Pioneers of Progress spotlights the trailblazing business leaders shaping

1. 2025 E E E MPOWERING NTREPRENEURIAL XCELLENCE PIONEERS OF PROGRESS BUSINESS CEO WESTERN 2025 LEADERS FINANCIAL Defining Defining GROUP LEADING WITH PURPOSE AND VISION FOR GROWTH AND EXCELLENCE

4. Pioneers of Progress: Business Leaders Defining 2025 hange is inevitable in the business world. From market shifts to technological advancements, leaders who C adapt and evolve drive lasting success. Embracing change isn't just about survival—it's about thriving in a dynamic landscape. Top business leaders make adaptability their greatest asset. Successful leaders anticipate change rather than react to it. They stay informed about industry trends, emerging technologies, and evolving consumer behaviors, ensuring they remain ahead of the curve. Continuous learning and innovation are central to this mindset. Organizations that embrace change foster resilience at every level. Business leaders create an environment where employees feel empowered to experiment, learn from mistakes, and contribute new ideas. Adaptable teams drive progress and make transitions smoother. Digital transformation plays a key role in long-term success. Leaders embrace automation, AI-driven insights, and emerging technologies to optimize operations, enhance productivity, and unlock new opportunities in competitive markets. Calculated risks often lead to breakthroughs. Successful business leaders analyze market dynamics, assess risks, and make informed decisions to pivot strategies when needed. They understand that embracing change requires bold moves and agile execution. Adapting to change is easier with a strong support system. Business leaders engage with industry experts, mentors, and like-minded professionals to gain fresh perspectives, share insights, and navigate evolving challenges together. In this edition of “Pioneers of Progress: Business Leaders Defining 2025,” we bring business leaders who have embraced transformation over their careers, inspired innovation, and fostered resilience to build organizations that thrive in any economic climate. They have proven that continuous success comes not from avoiding change but from harnessing its power to drive meaningful growth. On the Covers, we have Grant Ostir. Also featured, are Lana Johnston, LUKE PEEREBOOM, Phil Hart and Stella Tsitsoula.

5. Kiran K. Carol Hendrix Copyright 2025 THE CIO TIMES, All rights reserved. The Images and Content used in this magazine should not be transmitted or reproduced in any form or by any mechanical, electronic, means, recording, photocopying or otherwise, without prior permission from THE CIO TIMES. Reprint rights remain solely with THE CIO TIMES

6. COVER STORY 10 Grant Ostir

7. Lana Johnston 20 LUKE PEEREBOOM 26 Phil Hart 30 Stella Tsitsoula 38

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11. CEO WESTERN FINANCIAL GROUP LEADING WITH PURPOSE AND VISION FOR GROWTH AND EXCELLENCE JUNE 2025 I WWW.THECIOTIMES.COM I 11

12. rant Ostir, the Chief Executive Officer of Western Western’s King City, Ontario branch. Financial Group, leads the company with a deep G commitment to purpose-driven leadership and customer-centric innovation. With nearly three decades of experience in the insurance industry, Grant has held key leadership roles, including President & CEO of Western Life and President of Western Financial Group Insurance Solutions. A Three-Decade Association Grant's journey with Western Financial Group spans nearly three decades, and it's been anything but ordinary. He began his career on the frontlines, where he got a firsthand look at what makes the business tick. That early experience gave him a deep appreciation for the people behind the policies and the customers they serve. Over the years, he's worn many hats across the organization, building a 360-degree view of how everything connects. Before stepping into the CEO role, Grant served as Chief Growth Officer, where he led with vision and drive, launching strategic initiatives that didn't just move the needle, they redefined Western's growth trajectory. Since taking the helm in January 2025, Grant has wasted no time setting an ambitious course. His bold new growth strategy aims to double Western's customer base within five years. But it's not just about numbers, it's about delivering Earlier in his career, Grant was laser-focused on execution: exceptional service, making insurance more accessible, and hitting targets, driving results, and pushing forward. But reimagining operations to meet customers where they are. experience has taught him that the journey matters just as Whether it's online, in-branch, or through personalized much as the destination. Today, his leadership is grounded outreach, Grant is steering the company toward a more in clarity, communication, and trust. agile, customer-centric future. “I focus on giving people direction and support, then stepping back so they have the space to lead,” he explains. “Creating room for others to grow has become one of the most important parts of how I lead today.” That philosophy has become the cornerstone of his leadership style. Grant believes in empowering teams, fostering a culture of ownership, and building an organization that's as resilient as it is responsive. His vision for Western isn't just about scaling, it's about staying true to the company's roots while evolving to meet the demands of a rapidly changing industry. Western Financial Group is proud to support local charities and the And the industry is taking notice. In 2025, Grant was vital work they do for communities across Canada. Western’s High named to Constellation Research's prestigious AX100 list, River team recently presented a cheque for $10,000 to the Rowan recognizing global executives who are transforming House Society, an organization that offers emergency shelter and customer experience in bold, disruptive ways. domestic violence services across southern Alberta. 12 I JUNE 2025 I WWW.THECIOTIMES.COM

13. Grand opening of a new branch in Cold Lake, Alberta. Success is never owned. It's “ rented. And the rent is due every day. It's a good reminder that consistency beats intensity, and that showing Driving Growth and Innovation evolving needs of individuals, families, and businesses across the country. up and doing Western Financial Group stands as one of Canada's most established and Western's offerings span a wide the work matters trusted insurance providers, serving range of services: over one million Canadians with a more than broad portfolio of personal, Ÿ Personal Insurance commercial, and specialty insurance - Home Insurance: Coverage for anything else. solutions. With more than 100 years of homeowners, renters, condos, seasonal experience, the company has built its properties, and mobile homes. reputation on delivering expert advice - Auto Insurance: Protection for cars, and tailored coverage that meets the motorcycles, RVs, boats, and ATVs. - Life Insurance: Policies designed to secure financial stability for families. ” - Financial Services: Includes RRSPs, Grant at a recent Western Financial Group branch opening. RESPs, TFSAs, and GICs to help customers plan for their future. Ÿ Business Insurance - General Liability Insurance: Protection for businesses against legal claims. - Commercial Property Insurance: Coverage for rental properties, farms, and independent retail businesses. - Employee Benefits: Insurance solutions for businesses to support their workforce. Ÿ Digital Services: Western Financial Group offers MyWestern, a self- service portal that allows customers to: - View policies and invoices. JUNE 2025 I WWW.THECIOTIMES.COM I 13

14. Every year, Western and its communities foundation organizes a company-wide 5km walk to - Submit auto claims online. raise funds for local communities. This year, the foundation celebrated its 20th anniversary - Download e-Pink Slips for proof of of the National Walk, this time with a themed focus on creating safe places. insurance. - Access roadside assistance services. To achieve the bold growth strategy Grant has set, the company is focused on making insurance more convenient. That means removing friction at every touchpoint, whether someone is visiting a branch, calling Western's team, or managing their policy online, the experience should be simple, fast, and intuitive. Data-Driven Leadership with a People-First Focus At the helm of Canada's insurance broker, Grant is redefining what modern insurance leadership looks Western's broader strategy: driving vision and ensuring every team like. His approach blends sharp data growth, boosting efficiency, and member understands how their work insights with a deep commitment to making insurance more convenient for contributes to the company's success. people, both customers and employees. Canadians. He leads with high expectations but For Grant, the best decisions come also with strong support and from staying close to the numbers and Clarity, consistency, and empathy are accountability. The result? A culture the frontlines. It's a leadership style the cornerstones of his leadership, and that's agile, customer-focused, and that ensures every move aligns with Grant is known for setting a clear recognized as a top Canadian workplace: Western was included in Forbes' Canada's Best Employers list for the last two consecutive years, ranking amongst the Alberta Top Employer list as well as Canada's Top 100 Employers. A Bold Strategy for Transformative Growth Grant's ambitious goal of doubling Western's customer base in five years drives every initiative across the organization. The strategy rests on three key pillars: Convenience: Making insurance faster, easier, and more intuitive Operational Discipline: Streamlining processes and eliminating complexity Scalable Growth: Expanding in ways that strengthen the brand and deliver lasting value One of Western’s branches in Medicine Hat, Alberta. 14 I JUNE 2025 I WWW.THECIOTIMES.COM

15. “At the center of it all is a shift to a This evolution doesn't mean Communities Foundation, the company truly customer-centric model. We're abandoning tradition. On the contrary, supports grassroots initiatives that designing our business around how Western is building on its century-old reflect its values. But this people-first roots to deliver faster, more relevant customers want to engage with us, not mindset also shapes how Western service while staying true to the values how we've traditionally operated,” serves its customers. Real-time that have earned customer trust for Grant explains. “Whether someone feedback and service metrics fuel generations. continuous improvement, ensuring the wants to connect in person, online, or company is always evolving to meet by phone, our job is to meet them where they are and make the Community Commitment Meets rising expectations. experience seamless.” Customer-Centric Innovation In a digital-first world, Western is Scaling Personal Service Through Western's commitment to community navigating the delicate balance between Innovation and Tradition runs deep. Through the Western speed and human connection. Western Financial Group is carving out a unique space in the Canadian insurance landscape, where personalized service meets scalable innovation. A major driver of this transformation is the company's move from traditional departments to journey-based teams. By organizing around key customer experiences like buying a policy, updating coverage, or filing a claim, Western has streamlined operations and boosted responsiveness. I've always believed insurance “ is about trust. Being part of a company that helps people protect what matters most is something I've never taken for granted. One of Western Financial Group’s winning teams, achieving incredible growth; Kitchener, Ontario. JUNE 2025 I WWW.THECIOTIMES.COM I 15 ”

16. Western Financial Group branch in Dawson Creek, British Columbia. Customers want instant answers and seamless access but personalize the customer experience. But innovation doesn't they also want to feel heard. The companies that succeed come at the expense of trust. Cybersecurity remains a top will be those that master both. Western Financial Group is priority, with robust systems, regular audits, and ongoing determined to lead that charge. training to protect customer data. “We build around the customer, not around internal Western's tech strategy is clear: deliver real value, enhance departments. That means organizing teams around key convenience, and never lose the human touch. moments in the customer journey and designing processes that support what customers actually need,” he said. “We also listen constantly, take feedback seriously, and make it Personalization, Simplicity, and Seamless Integration easy for customers to reach us on their terms. Customer focus isn't a buzzword here. It's part of our day-to-day.” The insurance industry is undergoing a seismic shift, and Western is leaning into it. Customers now expect coverage Technology and Trust: The Future of Insurance that fits seamlessly into their lives; simple, flexible, and easy to manage. Grant sees this as a defining moment for For Western, technology isn't just about efficiency, it's about the industry. transformation. The company is investing in digital tools that simplify insurance, reduce turnaround times, and He points to a growing demand for instant quotes, real-time 16 I JUNE 2025 I WWW.THECIOTIMES.COM

17. support, and personalized options. At the same Western’s customer call centre in Eagle Creek, British Columbia. time, data privacy and regulatory compliance are more important than ever. Western is investing heavily in these areas to stay ahead of the curve and deliver on its promise of customer-first service. “Our goal is clear. We want to double our customer base in five years. But it's not just about numbers. It's about doing it the right way by building a company that's easy to work with, trusted in every interaction, and known for delivering value,” Grant explains. “For me personally, I want to lead with purpose and leave behind a culture of performance, service, and continuous improvement.” Message for Industry Aspirants Come in ready to learn. Insurance is a purpose- driven business, and there are so many different paths you can take. Whether you're in a customer-facing role or working behind the scenes, your work helps people protect what matters most. If you're curious, adaptable, and care about service, there's a place for you here. And there's a lot of opportunity to grow. Innovation for us starts with “ meeting customers where they are and making it easy for them to do business with us. Western’s King City, Ontario branch. JUNE 2025 I WWW.THECIOTIMES.COM I 17 ”

20. LANA JOHNSTON LANA JOHNSTON Founder & CEO takingitforward 20 I JUNE 2025 I WWW.THECIOTIMES.COM

21. LANA JOHNSTON What is your leadership style, and how do you hat inspired you to become a business leader, think it contributes to the success of your business? and how did you get started in your career? W My leadership style combines strategic direction with Looking back I've always enjoyed leadership – starting in collaborative execution. I establish clear purpose and my school years as School Captain, then within sporting outcomes, then empower others to determine how best to LANA JOHNSTON teams. My career started in finance and I took every achieve them. This approach creates ownership and opportunity to learn, build skills and progress through the accountability, which is essential when working with clients ranks. This involved leadership positions at various levels. undergoing significant cultural or strategic change. My most complex leadership role had me leading 29 direct reports, approx. 150 staff and geographic challenges. I've I believe leadership should be situational. Sometimes lead generalist and specialists teams – both require different organisations need direct guidance; other times, they benefit leadership. from subtle facilitation. My flexibility in approach allows me to meet clients where they are. What do you think are the key qualities that make a business leader successful, and how do you cultivate By modelling open communication and transparency, I these qualities in yourself ? build trust quickly with client teams. This foundation makes difficult conversations more productive, especially during The most effective leaders I've encountered possess deep challenging transitions. curiosity about their people and the business strategic plan, adaptability in the face of change, and the courage to make In both Taking It Forward and Connection with Lana, I've difficult decisions. found that listening deeply before offering solutions leads to more sustainable outcomes. This patient approach might I cultivate these qualities through continuous learning and take longer initially but delivers more lasting results. reflection. I regularly seek feedback from clients and colleagues, which helps me refine my approach. How do you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and Empathy is non-negotiable - understanding the challenges developments in your industry, and how do you organisations and their people face allows me to provide incorporate this knowledge into your business strategy? more meaningful support. Staying current is vital - I maintain a diverse professional I believe in leading with authenticity and vulnerability. By network across industries, providing varied perspectives on acknowledging when I don't have all the answers, I workplace trends and demographic shifts. Regular create space for collaboration and innovation. Most conversations with forward-thinking leaders give me importantly, I stay focused on purpose over practical insights beyond theoretical models. profit. When decisions align with core values and intended impact, sustainable success I translate insights into practical applications for clients. For follows. example, when research indicated the growing importance JUNE 2025 I WWW.THECIOTIMES.COM I 21

22. of purpose in workplace engagement, I capability rather than dependency. My around outcomes but give people developed new frameworks to help approach focuses on transferring freedom to determine their approach. organisations articulate their purpose in knowledge and skills to internal teams, This ownership creates both ensuring they can continue the work accountability and innovation. ways that resonate with employees. after my engagement ends. Creating psychological safety allows What are some of the biggest How do you motivate and inspire for risk-taking and learning. By challenges you have faced as a your team to achieve their full treating mistakes as growth business leader, and how have you potential, and what strategies have opportunities rather than failures, overcome them? you found to be most effective? teams feel empowered to experiment The biggest challenge has been helping and improve. Finally, I lead by organisations move beyond seeing Creating genuine connection to example. By demonstrating curiosity, people strategies as compliance purpose is the most powerful motivator resilience, and commitment to our exercises to recognising them as I've found. When people understand shared purpose, I establish the cultural business drivers. I've overcome this by how their work contributes to norms I expect from others. demonstrating clear ROI on initiatives. meaningful outcomes, engagement By establishing measurement naturally follows. I focus on strengths- What advice do you have for frameworks that connect people based development. Rather than trying aspiring business leaders who are metrics to business outcomes, clients to fix weaknesses, I help team just starting out in their careers? can see tangible results. members identify and leverage their natural talents, then Understand your purpose before Another significant structure responsibilities pursuing position. Leadership should challenge has been accordingly. be a means to create impact, not an end maintaining itself. Develop deep self-awareness. momentum in Recognition is crucial Know your strengths, triggers, and organisational but must be authentic. growth areas. This knowledge will help change. Many I acknowledge you build complementary teams and companies start specific navigate challenges effectively. Learn transformation contributions and to balance conviction with humility. journeys with their impact rather Have confidence in your vision but enthusiasm but than offering remain open to input that might struggle with generic praise. improve or refine it. sustained Autonomy drives implementation. I engagement. I Seek mentors and peers who will address provide challenge your thinking. Echo this by clear chambers rarely produce innovation or buildi expec growth. ng tati Build technical expertise alongside clien o leadership skills. Credibility comes t n from demonstrated capability in your s field. Practice resilience through small challenges before facing larger ones. Leadership inevitably involves setbacks - developing recovery strategies early will serve you well. Finally, remember that leadership is fundamentally about service to your team, your customers, and your community. When decisions become difficult, returning to this principle provides clarity. 22 I JUNE 2025 I WWW.THECIOTIMES.COM

23. What are your goals for the future of your business, and how do you plan to achieve them? For Taking It Forward, my goal is to expand our impact on workplace cultures across Australia by developing scalable frameworks that organisations of various sizes can implement. We'll achieve this through strategic partnerships with complementary service providers and by creating digital resources that extend our reach beyond direct consulting relationships. With Connection with Lana, we aim to significantly improve intentional connection with our ageing loved ones. For both businesses, I'm focused on building sustainable models that won't rely solely on my direct involvement. This includes partnering with, as well as developing and mentoring other consultants who share our values and approach. Underlying all growth plans is our commitment to measuring helps adjust when balance shifts. Another crucial lesson is that impact - not just financial outcomes but Quarterly reviews of how time aligns leadership requires both courage and genuine improvement in people's with priorities allows for course vulnerability. Showing authenticity experiences, whether in workplaces or correction before issues arise. opens doors to deeper connection and in life. more honest problem-solving. I've What are some of the most discovered that most resistance stems How do you balance the demands of important lessons you have learned from unmet needs rather than running a successful business with throughout your career, and how opposition to change itself. This your personal life and other have these lessons shaped your understanding has transformed how I interests? approach to leadership? approach change management. Balance isn't about equal time The most transformative lesson has Finally, I've learned that impact often allocation but rather intentional been that sustainable change happens happens at the intersection of presence in whatever I'm doing. I have through people, not to them. Early in disciplines. Both Taking It Forward learnt the hard way that rigorous my career, I focused on designing and Connection with Lana draw on calendar management is critical to my perfect systems; now I focus on diverse fields - from psychology to success, blocking time for strategic engaging the people who will bring technology to design thinking - work, client delivery, business those systems to life. creating more innovative approaches to development, and importantly, I've learned that culture isn't created complex challenges. personal restoration. through statements but through These lessons have created a consistent actions. This has shaped my leadership approach focused on human I view personal well-being as a approach to helping organisations align connection, practical implementation, business imperative, not a luxury. their daily decisions with their stated and sustainable impact - principles that Quality thinking requires a rested values. guide every client engagement and mind, so I prioritise sleep, exercise, business decision. and disconnection. Regular reflection JUNE 2025 I WWW.THECIOTIMES.COM I 23

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38. STEL TSITSOU Senior Communications Consultant, Founder & Managing Partner RED Communications he journey to becoming an entrepreneur began started to participate in the cybersecurity and technology from a place of passion for communications, areas. While working as a communications consultant T technology and innovation. I have spent over for multinational corporations, Greek businesses and 25 years in the media and communications industries universities, I assisted them in understanding the trends and understood the changing needs of companies in a and challenges linked to the new technologies and cyber world that is becoming more global and digital. This threats. I also served as the communications manager made me start RED Communications, a Athens based for the National Cyber Security Team during the Pan- agency that provides public relations and marketing European Cyber Security Competition, which further services to companies both national and international in ignited my passion to educate people about Greece in order to market their products or to establish cybersecurity. In 2023, I established the Hellenic their business in the country. The idea of RED Cybersecurity Institute as a not-for-profit organization Communications was to fill a gap in the market for that aligns with my increasing passion to enhance specialist communication support across industry cybersecurity literacy and support activities that seek to sectors such as ICT, finance, renewable energy etc. I address cyber risks facing businesses and societies. This was able to do this by using my vast experience in both step was not only necessary to meet a significant the traditional and digital media platform, in order to problem but also to create a community of professionals offer practical PR and marketing solutions that could who are passionate about the promotion of digital assist in helping businesses to engage with their target security. In my work with the Cyber Security Forum audience, develop their brand and succeed in their Initiative (CSFI) and my position as the President of market. The opportunity of being a part of the Women4Cyber Greek Chapter, I have been able to GlobalCom PR Network has given me the opportunity develop a strong network of people who share my to gain more insights into the global communication passion for change, digital transformation and enabling strategies, work with the very best people in over 80 people in the cybersecurity and tech fields. Therefore, countries and provide an international touch to the my entrepreneurial experience stands on the services that I offer to my clients. This network has combination of experience, passion and the been very valuable to RED Communications and has determination to support both companies and people in enabled us to easily meet the communication needs of their efforts to understand the modern communication organizations in different industries, including the and technology environment. The journey does not end challenge of explaining emerging technologies and there and I am excited for the next chapter of innovation innovations. Apart from my agency, I have gradually and impact. 38 I JUNE 2025 I WWW.THECIOTIMES.COM

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40. According to you,what are the three the issue to prevent making the wrong group in Greece) for my contribution in most important qualitie sale ader choice. I highlight the main elements the field of raising cybersecurity must possess? of the issue and then try to identify the awareness and supporting the concept source of the uncertainty. I always of digital safety during my work with make sure to seek the opinion of my the Hellenic Cybersecurity Team and To be a great leader one needs vision, team or, if possible, from advisors and other cybersecurity organizations. emotional intelligence and integrity. mentors, as everyone has a different These are evidence of our commitment They should be able to provide a clear perspective on the issue. I also tend to to delivering excellent public relations vision along with strategic thinking to break the problem down into its services and our passion to advocate for the team that can lead the team to success while also being able to deal components to justify it. If necessary, I a safer digital world. with issues and transformations. This use data, studies or my own experience helps them to understand and relate to to make the decision. Ultimately, I rely Significant milestones in my other people, establish a rapport with on myself, but I make sure that every professional career include my them, resolve conflict and inspire the decision I make is a thoughtful one and honorary participation in several team, thus, fostering a harmonious is consistent with the long-term vision judging panels for technology awards, work environment. Integrity and and values of the team or organization. both in Greece and across Europe. accountability are just as important, since they set examples of ethical Mention some of the honorable What makes your company different practices and accountability for awards received by your person and from those existing in the market? actions, thus building trust and respect the company? in the organization. What sets RED Communications apart In my career, both personally and from other agencies in the market is our As a leader, it is extremely crucial through RED Communications, we deep expertise in both technology and that one is decisive and rational. have been privileged to receive several business communications, which allows What do you dowhenyou arestuckor prestigious awards, including the Best us to provide tailored, strategic confused? PR Campaign Award (Organized by a solutions to our clients. With over 25 big publishing house in Greece) for years of experience in the In case I get stuck or confused, I excellent and effective public relations communications industry, we specialize follow a step-by-step plan to ensure I campaigns. I have also received two in delivering impactful public relations understand what is expected of me. honorary awards (from the University and marketing strategies for clients in First, I stop and distance myself from of Piraeus and from a large media high-tech sectors such as ICT, cybersecurity, space and renewable energy, as well as traditional industries like finance and consumer goods. Our unique combination of industry knowledge, strategic thinking, and strong relationships with global networks (GlobalCom PR and Space Communications Alliance) enables us to deliver results-driven campaigns that effectively bridge the gap between complex technological innovations and business goals, ensuring our clients' success in an ever-evolving marketplace. Describe your working style in a few words? I work in a way that is hands on, collaborative and adaptive. I thrive on 40 I JUNE 2025 I WWW.THECIOTIMES.COM

41. clarity and enjoy the team spirit that is involved in taking an idea and turning it into a reality. I respect an open door policy and trust, I believe that the best output is created when everyone is enabled to participate. Although I work towards the attainment of strategic objectives, I also make sure that I remain flexible and that we can change direction at any time if there is a better way of moving forward. How do you, if at all, support diversity and inclusion at your workspace? I am actually very much into supporting the concept of diversity and inclusion. At RED Communications, I try to build up an environment in which everyone should feel accepted, heard, and enabled to express themselves and their ideas. In fact, we are 50/50, women and men. I do champion a culture of inclusion that celebrates the presence of different thoughts, backgrounds, and experiences of people. On a personal level, I have engaged in similar activities, for instance, I co-founded the Greek Women4Cyber Chapter to support and encourage women in the cybersecurity industry. I also provide equal chances for everyone to learn and progress, as well as work in a non- discriminatory environment where different views are welcomed and lead to benefits. process and every failure is an opportunity to learn and As a business leader, do you believe in micro managing grow. In the end, it is keeping to your vision and not loosing every aspect of the business or do you believe in efficient your courage that is what matters most. The journey is as management? important as the destination. As a business leader, I strongly support my team instead of How do you combine all these professional activities controlling every aspect of the business. I believe in my with family as you also have two children? team members to take responsibility for their duties and course of action in their respective fields of work. While I Managing between work and family is difficult but it can be remain involved in strategic decision-making and make done with some planning. My children are now grown up sure that everyone is on the same page as far as goals are and leading their own lives, but they are still an important concerned, I am certain that people perform better when part of my life. I am lucky to have my husband's support; they are allowed to work on their own. Micromanaging can he has always been my strength and helps me manage both limit creativity and motivation, so I concentrate on professional and personal life. His willingness and developing a trusting, open environment with proper assistance in this regard makes it easier to juggle between direction, which results in better management and, my commitments while at the same time ensuring that consequently, better results. family is well catered for. Family is the strength and support of every part of my life. What is your advice to young entrepreneurs? I have reached a significant milestone in my career and life The main piece of advice I would give to young and now I feel a strong desire to give back to the entrepreneurs is: Follow your dreams with passion and be community in any way I can. I always feel satisfied on the authentic. I have learned from my own experience that it is inside knowing that I am helping society and putting my not always a smooth journey, but persistence and belief in own 'small stone' towards the future of a better world. This your goals can result in amazing achievements. Failure is is something that brings me a deep sense of fulfillment. not something to be afraid of; it is a part of the learning JUNE 2025 I WWW.THECIOTIMES.COM I 41