LOLITA BEYLINA LEADING WITH PURPOSE, PIONEERING CHANGE
LISA ZAHIYA DANCING TO SUCCESS IN COACHING
DURANA ELMI BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN HEALTH AND NUTRITION
TIME IS PRECIOUS: AN INTERVIEW WITH ALEX HURWORTH
SEWING HOPE: JENNY NUCCIO AND HER VISION FOR IMANI COLLECTIVE
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REDEFINING TRAVEL IN AFRICA
22
TIME IS PRECIOUS
An Interview with Alex Hurworth
30 SEWING HOPE
Jenny Nuccio and her Vision for Imani Collective
Leading with Purpose, Pioneering Change
Dancing to Success in Coaching 34
DURANA ELMI
Bridging the Gap between Health and Nutrition 40
KIRSTY GORDON
CEO & Founder, Anywhere in Africa Safaris
KKirsty Gordon's journey through the travel industry has been nothing short of remarkable, characterized by her resilience, creativity, and deep-seated passion for Africa. Her story unfolds across continents, driven by a profound love for travel and an unyielding commitment to excellence.
Kirsty's career trajectory has been marked by several pivotal moments that shaped her path in the travel industry and beyond.
One of the first significant milestones was when she was headhunted by the Felix Unite Group (Chameleon Indabas) for their incentives and event management division. Leaving Wynberg Travel, where she had thrived under Sally Omolony's mentorship, was a difficult decision. However, this move ushered her into a new era of her career, proving to be a strategic and beneficial step in the long run.
A few years later, Kirsty's entrepreneurial spirit took flight as she ventured into starting her own companies: Webtour Africa, an online travel agency, and Heading South Africas, which offered glamping and overland experiences in Botswana. These ventures showcased her innovative approach and deep understanding of the travel market.
In a bold and adventurous pivot, Kirsty sold her companies to pursue a professional equestrian career in the UK, aiming to qualify for the Beijing Olympics in 2008. Despite a fall in 2007 that thwarted her Olympic dreams, this period was a testament to her willingness to take risks and follow her passions.
Following her time in the UK, Kirsty faced a crossroads. She spent several months in London working in recruitment for actuaries, contemplating whether to return to South Africa and the travel industry or embark
on a new career in finance. The global credit crunch and subsequent recruitment freezes made the decision clearer, prompting her return to South Africa, driven by her longing for family, friends, and the unique lifestyle the country offers.
Kirsty's return to Cape Town marked another significant turning point. Recognizing the myriad opportunities in a developing country, she embraced the challenge of looking beyond the comfort zone. Her passion for travel, helping people plan trips, and her love for Africa led to the foundation of Anywhere in Africa Safaris.
Initially intended as a short-term role, Kirsty's involvement with Timeless Africa Safaris under Marco Van Embden's leadership extended to seven years. During this period, she worked extensively with individual travelers and group travel, particularly catering to the YPO/WPO market.
In 2015, Kirsty decided to reinvigorate Anywhere in Africa Safaris, driven by a desire to steer her own ship once again. Despite having a stable job and enjoying her work at Timeless Africa Safaris, she felt the need to innovate and expand her horizons. Restarting Anywhere in Africa Safaris was a daunting decision, given the saturated travel market and the uncertainties involved.
With over 30 years of experience, Kirsty laid a solid foundation for her business, meticulously setting up systems and preparing for client inquiries. Her hands-on approach ensured that clients received personalized attention, without being passed from consultant to consultant. This commitment to direct engagement remains a cornerstone of her business.
Pre-COVID, Kirsty's business relied heavily on word-of-mouth referrals and repeat clients. In 2020, recognizing the need to adapt to changing times, she
invested in digital marketing to position Anywhere in Africa Safaris for a new era. Despite the pandemic's challenges, her strategy paid off, ensuring the company's resilience and continued success.
In 2023, Kirsty further strengthened her team by hiring Adrienne Krüger and Ashley Burdett to enhance digital marketing efforts and update the company's website. This focus on quality over quantity has been pivotal in maintaining Anywhere in Africa Safaris' esteemed reputation.
Kirsty Gordon's career in corporate travel was profoundly shaped by the mentorship she received from Sally Omolony, the owner of Wynberg Travel in Cape Town. Sally's meticulous approach to corporate travel and incentive programs set a high standard that Kirsty strives to uphold to this day. "Her attention to detail on all the incentive programs we designed for top corporate companies in Cape Town was incredible," Kirsty recalls, highlighting the comprehensive nature of Sally's work—from gifting incentive drops to detailed itinerary design and thorough site visits to ensure top-notch experiences for their clients.
Kirsty's initiation into the incentive division was rigorous.
On her first week, Sally tasked her with designing a sample itinerary. The feedback process was intense, with the itinerary undergoing four revisions before meeting Sally's exacting standards. "Oh my goodness there were red marks everywhere," Kirsty remembers. Despite the challenges, this experience was a crucial learning curve that ingrained in her the importance of being detailoriented, creative, and particular about the end product.
"She was a great mentor and I couldn't have wanted to work anywhere else and with anyone else in my first job in travel," Kirsty reflects, underscoring the profound impact Sally had on her professional development.
When faced with difficult decisions, Kirsty adheres to a set of guiding principles that have consistently ensured sound judgment and effective outcomes. One of her core philosophies is to keep things simple and sometimes go back to basics. "Often I tell my team, stop the bus, take a step back and then re-engage," Kirsty explains. This approach encourages her team to pause, reassess the situation, and then move forward with a clearer perspective.
Kirsty also believes in maintaining what works and focusing on improvement rather than unnecessary change. "If things are working, don't change them. Just 'look out the box' and see how you can improve but don't change what is working," she advises. This principle emphasizes the importance of stability and incremental enhancement, ensuring that successful processes and strategies are refined rather than overhauled.
When building her team at Anywhere in Africa Safaris, Kirsty looks for individuals who share a deep love for Africa. Regardless of their role, whether in marketing, administration, or Google Ads, a shared passion for the continent and its heritage is a
fundamental criterion. "Everyone on the team is proud of their African heritage and wants to share it with the world," Kirsty asserts, highlighting the cohesive and unifying force of a common passion.
To keep her team motivated and aligned with the company's goals, Kirsty employs several key strategies. Real-time communication and updates ensure that everyone is on the same page and engaged with the company's progress. Additionally, she believes in giving credit when it is due, not just at the end of the year but in real-time. This practice fosters a culture of immediate recognition and appreciation, which boosts morale and motivation.
Transparency is another cornerstone of her management style. By maintaining open and honest communication, Kirsty ensures that her team feels valued and informed, which is crucial for maintaining alignment with the company's goals. Through these strategies, Kirsty cultivates a motivated, cohesive, and passionate team dedicated to delivering exceptional travel experiences and sharing the beauty of Africa with the world.
The travel industry has faced unprecedented challenges, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, Kirsty Gordon views this period not as a setback but as a transformative phase that has reshaped the industry for the
better. "I don't think we need to keep talking about the COVID19 pandemic in such a negative way. If anything, it has forced our sector to put people over profits, to care for wildlife, communities, and people," she observes. The pandemic necessitated a shift in priorities and operations, emphasizing flexibility and a more humancentered approach.
The industry's response to the pandemic mirrored the resilience seen in the African bush, where survival of the fittest prevails. This period allowed the best of the best to rise, highlighting the critical role tourism plays in economies. Governments have recognized this by increasing their investment in the sector.
Moreover, the downtime afforded by the pandemic enabled establishments to renovate, reevaluate, and improve their product offerings—opportunities that were previously constrained by constant demand. This period of reflection and enhancement has paid off significantly for Kirsty. "I am having my busiest year yet, even before COVID times, and that is a testament to our great reputation and Africa being such an incredible destination," she proudly notes.
Kirsty's message to women aspiring to break barriers and redefine success is one of action, courage, and self-belief. "Don't just aspire and talk about
breaking barriers, go out and do it," she advises. She emphasizes the importance of setting ambitious goals, ones that might seem daunting at first. "If your idea or vision doesn't scare you then it's not big enough. Think bigger," she encourages.
In moments of self-doubt, Kirsty recommends a strategy of selfcompassion and empowerment. "Talk to yourself as you would do to a friend. Yes, it may sound silly, but be your own hypewoman, just as you'd hype a friend when their imposter syndrome kicks in," she suggests. This approach fosters resilience and self-confidence, crucial traits for anyone aiming to break new ground.
Kirsty redefines success not by financial metrics but by fulfillment. "Success isn't about money. It's about fulfillment—I love my work, I love helping people, I love creating Ambassadors for Africa through clients who travel with Anywhere in Africa Safaris," she shares.
Belief in oneself and one's team is vital, and she urges women not to feel intimidated but to harness the power of collective positivity and strength. "Create women power and positivity," Kirsty concludes, underscoring the importance of supportive and empowering environments for women to thrive.
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FEATURE ME
lex Hurworth is a dynamic executive coach and consultant who has dedicated over two decades to building and improving software, leading the design and strategy of numerous apps across global markets. After an extensive career in technology, including pivotal roles in corporate and pandemic response projects, Alex experienced a significant career shift.
"Time is Precious" was born from Alex's personal journey of overcoming burnout and recognizing the finite nature of life. In this interview, Alex discusses her career evolution, the pivotal moments that led to her transition into coaching, the impact of her global experiences, and her vision for empowering others through leadership. She also addresses the barriers women face in taking career risks and provides valuable advice for organizations looking to advance female leadership.
Reflecting on your transition from tech leader to executive coach, what pivotal moments or insights prompted this shift in your career path?
I've always been driven by a desire to
have a real impact. While that showed through the apps and software we created, my greatest fulfillment came from developing my direct reports. After 20 years in the corporate grind, working relentlessly on projects for the CEO, CTO, and then additionally as part of New York State's pandemic response, I was burned out. It was time for a change.
In 2021, I decided to leverage my entrepreneurial spirit and start my own business focused on partnering with organizations to support them in elevating their talent's leadership. This allows me to channel my energy into what I'm most passionate aboutempowering others to grow as leaders.
You've had the opportunity to work in several global cities. How have these diverse cultural experiences influenced your professional approach and leadership style?
Working overseas taught me the immense value of experiencing different cultures. It was a humbling reminder that my perceived "norms" are just one way of viewing the world. This experience has made me vigilant about not making assumptions about my
clients or direct reports.
Each person is unique, with their own needs and values. To truly unlock someone's potential, I must nurture and appreciate them as an individual, not treat them as part of a monolithic group. This approach is crucial to bringing out the best in others.
Can you tell us more about the genesis of 'Time is Precious'? What was the moment or motivation that sparked the idea for this venture?
This is deeply personal. Ten months into the pandemic, I had my first and only panic attack. Though nothing compared to the heroics of frontline workers, I was burned out from working until midnight most nights on a COVID response app, alongside my regular duties. That panic attack made me feel like I was dying. It was a wake-up call that life is short. Once that project ended, I knew I had to prioritize my well-being and finally pursue my dream of starting my own business.
Now that I've made the leap, I'm noticing more and more frequently how people are dissatisfied with their work situation, burnt out, or knowing they're capable of more, but paralyzed by fear and the powerful inertia of the status quo. It's easier to sleepwalk through the familiar routine: wake up, go to work, attend meetings, go home, repeat. The paycheck and benefits further entrench the cycle. And in the blink of an eye, one year
becomes two, three then five.
Making a change requires venturing into the unfamiliar and can be risky. It means extra work on top of daily dutiesspeaking up for a promotion, rallying your team around an audacious idea, or even leaving to start your own business. But that's where growth happens when you muster the courage to disrupt your comfortable patterns.
So, I named my company after that transformative experience, as a reminder of why I'm doing this. Depending on what you believe, we have one life. Let's make the most of it!
What do you believe are the most significant barriers today that prevent women from taking more risks in their careers? How do you address these challenges in your coaching sessions?
Gender norms discourage women from voicing their opinions at work. Lack of confidence and imposter syndrome are constant hurdles. The gender pay gap and societal pressures mean many women lack the financial safety net to take entrepreneurial risks - it feels safer sticking with a steady paycheck and health insurance. For mothers, the high cost of childcare makes returning to work economically challenging. There are so many barriers holding women back from pursuing their ambitions and starting businesses.
My last name is Hurworth (“her-
worth”). I think that is no accident! My mission is to elevate women into leadership roles, increasing their wealth and independence so they can take risks professionally and personally. I want them to speak up fearlessly, and to learn to quieten voices of self-doubt and second-guessing. My coaching helps clients get crystal clear on their goals and maps out the micro-steps to achieve them. Through low-risk experiments, they see that inaction is impossible - these small steps build unstoppable momentum towards transformative change. They realize their true capability, learning that it's action that creates confidence, not the other way around. They don't need to wait for confidence before making moves.
I give my clients the tools and mindset to boldly pursue what they want without restraint. With financial independence comes the power to take chances and lead more purposeful lives on their own terms.
In your opinion, what are the essential elements for maintaining a fulfilling professional life without compromising personal happiness and well-being?
The essential elements for maintaining a fulfilling professional life without sacrificing personal happiness and well-being are selfawareness and the courage to take purposeful action. Selfawareness means deep understanding your core values,
priorities, and boundaries.
What's most important to you?
What lines won't you cross? Get clear on your non-negotiables for a life of integrity. From that self-knowledge, you must have the courage to get into action and have those difficult yet critical conversations. Voice your needs, assert your boundaries, stand firm on your principles - all in an objective, compassionate way. Don't let discomfort keep you from expressing what truly matters.
When you know yourself and can communicate authentically, you create the space to honor all parts of who you areprofessional, personal, family, health, spirit. You learn to integrate these into a cohesive, sustainable way of living and leading that feels deeply aligned. It's not easy, but it's a skill that can be practiced. The more you exercise your voice with self-awareness, the more natural and empowering it becomes to uphold your vision for a rewarding professional
journey and a life you feel genuinely good about.
Finally, what advice would you give to organizations looking to genuinely advance female leadership within their ranks?
My top three recommendations are:
1) Mandate unconscious bias training to increase awareness around gender and minority biases, signaling leadership's commitment.
2) Offer equal parental leave regardless of gender. This allows any parent to be the primary caretaker without career impacts traditionally falling on birthing parents.
3) Provide leadership skills training, investing in upskilling women and creating more role models.
By implementing these, we'll start dismantling biases, update outdated caregiving norms, and empower women to step into their power as leaders. It's about creating an equitable culture of growth for all.
Youth unemployment is a pressing challenge that transcends borders, affecting nations and communities worldwide.
The repercussions of youth unemployment are far-reaching, encompassing not only economic ramifications but also social and psychological burdens.
Lolita Beylina is an example of a pioneer who is not only addressing this prevalent issue but is working towards finding potential solutions to reduce its impact.
For Lolita, being a pioneer means embracing the uncertainty to bring about meaningful change into the community and across industries.
Fittingly, featuring as a pioneering woman in this issue, we look into the vision of Lolita Beylina, her journey, as well as her individual struggles.
Raised in a household of immigrant women who came as refugees from Ukraine, Lolita's early life was marked by various challenges.
At the age of 3, Lolita was evaluated to have the language development of a 13-month-old. Her inability to articulate sentences comprehensively in English or Russian made her earliest academic years difficult.
However, her determination and creativity shone through, and she eventually found her academic footing. She recalls, “I lacked the strong logical reasoning skills, but creativity was a distinct cognitive side I relied on to excel in education. I went from being in a special education needs program with an IEP to earning a sweep in honor roll and Dean's List awards.”
Years later, Lolita's entrepreneurial spirit was ignited during high school when she participated in the Junior Achievement Company Program. The program is for empowering high school students to create a successful startup business, developing transferable entrepreneurship skills, and receiving direct mentorship from an assigned company throughout the program.
Under the mentorship of Accenture, Lolita and her team brainstormed a business named "Portify," selling portable charger products. “We presented our business against other high-school students at the program's local competition.”
This experience ignited her passion for entrepreneurship and marked the beginning of her pursuit of a meaningful career.
Today, as a Career Readiness Coach at Hopeworks, Lolita Beylina plays a pivotal role in empowering young adults (aged 17-26) to secure living-wage opportunities and enter the workforce with confidence.
She mentions, “Each day, I foster a collaborative environment with my caseload to help them envision and strategize their future goals.”
Her daily responsibilities involve fostering a collaborative environment, guiding individuals through comprehensive training and internship programs, enhancing job readiness, and optimizing their professional profiles, including LinkedIn.
In addition to her core responsibilities, Lolita goes the extra mile by capturing professional headshots for her clients and curating job opportunities to help them secure lasting employment. She also coordinates Listen-andLearn (L2) network events, where subject-matter experts share their knowledge and skills with young adults, enriching their career journeys.
“In essence, my day-to-day efforts are dedicated to ensuring young adults on their career path of lasting success and breaking barriers,” Lolita asserts.
Lolita Beylina's career journey is
a testament to her adaptability and unwavering commitment to personal and professional growth. She acknowledges that, in hindsight, committing to psychology earlier might have expedited her academic path.
Nevertheless, as the first woman in her family to achieve both a bachelor's and master's degree, she takes immense pride in her accomplishments.
Lolita started her professional career right after high school at the age of 18 as a retail associate.
After losing her first job at 21, she struggled to secure a new job, facing multiple rejections and lack of worthwhile employment opportunities. During these eight months of struggle, she persevered and honed her skills in resume building, interview preparation, networking, and more.
She explains, “I've learned to view each stage of my professional life as purposeful, seeing challenges not as roadblocks but as opportunities for learning and development. Shifting from asking "Why is this happening to me?" to "What is happening for me?" has been crucial in navigating and gaining value from my experiences.”
This innate ability to turn challenges into opportunities has been instrumental in her continued success.
For Lolita Beylina, being a pioneer is about embracing uncertainty to create meaningful change. Her career is a testament to this philosophy, as she has continually sought innovative ways to drive positive impact in both communities and industries. Through proactive mentorship, innovative workshops, resourcefulness, and networking, she has woven a pioneering spirit into her leadership style.
Lolita's journey is defined by her holistic approach, strategic thinking, data-driven decisions, community engagement, and an unwavering commitment to continuous learning.
Leveraging this mindset in her
advocacy of reducing youth unemployment, she points out the following key strategies:
Ÿ Innovative program development aimed at addressing creative solutions to break any barrier for youth and young adults entering the workforce.
Ÿ Establishment of partnerships with diverse stakeholders leveraging a supportive ecosystem within the community.
Ÿ Technology integration to enhance career development programs with digital tools promoting neurodiversity, such as online training and job matching.
As Lolita Beylina looks ahead, her vision remains clear. Professionally, she is dedicated to designing experiential learning programs and breaking barriers to youth unemployment. She aims to foster strategic partnerships and integrate neurodivergentfriendly technologies into career development initiatives.
On a personal level, Lolita envisions self-improvement and a thriving family life. She also aspires to write a self-help autobiographical fiction series titled "The Glow-Up Formula," chronicling her journey of reflection and transformation over the last five years.
Ÿ One Book Entrepreneurs Must Read - The Happiness Project (10th Anniversary Edition) by Gretchen Rubin
Ÿ One Productivity Tool / App That You Use - Google Calendar
Ÿ One Quote that Motivates you the Most - “Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to
success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.” - Albert Schweitzer
Ÿ One Advice for Women Entrepreneurs - Power through to grow through what you go through
Ÿ One Movie / Podcast / Show You Recommend - Movie: Legally Blonde | Show: Undercover Boss
Jenny Nuccio's journey with Imani Collective began with a transformative trip to Kenya in 2009. Moved by the determination of local women and the challenges they faced, Jenny felt a calling to make a difference. This led her to establish Imani Collective, a brand driven by the belief that empowerment and community go hand in hand.
Starting as a small sewing training program, Imani Collective has since flourished into a globally recognized brand with 120 artisans across three Kenyan locations. Jenny's visionary leadership and dedication to empowering artisans have propelled Imani Collective's growth, turning audacious dreams into reality.
Through its associated brands, including Imani + Kids, Selah, and Sukwa, Imani Collective provides highquality, sustainable, and scalable merchandise ranging from swag to home décor, kids' toys, and more. Most recently, Jenny published her first book, Let It Be Wild, in which she recounts the exhilarating highs and lows of her journey thus far.
What inspired you to start Imani Collective, and how did your personal journey lead you to this point?
It all started with a trip to Kenya in 2009. While I was there, I had the opportunity to work closely with a couple who were starting a school to help provide education opportunities to the local community. Although I was just a student at the time, I felt a connection with the people and the place that was undeniable. It was there that I started to forge deep bonds with the women who would later become integral to the Imani Collective family.
However, it wasn't until I witnessed the struggles of single, widowed, or disabled mothers firsthand that the seeds of an idea began to take root in my mind. These women, despite their immense resilience, were trapped in a cycle of poverty that seemed impossible to escape. In 2013, I decided to sell everything I owned and permanently relocate from Texas to Kenya. With the proceeds, I purchased the first 16 sewing machines that would become Imani Collective. Every stage of this journey has been guided by the foundational belief that we are not just better together—we are our best. This philosophy has been the core of Imani Collective, driving our mission to empower artisans and foster community.
Imani Collective started as a small sewing training program. How did it evolve into a globally recognized brand with 120 artisans across three Kenyan Locations?
Since the beginning, I felt called to make a greater impact and pursue a comprehensive approach to economic independence. I remember one night, right when Imani Collective was just registered as a nonprofit, where I gathered with founding members and friends to start charting our journey forward. We wanted to envision the possibilities for the future of Imani Collective, which seemed difficult at the time, as we were so small.
But, we began to dream big. One exercise, saved for the end of the day, was to write a tenyear toast to Imani Collective. As we imagined ourselves ten years into the future, celebrating a decade of impact, the room was filled with hope. Each of us raised our metaphorical champagne glasses, celebrating the collective's growth. Among the toasts, one friend's words stand out to this day: “It is beautiful to see how much Imani has grown. How much they have impacted the world. How much they have become known to many. I am in awe that we now can say we are a household name. That people across the nation know who we are and what we do. That we have created so much impact and so much good that it cannot be ignored and for that, cheers to our ten years.”
Well, when the ten-year mark
indeed rolled around, these audacious dreams had become reality. We had 120 artisans and staff on salary, and we had three locations in Kenya: Mombasa (Old Town), Mtepeni Village, and Turkana. We had partnered with organizations in Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Burundi, and India. We had just shifted into a hybrid model and were now not only a nonprofit but a global business, with customers in more than 160 countries. It was through this bold vision that Imani Collective evolved from a mere training program to what we are today.
Imani Collective has a unique approach that combines a social enterprise with a nonprofit. Can you elaborate on how this model works and the advantages it offers?
Within the social impact space, I realized that many businesses struggle to encompass both impact and growth. A big challenge for traditional nonprofits is financial sustainability due to their reliance on sporadic donations and grant-based funding. To overcome these limitations, our hybrid model merges the strengths of both the business and nonprofit sectors to address the immediate needs of our artisans and the broader goal of breaking the generational cycle of poverty.
Operating as a nonprofit allows us to break down the cycle of poverty at every level, while the brands in our social enterprise, including Imani + Kids, Selah, Sukwa, and Talanta, enable us
to provide stable employment opportunities and consistent income for our artisans. By maintaining a stable revenue stream through our business endeavors, we can further invest in our nonprofit initiatives without compromising on our commitment to social impact.
What have been some of the biggest challenges in scaling Imani Collective, and how have you addressed them?
One of my biggest challenges in scaling Imani Collective was to stop saying “yes” to everything. It sounds counterintuitive, but for years, that mindset left me stressed and overwhelmed. I was afraid to miss out on potential experiences that could shape the future of Imani Collective. Saying “no” felt impossible at the time. But I soon began to understand the importance of setting boundaries and putting myself and my time first.
Saying “no” didn't mean I was missing out on opportunities, but rather respecting my own time to focus on the things that mattered to me. By learning to be selective in my commitments, I gained a newfound sense of clarity. I was able to focus my energy on the things that most aligned with my values and goals. I learned to be able to show up fully present and engaged in the moments that truly matter.
What advice would you give to individuals who aspire to start their own social enterprises and make a positive impact in
the world?
My main piece of advice for someone considering building an organization from the ground up, and especially a social enterprise, is to be driven by clear values. When you know your purpose and what you want to make of it, you can ensure that every step you take creates real change that later affects the world in meaningful ways.
My story is simply an example of that. I had to learn to trust my instincts and embrace the unknown in order to find my 'why.' I think the most important thing anyone can do is listen to your heart and let it guide you to the opportunities that are right for you.
What are your future goals for Imani Collective, both in terms of business growth and social impact?
In the next 5 to 10 years, we plan to expand our training and development work in Kenya. This way, we can continue to grow our offering in accordance with the needs of the communities around us. We also plan to help other brands grow their impact by leveraging our own experience in creating change. I plan to continue to be a voice for those who often go unheard and to provide meaningful education and employment opportunities not just in Kenya but also around the world.
eet Lisa Zahiya, a dynamic business strategist, life coach, and former dance studio owner who has had an unconventional journey from being a law school dropout to being a celebrated coach.
Based in New York, NY, Lisa has navigated the challenges of entrepreneurship and coaching to make a profound impact on the lives of women and missiondriven entrepreneurs.
With a focus on digital marketing and product scaling, Lisa has helped over 100 entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of business ownership and achieve their goals, all while fostering a culture of celebration and positivity.
Can you please introduce yourself, your business, and your specialization as a coach?
I am a business strategist and life coach based in New York, NY. My journey has been anything but conventional. When I was 26, I dropped out of Georgetown Law School to
pursue my dream of opening an inclusive dance studio that provided movement opportunities for everyone.
I created Studio Zahiya in Asheville, NC as a space focused on empowering all people through dance. The studio thrived and became a cornerstone in the community, winning “Best Place to Take a Dance Class” six times in a row.
When the pandemic hit in 2020, I was left with a studio space I couldn't use, yet I still had to pay rent for it. I felt like I didn't have control over anything that was going to happen. But after allowing myself to grieve the studio of my dreams, I decided to get creative about how I could serve my clients in a new way. I offered dance classes online and I channeled what I had learned during my entrepreneurial journey into a coaching business to help others scale their businesses. To my surprise, I doubled my profit and gained clients from all over the world.
I'm now trained as a Certified
Coach (Coach U), Advanced Master Coach (CTI), Infinite Possibilities Trainer and Trailblazer (Mike Dooley), Brene Brown Coaches Training, and Tony Robbins Leadership Training. I help women cultivate lives on their own terms and assist mission-driven entrepreneurs in maximizing their impact.
With a focus on digital marketing and product scaling, I've helped over 100 entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of business ownership and achieve their goals.
As a coach, what are some of the biggest challenges that you have faced in your journey?
I've had to reevaluate a lot of self-limiting beliefs, especially concerning pricing. Like many coaches, I initially grappled with the notion that I needed to cater to everyone's needs and keep my prices low to accommodate all potential clients.
However, I've come to realize that this mindset only hinders my ability to provide exceptional services and attract clients who are genuinely committed to their growth. One of the key shifts I've made is recognizing that my services have value, and it's essential to align my pricing with that value.
Instead of trying to make everyone happy, I now focus on attracting clients who understand and appreciate the investment they're making in themselves and their goals.
Can you share a success story or a significant achievement in your coaching career?
One of the most significant moments in my coaching career was receiving an invitation to deliver a TEDx talk. It was a surreal and humbling experience to be recognized for my work and invited to share my insights and experiences on such a prestigious platform. As I prepared for the talk, I reflected deeply on my journey, the lessons I've learned, and the impact I've had on others through my coaching.
Delivering the TEDx talk allowed me to reach a broader audience and share my message of empowerment and transformation with the world. It was an incredible opportunity to inspire and uplift others, and I am grateful for the platform to spread positivity and encouragement. In my TEDx talk titled "Let's Throw a Party," I shared insights from my coaching journey and how I've
witnessed the transformative power of celebration in people's lives. I delved into the importance of embracing joy, gratitude, and celebration as essential components of personal growth and fulfillment. Through personal anecdotes and practical tips, I highlighted how shifting our mindset to one of celebration can lead to profound shifts in perspective and behavior. I encouraged viewers to find joy in everyday moments, celebrate their accomplishments, and cultivate a mindset of abundance and positivity.
The talk resonated with audiences as it emphasized the significance of fostering a culture of celebration in both personal and professional spheres, ultimately inspiring individuals to live life to the fullest and embrace the power of joy.
How do you measure the impact of your coaching on your clients or teams?
I like to draw inspiration from the B Corporation Model. I measure success by the revenue generated, as it reflects the tangible outcomes of my coaching efforts. However, revenue alone doesn't tell the full story.
I also assess how my business contributes to the health and wealth of my employees, and how it influences the success of our clients. This goes beyond financial metrics to encompass their overall sense of fulfillment and achievement of their goals.
Lastly, I believe in the importance of using my business as a force for good in the community, the environment, and society at large. I measure the impact of my coaching by assessing how we make a meaningful difference in the world.
What advice would you give to other women aspiring to be leaders in the coaching industry?
1. Persistence is key. Be prepared to face setbacks on your journey. Embrace the process of trial and error, and don't let failure deter you. Get knocked down, but make sure you get back up.
2. Learn from the best. Seek out mentors and role models who have achieved what you aspire to. Don't copy their content but embody their structures and processes. Success leaves clues, and by observing those who have paved the way, you can accelerate your own growth.
3. Don't take yourself too seriously. Keep a great sense of humor and be willing to laugh at yourself. This not only makes the journey more enjoyable but also fosters your resilience.
What are your future goals for your business and brand? What is your vision through coaching?
I hear time and time again from clients that they just don't have the time to implement the strategies we talk about during
our sessions. This is when it's time to consider hiring support, yet many of my clients mention concerns about affordability.
In reality, they can't afford not to hire, as they're already at their bandwidth. It's because of these concerns that I decided to launch a staffing company called Scale Up Support, where we source executive admin personnel and tech specialists.
We provide comprehensive training in our proven methodologies, which have yielded success for both me and my clients. Our goal is to equip these individuals with the skills and support they need to thrive in their roles, thereby alleviating the burden on business owners and fostering sustainable growth. I'm so excited to see where this venture goes and to continue providing support to business owners.
On the personal side of things, I'm looking forward to expanding into speaking engagements on a larger scale. I want to leverage my experiences to inspire audiences around the world and instill them with the confidence they need to achieve their dreams.
Ultimately, my goal is to leave a lasting impact on the coaching industry by championing authenticity and impact. I believe that by helping others succeed, we can collectively create a more positive and meaningful future for ourselves and generations to come.
ith the simple yet effective idea of filling the nutritional gaps in our diet, Durana Elmi along with her husband Shahab Elmi created Cymbiotika.
By combining scientific innovation with traditional Eastern medicine, Cymbiotika offers a line of supplements that improves our overall wellbeing and enables us to choose a healthier and sustainable alternative for our body. According to Durana, the Cymbiotika products are sourced from only the highest quality plant-based ingredients and utilize the most advanced absorption technology. In this Interview with Exeleon Women Magazine, she talks about the pain point that led to the start of Cymbiotika, her vision, and her fitness ideologies. How would you describe your philosophy on health and fitness?
For me, health and fitness serve as the very core of how we navigate our lives. They're not isolated aspects but rather the driving forces behind everything we do. When you prioritize your health and maintain your fitness, you're essentially equipping yourself with the energy, clarity, and resilience needed to tackle each day with confidence and purpose. It's a holistic approach that encompasses physical vitality, mental wellbeing, and the determination to overcome challenges.
Talk to us about your growing up years. What is your earliest memory as a leader / entrepreneur that you can remember?
My journey as a leader and entrepreneur traces back to my childhood. I have fond memories of forming clubs with my friends and naturally taking on leadership roles within them. This early inclination towards guiding, supporting, and inspiring others planted the seeds of leadership in me. As I reflect on those moments, I realize that even then, I found fulfillment in being someone who could rally others towards a common goal. It's these foundational experiences that eventually led me on the path of leadership and entrepreneurship.
My entrepreneurial journey began when we (my husband Shahab Elmi & I) owned our first Cricket Wireless store – it was then that I realized I loved the notion of being my own boss and owning my own time.
What was the pain point that led to the start of Cymbiotika? What was the idea behind its name?
Cymbiotika was conceived out of a significant pain point that emerged during our personal health journeys. Through our experiences, my husband Shahab Elmi and I realized that there was a notable lack of transparency within the wellness industry, especially when we started to consider what we were giving to our young daughters. This
gap left many people unsure about the quality and efficacy of the health products they were using. The inception of Cymbiotika was driven by a shared desire to bridge this gap and provide people with transparent products they could truly trust.
As for the name "Cymbiotika," it's a reflection of the harmonious relationship we aim to create between our bodies and the products we offer. The name encapsulates the idea of symbiosis – a mutually beneficial interaction between us and nature. It signifies the balance we strive for, where our products nourish and support the body, enabling individuals to thrive in synergy with their surroundings.
What approach do you follow in maintaining your own fitness level? What does a typical day look like in the life of Durana Elmi?
Maintaining my fitness level is a key priority for me. I kickstart my mornings with a 30-minute highintensity interval training (HIIT) workout. This sets a positive tone for the day, both physically and mentally. Additionally, I engage in tennis sessions three days a week in the evenings, which adds a fun and dynamic element to my fitness routine.
But fitness isn't the sole focus. I believe that nourishing my body is just as important. I make conscious choices when it comes to my diet, ensuring that the foods I consume provide the right fuel for my body to thrive. This dedication to fitness and health is integral to my daily routine, as it empowers me to approach each day with vitality and enthusiasm.
What would be your advice for someone just starting to lead a healthier lifestyle and incorporate fitness?
To anyone embarking on the journey of adopting a healthier lifestyle, I would offer this advice: Approach it as an act of self-love. It's important to
remember that every step you take towards better health is a testament to your commitment to yourself. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by the process, focus on taking small, intentional actions each day. Consider it a journey of owning your day with purpose – one day at a time. By making gradual improvements and celebrating each milestone, you're cultivating a positive relationship with your well-being.
Moving forward, what does the future hold for you and Cymbiotika? What are you most excited about?
Looking ahead, I'm incredibly excited about the future of Cymbiotika. Internally, I'm eager to nurture the growth of our team and foster the development of emerging leaders within our organization. It's a privilege to watch our team members flourish and contribute to our shared vision.
Externally, I'm particularly enthusiastic about the expansion of Cymbiotika's offerings. We're venturing into areas such as homecare, pet products, and even a children's line. These endeavors allow us to extend our mission of holistic well-being to various aspects of life. Witnessing the positive impact Cymbiotika can have on individuals, families, and even pets fill me with a sense of purpose and excitement for what's to come.
