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Maithu00e9 Quintana, Director and Founder of IKIGAI International Academy, grace the cover of the renowned Worldu2019s Leaders Magazine as one of World's Most Inspiring Women Leaders in Business, 2023
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Vol. 10 | Issue 18 | October 2023 www.worldsleaders.com World's Most Inspiring to Watch in 2023 Driving Change and Inspiring the Industry by Unleashing Fashion's Creative Force PG NO. 30 Leading the Way in Business and Philanthropy PG NO. 40 A Journey of Resilience, Empowerment,and Innovation
World’s Most Inspiring Women Leaders in Business, 2023 Taking Organization’s Growth to New Heights The success of a company or organization is frequently influenced by the expertise of its leadership. Despite the fact that many workers respect and obey senior leaders in part because of their standing within the organization, being a leader doesn't mean you can effectively guide your team. The most effective leaders strive to instill motivation in their team members and encourage them to achieve both personal and professional success. Her journey has inspired her to create a program aimed at helping both adults and children unlock their full potential, find their purpose (IKIGAI), and achieve their goals. This program leverages a combination of artificial intelligence, neuroscience, and human guidance, highlighting her commitment to utilizing innovative approaches to support personal and professional growth. The capacity to inspire people to succeed and have a good impact on those around you is known as inspirational leadership. From CEOs to entry-level workers, employers of every background may engage in inspirational leadership. Through your actions and demeanor, inspirational leadership provides your colleagues or staff with possibilities to grow in their goal. Maïthé's emphasis on continuously stimulating creativity aligns with her belief that the brain, which is the source of creativity, requires regular exercise and mental engagement to flourish. She remains deeply connected to evolving trends in various areas, such as new consumer behaviors, AI tools, human resources, and infopreneurship techniques, demonstrating her dedication to staying at the forefront of relevant knowledge and insights. World Leader's latest edition “World's Most Inspiring Women Leaders in Business, 2023”has featured inspirational woman business leaders who have steady hands-on leadership and business processes. The cover features Maïthé Quintana whose story is a testament to resilience and determination. Despite facing significant learning challenges and setbacks in her early education, she managed to overcome these obstacles and achieve remarkable success as an entrepreneur. Also, while you flip through the pages, don't forget to read the articles created by our in-house editorial staff and industry experts. Have a lovely read!
CREDIT PAGE Editor-in-Chief Steve Sanchez Managing Editor Jagdish Chincholikar Executive Editor Nicole Williams Assistant Editor Gayatri Bhujbal Art & Design Director Jack Anderson Business Development Manager Kyle Adams Business Development Executive Natalie, Jerrey Associate Designer Kevin Rust Digital Marketing Manager Victor Clarke Sales Manager Casey Simpson, Irfan Shekh Marketing Manager Tom Swann Technical Specialist Barry Jones Circulation Manager Danny Parker OCTOBER 2023 3296 Westerville Rd #250, Columbus, OH 43224, USA Copyright 2023 WORLD’S LEADERS Media Tech LLC, All rights reserved. The content and images used in this magazine should not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from WORLD’S LEADERS Reprint rights remain solely with WORLD’S LEADERS. Follow us on :
10 Maithé Quintana A Journey of Resilience, Empowerment, and Innovation
18 Dr. Arti Santhanam 22 Dr. Natanya Wachtel Loubna Sadiki 26 Nisreen Shocair 30 Nuria E. Angelocci 34 40 Rana Florida Shanaz Ramzi 44 48 Tiffany Van and Tammy Van Tracy Valko 50
A Journey of Resilience, Empowerment, and Innovation 10 | October 2023
M Maïthé Quintana's story is a testament to resilience and determination. Despite facing significant learning challenges and setbacks in her early education, she managed to overcome these obstacles and achieve remarkable success as an entrepreneur. Maïthé's emphasis on continuously stimulating creativity aligns with her belief that the brain, which is the source of creativity, requires regular exercise and mental engagement to flourish. She remains deeply connected to evolving trends in various areas, such as new consumer behaviors, AI tools, human resources, and infopreneurship techniques, demonstrating her dedication to staying at the forefront of relevant knowledge and insights. Her journey has inspired her to create a program aimed at helping both adults and children unlock their full potential, find their purpose (IKIGAI), and achieve their goals. This program leverages a combination of artificial intelligence, neuroscience, and human guidance, highlighting her commitment to utilizing innovative approaches to support personal and professional growth. No matter what you say, no matter what you do, you won't get out of this alive. So be yourself! Maithé Quintana International-ikigai-academy.com worldsleaders.com | 13
Following Her Calling in the Business World Embracing Imperfection Not content with her achievements in France, Maïthé Quintana launched the IKIGAI JUNIOR process in 2020, training coaches to help young individuals position themselves in their studies and careers. Her commitment to education and personal development led her to open the International Ikigai Academy in Miami in near future, marking her entry into the American educational landscape. Maïthé emphasis on the importance of commitment and honesty in leadership reflects timeless values that hold true in the modern business world. She highlights the significance of keeping one's word and maintaining integrity, values that were once symbolized by a simple handshake. In an era where trust in business dealings can be eroded, her emphasis on these principles serves as a reminder of their enduring importance. Maïthé's life journey is a remarkable testament to her resilience and determination. Despite facing challenges in her early education and entering the workforce at a young age, she quickly realized her true calling lay in the business world. Her career path is a testament to her ability to turn obstacles into opportunities. In addition to her professional achievements, Maïthé is a dedicated mother of two boys, and her decision to explore the "American dream" showcases her adventurous spirit and determination to make a positive impact globally. Turning Setbacks into Opportunities Maïthé's insights into the challenges faced by emerging women leaders are both profound and empowering. She recognizes that self-confidence often wavers due to the influence of limiting beliefs imposed by various sources, including the media, people in one's life, or early experiences. These beliefs can manifest as fears of failure, imposter syndrome, and the need for discipline and a clear vision for their projects. Starting as a secretary, Maïthé honed her sales skills through door-to-door visits and eventually climbed the corporate ladder, becoming Sales Director at Club Internet. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to take over a struggling company, Booster Game, which she successfully restructured and turned into a thriving business, serving well-known clients. Her perspective on success, characterized by the belief that "I've got nothing to lose," reflects a mindset of daring and calculated risk-taking. This approach acknowledges the balance between audacity and taking calculated risks. It's a mindset that encourages innovation and growth by embracing the idea that perfection isn't necessary; progress and learning come from taking action. In 2008, Maïthé founded her own investment fund, Dharma et Associés, demonstrating her versatility and aptitude for business leadership. Maïthé's willingness to embrace imperfection and pursue projects even when they are not 100% finalized reflects an entrepreneurial spirit and a commitment to continuous improvement. Her reference to "versions 2.02" suggests that ongoing refinement and iteration are integral to the process of growth and success. Inspired by her own challenging educational journey, Maïthé Quintana established the Centre National de l'Innovation Pédagogique (CNIP) in 2014. This institution focuses on adult education, teaching emotional management techniques and neuro- sales management, among other skills, using the neuroscience-based N-ASS® method. Her perspective on setbacks and failures as opportunities for growth is particularly noteworthy. Maïthé views her own experiences of business difficulties not as failures but as stepping stones to eventual success. She draws a parallel between the process of learning to walk as a child, where falling is an integral part of the journey. In this analogy, each fall is a valuable learning experience that contributes to eventual mastery. Anticipation is the Key Maïthé's views into entrepreneurship highlight the challenges and sacrifices that come with leading a business. Her focus on anticipation underscores the importance of being prepared for various situations, including dealing with non-paying customers, financial challenges, and the potential risks of bankruptcy. As a business leader, the ability to anticipate and respond to such challenges is essential for survival and growth. In 2015, she expanded her educational efforts by founding the Centre International de l'Ikigai, where students learn to master their abilities and develop soft skills through the neuroscience-based N-Ass method. Maïthé's approach to education incorporates concepts from neuroscience, NLP, hypnosis, psychology, and multiple intelligences, providing students with highly effective learning experiences. Her methods have shown impressive results, with students retaining up to seven times more information compared to conventional methods. 14 | October 2023 The emphasis on embracing falls and setbacks as learning opportunities resonates with the idea of resilience and perseverance. It's a reminder that challenges are an inherent part of any journey towards success, and they should be seen as opportunities for growth rather than as insurmountable obstacles.
She candidly acknowledges the difficulties and stresses that entrepreneurs face, emphasizing that it's not a path for everyone. The personal sacrifices, including missing out on family moments and navigating marital and family issues, are part of the reality for many entrepreneurs. This perspective sheds light on the human side of entrepreneurship, where individuals often grapple with the complexities of balancing personal and professional life. Holistic Recruitment Approach Maïthé's recruitment approach emphasizes assessing soft skills over traditional qualifications and experience. Key takeaways include a focus on skills like collective emotional intelligence, creativity, and decision-making. Diverse perspectives, including individuals with unconventional backgrounds, are valued. This strategy recognizes the importance of soft skills in building high-performing teams and fostering innovation. Her mention of managing the emotional well-being of teams highlights the importance of leadership skills beyond business acumen. Effectively addressing emotional challenges within a team is crucial for maintaining productivity and cohesion. A leader's ability to defuse emotional tensions and support team members contributes to a healthier work environment. Alignment of Passions and Talents Perspective on Technology and AI Maïthé recognizes the significant technological advancements throughout her lifetime, from early computers to the integration of technology into daily life. She emphasizes the importance of embracing technology to streamline administrative tasks while focusing on human interactions and collective intelligence. Maïthé also discusses her work in artificial intelligence (AI) and acknowledges concerns about AI's potential misuse, highlighting the importance of continuous learning and critical thinking to preserve free will and freedom of thought. Maïthé's perspective on Ikigai and its application in personal and professional development is enlightening. Ikigai, which originates from Okinawa, Japan, is a concept that revolves around finding purpose, satisfaction, and well-being in life, encompassing both personal and professional aspects. Here are some key insights into Ikigai and its applications: Rediscovering Well-being and Serenity: Ikigai serves as a pathway to rediscover professional motivation and life's purpose. It helps individuals overcome feelings of malaise and guides them to bring out their talents, ultimately leading to a sense of contentment and fulfillment. Ÿ Finding One's Way: Ikigai encourages individuals to align their passions and talents with what they can contribute to the world while sustaining themselves financially. It's about finding the intersection of what one loves, what they are good at, what the world needs, and what they can be paid for. Ÿ Suitable for Everyone: Ikigai is a versatile concept applicable to individuals and groups alike. It can reduce emotional burdens and conflicts, both internally and within teams. Training and coaching sessions can be tailored to different needs and delivered in various formats, Ÿ 16 | October 2023
from face-to-face to remote. Well-being and Performance: Maïthé emphasizes that managers have a responsibility to provide resources like Ikigai to enhance their employees' well-being and performance. When individuals are emotionally aligned and content, their overall performance tends to improve. Ÿ Relevance Across Life Stages: Ikigai is valuable at any age and can assist in various life stages. It can help individuals overcome challenges like burnout, career transitions, or even prepare for retirement. Additionally, there's a specific focus on coaching teenagers and young adults in building their study and life projects. Ÿ Upcoming Projects Maïthé shares her exciting upcoming projects, including the opening of the "International Ikigai Academy" center in Miami, which will offer the "your ikigai" program to help individuals in their career transitions through self-discovery and introspection. She also mentions a mentoring module on "business ikigai" project creation, an "Ikigai Attitude" module to help individuals break free from limiting patterns, and an adaptation of the ikigai program for teenagers. Additionally, Maïthé highlights the "French Campus of Excellence," a program she has been developing for over 15 years, focusing on social skills, emotional management, and career development. This program aims to help individuals integrate into the workplace and overcome obstacles in their careers. Furthermore, Maïthé mentions the opening of the Ikigai coaching school in Miami, which will train certified coaching professionals in Adult and Junior coaching, with the goal of helping individuals find their life mission and achieve personal growth. Leading by Example Maïthé emphasizes the importance of being the kind of manager that you would have wanted to have in your career. This advice reflects her belief in the significance of leadership qualities such as empathy, support, and guidance in creating a positive and productive work environment. worldsleaders.com | 17
Dr. Arti Santhanam A Collaborative Scientist’s Passion Helps Build a Top-Five Tech-Based Entrepreneurial Community “As someone who had been both a patient and a scientist, I knew both sides. I have always been passionate about bringing affordable healthcare to all and accelerating innovative solutions from bench to bedside; my work at MII does just that.” 18 | October 2023
Ar? Santhanam, PhD Execu?ve Director, Maryland Innova?on Ini?a?ve TEDCO worldsleaders.com | 19
collaboration: “We focus on building trust and credibility across the organization and with our customers. We are transparent in the exchange of ideas and our encouragement of one another. We value teamwork in our pursuit of supporting innovation and entrepreneurial excellence.” Driven by this value, we embody ubuntu both internally and in our service to Maryland's diverse entrepreneurial community. TEDCO has worked hard to knit together an entrepreneurial ecosystem that connects like-minded entrepreneurs, subject matter experts, academics, legislators, and business leaders from all corners of the state. They weave together a diversity of thought, variety of skills, and myriad needs of Marylanders to build a vibrant tech-based entrepreneurial community that's consistently ranked in the top five in the United States. University, and the University of Maryland's College Park, Baltimore and Baltimore County campuses. Established in 2012, MII has invested $47.5M that has resulted in 144 startups, $692M in follow-on funding and 7 exits to date. W Dr. Santhanam knows that success would not occur without collaboration, one of the core values at TEDCO. For her, collaboration brings to mind the word "ubuntu." Archbishop Desmond Tutu defined the Zulu word "ubuntu" as "My humanity is caught up, is inextricably bound up, in what is yours.” In the simplest terms, Ubuntu means “I am because we are.” What does the Zulu word “ubuntu" have to do with a successful science and tech fund at Maryland's TEDCO? To start, it's been a guiding force for that fund's leader. The Maryland Technology Development Corporation (TEDCO) has an important mission in Maryland: “enhance economic empowerment by fostering an inclusive and entrepreneurial innovation ecosystem. Identify, invest in, and help grow technology companies in Maryland.” Ubuntu is much more than just a word—it's a philosophy, a world view, and a framework for how we relate to and work with others. While the concept of ubuntu has spiritual connotations, it has practical applications as well. As a socio- economic ideology, ubuntu encourages equity and equality as a means of generating shared wealth, promotes collective responsibility for the greater good, and fosters appreciation for each individual's unique talents. At TEDCO and within the MII program, ubuntu manifests itself primarily in the core value of A Childhood Illness Shapes a Career Path Dr. Santhanam's journey to becoming both a scientist and a visionary tech leader began as a girl in her native India, when she was diagnosed with a childhood cancer. As the Executive Director of TEDCO's Maryland Innovation Initiative (MII), Dr. Arti Santhanam plays a key role in delivering on that mission. She leads the MII fund investing in commercialization and start-up science and tech companies spun out of five participating universities: Johns Hopkins University, Morgan State An insightful doctor near her village in India understood she needed special 20 | October 2023
care; based on his advice, young Arti spent a portion of her childhood traveling 2 hours by bus from her village home to a city hospital that had the resources to treat her. She had many interactions which helped her understand both the disease and how important it was for her to be in a space with the best treatments available in her region. Corporation and later for her own consulting firm, collaborating with partners at DOD to address global health concerns. She then joined TEDCO where, prior to taking the helm as executive director of MII, she served in a number of capacities, including that of investment analyst for the Maryland Venture Fund and director for the Life Science Investment Fund. MII proved to be the perfect fit for Dr. Santhanam's many skills. She could see ground-breaking science and tech happening at institutions where they weren't thinking about getting it to market. At the same time, there were patients desperately hoping to access those discoveries for themselves or their families. She saw the solution. A wonderful, influential science teacher also made her want to be a scientist. The teacher's passion for the topic and Santhanam's own experience surviving childhood cancer inspired her to work in this space of scientific discovery very early on. A PhD in microbiology and molecular genetics from Rutgers University in New Jersey followed a Master of Science in clinical biochemistry from the University of Madras in India. After completing a postdoctoral study at the National Cancer Institute, Dr. Santhanam worked as a senior scientist and subject matter expert for MITRE worldsleaders.com | 21
Dr. Natanya Wachtel A Mental Health Advocate Behavioral-Science Powered Marketer and Philanthropist with a Passion for Improving Access to Care worldsleaders.com | 23
Redefining Business with Human- Centric Values and Philanthropy focus on creating meaningful impact in people's lives. This led her to transition to nonprofit work, philanthropy, and working with start-ups in the wellness and MedTech space. host of the popular podcast 'Insights Out' on an established health network hosted by The Outcomes Rocket Network. Through this platform, she interviews leaders in customer- centricity in the health and wellness industry about trends, best practices, and watchouts. She is also a frequent guest on podcasts, television, and radio, speaking about wellness, customer science, transformation, and mental health. New Solutions Network is a group of innovative for profit and nonprofit companies dedicated to making the world a better place. They prioritize creating businesses that put people at the center and prioritize philanthropy, which marks a significant change in traditional business models. The company provides specialized services for behavioral science informed commercialization and marketing, including cutting-edge customer- centric and science-driven marketing and commercialization solutions. Apart from her professional work, Dr. Wachtel is also a writer and speaker who has dedicated herself to addressing the healthcare disparities faced by marginalized communities. She is particularly passionate about improving access to care, education, and healthy food. Dr. Wachtel is the The New Solutions Network is committed to keeping up with cutting- edge technologies and digital tools to improve impact, growth, efficiency and provide innovative and meaningful solutions to customers. They help companies build stronger customer relationships and deliver seamless customer experiences. Operating as a collective of like- minded leaders, New Solutions Network partners with companies to drive positive impact for individuals, organizations, and communities on a large scale. The New Solutions Network is devoted to building businesses and growing revenue while prioritizing human-centric values. Work Experiences Dr. Wachtel is an experienced mental health advocate who has been working with families and exeuctives for over a decade. Along with her clinical work, she is also a health educator and marketing strategist with expertise in behavioral science. Dr. Wachtel has spent more than 20 years in the pharma and biotech industry, working on major healthcare brands, before and after founding New Solutions Network. In 2019, she left the corporate world to 24 | October 2023
Promoting Health Awareness and Accessible Care One of the core areas of wellness and education that Dr. Wachtel champions is nutrition, and the gut-brain connections. As strategic advisor to the gut health optimization app called Better Meal ai, she is able to help promote education about the need to focus on gut health, the value of personalized medicine that is affordable and beneficial for disease management, mental wellness and overall health. Dr. Wachtel's long-term goal for her company is to promote a greater awareness of the impact of small interventions and daily habits on one's health, leading to an improved quality of life and increased longevity. New Solutions Network is already collaborating with partners in various countries, including the UK and India, to provide accessible education, care, and tools for better health to a wider audience. She aims to expand these efforts even further on a global scale. Ultimately, she hopes to create a world where everyone has access to the resources they need to live a healthier, happier life. worldsleaders.com | 25
Loubna Sadiki Loubna Sadiki A country, Morocco, where she partnered with luxury hotels and palaces in the enchanting city of Marrakech. Originally from Casablanca, Morocco, Loubna completed her education in the United States at the University of Washington in Seattle, where she initially started on a career in the tech industry as an Operations Data Analyst. However, she soon discovered her true calling in entrepreneurship and interior design. As an immigrant, Loubna faced sexism and challenges while pursuing her passion for serial entrepreneurship in the real estate, hospitality, and interior design fields. Nevertheless, her persistence and innovative thinking have opened doors for her, establishing her as a voice for young women confronting similar obstacles. Notably, her interior design services have been sought after by NBA athletes and esteemed American celebrities, including French Montana. An ambitious entrepreneur, interior designer, and real estate investor, Loubna Sadiki is a driving force in the world of design and entrepreneurial growth. With her unwavering passion and determination, she has broken barriers in the mainly male-dominated industry, achieving remarkable success and inspiring young women to fearlessly pursue their dreams. Loubna is also the visionary behind Xenia Homes, a luxury vacation rental and concierge service. She started her vacation rental business in Seattle in 2016 and expanded to Los Angeles and Miami. Her discerning clientele has included NFL and NBA players, as well as renowned figures such as Swae Lee and CeeLo Green. Loubna's entrepreneurial endeavors didn't stop in the United States; she extended her luxury vacation rental business to her home 26 | October 2023
About the Company In order to help both property owners and buyers, Xenia Homes works as a one-stop shop. Both those looking for vacation rentals and those who own properties can get solutions from the company. Property owners can fully enjoy their downtime without worrying about the upkeep and maintenance of their properties thanks to Xenia Homes, a company that specializes in managing vacation homes for them. Finding the ideal vacation rental with Xenia Homes is a stress-free experience for visitors. ?e company's commi?ed employees go above and beyond to ful?l the needs of their visitors, providing an upscale housekeeping service and a private concierge service to guarantee a relaxing and enjoyable stay. worldsleaders.com | 27
Nisreen Shocair Driving Change and Inspiring the Industry by Unleashing Fashion's Crea?ve Force Meet Nisreen Shocair, Group Chief Transformation Officer for Middle East, Africa and LATAM at Beyond ONE, whose passion for fashion and keen interest in the ever-evolving landscape of cultural trends have propelled her towards remarkable achievements. With a remarkable career spanning esteemed organizations such as Viacom, Sony Music, Bertelsmann AG, and Hearst Entertainment, Nisreen has consistently gravitated towards industries where fashion and entertainment intersect. Nisreen's remarkable journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and industry professionals alike. Her unwavering dedication to the worlds of fashion and entertainment, coupled with her visionary leadership and commitment to responsible consumption, make her a true visionary in the business realm. As she continues to make waves and leave an indelible mark on the industry, Nisreen exemplifies the spirit of innovation and creative evolution that defines the modern business landscape. worldsleaders.com | 31
Trailblazing at the Intersection of Tech and Entertainment In the early 2000s, Nisreen embarked on a journey that merged technology and entertainment, marking the beginning of her successful career. Having lived and worked across different continents, she gained a global perspective that she now utilizes to establish businesses focused on immersive experiences, drawing from her love for culture, history, and art. Recently, her focus has shifted towards fostering community and enabling collaborative creation, amplification, and monetization across borders. She firmly believes that retailers have a crucial role to play in supporting the well-being of our planet. Empowering Young Women Leaders Nisreen advises young emerging women leaders to prioritize mentorship for constant development, emphasizing that mentors can be peers as well as higher-ups. She encourages a mindset of continuous learning and growth, highlighting the importance of staying the course despite the challenges faced in middle-management. Nisreen also emphasizes the significance of sponsoring and supporting other women, as it fosters trust and a supportive community. Networking is essential, as it allows individuals to showcase their skills and leverage social connections. Additionally, she advises knowing when to stay and when to leave, ensuring that career decisions are made on one's own terms. Lastly, Nisreen emphasizes the importance of paying it forward and back, recognizing the universal language of kindness. Nisreen's accomplishments in the retail and entertainment industries are highly notable. She has held prestigious leadership positions, including CEO of a pioneering live streaming network in the MENA region and President of Virgin Megastore for the Middle East & North Africa. Throughout her career, Nisreen has worked with renowned organizations such as Viacom, Sony Music, Bertelsmann AG, and Hearst Entertainment. Actively involved in the retail industry, Nisreen co-chairs the Retail Leaders Circle, a think tank dedicated to advancing the Middle East retail sector. Her expertise and insights make her a sought-after speaker at esteemed events like the World Retail Congress, Retail Leader's Circle, Retail Week, and the Financial Times. Nisreen's achievements have earned her significant recognition. She has been named Female CEO of the Year by CEO Middle East and Businesswoman of the Year by Women in Leadership. Additionally, she consistently appears on influential lists, including the Arabian Business 100 Most Powerful Arab Women and Forbes Middle East's top 100 Most Powerful Arab Women. Nisreen's unwavering focus on thoughtful consumption and her dedication to supporting the environment have made her a driving force in shaping and inspiring the retail and entertainment industries in the Middle East and beyond. 32 | October 2023
Beyond ONE Nisreen has an inherent attraction to industries characterized by ongoing transformation, where disruption is both embraced and initiated with composure. She finds great interest in businesses that operate as multiplayer experiences in a world that often promotes a solitary, single-player mindset. Fostering Innovation, Sustainability, and Impact Nisreen's vision for Beyond ONE is to establish it as the benchmark within the industry, setting the standard for innovation and organic growth. Alongside striving for success and growth in both top-line and bottom-line figures, Beyond ONE aims to actively contribute to the safety of its customers and the betterment of the planet. Nisreen and her team are committed to creating value rather than eroding it, ensuring that the company's actions align with its mission and principles. The ultimate goal is to achieve sustainable success while making a positive impact on both the business and the world. One of her notable ventures, Beyond ONE, exemplifies this philosophy. It transcends the boundaries of a single brand, market, industry, or conventional approach. Instead, it centers around a grand idea, a unified focus on our planet, and the strength of a collaborative team. Leveraging technology as a powerful enabler, it amplifies the delivery of the right product to the right audience at the right moment, ensuring maximum impact. Redefining Excellence through Digital Aggregation and Global Collaboration Beyond One is a digital service aggregator, focused on multi-player mode vs single-player mode. It aims to surpass the expectations of its members by continually seeking excellence across all industries. The team meticulously evaluates various sectors to identify the best- in-class entities within each. For instance, Apple represents unparalleled technological innovation, while Netflix sets the standard for exceptional user interfaces. Amazon stands out as a customer-centric leader, and so forth. By incorporating these exceptional elements, the companies under Beyond One's operation strive to become world-class entities across all dimensions. A primary objective of Beyond One is to establish enduring partnerships and foster a sense of community with every client. Regardless of geographic location, the goal is to treat each client as a long-term collaborator and a valued member of the communities being cultivated on a global scale. Cultivating Innovation and Empowerment In her current role, Nisreen is actively involved in driving BeyondONE to become the pioneering digital service aggregator that harnesses the true power of communities. worldsleaders.com | 33
Nuria E. Angelocci Showcasing Outstanding Success Planning and Leading Comprehensive Management Strategies Nuria E. Angelocci is a highly respected and customer-focused chief operating officer of a property management company who is fluent in multiple languages. Her exceptional skills in planning and leading comprehensive marketing and property management strategies have been instrumental in achieving business goals and objectives. Nuria is known for her ability to closely monitor and adapt marketing initiatives to maximize traffic in accordance with the strategic plan. In addition, Nuria is highly regarded for her role in directing and coordinating all operational activities, leasing, and marketing efforts to protect, preserve, and enhance the value of properties. As an out-of-the-box thinker, she approaches problem-solving with an analytical mindset and is committed to maximizing asset value, customer satisfaction, and revenue. Nuria is also known for her innovative recommendations on new opportunities that can drive revenue and increase brand recognition. 34 | October 2023
Nuria Angelocci | CMO | Hunters Run worldsleaders.com | 35
Below are highlights of the interview conducted between World's Leaders and Nuria E. Angelocci: Describe who you are as a person, inside and outside of the workplace. I was born and raised in a small town called Les Borges Blanques, two hours away from the city of Barcelona, Spain. I grew up in a modest family as the youngest of three sisters. Seeing my parents struggle financially made me a stronger person. I have always been a determined and focused person. My two older sisters are also excellent role models for me. They are both career-oriented and have achieved amazing successes in the steel manufacturing and banking industries. Describe your background and what did you do before you started/joined the company? I studied advertising and public relations for two years at the University of Barcelona. I came to the USA as an au pair to "improve" my English. When I arrived in the USA, I quickly realized that I did not come to "improve" my English if not to learn the language. Although I could say common phrases like "Hello, how are you?" and individual words like colors, animals, days of the week, objects, etc., I could not maintain a conversation. Because children have a simple vocabulary, learning English as 36 | October 2023
an au pair was effective. I lived with a family in Summit, NJ, for a year. Afterwards, I extended my visa for an additional nine months and moved to Wellington, FL, with another family. CMO was formed in 1991. It is a unique property management company because it was formed and is managed by the homeowners residing within Hunters Run. The president of each association elects the CMO Board of Directors. The CMO Board of Directors hires the COO/General Manager, sets policies and the CMO budget, and serves as the liaison between the association board and its members. CMO is a not-for-profit company. This distinctive structure allows CMO to focus on providing additional services and resources to the associations and homeowners while also working to improve the existing services provided. Another interesting feature of CMO's structure is that the General Manager's "bosses" can change yearly. Because of this, it is extremely important that the general manager has a clear picture of the company to create continuity and purpose during the possible changes in the board of directors. Many property managers in the industry experience burnout and stress. CMO provides a positive work environment and support to help our employees succeed. Although the industry is known for having a high turnover rate, CMO has been successful in retaining employees and promoting from within. Being an au pair was an amazing experience. I was 19 years old, I did not speak the language, and I had no family in the USA. I met fellow au pairs from all over the world, and it changed me. I made tremendous growth during that experience and it opened my eyes to the world. After the au pair experience ended, I applied for a student visa and attended Palm Beach State College, where I obtained a bachelor's degree in supervision and management. I also met, married my husband, and had my first son during that time. I earned an MBA in Entrepreneurial Management from Lynn University in one year (I was taking double the classes) while I was working full time, I was pregnant with my second boy, and I had a 2-year-old son at home. Getting the right people on the bus is a concept developed in the book Good to Great by Jim Collins. CMO is defined by the people who ride the bus. CMO's most valuable asset is its employees, not because people are the most valuable asset of a company, but because they are the right people. As a COO, it is imperative to bounce ideas off the team and have an open- door policy. It is essential for employees to have a voice, a purpose, and to feel that they are an intricate part of the company. The success of an employee reflects and affects the whole company. Creating a culture where employees feel they can work together as a team instead of feeling like they are competing with their teammates helps the overall organization. What are your responsibilities as the Founder/CEO of the company? What is the happiest part of your daily routine? As the COO, I oversee the operations of the company and all 23 associations and manage annual budgets totaling more than $19 million. I have had the pleasure to meet and work alongside amazing individuals during my 11 years at CMO. I have been married for 12 years to my wonderful husband, Chad Angelocci, and I am the proud mom of Andreu (6) and Kai (4). What advice would you give someone going into a leadership position for the first time? I believe that to be a successful leader, one needs to know the strengths and, more importantly, the weaknesses. Being willing to learn and evolve is a must. Tell us about the inception of the company. How did it all start? In January 2012, while I was in college, I started my career at CMO of Hunters Run. CMO manages all 23 associations within Hunters Run, a country club community in Boynton Beach, FL. There are 21 condominium associations and 2 homeowner's associations with a total of 1649 homes. CMO handles the many facets of property management, from the physical supervision of property maintenance to administrative and financial matters. We are a team of 16 (property managers, accounting staff, maintenance technicians, a general contractor, and administrative staff). Property management is a stressful industry. Although CMO works daily with the individual associations to maintain and enhance their property, the majority of the interactions with the individual homeowners are to report/resolve issues. From roof leaks to pest problems or landscape deficiencies, our office receives numerous phone calls/emails daily from homeowners requesting help with a specific issue. To succeed in this industry, you must be a problem solver with excellent customer service skills. The balancing act between a personal and professional life is not an easy one, but somehow, with the support of my husband, family, friends, and work team, we make it work! worldsleaders.com | 37
In the dynamic world of business and philanthropy, one name stands out as a true powerhouse: Rana Florida, the Chief Executive Officer of the Creative Class Group. With a diverse range of accomplishments and an impressive list of clients, Rana has become a prominent figure in her field. At the Creative Class Group, Rana excels in managing new business development, marketing, consulting, research, and global operations. Her expertise has attracted renowned clients such as Meta (WhatsApp, Facebook and Instagram), BMW, Converse, IBM, Cirque du Soleil, Audi, Zappos, and Starwood Hotels, among many others. Rana Florida Rana Florida Leading the Way in Business and Philanthropy 40 | October 2023
A Trailblazer's Journey Rana's journey to success began after earning her MBA. She quickly rose through the ranks, assuming various roles for Fortune 100 companies in corporate strategy, communications, and marketing. Notably, she served as the Vice President of Marketing for HMSHost, the world's largest airport developer, and as the VP of Corporate Communications for Feld Entertainment, the proud owner of Disney on Ice, Disney Live! and the Doodlebops. Her entrepreneurial spirit alongside her husband, famed urbanist Richard Florida they co-founded and launched CityLab, the preeminent digital platform on urbanism, for The Atlantic. This groundbreaking initiative later caught the attention of Bloomberg, which acquired it. In this collaboration, Rana played a pivotal role in organizing events and programming for The Aspen Ideas Institute and Bloomberg. Rana's ability to articulate ideas and share insights has resulted in her contributing dozens of articles to esteemed publications like Fast Company, Inc.com, the Huffington Post, and The Miami Herald. Her writing prowess includes captivating interviews and profiles of influential figures such as President Bill Clinton, First Lady Michelle Obama, Tennis star Andre Agassi, Grammy Award winning artist Nelly Furtado, and Fashion Designer Tory Burch. Furthermore, her expertise has been sought after for on-air business analysis on major platforms like The Today Show and MSNBC's The Cycle. From Knowledge Seeker to Collaborative Visionary Rana has an unquenchable thirst for knowledge, always seeking to learn as much as possible. She believes that work is more enjoyable when approached collaboratively, with a spirit of discovery rather than a task-oriented mindset. Surrounding herself with interesting and creative people, both inside and outside of work, brings her immense joy. Recognized for her exceptional contributions, Rana's work has been featured in prestigious publications such as The New York Times, Vogue Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, Market Watch, CNN, and The Globe and Mail. Her business book, "Upgrade—Taking Your Work and Life from Ordinary to Extraordinary," garnered critical acclaim and was selected as an Editor's Pick at The Globe and Mail. Her husband, Richard Florida, is a world renowned cities expert, speaker, and professor. He advises cities worldwide on economic growth strategies, drawing from his bestselling book, "The Rise of the Creative Class." When BMW approached Richard to feature his ideas in a commercial, Rana saw the perfect opportunity to expand their venture in Washington DC, the Creative Class Group, into a full-service consulting, research, and strategy firm. Beyond her remarkable professional achievements, Rana dedicates herself to philanthropy and public service. She actively participates in renowned organizations, including the United Nations Global Network on Digital Technologies and Sustainable Urbanization, Best Buddies Canada, The Olympics Committee for the Canadian Freestyle Ski Association, and Silver Art Projects in the World Trade Center, among others. worldsleaders.com | 41
Rana's commitment to making a difference extends to various cultural and artistic endeavors. She contributes to organizations such as The National Ballet of Canada, St. Mike's Hospital Neo-natal Intensive Care Unit, the Luminato Festival, Le Miami, The Design–Exchange, the Isabella Blow Foundation, Girls E Mentorship, the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, Let Grow, the Council for International Visitors, and The Founders Junior Council of the Detroit Institute of Arts. globe. Additionally, they identified the most creative neighborhoods for Cirque du Soleil to showcase their performances. Collaborating with Le Méridien Hotels, alongside Chef Jean Georges and other creative professionals, Richard and Ranaserved as Le Méridien 100 members, an advisory group dedicated to enhancing the overall guest experience. The Creative Class Group also provided valuable insights to property developer Edens for their Union Market project in Washington DC and supported Air Canada's Growth of Cities campaign. Elevating Value through Collaborative Partnerships Rana asserts, “We worked with Converse to help position their Jack Purcell brand to the entrepreneurial Creative Class. From Sibiu, Romania to Dubai to Singapore, our clients span the globe.” Rana considers Creative Class Group's clients as experts in their respective fields and actively partners with them to enhance their value. The team has had the privilege of collaborating with pioneering companies worldwide, including Microsoft and Zappos. They assisted BMW in the successful launch of their Ideas Class ad campaign and provided guidance to Starwood Hotels on measuring creativity at various locations across the Creative Class Group's clients share a common ethos of creativity embedded in their DNA. Currently, the company is working closely with META to quantify the economic impacts of the new Creator Economy. Gaining a Competitive Edge in the Knowledge Economy According to Rana, innovative ideas and knowledge allow individuals, organizations, and societies to stay ahead of the curve and gain a competitive edge. By constantly exploring new concepts, technologies, and approaches, they can differentiate themselves from competitors and adapt to changing market demands. Innovative individuals and organizations embrace change, rebound from disruption, and seize new opportunities for entrepreneurship, and new ways of living and working. Their ideas and knowledge contribute to the development of the new ideas and business models that drive economic growth. The Creative Class Group has a trove of proprietary data on the Creative Class and global trends. It can measure anything from centers of innovation and creativity to venture capital investments and real estate trends. Breaking Boundaries Rana has always held the belief that Creative Class Group swims upstream, challenging traditional business norms. 42 | October 2023
The company has never considered office environments or mandatory attendance as crucial to their culture or productivity. In fact, it has been a fully-remote company long before the term became widely known. The approach is simple: the company seeks out the brightest minds in their field and extends an invitation for collaboration, regardless of their location. The team encompasses individuals residing in various places, such as Brooklyn, Washington DC, Miami Beach, New York, Portland, Detroit, or Mexico City. What truly matters to the Creative Class Group are the insights and knowledge contributed by their team members, rather than whether they adhere to strict work hours or occupy cubicles. A Forward-Thinking CEO Rana holds a firm conviction that organizations prioritizing collaboration ultimately emerge as winners. Collaboration brings together individuals possessing diverse skills, experiences, and perspectives, resulting in a collective synergy that surpasses their individual contributions. Through collaboration, the process of decision-making becomes a collective endeavor, where various viewpoints and expertise are taken into account. This approach minimizes the influence of biases, fosters critical thinking, and ultimately leads to the attainment of high-quality outcomes. Rochelle de Goias-Jackman Founder, Board Co-Chair of Girls E Mentorship (GEM) As a CEO, Rana takes great pleasure in engaging in collaboration and deriving knowledge from the most innovative organizations worldwide. Unlocking Success Rana's advice to individuals stepping into a leadership position for the first time is to recognize that being the smartest person in the room is not a prerequisite. Instead, it is crucial to surround oneself with intelligent individuals and provide them with the autonomy necessary to lead effectively. Rana emphasizes the importance of being both a learner and a leader, embracing a mindset of continuous growth and seeking knowledge from others. By fostering a collaborative and an empowering environment, new leaders can leverage the collective intelligence of their team and drive success. Richard and Rana Florida for the Na?onal Ballet worldsleaders.com | 43
Tiffany Van Tammy Van & A t the age of 28, Tiffany Van co-founded Nipsey Daisy, a pioneering company that offers revolutionary body solutions tailored for women. With a professional background in Public Relations, Tiffany has played a pivotal role in catapulting the brand's popularity through a range of innovative marketing campaigns. exceptional business acumen has been instrumental in propelling the brand's growth, establishing her as an indomitable force driving Nipsey Daisy's ongoing success. products and customer service, fostering a steadfast and expanding customer base. These two sisters exemplify dedicated and passionate entrepreneurship, revolutionizing women's perception of undergarments. As they forge ahead, Tiffany and Tammy's unwavering passion and commitment will undoubtedly propel Nipsey Daisy to the forefront of innovative body solutions, empowering women to exude confidence and comfort in their own skin. With their resolute commitment to inclusivity and customer satisfaction, Tiffany and Tammy are poised to lead Nipsey Daisy to even greater heights in the future. Together, Tiffany and Tammy have fostered a brand that prioritizes innovative body solutions for women. Their steadfast commitment to inclusivity and comfort has garnered a loyal following across diverse age groups. The brand's products are the result of countless hours spent researching and developing groundbreaking solutions that address women's specific body concerns. Tammy Van, Tiffany's 32-year-old sister, serves as the other co- founder of Nipsey Daisy, leveraging her extensive experience in both corporate and small business settings to breathe life into the brand. Tammy's unwavering dedication to her work has been evident from the outset, as she has been deeply involved in every facet of the company's operations, ranging from product development to customer service. Her The triumph of Nipsey Daisy can be attributed to the sisters' unyielding dedication to their customers. They remain resolute in their pursuit of offering exceptional 48 | October 2023
Tiffany Van & Tammy Van Co-founders & CEO | Nipsey Daisy About Nipsey Daisy Nipsey Daisy is a Canadian brand owned by two sisters. The mission is to provide women with the support they need to feel confident and comfortable. The brand offers silky smooth nipple covers that provide seamless coverage, mimicking the texture of skin. Additionally, their body tape is designed to lift and shape, offering a solution for those who prefer to go without a bra. worldsleaders.com | 49