Leadership Aspects Exploring the Traits of Transforma ve Leaders
Tech-Leaders Impact of Technology on Leadership Approaches
Ellie Shefi Founder & President MTC Consul ng Made to Change the World™, Inc.; and Made to Change the World™ Publishing
Entrepreneurship has always been a catalyst for innovation, economic growth, and societal change. In the dynamic world of business, there are certain individuals who stand out as visionary leaders, driving significant impact through their entrepreneurial endeavours. It is crucial to identify and follow the footsteps of these impactful entrepreneurs who are shaping industries, disrupting traditional norms, and pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
These entrepreneurs represent various sectors, including technology, sustainability, healthcare, finance, and social entrepreneurship. They have demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, innovative thinking, and a relentless pursuit of their goals. By following their journeys, you will gain valuable insights into their approaches, strategies, and philosophies that have led them to success.
In a rapidly changing business landscape, staying abreast of the ideas and initiatives of these impactful entrepreneurs can provide inspiration, guidance, and opportunities for collaboration. Their stories not only offer valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs but also serve as a source of motivation for anyone seeking to make a positive difference in the world.
The latest edition of Insights Success, ‘ The Most Impactful Entrepreneurs to Follow in 2023 ,’ features remarkable entrepreneurs making their mark on the world. Basking in the reflected glory with a track record, the potential for future impact, and the significance of their contributions.
The year 2023 holds tremendous promise for entrepreneurs who are driven to create positive change. By following the journeys of these impactful entrepreneurs, you will gain insights into their visionary thinking, innovative solutions, and their ability to navigate the challenges of our rapidly evolving world. So, fasten your seatbelts and prepare to embark on a journey of inspiration, entrepreneurship and the pursuit of impactful change alongside these remarkable individuals.
Featured Person
Anastasia Kuzmenko VP-Marketing & Communications
Andy Harnett CEO
Ellie Shefi Founder & President
Pamela Garmon Johnson VP
Steven Leeper Founder
Brief Company Name
IEC Telecom Global iec-telecom.com
Willow Lake Métis Nation wlmn.ca
MTC Consulting ellieshefi.com/ consultingconnect
American Heart Association heart.org
Anastasia a senior marketing professional with 14 years of experience across multiple industries, including satcom, oil&gas, and aviation.
Andy plays an essential role as WLMN continues to work towards economic sustainability.
Ellie Shefi is a strategist, leadership consultant, and corporate trainer who helps organizations optimize their culture and individuals expand their influence.
With 26 years of experience as a catalyst for change in the health sector, Pamela brings an empowering and innovative energy to this work.
Nominated for 40 Under 40, Steven is the President & Founder of Matchstick, a Houston-based executive search and consulting firm. Matchstick Inc. matchstickllc.com
Coaches and mentors who are further along in the journey are invaluable for helping you anticipate obstacles, identify blindspots, and bridge gaps. They model best practices, help you think outside the box, and empower you to take action.
“Knowing your story is the key to understanding yourself, your mission, and your purpose. Sharing your story is the key to empowering your impact in the world.”
Ellie Shefi says 2023 is the year of your story . While you are the living manifestation of all that’s happened to you—the events and people and facts of your life that have influenced you up to this point—your story is how you present this to yourself and to the world. It’s how you perceive everything that’s gone into shaping the unique being that is you . And it’s the perspective you apply to those facts in order to harness those events and influences to determine how they will shape your future … the next chapters of your story.
According to Ellie, knowing your story is the key to understanding yourself, your mission, and your purpose, and sharing your story is the key to empowering your impact in the world.
She emphasizes that when you know and share your unique story and espouse your purpose, what you are uniquely meant to do, you also learn how to prosper from it. Your story is what makes you stand out. It likewise makes your business and your brand stand out. It’s all that makes you YOU—it’s the one-of-kind combination of everything you’ve learned and experienced throughout your life—from traditional education to lessons learned through failures and getting knocked down but getting up again! The story of these hard-learned and hard-earned lessons are what will position you as the go-to expert in your field while establishing your credibility and authority—in essence, your brand. Your story is the rock-solid foundation of your brand. It’s the gateway to the life, business, and impact that you desire.
Let’s hear more from Ellie about how she became a powerhouse consultant and advisor to organizations, governments, NGOs, and individuals, and learn how she helps her clients tell and sell their stories to build their brand and amplify their impact in the world!
The entrepreneurship that had started as a necessity when she was very young became the rock on which she built the rest of her life.
Ever since she was young, Ellie has been a passionate entrepreneur. Her family didn’t have much in the way of
disposable income, so, even from a young age, she worked as tutor, proofreader, and dance teacher to help out and pay for her teenager extras like concerts, clothes, and movies. She mastered the art of the hustle early! This proved fortuitous when she took a break from higher education to earn more tuition money and followed a job in management training that led her from California to Texas. Only the job turned out to be a closed door. She knew that she needed to be resilient. The entrepreneurship that had started as a necessity when she was very young became the rock on which she built the rest of her life.
Though in Texas with no job, no home, no connections, she knew she was good at connecting with people, with motivating them, and teaching them how to hustle—just as she did! She decided to open her own management training center. So, she rented office space instead of apartment space, and, while living out of her car, she recruited and trained people for companies that contracted with her. Within a year, she had built up a lucrative entrepreneurship that paid for her housing and enabled her to save money for her tuition so she could finish college! That was when she knew she was destined to become a master problem solver!
After college came law school—a lifelong dream born of her desire to make a difference, fight injustice, and help others! And in this, she has truly succeeded! For more than two decades, Ellie has used her voice as a force for good, working as an advisor to universities on discrimination rights, as a staff attorney in the judiciary, and as an advocate for many human rights-related causes. Ellie serves on the leadership councils and advisory boards of nonprofits focused on human rights, civil rights, fighting human trafficking, disaster recovery, criminal justice reform, and ending mass atrocities. In fact, she was Women in Law’s Discrimination & Human Rights Lawyer of the Year 2022.
Now Ellie combines her advocacy and law experience with her entrepreneurship expertise in her various consulting and coaching services. Through MTC Consulting, she helps companies develop corporate practices that create a more diverse, inclusive, and participatory culture where their employees are seen as a whole person and have a platform and a voice. Ellie also works with high-achieving women to help them reclaim their voice and advocate for themselves and their families. She founded and manages Made to TM Change the World Publishing, a full-service, independent publishing house through which mission-driven individuals share their message and forge their brand.
I believe that the best way to innovate and adapt to changes in the industry is to go straight to the source - your clients.
TM
And she offers her Best-Selling Book Bootcamp, TM TM Monetize Your Message, and Master the Media programs to help entrepreneurs and leaders become global brands through writing and publishing best-selling books, speaking on stages, and being featured in the media. Through all of these services, Ellie offers platforms to everyday people where they have an opportunity to tell their story and amplify their impact in the world.
It’s no wonder Ellie is considered one of the most impactful entrepreneurs to follow in 2023!
Book writing is essential to getting one’s story out into the world, which is the foundation of building one’s brand.
This year, Ellie is particularly proud of her Best-Selling TM Book Bootcamp and her publishing house. Ellie launched TM Made to Change the World Publishing in 2020 during the height of the pandemic. At the same time, she coached individuals who wanted to write books to get them out of
their heads and into readers’ hands. Knowing that book writing is essential to getting one’s story out into the world, which is the foundation of building one’s brand, she realized that she needed to encourage not just aspiring writers but all experts, changemakers, and burgeoning entrepreneurs to tell their stories.
TM
And so began her Best-Selling Book Bootcamp workshops. During these semi-private, weeklong programs, Ellie harnesses her 20+ years of writing, ghostwriting, and publishing experience, plus her expertise as a multiple #1 international best-selling author, member of the National Academy of Best-Selling Authors, and Quilly Award recipient to guide writers in a step-by-step, no fluff, handson manner to write their books.
Already, Ellie has achieved a 100 percent success rate! One hundred percent of individuals who have participated in her TM Best-Selling Book Bootcamp workshops have successfully written their book in a week and 100 percent of TM the books published by Made to Change the World Publishing have become bestsellers!
My mission is to change the world and empower others to do the same.
For Ellie, this success is thrilling not just as a coach and publisher, but because there is nothing better than seeing her clients get clear on their vision, find their voice, take control of their destiny, and create the brand the business the impact and the life they love.
Client experiences include deeply immersive and individualized workshops.
While 2023 has started with a bang for Ellie, she’s fully aware that entrepreneurs are nonetheless facing plenty of challenges.
First and foremost, entrepreneurs need to cut through the noise and distinguish themselves. That’s a huge part of what TM drove Ellie to launch her Best-Selling Book Bootcamp and Made to Change the World™ Publishing. She cannot emphasize enough that your story is your superpower! It’s the vehicle that sells your brand because it reaches your right-fit clients and delivers your unique impact . You must tell it!
Ellie has also recognized that entrepreneurs need to overcome their own Zoom and learning fatigue, as well as that of their ideal clients. They need to learn how to strategically create powerful, engaging 5-star client experiences. For her, such client experiences include deeply immersive and individualized workshops where clients leave with their book manuscript, their story bank and signature talk, their monetization strategy and customized action plan for building a business, or their step-by-step strategy to get media bookings.
To best stay on top of her industry, Ellie remains immersed and comes from a place of service.
Ellie believes that the best way to innovate and adapt to changes in the industry is to go straight to the source—her clients. She doesn’t look to third parties to discern trends after they’ve begun. Rather, she asks her clients what they want and what they need. Then, based on their responses, she innovates, creates, and delivers the services and products they’re asking for. She also stays attuned to the ancillary and complementary needs her clients have, then finds a way to meet those needs!
Your story is your superpower. It's your vehicle to reach your right-fit clients and deliver your unique impact.
In addition to focusing on the “who,” Ellie also stays clear on the “how.” To best stay on top of her industry, keeps her finger on the pulse of the latest developments through lifelong learning, full immersion, and asking insightful questions, and she comes from a place of service. She serves powerfully, adds massive value, and over-delivers. She consistently shows her clients that she values and appreciates them, even through simple acknowledgments like sending birthday cards. She is consistent and clear in her communication and nurtures an inclusive community of which her clients are proud.
The gift of coaches and mentors.
Ellie believes that the most powerful gift aspiring entrepreneurs can give themselves is the gift of coaches and mentors. She believes there’s a reason the old adages “you don’t know what you don’t know” and “you can’t see the forest through the trees” remain popular. Seeking insights, guidance, and advice from experts across a range of
industries and disciplines is how entrepreneurs continuously learn new lessons and advance in their success. Coaches and mentors who are further along in the journey are invaluable for helping you anticipate obstacles, identify blindspots, and bridge gaps. They model best practices, help you think outside the box, and empower you to take action.
They allow you to condense decades into days so you can go further, faster, with greater clarity and ease, all while avoiding costly mistakes. She observes that success takes a village and no one successful does it alone. She notes that if presidents have advisors and championship teams have coaches, you should too!
Her mission is to change the world!
Ellie proudly declares that her mission is to change the world and empower others to do the same! And because she works and offers her services in alignment with her purpose, that mission imbues her company and permeates all of her services.
Not only does she want the organizations and individuals with whom she consults and coaches to succeed businesswise, but once fully aligned in their own mission and purpose, they’ll create impact in the lives of their families, their communities, and ultimately, the world. It’s a ripple effect that Ellie is proud to kickstart!
Thank you, Ellie, for all that you do and for being one of the most impactful entrepreneurs to follow in 2023!
To connect with Ellie and learn more about her work, please visit: ellieshefi.com
Leadership plays a pivotal role in driving organizational success and societal progress. While different leadership styles exist, transformative leadership has emerged as a highly effective approach in bringing about meaningful change and inspiring followers to reach their full potential. Transformative leaders possess a unique set of traits that distinguish them from other leadership styles. In this article, we will delve into the key traits of transformative leaders and explore how they contribute to their ability to create lasting impact.
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Transformative leaders possess a clear and compelling vision for the future. They are able to articulate a purpose that resonates with others and inspires them to join in the pursuit of a shared goal. These leaders can see beyond the present challenges and envision a better future, and they effectively communicate this vision to their followers, fueling their motivation and commitment.
Authenticity is a fundamental trait of transformative leaders. They are genuine, transparent, and true to their values and beliefs. By leading with authenticity, they build trust and credibility with their followers, fostering an environment of openness and collaboration. Authentic leaders also encourage others to embrace their own authenticity, creating a culture that values diversity and individual strengths.
Transformative leaders possess a high degree of empathy and emotional intelligence. They understand the emotions and perspectives of their followers and demonstrate genuine concern for their well-being. By empathizing with others, they build strong relationships and create a sense of belonging. These leaders are skilled at active listening and are responsive to the needs and concerns of their team members.
Transformative leaders challenge the status quo and promote a culture of intellectual stimulation. They encourage their followers to think critically, question assumptions, and explore innovative ideas. By fostering an environment that values learning and growth, transformative leaders empower their teams to unleash their creative potential and find new solutions to complex problems.
Transformative leaders inspire and motivate their followers to achieve greatness. They set high expectations and provide support and encouragement along the way. Through their own passion and enthusiasm, they ignite a sense of purpose and dedication in their teams. These leaders lead by
example, consistently demonstrating a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence.
Transformative leaders are adaptable and resilient in the face of challenges and uncertainty. They embrace change as an opportunity for growth and guide their teams through periods of transition. These leaders remain calm and composed under pressure, inspiring confidence in their followers and enabling them to navigate complex situations with confidence.
Transformative leaders possess a unique combination of visionary thinking, authenticity, empathy, intellectual stimulation, inspirational motivation, adaptability, and resilience. Their ability to inspire and empower others to reach their full potential distinguishes them as effective leaders who drive meaningful change. By understanding and cultivating these traits, aspiring leaders can develop their own transformative leadership style and contribute to creating a better future for their organizations and society as a whole.
The world is driven by storytelling. Brands rise and fall in the function of customer loyalty. Marketers create legends for customers to love and follow. CIO Look approached Anastasia Kuzmenko, VP of Marketing & Communication at IEC Telecom Group, to shed light on recent developments and explain the role of IT technologies in this process.
A marketing professional with 14+ years of experience across multiple industries, including satcom, oil&gas, and aviation, Anastasia has been recognised as a top performer by prestigious industry awards, including Thuraya “Best Marketing Campaign” in 2018, 2021 and 2022.
Recently appointed as Head of Strategic Partnerships & Communication at the Ukrainian Business Council in the UAE, she is regularly featured as a woman in leadership by international business editions and invited as a speaker at professional and educational events.
Anastasia holds an Executive MBA degree with distinction from Hult International Business School.
You recently delivered a keynote speech about the Power of Narrative at the CMO Show Middle East. In a nutshell, what is it about?
Attention spans have significantly decreased. In the year 2000, it was 12 seconds. Today, on average, it is about 8 seconds. The pressure on marketers keeps growing as we have less and less time to engage with end-users. The role of content creation has increased exponentially.
We have only one shot sometimes, and it must be right. Messaging needs to be lean and straight to the point. This is where the power of narrative comes into play. The narrative is not limited to creative copywriting. It is a brand promise, wrapped in the shape and form appealing to the customer. It is the informational product that gets sold before the service or physical order reaches the end destination.
How would you characterise the current market? What are the prevailing trends?
As of 2022, the creator economy market size was estimated at $104.2 billion, more than double its value since 2019.
50 million people contribute to the industry, with 2 million being professional creators. As the content market evolves, stakeholders polarise around relevant channels. Influencers reign predominantly on YouTube and TikTok. We check peer-to-peer reviews on Booking.com and Trip Advisor. Amazon and AliExpress are perfect platforms for B2C promotions. LinkedIn is all about B2B. Lastly, G2P relations heavily leverage such platforms as Twitter. We depend on social media channels to guide our attention in the infinite ocean of information, and we tend to follow content-makers whose stories we can trust.
This naturally explains the fact that “Influencer/Content Creator” is the fourth most popular dream job among Gen Z. According to a market study, micro-influencers earn about $500 per post, while revenues of macro-influencers span range between $3K and $500K.
The content market is a very lucrative place for start-ups. For instance, in 2021, this market was valued at $5 billion. The economic downturn made investors pull back in 2022. However, the rise of new technology gives a second wind to this niche, and I believe we’ll see lots of developments on this front in the near future.
Content marketing has also become a driving force in the corporate and political worlds. Brands and statesmen leverage various media channels to build relationships with their target pool. In one way, it may open the door for manipulation, but on the other hand, it also incites storytellers to deliver more qualitative content. Blunt advertisement is replaced by persuasive and fact-driven dialogues, materialised in photo reports, case studies, livestream videos, and so on.
How do new technologies fit the picture, and which one to follow in 2023?
It is no news that MARTECH (marketing technology) shapes the power of narrative today.
Speaking of 2023, I’d start, of course, with AI-generative platforms. Chat GPT is already changing the way we search for information and deliver content. Just look at its stellar journey. Chat GPT was launched on November 30, 2022. In just two months, the platform had 100 million active users. In 2022, Chat GPT made about $10 million in revenue. The projected revenue for 2023 is $200 million and $1 billion by 2024.
While ChatGPT had the advantage of the first mover, Open AI has to watch out for the competition that is rising fast. Band by Google and Bing by Microsoft are fighting for a share of this pie. And the story is unfolding as we speak.
Both platforms were launched in February 2023. Google rushed the announcement for Bard to be ahead of Bing, yet this did not play out so well, as the product was still in the testing mode. When Bing launched its AI chat, Alphabet’s stock lost 16% of value (reflecting in $160 billion).
Just as Microsoft seemed to take over, the story had another th twist. On May 11, Google introduced a range of updates and new features at the annual Google I/O conference in Mountain View, bumping Alphabet’s share price back by 8%.
AI chats are undoubtedly enjoying momentum, but there are other important technologies to follow. One of them is CDP (customer data platform).
It is more and more challenging to win customers with generic content. According to statistics, brand loyalty is decreasing, with 40% of users open to the idea of switching from one brand to another.
To remain relevant, we need to not only know our endusers, but also be able to forecast their demand.
This is what CDPs are for. They enable hyperpersonalisation of user journeys based on the insights generated from multiple touch points (including personal data, purchase behaviour, and more).
Is it worth it? Yes. Companies that implemented AI report 2x satisfaction in meeting marketing objectives and 8X return on investment on marketing expenses.
What would be your predictions for marketing communications?
I think we need to accept the fact that we are moving towards virtual storytelling. Whether we like it or not, but the METAVERSE is real and evolving fast. The market was valued at $61.8 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at 47% CAGR to $426.9 by 2027.
Yes, it is not mainstream just yet due to its high adoption cost. However, it is just a matter of time before hardware will become more affordable.
How will that affect marketing communication? First of all, it is a shift from static to dynamic storytelling. We’ll have to develop multiple narratives based on different choices made by end-users. Harnessing AI will be crucial to ensure realtime personalised delivery of information in this highly interactive ecosystem.
NFTs will gain more power in the marketing world too. NFTs are not only cryptographic tokens; they are message carriers of which future content creators need to be aware. NFTs can be used to showcase membership & association, which could be instrumental to educational institutions and professional organisations. They can be used for loyalty & rewards programs within the hospitality sector. Last, but not the least, it is about branded collectables. These are especially in high demand in the fashion industry, where brands can drive margins based on exclusivity with minimal production costs.
What would be your piece of advice to aspiring marketers?
“In the beginning, was the word,” a famous quote that needs no introduction. Communication is the distinctive trait that defines humankind. When starting a campaign, think of the story you wish to tell. Be sure you believe in it first and then translate it in a way that appeals to your enduser.
Technologies change the way we communicate, but the essence remains the same. The power of narrative persists through millennia and will continue to guide us in the future.
Willow Lake Métis Group (WLMG) is delighted to announce the appointment of a new Board of Directors necessary to preserve the independence of our group of companies. This development comes at a time of significant growth that further strengthens our position as Northern Alberta's partner of choice. The newly formed Board of Directors will oversee our business activities as a separate entity from Willow Lake Métis National (WLMN). With these feedbacks, we aim to strengthen the structure of our organization and make it more successful.
Our partnership with 11 industry leaders makes us the Native partner of choice as we expand our Wood Buffalo location. Andy Harnett, CEO of WLMG, said, “I have full confidence in the work and experience of our Board of Directors. Through the work we have done with this team of talented people, we have provided the necessary controls and structures for our country and society.
The success of our community Catherine Koch Dan Forigo
Mike Daley Saad Rahali Conor Chell Detailed information on each member is available on the WLMG website and in a span of a few months, WLMG will be promoting each member through our social media channels. Willow Lake Métis Board of Directors: Mike Daley, Conor Chell, Saad Rahali, Dan Forigo, Catherine Koch (left to right)
The group recently held a two-day meeting in the Edmonton area. and main idea. This valuable meeting confirms that our team is now ready to take WLMG to new heights. Our unwavering commitment and commitment to advocacy demonstrates that our commitment to achieving these goals outlined in WLMN's 5-year plan is unmatched.
The Board of Directors identified five key strategies (Operational Excellence and Innovation; Financial Impact and Results; Environmental, Social and Governance; Growth; Accountability) to support resource growth and home building.
“We are excited about this exciting journey because the new Board of Directors will support us to achieve more,” added Harnett. “We are committed to creating opportunities for our communities while promoting well-being.” Willow Lake Métis Group. sectors for Incentives. Guided by a strong commitment to environmental, social and governance principles, their mission is to achieve sustainable development, even respecting their heritage and being committed to orderly work.
Willow Lake Métis Group strives to be the Aboriginal partner of choice in resource and infrastructure development, delivering value, preserving Aboriginal culture and knowledge, and excelling in leadership, relationships and management. They exist in Willow Lake Metis Nation to improve the quality of life for their citizens and all the communities they serve.
In today's fast-paced and digitally driven world,
technology has become an integral part of our daily lives, transforming various aspects of society, including the way we lead and manage teams. The integration of technology into leadership approaches has revolutionized traditional methods, enabling leaders to enhance their effectiveness, improve communication, and drive organizational success. In this article, we will explore the profound impact of technology on leadership approaches and how it has reshaped the dynamics of leadership in the modern era.
One of the most significant impacts of technology on leadership is the facilitation of communication and collaboration. Technology tools such as instant messaging,
video conferencing, and project management platforms have made it easier for leaders to connect with their teams, regardless of geographical barriers. Leaders can now communicate in real-time, share ideas, provide feedback, and coordinate tasks more efficiently. This seamless communication fosters collaboration breaks down silos, and promotes a more inclusive and cohesive work environment.
Technology has revolutionized the way leaders access and analyze information, enabling data-driven decision making. With the abundance of digital platforms and tools, leaders can gather real-time data, monitor key performance indicators, and gain insights into various aspects of their organization. This access to information empowers leaders to make informed decisions, identify trends, and respond swiftly to emerging opportunities or challenges. Datadriven leadership approaches result in more accurate predictions, better resource allocation, and improved overall organizational performance.
Advancements in technology have also facilitated remote leadership and flexible work arrangements. Leaders can effectively manage and guide teams spread across different locations through virtual collaboration tools, cloud-based project management systems, and online team platforms. This flexibility allows leaders to tap into a global talent pool, foster a diverse workforce, and promote work-life balance. Remote leadership also encourages autonomy and self-motivation among team members, leading to increased productivity and job satisfaction.
The integration of technology in leadership approaches has led to increased automation and streamlined processes. Leaders can leverage automation tools and artificial intelligence to optimize routine tasks, allowing them to focus on more strategic initiatives. Automation reduces human error, enhances efficiency, and frees up time for leaders to engage in higher-level decision making and provide guidance to their teams. Streamlined processes also lead to cost savings and a more agile and adaptable organization.
Technology has revolutionized learning and development opportunities for leaders. Online learning platforms, webinars, and virtual conferences provide leaders with instant access to a wealth of knowledge and expertise from around the world. Leaders can stay updated on the latest trends, acquire new skills, and expand their professional networks without the constraints of time or location. This continuous learning culture promotes personal growth, enhances leadership capabilities, and enables leaders to adapt to the rapidly evolving business landscape.
Technology has had a profound impact on leadership approaches, transforming the way leaders communicate, make decisions, manage teams, and drive organizational success. The integration of technology has enhanced communication and collaboration, facilitated data-driven decision making, enabled remote leadership, streamlined processes through automation, and provided continuous learning opportunities. As technology continues to evolve, leaders must embrace and leverage its potential to stay ahead of the curve and effectively navigate the challenges and opportunities of the digital age.
Pamela serves as National VicePresident, Health Equity and Partnerships and National Executive Director for the National Hypertension Control Initiative for the American Heart Association, where she is responsible for leading the strategic planning for improving the health of communities across the United States by identifying opportunities with powerful partnerships to impact transformative lifestyle and community change. Pamela has 20+ years of strategic planning, change management, marketing and accounting experience and is passionate about empowering individuals, communities and corporations to be agents for change.
Pamela received her Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of North Texas in Denton, Texas and her Master of Business Administration from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. Pamela is a Board Member for the CHIArts Foundation, now (Corewell Health South) Spectrum Health Lakeland, a Council Member for Babson Women of Excellence Coach.
She is a distinguished member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., The Links, Incorporated, Jack and Jill of America, Inc., American Marketing Association, the McKinsey Black Executive Leadership Program, and a Lifetime Member of the National Black MBA Association. Pamela is married to Robert Johnson, Chief Equity Officer at Bezos Academy.
Community health workers play a vital role in connecting communities with clinical services, especially in under-invested communities. Emerging technologies can greatly enhance the scalability of community-to-clinical linkages and improve overall health outcomes. The technologies can be beneficial and sustainable if they are community and patient-centered. If the technologies do not incorporate health and digital strategies, then the unintended consequences are greater health disparities.
Here are some examples of emerging technologies that can be utilized by community health workers:
Mobile Health (mHealth) Solutions : Mobile technologies such as smartphones, tablets, and wearable devices can be used by community health workers to collect and transmit health data, provide education and counseling, and facilitate communication with healthcare providers. mHealth solutions can also enable remote monitoring of patients, enhancing follow-up care, treatment adherence and linkage to social services (i.e., housing, food, transportation and employment).
Telemedicine and Teleconsultation : Telemedicine allows community health workers to connect remotely with healthcare professionals, enabling them to consult on complex cases, receive guidance, and make informed decisions. Teleconsultation platforms, through audio, video, or text-based communication, facilitate real-time interactions, reducing the need for physical referrals or transfers.
Electronic Health Records (EHRs) : Implementing electronic health records in community health settings helps streamline data management, enhance information sharing, and improve care coordination. Community health workers can record and access patient information, update treatment plans, and ensure continuity of care between community and clinical settings. The Community Health Worker may also assist with health and digital literacy by engaging the patient over time which also builds trust.
Decision Support Tools : Decision support tools, such as mobile applications or software solutions, can provide
community health workers with evidence-based guidelines, protocols, and algorithms for diagnosing and managing common health conditions. These tools help community health workers make informed decisions and deliver standardized care.
Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence (AI): Advanced analytics and AI techniques can analyze large volumes of health data collected by community health workers. These technologies can identify patterns, predict disease outbreaks, prioritize interventions, and provide insights to improve community health programs. AI can also assist in automated triaging and preliminary diagnosis, empowering community health workers with diagnostic support.
Social Navigation Platforms : Mapping tools and navigation applications can help community health workers identify the location of social services, health facilities, and other resources. These technologies assist in planning and optimizing outreach activities, enabling community health workers to efficiently navigate and reach the most at-risk populations.
Training and Education Platforms : Online training platforms, e-learning modules, and virtual simulations can provide community health workers with continuous education, skill-building, and capacity development. These platforms enhance their knowledge, improve their competencies, and ensure they stay updated with the latest healthcare practices.
It's important to note that while these emerging technologies offer significant potential, their successful implementation requires considering factors such as health/digital literacy, infrastructure availability, privacy and security concerns, cultural relevancy, and equitable access to technology. Community engagement and collaboration with local stakeholders are crucial to ensure the effective integration of these technologies into existing healthcare systems.
Therefore, establishing trust among stakeholders is key to ensuring a successful deployment strategy and sustainable program model.
