BUSINESS Lifestyle chats to Elisabeth Villiger Toufexis, Life Coach, author of “The Soul Kit – first aid for the soul” and founder of the Global Woman Club Cyprus.
WHY DID YOU SET UP GLOBAL WOMAN’S CLUB It’s a wonderful way for women to connect and as the slogan goes: Global Woman empowers women locally and connects them globally. Starting a club in Cyprus was a test, I wasn’t sure how women would react to it, but the result is that every meeting gets better and better, there’s an amazing number of phenomenal women on the island. WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF THE CLUB It’s for entrepreneurs and businesswomen to connect, network and pitch their business. Members of the club get two minutes speaking time at every meeting, and I make sure that everybody speaks to each other. Women find new opportunities and also make friends; there’s a wonderful feeling of support and we look out for each other. WHY DO YOU THINK IT IS SO POPULAR We are creating a safe and nonjudgmental space, women
feel comfortable. It’s a friendly, inspiring and meaningful event of people who want to better themselves and the world. There’s no hidden agenda and we also have a good laugh. HAVE YOU ENCOUNTERED ANY OBSTACLES BEING A WOMAN IN BUSINESS IN CYPRUS Gender equality in Cyprus still has a long way to go. Me personally, I am a doer and I don’t think too much about obstacles. I grew up with my grandparents and had to fend for myself for a very early age which made me tough and determined, obstacles are steppingstones to grow. WHY DO YOU THINK YOU CHANGE PEOPLE’S LIVES I make people understand that they are responsible for their lives, and I make them move from the passengers to the driver’s seat. Not all people have this desire, and
they usually only come to see me once because they don’t want to know about their responsibilities because it’s easier to blame someone but of course, at the same time, they give their power away. I walk my talk and love my live and I show it. DO YOU HAVE ANY UNFULFILLED AMBITIONS I would love to get invited to motivational, inspirational events all over the world and speak from a big stage because then I can combine my two passions, travelling and inspiring people.
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