In celebration of Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day, it’s an ideal time to tap into the wisdom of powerful and accomplished women who are here to share their secrets on how to unleash your superpowers, both in your professional and personal life. From turning $100 into a multi-million dollar company to being at the helm of billion-dollar businesses (all the while raising families and even helping communities and charities), the incredible women featured in today’s guide truly exemplify what it means to be a Wonder Woman.

Whether you’re a go-getting entrepreneur crafting your destiny, a goal-oriented gal who’s climbing the corporate ladder, or a passionate woman who wants to start a side hustle, this advice is crafted just for you. In today’s guide, you’ll discover valuable pearls of wisdom from several powerhouse women who are leading various industries (including beauty, health and fitness, travel and hospitality, tech, legal, finance, automotive, and more).

Their unique perspectives and insightful tips are not just inspiring but downright empowering, showing us that with a dash of determination, the drive to keep learning, and the belief that we can accomplish anything we set our minds to, we can turn our dreams into reality while becoming the women we’re destined to be.

Since launching Inspirations & Celebrations in 2011, I’ve been on a mission to educate and empower women through inspiration and information. As a gal who believes in celebrating and supporting women, today has become a special holiday in my mind, as it’s an opportunity to honor women for all their wonders – their success, determination, strength, and character.

In my mind, Wonder Women are ladies who daringly venture into the world on a mission to make a positive impact, all while facing their fears, risking failure, and overcoming challenges. When women help each other, everyone benefits; and when powerful women use their strength to uplift others, everyone wins.

With that said, may the following words of wisdom inspire you to follow your dreams, become your best self, and discover your innate superpowers.

Karina Kogan is the Chief Marketing and Commercial Officer at Pvolve, an omnichannel fitness company with a science-led method that pairs low-impact, functional movement, and patented resistance equipment to sculpt, strengthen, and restore the body. Since joining the company in 2023, she has led a rebrand and launched Pvolve’s strategic partnership with Jennifer Aniston. Karina has served as a senior executive working at the intersections of innovation and marketing for over two decades, with prior roles as CMO of Oura, SVP and Global Head of Product Marketing at Peloton, and SVP of Digital Media and Products at WarnerMedia. In addition to her operating post at Pvolve, Karina holds board and advisory positions at Jackpot.com, Fightcamp, and NILENT.

What inspires you each day to follow your dreams and set higher goals?  

KK: “I am allergic to inertia and am perpetually inspired by feeling like I am learning, progressing, and growing.  It’s just in my DNA. But the thrill of progress is motivating and I feel a real high when I learn things.” 

How do you develop a strong mindset (to overcome fears or challenges)?

KK: “I actually love challenges.  I get excited when I have problems to solve.  As far as fears or “scary challenges” go, I typically feel comforted by being able to connect with friends, family, or colleagues.  Not feeling alone can go a long way in making you feel strong going into overcoming a fear or challenge.”

What tips would give a woman to develop more self-confidence?

KK: “Even the most powerful and seemingly confident women experience feelings of insecurity or imposter syndrome. But believing in yourself is a requirement for success. You just have to do it.  And remember, you can be humble and confident at the same time – these things are not at odds with each other and are two wonderful traits to have.  Finally, honing your self-confidence skills is similar to working a muscle. The more you do things that make you insecure (e.g., public speaking), the more secure you get when you do them.”

What is your favorite part of your work? How does it personally fulfill you?

KK: “I have two favorites: 1) Learning, learning learning. No matter how much work experience I have (and it’s A LOT), I still feel there is so much more I am eager to learn and experience. I am constantly looking to try new things and build new capabilities. 2) I love working with a team to solve complex problems. It’s so thrilling when a group of people get together and put their different knowledge and perspectives together to achieve a BHAG (big, hairy, audacious goal).”

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

KK: “I always joke that my advice would be to buy stocks like Google, Apple, Meta, and Tesla.  But the less cheeky answer to that question is that I would tell myself to believe in myself more and to be less afraid about taking risks.”

Caroline MacDonald is Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Pebble Beach Company, a world-famous golf resort located in California’s Monterey Peninsula. In her current role, she is responsible for the operational oversight and financial performance of the three iconic hotels: The Lodge at Pebble Beach, The Inn at Spanish Bay, and Casa Palmero, in addition to Spanish Bay Club and Beach & Tennis Club, nine restaurants and special event operations for Pebble Beach Company. She joined Pebble Beach Company in September of 2022. Before joining Pebble Beach Company, she served as Senior Vice President of Operations at Rosewood Hotel Group, responsible for directing operations for 15 hotels in the Americas region. Additionally, Caroline also held a global role as Group Vice President of Sales, Marketing, and Business performance for Rosewood’s portfolio which included Rosewood, New World, and KHOS brands.

What inspires you each day to follow your dreams and set higher goals?

CM: “As the saying goes, “Success breeds success.” Nothing beats the positive feeling of achieving a goal. That makes me want to reach higher. I’m constantly amazed at what my colleagues and the people around me accomplish every day. It reinforces that the impossible is possible when we work together.”

How do you develop a strong mindset (to overcome fears or challenges)?

CM: “I’m a huge believer in positive thinking, and I’ve seen firsthand how setting intentions can contribute to positive outcomes. A challenge doesn’t have to be huge to be daunting. It could be anything that takes you out of your comfort zone. It’s helpful to take a step back and ask yourself what’s driving your fear, write that down on a piece of paper, and then write down all the positive things that can happen if you overcome the challenge that’s in front of you. Looking objectively at your fear against all that you stand to gain can really reframe your perspective.”

What tips would you give a woman to develop more self-confidence?

CM: “Too often, women are their own worst critics – we’re a lot harder on ourselves than we are on others. If you don’t stand up for yourself and be your own advocate, who will? Self-confidence begins when you give yourself permission to know that you are worthy. I also believe it’s important to not measure yourself against others. Remember that everyone is on their own journey.”

What is your favorite part of your work? How does it personally fulfill you?

CM: “I’ve spent my career in the hospitality industry, where teamwork and collaboration are essential to creating an incredible guest experience. I love playing a role in this. My favorite part of my job is the human part  – guiding others to achieve the extraordinary and being part of a top-performing team. It’s fulfilling for me to see our team members making magic happen and creating a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will stay with our guests forever.”

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

CM: “Go for it — go for that job, make that change, take on that challenge. You will regret the chances that you didn’t take. Believe in yourself and know that you are capable of extraordinary things!”

Kathy Kuo is the founder and CEO of Kathy Kuo Home, an award-winning interior designer, a recognized TV personality, an activist for female founders, and a mother of two. With 20+ years of experience in the home and design industries, Kathy has unparalleled insights into the business of home furnishings, decor, and interior design. A sought-after speaker throughout the industry, Kathy has made notable panel appearances for Architectural Digest, Left Bank Art at the New York Design Center, and as a mentor for the Beacon High School Women in Business Club. Founded in 2012, her company, Kathy Kuo Home, has grown into a premiere e-commerce destination with a beautifully curated collection of luxury furniture and decor essentials. Her company has also been seen in Forbes, Glamour, Better Homes & Gardens, Bazaar, and other leading publications.

What inspires you each day to follow your dreams and set higher goals?

KK: “I truly love working in the interiors industry because my customers and clients literally welcome me and my team into their homes and trust us to help them love where they live. I don’t take that lightly—it’s an honor and an inspiration…and also so much fun and so creatively fulfilling. I also feel like success builds on itself, so every new marketing initiative or content series or exclusive product launch or completed design project is fuel for setting higher and higher goals.”

How do you develop a strong mindset (to overcome fears or challenges)?

KK: “I’m a big believer in practicing gratitude daily and using that to strengthen my mindset—both at work as a business owner and CEO, and at home as a mother. Even in challenging moments, I have so much to be grateful for and so many amazing team members around who I know are here to work through challenging moments with me.”

What tips would give a woman to develop more self-confidence?

KK: “Again, I turn to gratitude here! If you’re stuck in a moment where you’re not feeling confident, think about all of the people in your life you’re thankful for and think about what they would say about you. Chances are, you’ll start to realize you attract these wonderful people around you because you have smart ideas, a good work ethic, and a solid moral compass. Don’t be shy about actually being the person your loved ones know that you are!”

What is your favorite part of your work? How does it personally fulfill you?

KK: “My favorite part of my job is when I hear from an interior design client about how much joy their home brings them. Our goal at Kathy Kuo Home is for our clients and customers to feel safe, loved, and nurtured at home—it’s not about our own ego or creating the most Pinterest-worthy home on the planet…it’s about that everyday joy of living in a well-designed home.” 

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

KK: “Nothing last forever—neither the good times nor the bad ones. Don’t take happiness or success for granted when it comes your way, and don’t despair when times feel tough.” 

Shelley Pratt is the Director of Marketing Communications & Media for INFINITI USA. Appointed to this position in February 2022, Shelley is responsible for managing the strategic development and execution of INFINITI’s marketing communications and paid media strategy. Since joining Nissan Group in 2006, Shelley brings more than 20 years of experience, with more than 12 of those years being at INFINITI USA in various marketing positions. These roles include her most previous position of senior manager, CMM Office and senior manager, Marketing Communications. Shelley started out in the automotive industry with the goal of trying something completely new and different from her previous experience in the power tools industry. She is also a proud ally, as she is a member of GSAN (Gay Straight Alliance at Nissan). Shelley holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and marketing from University of Tennessee – Knoxville and a master’s degree in communication and new media from Southern New Hampshire University.

What inspires you each day to follow your dreams and set higher goals?

SP: “I am naturally inclined to strive for continuous improvement. I have dedicated my entire career to reaching the position of INFINITI marketing director, and I am motivated to fulfill the responsibilities that come with it. I am genuinely passionate about this brand and am committed to its success, as well as ensuring that my team takes pride in working with me.

Additionally, I am motivated by my 15-year-old daughter, who aspires to be a future marketer. I strive to make her proud and recognize that she observes and learns from me, so I am determined to live up to her perception.”

How do you develop a strong mindset (to overcome fears or challenges)?

SP: “I don’t do it alone. I surround myself with people who uplift and support me unconditionally. Through openness and honesty, I am backed by incredible individuals in my personal life and at INFINITI. I am extremely vulnerable and honest with others, which naturally helps me overcome many of my fears.

Also, our familial culture at INFINITI transforms even the toughest days into manageable ones because we face them together.

Additionally, I prioritize self-care practices such as working out and meditation to clear my mind. Amidst life’s whirlwind, grounding myself in the present moment is essential, rather than fixating on the uncertainties of the future, which can evoke both fear and/or excitement.  As my husband battles a very aggressive cancer, facing these fears is a daily struggle for me so I have to be very mindful when controlling these scary thoughts and feelings.”

What tips would you give a woman to develop more self-confidence?

SP: “To develop more self-confidence, my top tip for women is to practice self-compassion. It’s often easy to be self-critical and dwell on mistakes, but it’s crucial to treat yourself with kindness and understanding. Just as you would uplift others, make a conscious effort to build yourself up and avoid getting trapped in a negative feedback loop. While this can be challenging, it’s essential to be intentional and recognize the power of words, even when speaking to yourself.  Be kind to yourself.”

What is your favorite part of your work? How does it personally fulfill you?

SP: “I find immense fulfillment in the creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork involved in marketing. It’s a function that blends art and science, allowing for the stimulation of both sides of my brain. Utilizing data to inform our creative strategies for future INFINITI launches fills me with excitement. Understanding our target customers, especially as we cater to new demographics, challenges both myself and the team to explore innovative approaches. As we prepare for a new product launch, working through every touchpoint of the launch communications and marketing plan has been rewarding.

Moreover, I am fulfilled by the collaborative efforts of my team, including our agency partners. They are incredibly intelligent, driven, and innovative individuals from whom I continually learn and grow. They are a constant inspiration to me, and I feel lucky to work with them.”

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

SP: “Don’t strive for perfection. I used to dedicate myself to being a perfectionist, allowing the fear of failure to drive decisions. However, I eventually learned that genuine growth and learning comes from moments when things deviate from the perfect plan. It’s in these instances that real learning occurs, leading to continuous improvement. I encourage my team not to fear trying new things because when things don’t go like you think they will… it’s all part of the growth process.”

Michelle Heston is a seasoned PR and marketing communications professional with over two decades of experience. In her current role as Executive Regional Director of PR and Marketing Communications, she oversees all public relations and communication strategy in the US for Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, a world-leading travel and lifestyle group. She is highly skilled at driving earned media activity, elevating market positioning, and driving community stewardship. She leads communication teams and agencies in guiding publicity programs, press outreach and engagement, strategic messaging, content development, and crisis management.

What inspires you each day to follow your dreams and set higher goals?

MH: “Throughout my tenure at Fairmont I have worked with dozens of amazing colleagues.  Our teams work daily to create and support a culture that acts as a catalyst to innovate, try new things, and not be afraid of failure. I’m challenged and at the same time encouraged to find creative ways to solve problems. I’m grateful to have found an environment and coworkers who inspire me every day.”

How do you develop a strong mindset (to overcome fears or challenges)?

MH: “Face each challenge head-on. And know that each “hard” decision or project is an opportunity for growth.  We all will make mistakes – work toward creating and supporting an environment that allows you to stretch your abilities.”

What tips would you give a woman to develop more self-confidence?

MH: “Identify disparaging messages and replace them with more productive, positive thoughts. For instance, when your performance isn’t perfect, avoid blaming or shaming yourself. Instead, shift your mindset by acknowledging that the task is an objectively challenging one and that you’re growing as you work through it.”

What is your favorite part of your work? How does it personally fulfill you?

MH: “Having a good team makes all the difference. My current team is great – everyone is smart, capable, and driven.  I love developing young talent!”

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

MH: “Embrace your uniqueness, your quirks, and your passions. The things that make you different are the things that will make your journey extraordinary. Do what you love!  The money will come. Don’t let others define you and just be yourself, you are awesome!”

Michelle Ngome is an award-winning marketer, the Founder of Line 25 Consulting, an agency specializing in inclusive marketing strategies for organizations, the Founder of African American Marketing Association (a 501c3 nonprofit that empowers Black marketers all over the United States), and the Outreach Director for Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses in Houston, Texas. Her work has allowed her to be recognized by LinkedIn as 25 Inspiration Black Women in Marketing and LinkedIn’s Rising Stars in the Marketing World.

What inspires you each day to follow your dreams and set higher goals?

MN: “People inspire me. Everyone has a story and I always look for a chance to help someone whether providing a resource or introducing a new relationship.”

How do you develop a strong mindset (to overcome fears or challenges)?

MN: “I’ve learned to express myself in safe spaces. By surrounding myself with other dynamic women leaders who can check me if I’m wrong but provide great insight into my situation. I tap into my network to help me connect the dots when it comes to new opportunities which helps with my decision-making process.”

What tips would give a woman to develop more self-confidence?

MN: “Talk nice to yourself every day, preferably out loud. I know it sounds funny, but when we speak positively to ourselves there is power in that. Whether it is affirmations or reciting your presentation all of it builds confidence for you to approach the task at hand.”

What is your favorite part of your work? How does it personally fulfill you?

MN: “In my corporate and nonprofit role, I am fortunate to serve as a small business advocate. I attend a lot of events and I am able to meet people in all industries and provide them with resources and education that can help improve their business.” 

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

MN: “Be the person your younger self needed. I remember when I started my career in finance and I realized that although I did good work it wasn’t enough. It was important that I develop and nurture value-based relationships for me to grow my career. Developing those relationships allows for mentors and sponsorship that allows you to receive insight to properly navigate your career path.”

Nellie Akalp is a serial entrepreneur and the CEO of CorpNet.com, which resulted in her becoming recognized as an industry pioneer in the online legal document filing industry. As a passionate entrepreneur, she and her husband/business partner started their first company in 1997 with just $100. Eight years later it was acquired by Intuit for $20 million. A few years later they launched CorpNet.com, (which the company says is “the most innovative way to start a business, register for payroll taxes, and maintain business compliance across the United States”) the same year Nellie was expecting her fourth child. Today CorpNet is thriving having been recognized many times on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies in America. Nellie is an inspiration to all around her, having built successful companies while maintaining a healthy marriage and raising four children.

What inspires you each day to follow your dreams and set higher goals?

NA: “Every day I challenge myself to do something out of my comfort zone. Whatever it may be that day, fulfilling this challenge helps me get into a new state of mind and helps me see things from a different perspective. That in turn guides me to manifest and envision exactly what I want to achieve in goals and dreams moving forward.”

How do you develop a strong mindset (to overcome fears or challenges)?

NA: “I’ve learned to face everything as it comes my way and being in a state of vibrational flow. I am always putting myself in a place of gratitude and looking at everything as the cup half full vs empty. Even in the unfortunate circumstances that I don’t want to face, I face them and I always ask myself what’s the teachable moment and lesson to be learned from that event.

What tips would give a woman to develop more self-confidence?

NA: “Through many years of self-reflection, I would tell another woman trying to build their self-confidence to: love yourself, date yourself, take care of yourself, give yourself grace, respect yourself.”

What is your favorite part of your work? How does it personally fulfill you?

NA: “My favorite part of my job is when I see I’m making a difference in people’s lives and I see their lives change for the better. For example, we were blessed in that during the pandemic our company grew over 200%. This sent us on a hiring spree across all 50 states. We were able to hire many people who were in a state of disarray having been laid off from their previous jobs and worrying how they would take care of their families. Being able to provide them with a job to take that burden and fret off of their shoulders is something I am grateful to be able to offer.”

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

NA: “Be more kind and loving to myself.”

In 2007, aged 44 and after growing several successful businesses, Deb Farnworth-Wood moved from the UK to Australia to “retire”. Her retirement saw her build a $70M international Medi-Aesthetic Franchise, a shop fitting business, an aesthetic training school, an equipment supply company, and a skincare brand before exiting in 2019. This time, she took a full year off before building her 11th Company – ISSADA Cosmeceuticals. In addition to this, she was named Gold Coast Woman in Business of the Year in 2017 and was a national finalist in the EY Entrepreneur of the Year awards in 2016, and also serves as an Advisory Board Member and an Investor.

What inspires you each day to follow your dreams and goals?

DFW: “Simply the desire to live a full, active, and busy life. I need to have a sense of purpose, and I love to be busy, learn new things, and meet new people. I love a challenge. If I’m told something can’t be done, well, then my nature is to make it happen anyway. People told me no one would want Botox in a shopping centre, but I forged on regardless. At school, my housemistress told me I had no focus and would never amount to anything. Having recently discovered I have ADHD so much now makes sense! My mind is active all the time. It’s not that I have no focus – it’s that I focus on what I want to do, not what others want me to do!” 

How do you develop a strong mindset (to overcome fears and challenges)

DFW: “This took work! In my youth, I was shy and reserved and generally the last person to speak in a room. I had an unhappy childhood but managed to leave home at 16 by finding a college course that I couldn’t do in my hometown. While my father gave me a small allowance I also had to work to support myself through my studies. I think that toughened me up, but in business, every year has presented new challenges and eventually,  you just learn not to take them personally and to just keep on. I also have a no-regret policy – we all make decisions based on the best information we have at the time so there is no point in worrying over old mistakes.” 

What tips would you give women to develop more confidence?

DFW: “Life is hard, and you need to be surrounded by cheerleaders – hang out with people who lift you up not those who push you down. Take yourself on a voyage of self-discovery – challenge your own thinking and ideas, recognise your strengths, and work on your weaknesses. Travel alone, make new friends, and when it gets tough keep going.” 

What is your favorite part of your work? How does it fulfill you?

DFW: “Being around other people – whether it is my team, customers, suppliers or others. I like working in a team, and when you get that team right you fly, but creating the team takes effort and persistence. I love to see people succeed and grow personally and professionally and know that I was a part of that.”

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

DFW: “Embrace every positive and negative experience in life as an opportunity to learn and grow. We all have setbacks but life is too short to dwell on things we cannot change but we should always learn from them.”

Patty Arvielo is the CEO and Co-Founder of New American Funding, the largest Latina-owned private mortgage company nationwide. A first-generation Hispanic American, Patty and her husband, Rick, founded New American Funding in 2003 and today, she leverages more than 40 years of experience in the mortgage industry to lead the company’s sales and operation efforts. She manages the company’s operations and sales while overseeing 190 locations and approximately 3,600 employees nationwide. Patty was named to the 2022 Forbes “50 Over 50” list (in the money category), which honors women for their “historic achievements and barrier-breaking success after 50.” She was also named one of the 100 Influential Latinos by Bloomberg Linea, was inducted into the EY Entrepreneur of the Year Hall of Fame, named one of the Most Powerful Women in Mortgage by Mortgage Banker Magazine, recognized as one of the Top 100 Most Influential Latinas by Latino Leaders Magazine, and named Latina Style’s Latina Executive of the Year.

What inspires you each day to follow your dreams and set higher goals?

PA: “Life itself motivates me. I cherish it as a gift and realize that it doesn’t last forever. That drives me every day to make sure that I’m always being proactive towards my personal goals. It’s also helped me realize so many of my goals already, which then encourages me to keep pushing for bigger and better things.”

How do you develop a strong mindset (to overcome fears or challenges)? 

PA: “I use self-talk as a tool to work with when dealing with challenges and fear. I always tell myself that “this too shall pass.” That helps me know that what I’m feeling in the present will probably not exist in the future. That’s not to say that it’s easy, but realizing that these feelings are temporary helps me work through them without letting them overwhelm me.”

What tips would you give a woman to develop more self-confidence? 

PA: “Some people are raised with amazing self-confidence. But for those of us who were not, it’s about doing the things you fear the most and conquering your goals. Overcoming those challenges helps improve how you feel about yourself and increase your self-confidence. It is something I work on daily.”

What is your favorite part of your work? How does it personally fulfill you? 

PA: “I love being a leader to amazing team members. I love watching others grow and succeed with our company and with our platform. It’s an important goal of mine to empower and help women rise in our industry. Seeing them thrive fulfills me and encourages me to do more to help more people become their own success stories.”

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

PA: “I would tell my younger self that I love myself. I love myself enough to know that I deserve everything that was meant for me. That I’m unique in every way and that being different is my superpower!”

Lindsay Nahmiache, Founder of Jive PR + Digital, is an exceptional entrepreneur with a venture and private equity-inspired approach to scaling brands. With an impressive portfolio of 13 companies, including exits and a double unicorn, Lindsay’s expertise spans industries like med-tech and international music-tech, earning her recognition as USA Enterprising Women of the Year and in Canada’s 100 Most Powerful Women.

What inspires you each day to follow your dreams and set higher goals?

LN: “What inspires me each day to follow my dreams and set higher goals is the belief that every challenge presents an opportunity for growth and innovation and it makes me feel like I’m ‘fully living’. The thought of not being able to do these things makes me realize how lucky I am to have the opportunity to go out and create my life and help others do the same. I also have a 6-year-old that I want to set the best example – if you want something in life, you have the power to do it if you apply yourself and try. You may not end up where you thought you would but maybe that’s even better!”

How do you develop a strong mindset (to overcome fears or challenges)?

LN: “I’m reminded of the Disney movie that came out a couple of years ago called “Luca.” There is a part where his friend teaches Luca that if he hears a voice in his head telling him to be afraid or not do something, say to it loudly: “Silencio Bruno!.” Sometimes, that’s what it takes, you need to be aware of the false fear your mind tells you and interrupt its pattern by saying – “No, Silencio Bruno.” I also believe that mindset is a muscle, the more you pay attention to it and make it do something it finds hard, the easier it starts to get.”

What tips would you give a woman to develop more self-confidence?

LN: “Learn from others who have had to figure out the tools to help them have more confidence. I’m an avid consumer of self-growth content. Some great examples are Amy Cuddy’s TED Talk on the power of body language, as well as a great book called The Charisma Myth (which everyone should be made to read in high-school). Additionally, make sure you surround yourself with a supportive network of friends, mentors, and allies who uplift you. Become aware of how you feel around certain people, do some friends constantly gossip or criticize people? Maybe you should spend less time with them. It’s been scientifically proven that we take on a lot of the characteristics of the 5 people we spend the most time with, so be very careful about who you have in your circle as that will dictate your confidence and success levels in life.”

What is your favorite part of your work? How does it personally fulfill you?

LN: “My favorite part of my work is the people and conversations I have. From team members to clients and peers, I get charged by great conversations with people who are passionate and working on their growth. I also love being able to leverage my expertise in marketing and business investment to help brands grow. I love seeing the companies I’ve been involved in, from med-tech to music, film, and entertainment, turn into successful businesses that have a huge impact on the world. Additionally, being able to mentor and support the next generation of entrepreneurs through initiatives like developing a financial literacy and entrepreneurial app for kids and advising for companies, from start-ups to ones that are publicly listed.”

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

LN: “Think bigger. We often underestimate what we can actually achieve based on societal conditioning and wanting to fit in. I’ve read a lot of research on the fact that ‘thinking small’, is actually harder than thinking bigger because there are so many people doing it. People who think bigger, have less competition. There is a great book called “10X is Easier Than 2X” that describes this phenomenon if you want to learn more about it. My other advice would be ‘have more fun’ – ultimately life moves fast and you want to be able to look back and say, wow, I got to do and experience so much… and I’ve made some of the most amazing friendships along the way.”

One of the first visionaries at the intersection of tech and beauty, Alice H. Chang is the CEO of Perfect Corp. (NYSE: PERF), the leading AI and AR beauty and fashion tech solutions provider and the developer of the award-winning YouCam apps, where she leads the team in creating Beautiful AI innovations. Perfect Corp. powers virtual try-ons for major brands and retailers like Walmart, Estee Lauder, Google, and more. Their tech enables online customers to virtually try on different shades of makeup, nail polish, jewelry, etc., to find what’s right for them, and confidently order online. In addition to this, Alice has been recognized by Forbes as one of Asia’s Power Businesswomen and by Tech Trailblazers as a top female leader in Tech. Alice currently resides in Taipei, Taiwan, and holds an MBA from UCLA.

What inspires you each day to follow your dreams and set higher goals?

AC: “Innovation and change has been part of my DNA from a very young age, and it has inspired me throughout my career to strive for excellence and forge new frontiers in technology. I have always been a curious individual who isn’t afraid to ask questions and try new things, and I’ve set goals in my career accordingly. As the CEO of Perfect Corp., my goal is to harness the latest advancements in tech to improve the lives of consumers. Over the years, as we’ve introduced AI and AR solutions to the beauty and fashion industries, I’ve seen the many ways women and consumers are empowered by technology, and this has inspired me to set higher goals and continue innovating. Today at Perfect Corp., we have the most comprehensive suite of AI and AR solutions available on the market and we are continuing to introduce new technologies to help consumers discover the products best fit for their needs. As CEO, I have to be fearless and push forward, leading my team of young talents to dream big together with me. It is so rewarding when I can motivate my teams to dream big and achieve high. Only the sky’s the limit.”

How do you develop a strong mindset (to overcome fears or challenges)?

AC: “In order to develop a strong mindset when pursuing your goals, you need to be rooted in resilience and adaptability. Firstly, it’s crucial to embrace challenges you encounter along the way as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles, viewing them as essential steps in your journey. Establishing a mindset that acknowledges failures as valuable lessons fosters continuous learning and improvement. Additionally, acknowledging and addressing challenges head-on, whether they relate to decision-making or uncertainty, can empower you to make informed choices and build a foundation of confidence that will get you to the next level of success. Lastly, remember to prioritize yourself and practice self-care. This can include activities such as exercise, meditation, or engaging hobbies that bring you joy. This can help you to show up as your best and most confident self as you pursue your dreams.”

What tips would you give a woman to develop more self-confidence?

AC: “Developing self-confidence requires you to embrace your uniqueness and recognize that your unique perspective and experiences bring value to the table. Embrace what makes you unique as a strength and don’t be afraid to showcase it. This is necessary for growth as you pursue your dreams, and will allow you to shine in any industry you pursue.

Also, make it a point to continuously learn, grow, and stay curious. Expanding your knowledge and skills will give you the confidence to tackle new challenges head-on and feel empowered to contribute your point of view. More often than not, this will require you to step outside of your comfort zone, but being committed to continuous learning will allow you to become a thought leader and a true expert in your field.”

What is your favorite part of your work? How does it personally fulfill you?

AC: “As a leader in tech, I am energized by innovating, and developing creative technologies that improve the lives of consumers is one of the most rewarding aspects of my work. But, especially as a woman in the tech industry, I enjoy helping to break barriers that pave the way for the next generation of women leaders. One of my favorite parts about my work is creating empowering spaces and opportunities for women to shine and realize their potential. This mission is integral to how I lead my team at Perfect.

This focus on inclusivity and empowerment is also a key aspect of how we develop our AI technology and something that deeply fulfills me. When developing new technologies, inclusivity is imperative. The success of our technology as a true tool to aid in the consumer shopping experience is dependent on its accuracy and ability to work for all consumers – not just a segment of them. Ensuring that all consumers, regardless of ethnicity, age, gender, or other factors, can be empowered and helped by our technologies is an incredibly fulfilling part of my work.”

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

AC: “There are many pieces of advice I would give to my younger self, but if I had to pick one, I would tell my younger self to stay committed to my vision, and to be courageous in pursuit of that vision. Many people who are now leaders in their field will tell you that when they first started out, they faced adversity and skepticism from those who did not believe in their mission.

You have to be fearless and push forward, even when everyone around you may say that it can’t be done. It is equally important to stay persistent and work hard. Many times I see people fail because they gave up too easily on their dreams. Persevere through the challenges and you will be able to achieve your dreams and realize your potential.”

Rita Case is the President, CEO, and Owner of The Rick Case Automotive Group, the nation’s largest retail auto group owned and operated by a woman. The dealership group which produces $2 Billion in annual sales and ranks among the largest volume dealer groups nationally. The company owns numerous auto dealerships (including Maserati, Audi, Acura, VW, Honda, and other popular brands) located in South Florida and Atlanta, Georgia, and has been consistently recognized for setting national volume sale records. Rita has received national recognition for her contribution to the auto industry including a few significant awards such as TIME Dealer of the Year, “National Dealer of the Year” by USA Today; and Automotive News “Outstanding Women in the Auto Industry”. She has been recognized for her business leadership: Recipient of the 2022 Horatio Alger Award. Ernst and Young “Entrepreneur of the Year”, Nova Southeastern University inducted Rita into the “H. Wayne Huizenga Entrepreneur Hall of Fame”. As a major philanthropist who’s passionate about giving back, Rita and her husband Rick have developed and led events for non-profit groups which to date have raised over 100 million dollars for their communities. Rita balances her day with the dealership responsibilities, multiple community projects, and mentoring her adult children, Ryan and Raquel, in the business.

What inspires you each day to follow your dreams and set higher goals? 

RC: “My inspiration comes from my passion to simply help people, by providing the freedom of mobility that an automobile offers. I am proud to be a car dealer and my goals are to be respected as a positive leader, supporting the auto industry and the community. My dreams are to be the largest volume while earning recognition from my customers and manufacturers for operational excellence.”

How do you develop a strong mindset (to overcome fears or challenges)?

RC: “Education. Continually educating yourself on your career field will build your confidence.  Confidence is the key to overcome fear and tackle challenges. When you know the playing field, the game rules, and your competition, you feel strong, fearless, and ready for any challenge without fear of failure.”

What tips would you give a woman to develop more self-confidence? 

RC: “Self-confidence is built within, believing in yourself, being your own head cheerleader, and not letting others talk you out of following your path to succeed with your goals. Self-confidence is built from knowledge. When you know a topic, you aren’t afraid to speak about it, share your passion for the project, or know the answer to the discussion. Most everyone who crossed my career path said car dealers are men, so why do you want to be a car dealer? Because it was a fun career and everyone loved to talk about cars. I am self-confident because I worked hard to be knowledgeable about my career and its industry.”

What is your favorite part of your work? How does it personally fulfill you? 

RC: “I enjoy people, I want to be surrounded in my career by interacting with people and I most enjoy helping people which a car dealer does. I enjoy providing a career path for my energetic, hard-working, positive associates with a passion for being great in their profession. A car dealership offers so many career paths. There are 5 different businesses in a dealership. My favorite part of my work is the happiness I bring to my customers, my community, and my associates so they can all improve their lives with my leadership.”

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

RC: “When I graduated from college and became the general manager of the dealership at 21 years old, I wish I had taken more time to reach out and learn from other established successful dealers and how they achieved their success. I was too busy wanting to prove I could do it on my own. I did clearly prove I could do it on my own but as I look back, taking time in the beginning to seek education from other dealers in my town would have saved me time and straightened out the career path a bit. I could have learned faster and been more confident sooner, had I reached out for advice.”

Michelle Geib is the Co-founder and President of Xperience Days, which offers 1,000s of unique activity-based gifts across the US. From Food Tours to Racecar Driving, Flight Lessons to Wine Tasting, and Skydiving to Dinner Cruises, the range of activities offered across the US, UK, and South Africa includes both the relaxing and the heart-pounding. The Company was recognized by Inc 500 as one of the Country’s Fastest Growing Businesses; and, both the company and Michelle have been highlighted in over 100 publications and media outlets including Entrepreneur, The Huffington Post, Fox News, Yahoo Tech, The TODAY Show, and more.

What inspires you each day to follow your dreams and set higher goals?

MG: “I have always been driven and goal-oriented, even at a young age. Perhaps it’s a disproportionally large internal desire to keep raising the bar to new heights. Setting goals that seem a bit scary or too big. The fun is in figuring out a plan to achieve the goals I set for myself. I do this in both my professional life as well as my personal life. Achieving a goal and accomplishing a difficult task brings a level of personal fulfillment unlike any other. Whether it’s crossing the finish line of the Moab 240-mile foot race or launching a company, coming up with the idea, developing a plan, and working the steps to reach the finish line is the reward.”

How do you develop a strong mindset (to overcome fears or challenges)?

MG: “Developing a strong mindset comes with the practice of working towards and achieving minor goals. Minor goals can be used as mental stepping stones towards major milestones. Belief in yourself from the outset and learning to create a plan for success is key. Over time you gain strength from doing the work, learning how to draft a formula that will lead you to success. Understanding how to take achievable steps is one of the biggest keys to overcoming fears and challenges.”

What tips would give a woman to develop more self-confidence?

MG: “Greater self-confidence can be developed in a few ways, however, my overarching tip is to simply try. You never know if you can do something until you try. The more willing you are to try something the more courage you will develop overall. The more courage you have, the more likely you are to take on the task to achieve your big goal(s). So, the next time you think you might want to do something, say yes and just do it. It doesn’t need to be career-related. That willingness to try in one aspect of your life will translate to others.”

What is your favorite part of your work? How does it personally fulfill you?

MG: “My favorite part of my work is figuring out the puzzle pieces. Idea generation to strategy development, planning, and creation, to execution and seeing the end result. Turning an idea into a real thing is what drives me.”

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

MG: “One piece of advice I’d give my younger self is to start running, you’ll like it. I began running about a decade ago at the age of 36. Today I now run ultra-marathons and have completed (and won) events ranging from 4 miles to 240 miles. Running is many things to me and has had a great impact on my personal and professional life. In addition to the health benefits, it helps with creativity and idea generation and my productivity, goal setting, and level of confidence. It has been a conversation starter at corporate functions and opened doors that never even knew were there to walk through in my younger years.”

Heather Sloan and Enwei Li are the Founders of HEALI, a health and wellness company determined to improve the approach to injury prevention, rehabilitation, and pain relief. By developing Heali Tape, the company’s first product, the dynamic duo is driven to offer people the solution to continue leading an active lifestyle while naturally helping speed up the body’s recovery process.

Heather trained and practiced as a chiropractor and later spent many years in medical product sales in healthcare facilities. She is also an active patient using chiropractic, massage, and acupuncture treatments to help heal various conditions. Heather has always been very active and has a strong interest in health, sports, and living an active lifestyle. Heather was inspired to create a natural way to help heal injuries quicker. Heather’s goal was to provide temporary pain relief while also continuing to support the body so athletes could continue to train and compete.

Li was a TCM practitioner and has always had a passion for design and combining health and beauty. Li’s practice had a strong focus on Chinese Medicine and integrating Eastern practices into the Western working world. Many of Li’s patients requested a portable solution that had a non-offensive (mild/vanishing) scent – to help them with day-to-day issues such as back pain, wrist issues, and other desk jobs and work-related injuries. Li was inspired to create different natural and stylish options to help teens, adults, and the geriatric population.

What inspires you each day to follow your dreams and set higher goals? 

HS & EL: “We are very passionate founders who want to make a difference.  Listening to countless stories about how HEALI has helped people with pain relief or recovery or allowing them to do something they previously couldn’t is so inspiring and exciting that we are doing some good in the world.  We have both always wanted to create something on our own and living out this reality and sharing it as friends is super rewarding and a lot of fun.

It is also incredible to be Women Founders and part of this incredible group of Business Women who continue to support each other and lift each other up.  We have been incredibly lucky to have had so many connections, mentors, and introductions and we are motivated to grow HEALI and share our wisdom and success to help the next generation of Women leaders.”

How do you develop a strong mindset (to overcome fears or challenges)? 

HS & EL: “Both of us as founders were born with determination and strong mindsets so it comes naturally for us to work hard and not stop, no matter what the challenge.  We have also learned that you can build resistance kind of like building a muscle.  As you overcome each challenge the bar moves and you can withstand greater challenges.  The key is to just keep going.  There is always a solution or another path.”

What tips would give a woman to develop more self-confidence?

HS & EL: “Not to worry about anyone else or what others are thinking.  There will always be talkers and judgers and nay-sayers. Do what feels right inside and you will naturally attract the right opportunities and move forward.  Above all believe in yourself and don’t be afraid to repeat it to yourself multiple times a day…..You’ve got this!”

What is your favorite part of your work? How does it personally fulfill you? 

HS & EL: “Our favorite part of HEALI is truly to be able to create something that helps people live healthy lives – No matter where you live or how much you have  – health really is the deciding factor as to what you can do with your life.  HEALI is creating Natural Wellness products that can actually allow people to go do what they love or to live a pain-free existence – knowing you can help so many people is motivating and pushes both Li and me to create more products to help solve issues in a new and better way.”

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

HS & EL: “Don’t take things personally, everyone is going through life and doing what they need based on their own perspective, it’s all relative and most of the time not about you.

I once heard a quote that has stuck with me and shaped these thoughts…  “A girl on a farm sees a plane fly overhead and dreams of a faraway place.  A Woman on the plane looks down and sees a farm…and dreams of home.”

Angel Vossough is the CEO and Co-Founder of BetterAI, a Silicon Valley-based AI service provider. Angel is a technology leader and serial entrepreneur and was previously a Senior Network Engineer at Cisco Systems, specializing in Network Architecture for major telecommunications companies including Verizon Wireless. She subsequently founded DiverseUp, a public-benefit corporation building a professional community for technical & scientific women. She is also Co-Founder & Managing Partner at Caspian Capital, an early-stage investment firm focusing on deep tech, biotech, and AI; and was Co-Founder of OpenCovidScreen, a non-profit focused on driving innovation in low-cost, accessible COVID-19 testing. She holds dual bachelor’s degrees in Mathematics and Computer Engineering, as well as master’s degrees in Software Engineering from San Jose State University and Data Science from UC Berkeley where she graduated with honors.

What inspires you each day to follow your dreams and set higher goals?

AV: “My motivation stems from curiosity and the desire to make a meaningful impact. Learning is a source of genuine happiness for me, driving my passion for continuous growth and innovation. The potential to make a positive impact on the world through technology drives me. I see AI as a powerful tool to solve complex problems and improve lives. Knowing that my contributions might lead to advancements in fields like healthcare or create new opportunities motivates me to push boundaries.”

How do you develop a strong mindset (to overcome fears or challenges)?

AV: “Developing a strong mindset involves embracing challenges as part of my journey. I maintain a positive attitude, viewing obstacles and mistakes as valuable learning opportunities. The sense of accomplishment and growth I experience after overcoming challenges fuels my energy and helps me to develop a strong growth mindset. I focus on the process rather than fixating on the end goal. Breaking down large challenges into smaller, achievable tasks makes them less intimidating.  I also remind myself that setbacks are a natural part of growth, and I try to learn from them instead of being discouraged.”

What tips would you give a woman to develop more self-confidence?

AV: “I would advise young women to acknowledge that perfection is unattainable and embrace learning from mistakes without fear of failure. It’s important to prioritize self-respect, not be overly concerned with others’ opinions, and understand that it’s impossible to please everyone. Celebrate your wins, no matter how small. Recognizing your accomplishments builds a foundation of self-belief. Surround yourself with supportive people who uplift you and challenge you to grow. And don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone – that’s where confidence often flourishes.”

What is your favorite part of your work? How does it personally fulfill you?

AV: “Personally, my favorite aspect of my work lies in learning and exploring the unknown. Discovering and innovating within the dynamic field of AI technology gives me a sense of fulfillment. I love the collaborative nature of building AI solutions. Working with brilliant engineers, scientists, and domain experts inspires me daily. Knowing that our technology could potentially improve people’s lives brings immense personal fulfillment.”

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

AV: “My advice is to remember that every risk taken is a step towards discovering your true potential and carving out your unique path in the world. This isn’t easy, and requires confidence and a willingness to embrace uncertainty, knowing that’s where growth comes. Don’t be afraid to take calculated risks and embrace the unknown. Some of the most rewarding experiences come from venturing outside the familiar.  Trust your instincts, and don’t let self-doubt hold you back.”

May today remind you that you can do anything in life – you just have to tap into your innate superpowers to realize that you’re a modern-day Wonder Woman. As an Executive & Entrepreneur, I’ve learned that we need to find the courage to believe in ourselves, imagine limitless possibilities, and passionately pursue anything our heart desires.

If you’re looking to read more inspiring words from other successful Wonder Women, check out previous years’ guides from Inspirations & Celebrations featuring exclusive advice from many of the world’s most incredible and talented women, including top executives, notable industry leaders, best-selling authors, celebrities and more.