light on her innovative ideas and her distinctive leadership approaches that take the company to the next level.

What Inspired Proscovia to Join the Uganda National Oil Company?

Proscovia, the magnificent woman, has always had a strong interest in Uganda’s oil and gas resources. She played a significant role in forming Uganda’s petroleum industry for the past 23 years. She began her career in the field as a geologist and worked her way up to become the head of the Technical Division in the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development’s Petroleum Exploration and Production Department. In this role, she experienced projects through all stages of development, from inception to maturity, and investment-ready projects with detailed development strategies and plans.

Joining the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC) was a natural progression for her. She was inspired by the company’s vision—to be an innovative and profitable oil and gas company that operates across the entire petroleum value chain for the benefit of all Ugandans—to position Uganda as a significant player in the local and global energy landscape.

Being part of a business that has a footprint across the entire petroleum value chain, from the reservoir to the consumer, was an opportunity to deliver value and a positive impact on her country. They have shown their commitment to helping Uganda’s economy change by investing in the infrastructure related to oil and gas along the whole petroleum value chain. Her main motivation for joining UNOC was this objective and the opportunity to positively influence Uganda’s energy sector.

Overcoming the Hurdles Along the Way

Proscovia has observed that business leaders grapple with several challenges, some of which are as follows:

An uncertain business environment due to changes in the global landscape.
Technological advancements demand that corporations keep pace and harness these innovations to ensure growth.
Besides, the constantly changing regulatory environment adds another layer of difficulty. Having dedicated employees to keep an eye on these changes is essential, as is ensuring compliance while managing these transitions. The consequences of non-compliance are getting worse.
Managing the expectations of stakeholders, ranging from shareholders, business partners, civil society, and the local communities where they operate, All these stakeholders have varied expectations, and aligning these expectations requires communication.
Recruiting and keeping talent present difficulties as well, particularly when the industry’s need for talent changes.
Last but not least, as sustainability becomes more and more of a worldwide priority, businesses like UNOC are under more and more pressure to embrace eco-friendly policies and work toward a sustainable future. The imperatives of social-economic transformation must be addressed while managing them.

Some potential solutions to these problems are listed below.

Leaders need to ensure that the strategies are agile and adaptable.
It is important to review the organization’s mission from time to time to ensure it continues to serve the goals of all of its stakeholders.
A culture of ongoing exposure to and learning from the newest industry trends is necessary for the growth and retention of talent.
Investing in research and development allows businesses to stay at the forefront of the latest technologies.
Collaborations with other industry players to provide fresh perspectives and solutions.
Establishing transparent channels of communication with all parties involved will ensure agreement and anticipate issues.

The Key Takeaways: Directly from Proscovia’s Mouth

Incorporating emerging technologies into the operations and client services of UNOC has offered a wealth of insights. One of the primary lessons is the importance of embracing change. Every new technological advancement, while promising, needs to be meticulously evaluated for its relevance to our specific operational needs. every technological decision is weighed against its value proposition. With the digital revolution, the sanctity of data has become paramount, underscoring the criticality of robust cybersecurity measures.

The rapid evolution of the technology landscape requires staying updated with the latest developments, ensuring adaptability to technological changes. An innovative approach approach guides our choices, focused on flexibility and scalability to address current and future needs.

Lastly, fostering a collaborative working environment at UNOC has proven great. Adopting the culture of One UNOC, where no staff is left behind, we have unlocked innovative solutions that drive efficiency and growth, ensuring that our technology, systems, and business processes align seamlessly with our vision.

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Issues

UNOC acknowledges the rising importance of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors in the current corporate environment. Their commitment lies in reducing their carbon footprint and making sure that the production activities are conducted with the utmost care for the environment. Thus, when designing projects, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations are prioritized. This includes investing funds in greener technology, cutting back on waste, and keeping an eye on and minimizing any environmental dangers related to business operations.

UNOC launched an Alliance for Climate Resilience program that brings technical, financial, cultural, religious, local government, and development partners under one umbrella to define and implement nature-based solutions to address the impacts of climate change.

In the same spirit, they led the creation of a forum for women working in the energy and extractive industries, which they introduced in May 2023 in an effort to bring together women who directly experience the effects of these sectors.

The Futuristic Outlook

For UNOC, this journey has been marked by remarkable growth and expansion. Further, Proscovia envisions a dual role for UNOC. As a responsible producer of oil and gas, the company’s first goal is to optimize operations by making sure they are effective, considerate of the environment, and in line with industry best practices. Secondly, they diversify their energy portfolio to look forward to the future while simultaneously maximizing the value of their oil and gas assets.

Pearls of Wisdom by the Inspiring Lady

You need to have the right mindset, attitude, and mentality. It’s important to have faith in your own abilities and insights.
You must be steadfast and dedicated, taking on obstacles head-on and not giving up until you achieve them.
Clarity and direction are always available when you ask seasoned professional coaches and mentors for advice.
Be the mentor; support your team to be a better version of themselves. Use your voice to push boundaries and support other women.

Kristine R. Ferrer: Building your own practice in a full-service law firm

Meet Kristine R. Ferrer, a Partner at Fortun Narvasa & Salazar, one of the Philippines’ most distinguished law firms.

Kristine started her professional journey as a Tax Lawyer at SGV & Co in 2011. Later, in November 2012, she moved to Fortun Narvasa & Salazar (FNS) to pursue litigation and experience the different areas of legal practice. As a Junior Associate at FNS, Kristine handled civil, criminal, and tax litigation, corporate, and other tax-related work. Her unwavering passion and dedication to her clients’ causes have earned her the opportunity to handle “high-profile” cases. Thanks to her experience at SGV, Kristine was able to excel not only in litigation, but in Taxation and Corporate work as well. Her dual qualification as a lawyer and a certified public accountant made her an asset to and a dependable associate of FNS.

A year and a half later, she was promoted as a Senior Associate at FNS where she was able to delegate tasks and review Junior Associates’ work. As a Senior Associate, Kristine was trained and entrusted with big-ticket acquisition projects and high-profile tax cases, including what was touted (in 2017) as the largest tax compromise case in the Philippines. Kristine’s focus remained on taxation and corporate work, which helped her gain meaningful experience in corporate mergers and acquisitions. At this point, Kristine understood that while she was successful in handling court cases, her experience and expertise were needed in the field of taxation, corporate due diligence, mergers and acquisitions, as only a few were specializing in these practice areas in FNS. After an impressive five-year tenure as a Senior Associate, Kristine was promoted as a Partner of FNS and became its Head of Tax Department in July 2019.

Joining the Industry

Kristine’s inspiration to specialize in tax, corporate housekeeping, due diligence, and acquisitions was drawn from the fact that these areas are essential in the business of her clients. Kristine recognized that these areas are integral to the day-to-day business of both her corporate and individual clients, hence her desire to assist them in whatever way she can. In particular, she finds fulfillment in advising her clients on the most tax-efficient way of pursuing their transactions, and in achieving their business goals of acquiring new assets, businesses or investments, or in selling the same.

Additionally, Kristine’s CPA certification perfectly aligns with business law and taxation. This unique combination of legal and financial proficiency helped her become a trusted advisor of her clients.

Building your own practice in a full-service law firm

Kristine is one of the few who has successfully introduced taxation in a full-service law firm. Her entry into the Partnership with FNS in July 2019 has led to the inception of the firm’s Tax Department, which is currently gaining referrals from corporate clients, executives, and various individuals.

Kristine’s remarkable journey extends beyond tax and corporate services. Her expertise has also led to referrals in civil and intra-corporate disputes, which is a testament to her exceptional training and experience during her tenure as an Associate of FNS. Kristine has recently clinched a victory in an intra-corporate case involving a premier University in Central Luzon, in just about a month. Such victory meant so much to her clients, who described FNS’s team as “the most efficient counsel they ever had.”

Diversity and inclusion is the key

As a full-service law firm, collaboration and specialization are essential to success. FNS’s diverse team of legal professionals plays a crucial role in ensuring that the firm can successfully meet its clients’ needs. For example, when clients get embroiled in labor disputes, they are referred to a labor specialist. Someone with intellectual property issues will be referred to a partner specializing in intellectual property. Similarly, in arbitration cases, FNS relies on its dedicated partners specializing in arbitration.

The organization’s strength lies in its diversity, which enables it to deliver extensive legal services. Kristine and her law firm Partners understand that they need each other to fully serve their clients. This approach ensures that FNS’s clients benefit from a collective wealth of legal expertise.

Challenges

As a relatively young partner, Kristine recognizes the continuing need to deepen her connections, expand her network, and further build her reputation. While finding clients has not been difficult for her, as she gets referrals from time to time, the longevity and sustainability of her practice would depend on sustaining or further increasing her clients. She must constantly win new clients and maintain the quality of her and her team’s legal services.

Looking at the Future

On a personal level, Kristine cherishes the close relationship she shares with her family and considers it a priority.

Professionally, Kristine’s goals are driven by a deep commitment to her clients and the legal profession. While kindness, compassion, and excellence are universal traits, Kristine strives to be remembered as a distinguished Christian lawyer, who has provided expert advice and has successfully assisted her clients in their legal concerns.

Nancy J. Lewis: A Phenomenal Businesswomen and Speaking Maven, Epitomizing a Unique Leadership Approach…

Women around the world are succeeding exceptionally well in the business realm. They are fighting against everything with the greatest gallantry, despite the sea of obstacles. To reach the pinnacle, they are giving their hearts and souls to their task. Nancy J. Lewis is one of the finest examples of female leadership in this context. She is the proud president of Progressive Techniques, Inc., a prominent motivational and inspirational keynote speaker, trainer, author, and executive/business coach. With unwavering determination, she is thriving in the business sphere.

Excursions of a Business Leader

Nancy’s professional trajectory has been full of growth, obstacles, and surprises, with highs and lows along the way. Speaking on her early years, the inspirational woman revealed that she began her career in Atlanta, Georgia, as a Medical Technologist with the American Red Cross. After obtaining her Specialist in Blood Banking (SBB) certification, she was able to enter the speaking profession. This was a challenging season with many hurdles and barriers that compelled Nancy to change. By the grace of God, the aspiring lady was able to keep going through several difficult and painful lessons.

“Was it easy? Absolutely not! However, you should never give up on your destiny and the task that God has placed on your life. God knows, even when you do not know where to go next. Many spiritual lessons were discovered! Obedience and listening to God are crucial! That will spare you a great deal of unnecessary suffering during your travels,” remarked Nancy.

She was fortunate to be hired by a large firm as a sales support representative, which commenced her speaking journey. She enrolled in the Dale Carnegie Course shortly after, and everything else fell into place. She came to see that God had given her the ability to captivate and enthrall listeners with the passion and energy she emitted. A few years later after rigorous certification training, Nancy became an adjunct Dale Carnegie Instructor. This served as the foundation for her full-time speaking career. She worked in quite a few other industries before taking the full-time leap into the entrepreneurial world.

Insights of the Company

The renowned professional development and leadership training institution, Progressive Techniques, Inc. (PTI), empowers the clients to thrive in the rapidly evolving workplace. PTI helps CEOs and their leadership teams reach their full potential and follow their dreams by offering executive and business coaching. This is part of the team’s ongoing effort to enhance organizations. Intentional leadership, emotional intelligence, diversity and inclusion, unconscious bias, communication, change management, and career development workshops are a few of the primary topics covered in management and professional development courses. PTI also provides executive and business coaching to CEO’s and their leadership teams.

PTI’s creative and committed team brings top-notch energy, communication, and specialized training sessions for the workplace. They provide sensible and effective solutions for today’s intricate and evolving workplace.

The key different factors that make PTI stand out are that it brings joy to the workplace, energy, and real solutions in a post-covid workplace. The team is dedicated to sharing true experiences of struggle and triumph because they offer valuable lessons for succeeding in the workplace. A further significant aspect is their unwavering goal of producing better leaders.

PTI is one of Transforming Women Entrepreneurs’ (TWE) co-founders. Every year, they host a conference for business professionals and entrepreneurs in prestigious venues in the metro Atlanta area. Additionally, PTI is the sponsor of Conversations with Nancy J., their weekly television program aired on WATC TV 57.

The Industry Hurdles: Key Highlights

Having a genuine knowledge of equity, diversity, . inclusion, and belonging.
Navigating the workplace in a post-covid world.
Leading in a hybrid and remote workplace.
Mental health and wellness.
Creating psychologically safe workplaces.
Recruiting and retaining employees.

Building a Robust Network of Business Coaches

PTI’s business includes executive and business coaching as we understand the necessity of coaching in today’s workplace. Today’s leaders and workers face a plethora of personal and professional challenges, and navigating the evolving workplace requires them to collaborate with a knowledgeable and capable coach. PTI also sponsors a weekly television broadcast, featuring ordinary people doing EXTRAordinary things who share their testimonies and stories to empower, equip, and engage the audience to achieve more in their lives and careers.

Insights on the Gender Pay Gap: A Major Issue

“We have a long way to go to get equity,” quoted Nancy. Dismantling the systemic systems that contribute to these disparities is necessary. Women need to have the confidence and strength to ask for what they believe they deserve. There will be difficulties, but miracles and change cannot occur if people are unwilling to take chances and get out of the boat.

Future Outlook

Nancy’s journey serves as an inspiration for the strength of perseverance, passion, and creativity. And the numerous appreciations and recognitions she has earned reflect her dedication to making a positive impact. In the future, she plans to keep building and expanding the company by adding new online programs and courses that will enable contract trainers to work for PTI. She wishes to keep prayerfully growing the television broadcast. On the personal levels, Nancy’s future goals are to continue to serve and be active in ministry, enjoy life and the entrepreneurial journey, travel, and make a difference in the lives she touches!

Drosoula Hadjisavva: Pioneering Fintech Transformation

Meet Drosoula Hadjisavva, a seasoned marketing and branding professional with more than a decade of experience in strategic marketing. Drosoula currently serves as the Group Director of Marketing at a multi-regulated global online trading provider, allowing traders to trade over 4,000+ CFD instruments across FX, indices, commodities, equities, and more.

Drosoula is highly proficient in establishing and executing tailor-made marketing and branding strategies for businesses of every size. She is also well-versed in strategic marketing, digital and branding, and the art of effective public relations and communication. Her influence reverberates across the global fintech landscape, where she has masterfully elevated brand equity for numerous businesses. Drosoula considers herself a results-driven professional who offers creative solutions in a dynamic and ever-changing marketing environment, especially in fintech, forex paytech, and neobank firms.

Drosoula’s journey into the world of technology and digitalization began at a very young age, fueled by a fervent enthusiasm that would later shape her future. Armed with a BSc degree in computer science, Drosoula obtained an MBA focusing on Marketing. This laid the foundation for a remarkable career that kickstarted her professional journey in the telecommunications sector, where she honed her skills and gained valuable insights into the intricate realm of global communication networks.

However, Drosoula’s true calling awaited in the financial industry, and she started her career in FX with a multi-regulated broker, leading in more than 180 countries, with 64 offices globally, and an integrated marketing strategy across the GCC, Southeast Asia, LATAM, Europe, and South Africa. Drosoula also had the privilege of overseeing huge budget projects and marketing processes, from strategy development to campaign concept, tactical implementation, and budgeting and targeting.

Eventually, after five years, Drosoula decided to move to her next opportunity and joined a Swiss fintech group. This helped her grow, gain more experience, and evolve professionally. She also had the chance to collaborate and learn from significant professionals from the high-tech and financial sectors and maintain this entrepreneurial mentality that helped shape her career path.

“During my career so far, I have had the opportunity to blend the world of fintech with the world of sports through sponsorships, ambassadors, and events, which made the whole journey a once-in-a-lifetime experience. No matter what, education is a never-ending journey, and I always strive to learn more and stay ahead of the marketing trends, especially in fintech,”– she explains.

Joining the Evolving Industry

What inspired Drosoula to join the fintech industry was the access to the international marketing world. Analyzing data, demographics, target audiences, and markets, understanding the needs, and constantly trying to find innovative solutions to meet consumer needs or create a need with a creative idea truly fascinated her.

“In today’s fast-paced world, the fintech industry is rapidly evolving, providing innovative financial services to consumers and businesses. Volatile environments demand resilience – from individuals, teams, and entire companies. I believe business resilience is supported by diverse revenue streams and structures, whereby you’re not relying on one stream or customer. Fintech evolution in international space demands that organizations initiate culture change – and adopt an entirely different mindset that abandons old and hierarchical ways of working,”- states Drosoula.

Tackling Challenges

Drosoula feels the highly regulated nature of the financial industry poses a substantial challenge for marketers. In an industry where compliance is paramount, marketers must tread cautiously to promote their products while adhering to stringent regulatory frameworks. It’s a delicate balancing act where innovation meets rigorous oversight.

Drosoula believes that in such a situation, business leaders need to adopt an agile approach, be ready to adopt and build resilient teams to support the organization’s vision. She also believes that the ability to pivot swiftly, adapt to changing regulations, and seize opportunities within the constraints of compliance is essential. An agile mindset allows leaders to stay ahead of the curve, responding proactively to shifting market dynamics and regulatory landscapes.

When Diversity and Inclusion are Priority

Diversity in culture reflects an organization’s aim to have global reach and offer a localized and personalized approach to its customers and partners. In such a fast-pace environment with several external factors impacting the business and high volatility, stability and ensuring that everyone has an equal opportunity to contribute to and influence every part and level of a workplace, enhances creativity , productivity, the reputation and eventually the business results at every organization.

Mission and Vision

Recognizing the shifting tides of the financial industry, as a global multi-asset broker evolving and charting a course into the world of fintech is becoming a mission. It’s a strategic move that signifies the company’s commitment to innovation and determination to be more than just an FX brokerage. In this rapidly evolving landscape, investing in high-tech infrastructure and cultivating award-winning proprietary platforms and tools has become an intrinsic component to boost our value proposition. This has also been key in developing and maintaining a strong brand positioning. The company is always looking to enhance its traders’ experience, and by continuing to invest in innovative tools and products.

“Our mission is to empower traders and investors with opportunities across a wide range of financial markets on our award-winning trading platform by providing full support and guidance through their trading journey, with the vision to become the number one mobile platform, the platform of choice, enabling traders and investors to trade on the go,”– explains Drosoula.

Future Roadmap

Drosoula having built a strong network, not only in MENA but also globally, and with an entrepreneur spirit continues to inspire with a personal site project introducing her own finblog FintechView presenting high-esteem personas and sharing experiences from the world of fintech, paytech, proptech etc. Building communities in the business space is something fostering transparency and trust. Trust is the new currency and in any business it’s shaping it’s future.

Mahrukh Umrigar: A Visionary Leader Shaping the Legal Landscape

Meet Mahrukh Umrigar, a dynamic legal professional and the co-founding partner of Consortia Legal, an independent boutique law firm specializing solely in Indian law. Prior to founding Consortia Legal, Mahrukh worked with a renowned Indian law firm, where she led its global mobility practice. Mahrukh is recognized for providing concise and practical solutions to her clients and business contacts in a timely and cost-effective manner.

One of Mahrukh’s most impressive areas of expertise lies in Indian immigration. She regularly services global multinationals, international relocation companies, accounting practices, law firms, and other service providers in their Indian immigration and mobility requirements. She offers a range of services from strategy advice to assistance in availing appropriate visas to post-arrival compliances in India.

Beyond her legal prowess, Mahrukh is a sought-after speaker at seminars and conferences, where she shares valuable insights on various Indian legal and regulatory matters. She also conducts global workshops for her clients and business contacts on numerous aspects of Indian immigration rules and regulations, employment and labor laws, and HR best practices.

Nurturing Future Leaders

For Mahrukh, leadership is not only about commanding from the top; instead, it’s about nurturing one’s talents and capabilities and guiding people at their own pace. She considers herself incredibly fortunate to have a mentor who has not only become her business partner but an integral part of her family. With unwavering patience, her mentor took the time to guide her meticulously, step by step, day by day, over many years.

For Mahrukh, the essence of effective leadership extends beyond the confines of the workplace. She firmly believes being supportive is the most important aspect of leadership, transcending personal and professional life boundaries. Whether in times of celebration or during challenging moments, Mahrukh emphasizes the importance of always being there for others, lending a sympathetic ear, and, most importantly, being genuine in all interactions.

“A key component of being a good leader is the constant need to learn, evolve, and be approachable. This includes both learning from peers as well as younger members of the team, as everyone has something to offer. The biggest leadership mistake is thinking you know it all,”– she explains.

Building a Healthy Work Environment

Mahrukh feels maintaining a healthy and inclusive work environment and a work-life balance is a key feature in retaining quality team members. Although some people will always be motivated by money, patience is necessary to enable a person to flourish properly.

At Consortia Legal, Mahrukh likes to encourage her team to come forward with ideas or suggestions, be it for work-related matters or administrative and logistical issues. She firmly believes in offering autonomy, space, and support for team members to discover their potential and grow with the firm.

Fostering Diversity, Equity, and Innovation

Under Mahrukh and her partners’, Jehaan and Satyendra’s visionary leadership, Consortia Legal is steadfastly committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion. Despite being a corporate boutique in its infancy, Consortia’s team represents diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity.

In an era where diversity and inclusion have become paramount in the professional world, Consortia Legal stands out as a firm that recognizes the inherent value of different perspectives and backgrounds. It believes embracing diversity fuels creativity and innovation, which is essential in today’s dynamic business landscape.

Managing Work-Life Balance

For Mahrukh, maintaining a proper work-life balance has been exceptionally challenging as she had to navigate the complex process of establishing her firm alongside her trusted partners while simultaneously embracing the role of a first-time mom.

“2021 was my year of two births. It has been hard but not impossible. It might sound cliché, but where there is a will, there is a way. Organization and forward planning (as much as possible with a newborn, who is now a toddler) have been key in managing the work-life balance these past two years. Not to forget, having a supportive family structure and the best business partners and team (who are like family) have immensely helped me along the way,“- she explains.

Growing Consortia Legal

As India continues to shine in the global economy, its legal landscape is poised for a transformation. So, Mahrukh and her partners aim to nurture Consortia Legal into a truly unique Indian law firm and expand its operations across multiple Indian cities.

“Whilst we hope to expand our operations across various cities in India, our focus to actively promote inclusivity and fairness while building on our principles of partnership, association, collaboration, and trust remain at the forefront of our endeavors,”– she says.

Future Roadmap

Mahrukh’s focus for the next five years is to grow as a person and professional. From a professional perspective, she aims to expand her practice, grow her team, and be a better version of herself daily. She doesn’t expect miracles overnight but small, steady steps along the way. Personally, Mahrukh hopes to achieve more self-awareness, better time management, and, most importantly, to ensure that her team, family, and she are happy.

Suggestions for Women Leaders in Business

Mahrukh suggests that women business leaders should never give up and be disheartened by the voices. There will be times when it might feel like a lost case; there will be days when they might feel it is not worth it and it is too hard. However, irrespective of all these challenges, they should take small steps, take deep breaths, and tackle one day at a time.

“Do not be afraid to venture into the unknown or out of your comfort zone. Being an entrepreneur and starting our firm with my trusted partners has been the best decision of my professional life by far. There will be a million naysayers, but remember, they are the ones who do not want you to prosper because it isn’t in their best interest. Trust your instincts and never be afraid to be authentic,“- she concludes.

Dawn Maroney: An Inspirational and Visionary Leader Heading Alignment Health in Pursuit Of Organizational Success

Spearheading marketing efforts around the brand, Dawn Maroney, President, Markets of Alignment Health, and CEO of Alignment Health Plan, crafted a unique stance for herself as an inspiring woman leader after being part of Alignment Health, a tech-enabled Medicare Advantage company championing a new path in senior care.

In her role, Ms. Maroney oversees Alignment’s growth and expansion in all areas, from sales strategy, product strategy, market expansions, and acquisitions to partnership account management. She focuses on leading the development of unique products, directing marketing initiatives, and handling direct response initiatives. She also oversees the complex planning and implementation of sales strategies as well as combining these channels with Alignment’s wide network of providers, health plans, and hospital systems. Ms. Maroney has spent the last 30 years working in the field. Prior to her current position, she held a number of leadership positions in the development of new products and growth in the Medicare market, with a focus on the expansion of membership, revenue, and plan ratings.

“Our mission is to change health care for the better, one patient at a time. I want to be a part of that by driving change to improve care for seniors across the United States. Competitors in our industry are following our lead. That is exciting to see, and it tells us we are moving in the right direction”, the leading lady apprised.

The Key Motivation Behind the Inception of Alignment Health

John Kao, Founder & CEO of Alignment Health, first encountered the distress caused by how disjointed and unconnected the healthcare system has become while providing care for his ailing mother and a brother with a disability. He collaborated with industry leaders in healthcare to create a new type of patient-centric healthcare company. And Dawn Maroney is one of those proud individuals to whom he reached out.

Milestones and Achievements: Membership Growth

The team’s and Alignment Health’s success is evident in their yearly membership growth. They recently achieved a significant milestone by signing up 100,000 new members. Alignment Health is currently supporting the California Assembly Bill, which would guarantee that low-income seniors in California with serious health issues receive more highly integrated and coordinated healthcare options.

Plans in the Pipeline

Alignment Health envisions a world where getting older is a source of confidence and where it is embraced and appreciated rather than discounted or treated as a disease. The team hopes that more senior citizens will have access to the Alignment Health experience in the coming years.

The Primary Industry Hurdles

Due to a growing provider shortage, the U.S. healthcare sector is dealing with a number of difficulties, including affordability and accessibility. By offering a wide range of services that make use of technology, assist the doctor, and prioritize the elderly, Alignment Health responds to these difficulties. To give their clinical teams insights to deliver individualized care at scale, Alignment’s proprietary AVA technology platform analyzes data from more than 200 unique data sources using more than 170 artificial intelligence models.

Ms. Maroney’s Take on the Leadership

For me, leadership involves gathering and nurturing a group of experts who are connected, cooperative, have the same goal, and are driven to succeed. I want anyone who works for me to grow and succeed. Everything I do and every decision I make is grounded in my faith in those who work for and with me. I expect all of us to use the stop, Challenge, Choose approach in our business activities.

Parting Words by the Influential Lady

Try to leave your comfort zone, which often means having the courage to take risks and learn from failure. Remind yourself of the value of resilience, so you can find a way to persevere when the chips are down. Always know your value. If you do not, few will. Take a seat at the table that you want. If there is no seat for you, build your own table.

Good to Great by Jim Collins illustrates how we can all triumph as time and experience pass and how that success can be ingrained into your corporate culture, taking your organization and the individuals within it from good to great.

The Confluence of Inspiration, Dedication, and Experience: Meet the Marketing Leader behind Ramot – Tal Israeli Gassar

E‘nvisioned to empower Tel Aviv University’s researchers to commercialize and license their technologies and bring their innovations worldwide, Ramot has been setting new realms in how innovation is converted into products under the fine supervision of Tal Israeli Gassar, CMO of Ramot at Tel Aviv University Ltd.

Tal Israeli is a seasoned marketing and branding executive with over 15 years of strategic management experience. She is highly proficient in establishing and implementing bespoke marketing and branding strategies for businesses of every size. She is a results-driven professional who offers creative solutions in a dynamic and ever-changing marketing environment.

After completing her studies in visual communication and practical engineering, Tal Israeli kicked off her career as a graphic designer in 2002. She had a deep relationship with branding and concept development. She appreciated tasks that challenged her to be creative, comprehend the essence of the product, and translate it into a clear and visual statement. The aspiring businesswoman pursued further studies (BA and MBA) in Economics, Business Management, and Marketing due to her inherent ability to perceive the larger picture and comprehend processes in depth. As a result, she has held marketing management positions at various kinds of companies.

“I’ve had the privilege of overseeing entire marketing processes, from concept to audience targeting, strategy development, and tactical implementation.” “I find these areas fascinating and enjoy being involved in them,” the magnificent woman explained.

Driven by her constant belief and focus on competitive advantage, the leading lady has always felt that opportunities are all around and that we should take complete charge of them. Tal Israeli, in the key position of CMO at Ramot, is striving hard to advance the technologies of Tel Aviv University’s outstanding researchers in a timely and accurate manner, allowing them to realize the full potential and value of their solutions in fields such as medicine, pharmaceuticals, robotics, transportation, agri-tech, food-tech, and many others. From a personal point of view, Tal also wants to focus on continuous learning and exploration, as they are essential prerequisites for personal and professional excellence.

Tal’s Inspiring Journey with Ramot

It was by chance that the inspiring lady ended up in her current position as the CMO of Ramot, the technology transfer company of Tel Aviv University. She was previously unfamiliar with the field of technology transfer. However, Tal Israeli was keen to get involved in the high-tech industry, considering Israel’s position as a world leader in high-tech exports. Ramot acts as a connection between professors’ research in university labs and possible industrial partners. Their long-term goal is to turn this research into goods. They also create start-up companies based on technologies, and we currently have about 100

companies in our portfolio. In this role, she gets exposed to cutting-edge research in a variety of sectors and cooperates with major companies throughout the world. It’s an exciting and varied role that requires a deep understanding of marketing and curiosity in many different areas.

The Key Motivation Behind the Initiation

Israel is an esteemed nation in the worldwide high-tech sector, commonly referred to as the “Startup Nation.” According to a recent Israel Innovation Authority report, high-tech accounted for 18.1% of Israel’s GDP, making it the largest industry in the country. Beyond being a driving force in the local economy, startups and innovations improve our lives by filling unmet requirements. Tal Israeli Gassar was most likely encouraged by the enterprising and innovative attitude of the local community, which pushed her to work in this industry.

Breakthrough and Revolutionary Changes by Tal

Marketing for technology transfer has been largely one-dimensional. When required, industry addressed well-known researchers directly. Patent registration, contract preparation, and negotiation were all carried out by technology transfer firms. However, tech transfer firms have become increasingly active in recent years, which is where Tal focuses her efforts. Her marketing strategy is vigorous as well as highly targeted. She develops different platforms and channels to reach specific audiences, carries out active marketing efforts, and focuses on the macro-level to reach the right audience with the correct message. She routinely organizes virtual researcher-industry events, manages campaigns, publishes information on key platforms, and is always aware of the ever-changing marketing scene.

“I believe in embracing changes. In my domain, this is often referred to as an “early adopter.” I always strive to incorporate technological tools into my marketing activities. Recently, I started implementing AI tools into these operations, and I’m already seeing positive results”, Tal further revealed.

Overcoming the Obstacles Along the Way

Apart from the inherent challenges of marketing fields that are constantly changing, the biggest challenge in technology transfer is the diversity of fields and particular audiences to target. Each technology is unique, necessitating extensive research and the identification of separate markets for it. In contrast, marketing a business centered on a particular technology allows its marketing manager to gain knowledge over time. Tech-Transfer interacts with many different domains, which is both a challenge and an advantage because it keeps me involved and learning.

Diversity and Inclusion in the Work Culture

The Ramot team is committed to diversity. 71% of the workforce is female, and the majority of the leadership is female, led by a female CEO, Keren Primor Cohen. Tal and other key executives believe that “diversity is an integral part of the company’s success in today’s world.” Tal is a well-known

marketing leader and also serves as a marketing advisor for a nonprofit that assists women in starting their own enterprises and becoming economically independent. This is a subject important to her heart, and she continues to devote time and effort to it.

The Future of Ramot at Tel Aviv University Ltd.: Road Ahead

While moving on its flourishing path, Ramot will continue to focus on raising global and local awareness, recognizing opportunities, and broadening its global reach. Strategic connections with global leaders in the tech industry will be a priority, as will keeping current on the latest developments. Their mission is to transform creative research into meaningful solutions for society and the world.

Words of Wisdom

If I had to choose one, it would be this: Understand your audience! Learn about the people you want to reach and the significant value you can provide them. Everything will become easier if you understand “win-win.” Increase your “reach out” as much as possible; effective marketing methods begin with a broad pyramid foundation.

A Peak into Chastity Heyward’s Inspiring Journey: Delivering Unparalleled Educational Support with Sylvan Learning Center

“We are redefining education, breaking down barriers, and shaping a brighter future where every student has the opportunity to thrive academically and beyond!” – Chastity Heyward

As said, “Exploring the journey is more exciting than the final destination.” We learn about ourselves along the journey, follow our hearts, and understand how to make our vision a reality. Well, in this article, we will highlight the unique story of a proven leader in business and education with exceptional knowledge and unwavering determination – Chastity Heyward, the franchise owner of a prominent Sylvan Learning Center in Murrieta, CA.

Her entrepreneurial path is nothing short of inspiring. Chastity’s career began with a great passion for education and a desire to positively impact the lives of young people. She has since carved out a successful path for the company by maintaining growth since taking control.

With a degree in education, she started a career as a teacher, developing her abilities and cultivating a keen awareness of the difficulties students confront in today’s cutthroat society. Chastity was driven by her ambition to build a more individualized and productive learning environment and by her entrepreneurial spirit. Her exploration of the franchising opportunity with Sylvan Learning Center, a leading provider of educational services, was prompted by this. Recognizing the brand’s innovative approach and proven track record, Chastity seized the opportunity to make a tangible impact on her community.

The magnificent woman turned her Sylvan Learning Center into a center for academic empowerment through her steadfast commitment and unrelenting pursuit of excellence. She delivered unmatched educational support by fusing cutting-edge technology, customized curricula, and a staff of committed instructors. Today, Chastity’s franchise stands as a testament to her entrepreneurial prowess and commitment to educational excellence. She continues to inspire countless students, helping them unlock their full potential and achieve their academic goals. This leading lady also takes part in several other professional, academic, and humanitarian endeavors.

Overall, Chastity’s journey presents the transformative power of passion, expertise, and a drive to create a brighter future for young minds.

Sylvan Learning Center: At a Glance

A renowned educational institution, Sylvan Learning Center of Murrieta offers an assortment of essential services to empower students and promote academic achievement. Sylvan of Murrieta offers individualized lessons that cater one-on-one education to each student’s needs, enabling them to succeed in topics like arithmetic, reading, writing, and test preparation. To make learning interesting and successful, their knowledgeable tutors use cutting-edge teaching techniques,

interactive technology, and an interesting curriculum. Students are given the tools they need to succeed academically at the Sylvan Learning Center of Murrieta, whether they are trying to catch up, get ahead, or develop critical skills. Sylvan has made a name for itself as a reliable partner in fostering students’ growth and realizing their full potential because of their extensive educational programs.

Journey Towards Educational Excellence and Academic Success

The way education is given is being revolutionized by the Sylvan Learning Center of Murrieta. They offer students of all ages and skill levels a revolutionary learning experience by incorporating cutting-edge technology, individualized curricula, and dedicated educators. A diverse group of learners, from struggling children with IEPs, 504 plans, and SSTs seeking academic support to close learning gaps to high achievers hoping to achieve even more, make up their clientele. Whether a student needs help filling in knowledge gaps, getting ready for standardized examinations, or improving critical thinking abilities, the team customizes its programs to match each student’s specific needs. Every student should have the opportunity to achieve, according to the team at Sylvan Learning of Murrieta, and they are committed to giving them the skills and self-assurance they need to succeed academically and beyond.

Overcoming the Obstacles On the Way

In the ever-evolving education industry, they recognize the primary challenges faced by students and parents alike. The one-size-fits-all approach to education, which ignores the unique needs of each student, is a significant barrier. Chastity and her team at the Sylvan Learning Center of Murrieta take on this challenge head-on by providing individualized tutoring courses that consider each student’s particular needs. Knowledgeable tutors use cutting-edge teaching strategies and interactive technology to create a personalized learning environment. They make sure that students get the attention and direction they require to overcome obstacles and succeed academically by concentrating on individual progress and offering tailored help. They work to remove obstacles and offer inclusive, accessible education that satisfies changing industry expectations and empowers students to reach their full potential.

Future Goals: On Personal and Professional Levels

Chastity Heyward has set her sights on ambitious goals both personally and professionally over the next five years. On a personal level, she wants to keep growing and developing while maintaining a positive work-life balance and taking care of her relationships and overall well-being. Professionally, Chastity Heyward aims to broaden her influence as a writer and business consultant.

She plans to expand her reach through “Heyward Marketing Lab,” her other business, in addition to running a Sylvan Learning Center of Murrieta franchise. Chastity wants to offer professional

marketing services that are specifically suited for small business owners and entrepreneurs through this company. She intends to help them succeed in the cutthroat industry by utilizing her knowledge and experience, allowing them to accomplish their objectives and forge a strong presence. Chastity is motivated to leave a lasting impression as both a supporter of education and a trusted resource in the business consulting realm, empowering others to succeed in their respective fields.

Words of Wisdom by Chastity Heyward

For entrepreneurs just starting, here’s valuable advice: Embrace the journey and embrace failure. Starting a business is a rollercoaster ride with ups and downs. Learn from your failures and view them as stepping stones to success. Stay persistent, adaptable, and always open to learning and evolving. Surround yourself with a supportive network, seek mentorship, and don’t hesitate to ask for help. Believe in your vision, stay focused on your goals, and have the courage to take calculated risks. Remember, every setback is an opportunity for growth, and every success is a testament to your resilience. Trust the process, keep pushing forward, and remember your passion and purpose.

If you want to achieve jaw-dropping success in the cutthroat business world, get obsessed with your mission. Success demands unwavering focus, relentless drive, and an unshakable belief in yourself. Embrace failure as a stepping stone to greatness and learn from every setback. Surround yourself with a tribe of winners who will push you to new heights. Master your mindset, conquer your fears, and take massive action. Innovate, disrupt, and consistently deliver insane value to your customers. Stay hungry, stay humble, and never settle for mediocrity. Remember, your destiny is in your hands, and with the right mindset and relentless commitment, you can create an empire that leaves a legacy. So go out there, defy the odds, and unleash your greatness on the world!