In honor of Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day, it’s the perfect time to celebrate the accomplishments, achievements, and inspiring words of wisdom from powerful women who are transformative leaders. From founders of the fastest-growing companies on the planet to top executives at billion-dollar businesses, today’s article highlights exemplary women who lead their teams […] The post The Wonder Women’s Guide to Finding The Courage To Become an Empowering & Transformative Leader appeared first on Inspirations and Celebrations.

In honor of Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day, it’s the perfect time to celebrate the accomplishments, achievements, and inspiring words of wisdom from powerful women who are transformative leaders.

From founders of the fastest-growing companies on the planet to top executives at billion-dollar businesses, today’s article highlights exemplary women who lead their teams to victory while catalyzing growth, encouraging evolution, and instilling positive changes for their corporate culture, valued customers, and beloved communities.

Since founding Inspirations & Celebrations in 2011, I’ve been on a personal mission to educate and empower women through inspiration and information. It’s a simple yet significant vision statement for me.

As the Editor behind this platform, my goal is to serve as a beacon of hope, a guiding light, and a friendly reminder that you can make anything happen in life when you believe in your dreams, and most importantly – when you trust yourself to figure things out (even when you’re unsure about which path to take at times).

That said, I’m honored to bring you the following words of wisdom from several phenomenal female leaders, all of whom I respect greatly – not only for their noteworthy resumes but also for the determination, tenacity, and strength it takes to climb up rocky mountains to reach the pinnacle of success.

In today’s personal growth & career guide, discover sage guidance from 20 outstanding, high-achieving female leaders whose courageous attitude, emblazoned spirit, and passion have created measurable results across multiple industries (including beauty, fashion, health and fitness, travel, hospitality, tech, finance, legal, etc.). These illustrious leaders exemplify the values and characteristics that encompass what a modern-day Wonder Woman is all about.

No matter where you are on your journey—whether you’re an ambitious entrepreneur shaping your own unique path, a driven professional rising through the corporate ranks, or a passionate visionary ready to launch your side hustle—this guide is for you. In my mind, Wonder Women are the brave gals who daringly venture into the world to make a positive impact, all while facing their fears, risking failure, and overcoming difficulties.

If inspiration is the root from which all dreams grow, may today’s celebration plant seeds of greatness within you…

Somia Farid Silber is the CEO of Edible Brands®, leading Edible Arrangements® and its subsidiaries in innovation, growth, and market expansion. Previously serving as President, she redefined Edible’s brand identity, built a world-class executive team, and introduced Next Gen retail stores for a more personalized gifting experience. She also spearheaded e-commerce advancements, launching a one-hour delivery guarantee across 70% of the U.S. and forging partnerships with DoorDash and Uber Eats. Recognized as one of Georgia’s Top 100 C-level Executives by Titan 100, Somia has also been honored by What Franchise Magazine and Retail TouchPoints. A Babson College graduate and Board of Trustees member, she lives in Brookhaven, Georgia, with her husband, daughter, and Goldendoodle.

What inspires you each day to create your version of your “best life”?

SFS: “My commitment to my family and professional team drives me to pursue my “best life” daily. Becoming a mother has deepened this commitment, teaching me the importance of self-care to be fully present and effective in all aspects of life.

Establishing clear boundaries is crucial. For working parents, it can be challenging to navigate a high-growth career while raising a family. I’ve learned to balance professional demands with the joys and responsibilities of parenting. For instance, I try to leave the office at the same time every day to ensure quality time with my daughter and husband. Even if it means I might need to log back in after bedtime, these moments are non-negotiable.”

How do you develop a strong mindset (to overcome fears, self-doubt, or challenges)?

SFS: “A strong mindset begins with embracing discomfort, especially amid fears, self-doubt, or challenges. As a natural introvert, I’ve learned that growth comes from stepping outside my comfort zone. Whenever I find myself in high-stakes environments, I remind myself that I’ve earned my place and that my perspective is valuable.

I recently joined a board where I am the one of the youngest and few female members. I initially felt out of place. However, a fellow board member reassured me, “There’s a reason you have a seat here. Use it.” That advice has been a cornerstone of my approach ever since, and Ialso pass it on to other young women coming up in their careers.

The support of mentors, powerful, successful women, has also been instrumental in my career and is something I strive to be for others. Surrounding myself with a robust network— family, friends, and mentors—helps fulfill me across personal and professional spheres.”

How do you think women can develop more self-confidence and inner power?

SFS: “Women can cultivate self-confidence and inner power by actively seeking opportunities to learn and grow. Personally, participating in leadership programs designed for women has been incredibly beneficial. Joining groups like the Women’s Food Service Forum and YPO has allowed me to connect with and learn from other industry leaders. It’s a great way to advance knowledge outside of your core group and put yourself in a position to gain different insights from new perspectives.

It’s also important to document and celebrate your achievements. Years ago, I built a 10-year plan and recently discovered that I achieved those decade-long goals qui! Reflecting on your progress helps you realize the extent of your growth and serves as an effective antidote to the imposter syndrome many of us face. This practice of acknowledging success reinforces inner strength.”

What guidance would you give to women about following their dreams?

SFS: “My guidance to women about following their dreams is straightforward: trust your instincts and take the leap. As cliché as it sounds, you have to go for it! Go with what your gut and heart tell you, even if it means taking a risk. You never know if you don’t do it.

It goes back to being comfortable with the uncomfortable. Embrace discomfort as a part of your journey. If you have a vision of who you want to be and where you want to be, you must take action.”

If there’s one piece of advice you’d give your younger self, what would it be?

SFS: “If I could offer a single piece of advice to my younger self, it would be to embrace life’s imperfections. As the stereotypical eldest in the family, I grew up feeling the weight of responsibility to ensure everything was always perfect. Over time, I learned to see mistakes as growth opportunities, which helped me advance.

I would also tell my younger self that stepping out of your comfort zone is worth it, even if the outcome isn’t perfect. Take gambles, accept that failure is a part of learning, and know that life is far more forgiving than you think. Teenage Somia would be astonished by the chances I’ve taken!”

Ellen Latham is the Creator and Co-founder of Orangetheory Fitness, a globally recognized cardio and strength training workout designed to help people live longer, healthier lives. Since its launch in 2010, Orangetheory has grown to nearly 1,500 studios across 24 countries. A single mother navigating career challenges, Ellen started by teaching Pilates from home before opening her own studio. Seeing a gap in effective fat-burning workouts, she developed “Ellen’s Ultimate Workout,” the foundation of Orangetheory’s success. A best-selling author and motivational speaker, she holds a master’s in exercise physiology from the University of New York at Buffalo and is passionate about inspiring others to reach their full potential. Ellen lives in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

What inspires you each day to create your version of your “best life”?

EL: “One word: Discipline. For me, that means being self-aware and recognizing my strengths and weaknesses in three key areas—physically, emotionally and mentally. Physically, I know that cardio, strength training and mobility are non-negotiables if I want to age well. Emotionally, I focus on managing stress and accepting what I can’t control. And mentally, I commit to being a lifelong learner, always challenging my brain and embracing new knowledge. Women are often pulled in many directions, but when we prioritize our own well-being, we gain the strength to show up fully in every part of our lives.”

How do you develop a strong mindset (to overcome fears, self-doubt, or challenges)?

EL: “I live by what I call the Momentum Shift Theory, which means focusing on what you have, rather than what you don’t. This mindset shifts how you approach challenges and embrace opportunities. When I was eight, I came in last place in an ice-skating race. But instead of letting me dwell on it, my dad pointed out something positive—how well I took corners on the ice. That small shift in perspective built my confidence. Looking back, I see how moments like that gave me the courage to pursue a career in fitness. Women can benefit from this mindset. We are often taught to focus on what’s missing, but when we recognize our strengths, our opportunities expand.”

How do you think women can develop more self-confidence and inner power?

EL: “It starts with believing that we deserve the best in life—whether in our careers, relationships, or personal growth. Confidence isn’t about knowing exactly how you’ll reach your goals but by simply believing that you can. When I was building Orangetheory Fitness, I had moments of doubt before I met my business partners. But my support system reminded me of my strength, passion, and purpose.

Surround yourself with people who uplift you—sometimes they’ll believe in you before you even fully see it in yourself. And for those of us who have already walked the path, it’s our job to pay it forward and lift up the next generation of women.”

What guidance would you give to women about following their dreams?

EL: “Align with your purpose. When you’re clear on what impact you want to make, you set yourself up for success. My purpose has always been to help people transform their lives through fitness. That passion fueled me to be relentless, to stay excited and to push forward even in the face of obstacles. Women who lead with purpose change their own lives and they change industries, communities and even the world.”

If there’s one piece of advice you’d give your younger self, what would it be?

EL: “Don’t sweat the small stuff. So much of what we stress over is out of our control, and wasting energy on it only holds us back. Instead, channel that energy into growth, curiosity and becoming the best version of yourself. Today, at 68 years young, I’m still doing what I love—helping people live healthier lives, watching my four grandchildren grow into their potential and feeling prouder than ever to be a woman. And I’m not done yet! On this International Women’s Day, let’s remind ourselves—and each other—that we are strong, we are capable and we are just getting started.”

Michelle Engstrom is the Vice President of Marketing at Rio Las Vegas, with an extensive background as a hospitality marketing expert with over 19 years of experience in driving brand growth through innovative storytelling and strategic leadership. She joined Rio Las Vegas in 2024, following an impressive career with senior roles, including Chief Marketing Officer at Gordon Ramsay North America, Executive Vice President of Marketing at Chef Michael Mina’s TableOne Hospitality and MINA Group, and Vice President of Hospitality Marketing at Caesars Entertainment. Her experience also spans diverse leadership positions at Davidson Hotels & Resorts, SLS Las Vegas, TAO Group, and Bolthouse Productions. She is highly skilled in brand management, entertainment, and marketing activations, with a talent for navigating complex corporate environments and building strong relationships. Michelle has developed a proven track record of leading teams, negotiating contracts, and delivering impactful, revenue-generating results with tenacity and efficiency. Originally from Los Angeles, she has spent over 13 years in Las Vegas and takes great pride in being part of Rio’s transformation. When not at work, you will find this fitness enthusiast working out and spending time with her husband and young daughter.

What inspires you each day to create your version of your best life?

ME: “Balancing my job with a one-year-old at home has transformed how I show up each day – for myself, my family, and my team.  I am laser-focused on giving my absolute best every single day and inspiring those around me to do the same. I may not have the same number of hours to devote to the workplace as I once did, but moving with real purpose and intention throughout my day has delivered greater results than I could have ever imagined.”

How do you develop a strong mindset (to overcome fears, self-doubt, or challenges)

ME: “Working out and taking care of my health has created mental space for me to overcome any obstacles or self-doubt that I may experience. It’s something I actively work on each day, and I’ve found that positive affirmations and yoga have been incredibly powerful for me when times get tough. When in doubt, I just watch a video of my daughter, and that resets me right back to center.”

How do you think women can develop more self-confidence and inner power?

ME: “In the workplace, I always take the time to engage with everyone I encounter and focus on building positive rapport with all departments, not just my own. It creates a much stronger understanding of the full picture, thereby supporting my confidence with decision-making and my ability to deliver impactful results. Owning my power includes being mindful of how I enter a room, how I engage with those around me, and the impact that my energy can have on others.”

What guidance would you give to women about following their dreams?

ME: “Take the time to outline your path forward, set real and attainable benchmarks, and hold yourself accountable. If you fail, fail fast and pivot your game plan. The path to success will never be linear, but the journey can be incredibly rewarding.”

If there is a piece of advice you’d give your younger self, what would it be

ME: “Be more present in the moments that matter. There’s no prize for being the busiest one in the room or working the longest hours. When faced with a challenge, stay calm, tighten your ponytail, and keep moving forward.”

Vanessa Dew is the Co-founder of Health-Ade, where she helped scale the brand from farmers’ markets to 50,000+ retail doors and $300M in sales within a decade. Health-Ade is now sold nationwide at Whole Foods, Costco, Erewhon, Target, Walmart, and Sprouts. After selling the company in 2021 and exiting in 2023, she launched The Slow Brew, a newsletter and mentorship community supporting women in their professional journeys. As part of this mission, she founded The Aline Foundation in honor of her late mother, helping women pursue their dreams without sacrificing their well-being. A USC MBA graduate, Vanessa serves as a USC Marshall Mentor, advises emerging CPG brands, and is an active member of Female Founder Collective, EO, and ABA. She was named Entrepreneur of the Year by USC Marshall, awarded the NextGen Innovation Award, and recognized on the Gold House A100 list. Featured in Forbes and Glamour, she has also shared her insights on 2nd Life, Gritty Girls, Asian Boss Girl, and The Mad Happy Podcast.

What inspires you each day to create your version of your “best life”?

VD: “Two things have really opened my eyes to living deliberately rather than just reactively moving through life. The first was having kids and experiencing these new moments (and chaos!) with them. The second is discovering how motivated I feel to create impact across everything I do – whether it’s offering wellness support through The Aline Foundation, supporting emerging artists (particularly Asian and female), or advising founders on their entrepreneurial journeys. Building Health-Ade taught me about the grit and hustle needed to win, but my best life now is intentionally at a slower pace. I’ve learned to enjoy the moments and actually experience life rather than just charging through it.”

How do you develop a strong mindset (to overcome fears, self-doubt, or challenges)?

VD: “Self-doubt is such a raw feeling, and it doesn’t magically disappear just because you’ve had some wins. Even though I co-founded a business that grew to nine figures, I still get imposter syndrome! If anything, scaling Health-Ade from farmers’ markets to national retail taught me about resilience and the need to experiment and adjust quickly. I’ve learned that facing the scary, tough stuff first is key to moving forward.

Then, I think about what’s the worst that can happen. Like, really – what’s the worst-case scenario, and can I stomach it? Will it kill me? Is it just about money, or will I just feel stupid? Usually, the answer has been no, it’s not that bad. Once I feel comfortable with all the ways something could go wrong – and very rarely has anything ever amounted to the fears I dreamed up in my head – I’m ready to move through the self-doubt. Going through this practice has helped me tangibly get through the hard stuff and build mental strength.”

How do you think women can develop more self-confidence and inner power?

VD: “Stop apologizing for taking up space! I spent too many years trying to make myself smaller in rooms where I deserved to be. Building a national brand as an Asian-American woman taught me that authenticity is actually my superpower. Whether it’s getting older or simply living through the messiness of it all, I’ve had to build my self-confidence gradually. Now, I bring my full self to everything I do – quirks and all. But getting comfortable with that took time, so I encourage women to start small: share that ‘crazy’ idea, ask for what you want, or even wear that bold color! And finding people you trust who encourage you to grow while keeping it real? That’s absolutely priceless.”

What guidance would you give to women about following their dreams?

VD: “Don’t wait for permission or perfect timing – they don’t exist. Start somewhere, anywhere, but be ready to pivot when life throws you curveballs (which it will, repeatedly).  Whether you’re launching a business, switching careers, or balancing both like I did, remember that success isn’t about speed – it’s about being intentional with your energy and choices.”

If there’s one piece of advice you’d give your younger self, what would it be?

VD: “Chill out a bit! Not everything needs to be optimized to death. Some of my best decisions – from starting Health-Ade to going on that ice skating date that led to marrying my husband – came from trusting my gut rather than overanalyzing. Yes, being ‘unchill’ and hustling hard was necessary to drive Health-Ade’s success and got me where I am today, but I wish I’d made more time to explore what truly lit me up along the way. Success looks different in different seasons, and that’s totally okay – I just wish my younger self had known that. It would have saved me a lot of heartache from chasing external validation and others’ approval when I was completely enough already.”

Dr. Elina Berglund Scherwitzl is the Co-founder and co-CEO of Natural Cycles, the leading women’s health company behind the world’s first birth control app. Before launching Natural Cycles, Elina was part of the CERN research team that discovered the Higgs boson – an achievement that contributed to the 2013 Nobel Prize in Physics. Inspired by her own search for a hormone-free birth control option, she applied her expertise in particle physics to develop an algorithm that uses body temperature to determine daily fertility status. This innovation led to the creation of Natural Cycles, an app that empowers women with a non-invasive, science-backed contraceptive choice that is also free of hormones. Today, Natural Cycles has over four million registered users across 162 countries and has raised more than $90 million in funding. Last year alone, Natural Cycles introduced NC° Postpartum; made headway with insurance reimbursement efforts making it easier for women to get access to a reliable, over-the-counter birth control method for free; gained regulatory clearance in a new market; broadened partnerships with well-respected brands, OURA and Clearblue; and established a Medical Advisory Board. A passionate advocate for women’s health, Elina frequently speaks on the topic and was recently featured in Inc. Magazine as the face of “Femtech’s Poster Child.”

What inspires you each day to create your version of your “best life”? 

EBS: “My children and my work inspire me to create my version of my “best life.” Every day I wake up and get to be a part of an evolution in women’s health, and for that, I am so grateful. We hear stories every day from our users about how the Natural Cycles app helped them create their version of their “best life” by allowing them to prevent pregnancy without side effects they suffered from for far too long, helped them plan a successful pregnancy after trying for a while, and so much more. I have a 10 year-old daughter and all I want is to leave the world in a better place for her. I want her, and also my son, to see that women can achieve their wildest dreams and still make time to drop their kids off at Swedish school or dance practice. I’m such a huge advocate for work/life balance and I really pride myself on the fact that we are flexible with our employees and their schedules. I want everyone to feel like they’re living their best life, so they can come to work ready to make change.”

How do you develop a strong mindset (to overcome fears, self-doubt, or challenges)?

EBS: “I remind myself of the quote, “Always bet on yourself.” There are plenty of days when self-doubt kicks in, but at the end of the day, there’s no one I’d bet on over myself. I’ve worked too hard to get to this point, and I’ve been able to accomplish things that some only dream about. Plus, I think about all of our users and all the women out there who feel defeated and let down by the healthcare system and I remind myself that what I do matters, and even if I change only one woman’s life that day, it’s worth pushing through any fear, self-doubt, or challenge because women deserve that. They deserve someone that will advocate for their well-being and their bodily autonomy.”

How do you think women can develop more self-confidence and inner power?

EBS: “One of my biggest pieces of advice is not to sweat the small stuff. Women always want to do it all and we want to do it perfectly, but that’s just not feasible. It’s funny because the sooner I realized that, the sooner I had more confidence and power in myself and my decisions. I knew I was going to fail and I knew I’d run into challenges that would test me, but I also accepted the fact that I’m human and all I can do is my best.”

What guidance would you give to women about following their dreams?

EBS: “This might sound a bit unconventional, but you don’t have to take everyone’s advice. I used to always get so caught up in what other “more experienced” people were telling me that I’d feel a bit lost and go down a rabbit hole. Everyone’s journey is different and there’s no right or wrong way to get to where you’re trying to go. And it’s okay if you don’t listen and it ends up being a mistake. That’s how you learn!”

If there’s one piece of advice you’d give your younger self, what would it be?

EBS: “Don’t be afraid to go against the status quo. We wouldn’t have all the innovations we do now if people tried to stay in their lane. People may challenge you and question you, but as long as you believe in yourself and have conviction, you’ll be okay.”

Silvija Martincevic is the CEO of Deputy, a global workforce management platform serving over 1.5 million hourly workers and 40,000 businesses worldwide. Raised in a small farming village in Croatia by a family of hourly workers, she came to the U.S. at 17 with just $400 and a determination to build a better future. That experience fuels her passion for empowering frontline workers through AI-driven solutions at Deputy. Prior to Deputy, Silvija was Chief Commercial Officer at Affirm, where she played a key role in its $25 billion IPO, scaled the company to over 200,000 customers, and partnered with industry giants, including Shopify, Walmart, and Amazon. She also held leadership roles at Groupon and co-founded Zenna Financial Services, which focused on impact investing. Silvija serves on the board of Kiva and the advisory council for Beloit College’s School of Business. Her leadership has earned her recognition from Crain’s Chicago Business, American Banker, and the Stevie Awards, with features in Bloomberg, Yahoo! Finance, Fortune, and more.

What inspires you each day to create your version of your “best life”?

SM: “My best life is one where I can make a real impact on people, businesses, and the future of work. I come from a family of hourly workers who worked tirelessly to create opportunities for me, and that experience has shaped my “why.” Every day, I set out to leave the world a little bit better for those who are keeping things running – frontline workers and the businesses that employ them: nurses, baristas, bakers, and daycare workers! Waking up and knowing that we’re building AI-driven solutions that empower 80% of the world’s workforce, which is often overlooked by technology and VC investment (less than 1% of all VC funds go to technology that serves hourly workers), inspires me to do my life’s best work every day. It’s my way of “paying it forward” – for the community that raised me. Beyond work, I find inspiration in my family – I have a wonderful husband, who is my high school sweetheart, and two amazing kids – my team, and the belief that technology, when used thoughtfully, can create a more equitable world.”

How do you develop a strong mindset (to overcome fears, self-doubt, or challenges)?

SM: “Having a strong mindset is one of the most important success factors, and it often starts with reframing challenges as opportunities. In essence, this is what ‘grit’ is all about. I’ve had my fair share of fear and doubt – leaving my home country alone at 17, stepping into new roles where I had to prove myself, and pushing for change in industries that weren’t always ready for it. For me, the best medicine for self-doubt is building a community and a network. When I first came to America, I didn’t speak English, and I had to learn to lean on others – I leaned on my host family, I joined a soccer team, I pushed myself out of my comfort zone to make new friends, I volunteered, and eventually, I gained confidence. Resilience and grit aren’t built in a vacuum – it truly takes a village –  sometimes literally! In Croatia, during the war, we were all forced to be resilient, but we did it together. We supported our neighbors, our extended family, our friends, and together we all became stronger. We had no choice but to take on life’s challenges day by day, one step at a time.”

How do you think women can develop more self-confidence and inner power?

SM: “I think that this applies to all people, and it’s self-reflection. Take the time to reflect on what you are truly good at. What is your superpower? Perhaps it’s creativity, perhaps it’s empathy, maybe it’s numbers or data visualization. Ask others, too – they might ignite something in you that you didn’t know you had. I was lucky enough to have someone in my life who did see something special in me and helped me to see my own inner power – that was my Grandma Maria. She always pushed me to dream big and reminded me that I had the power to achieve great things. She taught me that my empathy, combined with my brain power, could make a meaningful impact – those were the superpowers I didn’t know I had. We can all build confidence by leaning into the wisdom and support of those around us, trusting that our unique strengths are what will drive us forward. When we recognize our worth and use our talents to make a difference, that’s when we unlock our greatest power – our authenticity.”

What guidance would you give to women about following their dreams?

SM: “If you don’t follow your dreams, who will? I know it sounds simple, but it’s true – what do you have to lose? Challenges will always be there, but the key is to reframe them as opportunities and approach everything with a growth mindset. Remember, we only grow when we’re pushed outside of our comfort zone! It might be uncomfortable in the moment, but you’ll always look back and be thankful that you took the chance, you learned and you grew. When that negative voice creeps in, replace it with something empowering, like the kind of advice you’d get from someone who believes in you – someone like my Grandma Maria. As your dreams unfold, stay grounded in who you are at your core.”

If there’s one piece of advice you’d give your younger self, what would it be?

SM: “Just keep moving – step by step. Enjoy the journey, embrace every opportunity to learn, and pay attention to the relationships in your life. It’s the people that surround you – your family, your closest friends, your colleagues, mentors, and confidants who make this journey so great. As long as you have them in your life, you’ll never need to fear taking risks, running through storms, or trying something new. Every experience will shape you into the person you’re meant to be and it will all work out as it’s supposed to.”

Monica Temoney is the Founder of Valkyrie Leadership Consulting Group, where she is revolutionizing leadership by empowering women—especially African American public sector executives—to lead with authenticity, courage, and purpose. a trailblazing leader, global strategist, and faith-driven advocate with over three decades of experience in government and industry. She made history as the first African American woman to serve as Deputy Assistant Commissioner for International Affairs at U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the inaugural African American Deputy Assistant Secretary for Global Operations at the U.S. Department of Commerce, shattering barriers and paving the way for diverse leadership in national security, global trade, and economic empowerment. Under her leadership, the first-ever Minority Trade Mission to Africa was approved, creating unprecedented opportunities for minority-owned businesses in international markets. A champion for equity, inclusion, and sustainable development, Monica has built international coalitions to improve healthcare, education, and entrepreneurship for marginalized communities, particularly in Africa. A Harvard Senior Executive Fellow, mentor, author, and speaker, Monica’s legacy is one of fearless leadership, breaking barriers so that others can rise.

What inspires you each day to create your version of your “best life”?

MT: “I am inspired by the belief that my journey is not just for me, but for the countless women and young leaders who look to me as an example of what’s possible. Each day, I wake up knowing that my work—whether in policy, leadership development, or global empowerment—has the power to change lives. My best life is not defined by titles or accolades but by the impact I leave behind and the doors I open for others.”

How do you develop a strong mindset (to overcome fears, self-doubt, or challenges)?

MT: “A strong mindset starts with faith. I remind myself daily that fear is the enemy of purpose, and I refuse to let it dictate my destiny. I lean into prayer, surround myself with people who uplift and challenge me, and reflect on the battles I’ve already won. Challenges will always come, but I see them as preparation for the next level of my purpose. Every obstacle has only made me stronger, wiser, and more determined to create change.”

How do you think women can develop more self-confidence and inner power?

MT: “Self-confidence is built through self-awareness, resilience, and a refusal to shrink to fit into spaces not meant for you. Women must embrace their unique voices, trust their instincts, and own their brilliance without apology. Power comes from aligning your actions with your purpose, stepping into rooms boldly, and recognizing that you belong wherever your feet are planted. Faith, preparation, and an unwavering belief in your worth will always keep you standing tall.”

What guidance would you give to women about following their dreams?

MT: “Follow your dreams with boldness, faith, and strategy. Dreams without action remain just that—dreams. Step out of your comfort zone, seek mentors, invest in your growth, and most importantly, stay true to your purpose. I have seen doors open that I never imagined simply because I walked in obedience to God’s plan. The path won’t always be easy, but it will always be worth it. Keep going, even when the world says no—because your ‘yes’ is coming.”

If there’s one piece of advice you’d give your younger self, what would it be?

MT: “You don’t have to be perfect—you just have to be faithful, fearless, and ready. Stop overthinking, stop doubting, and stop waiting for permission. You are already equipped with everything you need to succeed. Trust yourself, take the leap, and watch how God aligns the right people, opportunities, and blessings in your path. You are enough—always have been, always will be.”

April Moh is the Chief Marketing Officer at Kyriba, a global liquidity performance SaaS platform, where she leads brand strategy, communications, demand generation, product marketing, pricing strategy, and academy. With nearly two decades of experience scaling software companies, April was named one of Campaign Magazine’s “Most Inspiring Women” of 2023. Previously, she served as CMO at SUSE, where she guided the global open-source leader through corporate rebrands, major acquisitions, and a multi-billion euro IPO. She has also led strategic marketing and communications initiatives for Microsoft, SAP, and Concur. Passionate about leadership, inclusion, and equality in access, April is a board member of Stand with Asian Americans (SwAA), the first legal civil rights organization focused on fighting anti-Asian workplace discrimination.

What inspires you each day to create your version of your “best life”?

AM: “I joined to take action. My drive has always been fueled by a desire to create lasting impact—not just in business but in the lives of people around me. As a leader, mother, advocate, and mentor, my version of the “best life” is built on purpose, growth, and the ability to fight for something larger than myself.

Born and raised in Singapore, I spent the last 14 years in the U.S., navigating a global career while embracing my identity as an immigrant, an Asian woman in tech, and a mother of two young children. I’ve been fortunate to work alongside some of the brightest, most inspirational women in business, and I see it as my responsibility to pass that inspiration forward—to uplift and create opportunities for the next generation of leaders.

My purpose is advocacy—for women in technology, Asian leaders in business, and those who are often overlooked in the workplace. I fulfill this every day—at Kyriba, as a mother, and as a board member of Stand with Asian Americans (SwAA), the U.S.’s first legal civil rights organization fighting anti-Asian workplace discrimination.

Because at the end of the day, success isn’t just about personal achievements—it’s about the collective wins we create and the examples we set for those who come after us.”

How do you develop a strong mindset (to overcome fears, self-doubt, or challenges)?

AM: “This is something I get asked a lot by the women I mentor, and I always say: building a strong mindset is not about eliminating fear or doubt—it’s about moving forward despite them.

For me, bravery is at the core of resilience. And bravery isn’t about being fearless—it’s about choosing courage over comfort, again and again.

As an Asian woman in tech, I’ve faced bias, discrimination, and systemic challenges that could have made me shrink. Early in my career, I was passed over for promotions despite stellar performance because I was told I wasn’t “American enough” to lead. I later fought—and won—a legal battle against maternity discrimination. These moments could have broken my confidence, but instead, they strengthened my resolve to take up space, to fight for what’s right, and to help others do the same.

Here’s how I build and maintain that mindset:

• Reframe obstacles as opportunities—instead of seeing challenges as threats, I see them as my next breakthrough moment.
• Surround yourself with the right people—mentors, friends, and colleagues who challenge and uplift you.
• Know your rights—understanding employment law and standing up for myself gave me power in situations where I was being sidelined.
• Practice self-compassion—growth is messy, and setbacks don’t define you. Your response to them does.
• Commit to continuous learning—every setback I’ve faced has been a launchpad for the next level of success.

A strong mindset isn’t something you’re born with. It’s something you build, brick by brick, through every challenge you face.”

How do you think women can develop more self-confidence and inner power?

AM: “Confidence isn’t something you wait for—it’s something you build by taking action. You don’t become confident first and then take the leap. You take the leap, and confidence follows.

Women, especially in male-dominated industries like tech and finance, are often socialized to seek perfection before taking risks—but the truth is, perfection is a confidence killer. You will never feel ‘ready’—but that’s exactly when you should act.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that failure isn’t the opposite of confidence—it’s a prerequisite. Every setback I’ve faced—from professional challenges to workplace discrimination—has been a catalyst for growth. Confidence isn’t about never failing. It’s about knowing you’ll rise every time you do.

To build that inner power:

• Take up space. Stop waiting to be invited into rooms you belong in. Walk in and own your voice.
• Redefine failure. View setbacks as stepping stones, not stop signs.
• Ask for what you deserve. Don’t assume good work speaks for itself—advocate for your worth.
• Find allies and mentors. No one succeeds alone. Surround yourself with people who challenge, support, and push you forward.
• Be bold. Confidence isn’t the absence of fear. It’s action despite it.”

What guidance would you give to women about following their dreams?

AM: “Following your dreams requires courage, conviction, and community. You will always encounter doubt—your own, and from others. But if your vision is clear, you have to be willing to bet on yourself before anyone else does.

Here’s my advice:

• Stay authentic. Your dreams should be yours—not shaped by what others expect of you.
• Take risks before you feel ready. If you wait for perfect conditions, you’ll never start.
• Prioritize your well-being. Success means nothing if it comes at the cost of your mental and physical health.
• Surround yourself with the right people. No one achieves anything great alone. Find mentors, allies, and a community that fuels your growth.
• Turn adversity into fuel. Every setback, rejection, or failure can either break you—or build you. Choose the latter.

For me, what keeps me going is the courage of my Asian American community—the people who take a stand for themselves and others. Their bravery lifts all of us. And their willingness to fight for a better future gives me hope that the world can and will be more equitable, inclusive, and just.”

If there’s one piece of advice you’d give your younger self, what would it be?

AM: “Stand up for yourself and advocate for what’s right—even when it’s uncomfortable.

I know this now, but I didn’t always. Early in my career, I was taught to stay quiet, work hard, and wait for opportunities to come. But I’ve learned the hard way that if you don’t advocate for yourself, no one else will.

My journey—from navigating workplace discrimination to fighting legal battles—has taught me that power isn’t given; it’s taken. If I could go back, I’d tell my younger self:

• You don’t need permission to lead. Step up, even when it’s uncomfortable.
• Speak up when something is unjust. Silence only benefits the status quo.
• Failure is inevitable—but so is your comeback.
• Your voice matters. Use it boldly, unapologetically, and with purpose.

This is why my work with Stand with Asian Americans is so important to me. Empowering others to stand up for themselves isn’t just personal—it’s about creating real, systemic change for the next generation of leaders. Because no one should have to fight alone.”

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