Top Women Leader Coaches To Follow In 2024 | CIO Women Magazine by CIO Women Magazine

To Follow In 2024

L EADER COACHES Pg. 10

Gloria Steinem: A Feminist with a Spine

20 Must-Read Quotes by Photographers to Inspire the Photographer in You Pg. 38

Machu Picchu: A Wonderland of Hidden Stories Pg. 30

FEBRUARY 2024

TYANN

OSBORN Founder

OSBORN CONSULTING GROUP, LLC

A Visiary

TOP WOMEN

CORPORATE WORKFORCE DYNAMICS

Leader Shaping

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FROM EDITOR’S DESK

“There were a hundred, a thousand, a million diﬀerent ways to be a girl, and that all of them were valid” ― Seanan McGuire

Dear Readers, Greetings and welcome to the latest edition of our magazine, where we proudly present the much-anticipated issue, “Top Women Leader Coaches to Follow In 2024.” In this edition, we celebrate the extraordinary achievements and leadership prowess of women who are making waves in the coaching industry, inspiring and empowering individuals across the globe. As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of professional development and personal growth, the role of leadership coaches has become increasingly pivotal. The women featured in this issue are not only breaking barriers but also reshaping the narrative surrounding leadership, proving that success knows no gender. Within these pages, you will find insightful profiles of exceptional women who have demonstrated exceptional leadership coaching skills. From guiding executives to nurturing emerging talents, each profile showcases the unique approach and perspective these leaders bring to the table. Whether they specialize in executive coaching, career development, or life coaching, these women are trailblazers in their respective fields. In a world where diversity and inclusion are at the forefront of discussions, it is essential to highlight the achievements of women who are not just making strides but leaving an indelible mark on the coaching industry. Through their dedication, expertise, and passion, these women are not only transforming individual lives but also contributing to a more inclusive and dynamic professional landscape. On the cover of this magazine, we have featured Tyann Osborn (Founder of Osborn Consulting Company, LLC). In addition to the cover story, this issue also features insightful articles and interviews that delve into the latest trends, challenges, and innovations in the world of leadership coaching. We aim to provide you, our valued readers, with a comprehensive view of the current state of the industry and the groundbreaking strategies employed by these top women leader coaches. We hope you enjoy reading this edition as much as we enjoyed putting it together!

Utkarsh D.

COVER STORY

20 Tyann Osborn

First Lady Women

Gloria Steinem: A Feminist with a Spine

Monuments

Machu Picchu: A Wonderland of Hidden Stories

Blog

20 Must-Read Quotes by Photographers to Inspire the Photographer in You

loria Steinem is a journalist, writer, political activist, and editor who dares to voice for women. Feminism has been the talk of the town for centuries. Gloria spent her early years in a house trailer traveling with her parents. After her parents divorced in 1946, Gloria Steinem settled with her mother in Toledo, Ohio, and attended school regularly for the first time. Her mother was diagnosed with Chronic Depression, so she had to take up the responsibility for her health and medication too. After graduating from Smith College in 1956, Steinem went to India for a scholarship. She took part in non-violent rallies against government policy. In 1960, she began working as a journalist in the New York Times Magazine. She was a political columnist and she wrote feature articles. As a freelance writer, she was published in Esquire and women’s magazines. She co-founded Ms. Magazine in 1972 and has been one of the editors for fifteen years and continues to serve as a counseling editor. Her desire to fight for women's rights is crystal clear. Equal rights for all was her aim and objective.

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1. Women's Action Alliance: It supported and guided individual women, women's centers, and women's groups through various projects.

2. National Women's Political Caucus: The NWPC is a non-partisan U.S. organization dedicated to recruiting, training, and supporting women in government roles.

3. Women's Media Center: In 2005, Jane Fonda, Robin Morgan, and Gloria Steinem founded the Women’s Media Center, a nonpartisan organization promoting women's visibility and inﬂuence in media.

4. Helped to establish Women Centric Organizations: The WAA’s mission was to assist local activists through technical and communications support and through them, to create change on a national scale.

Gloria Steinem has set up “social-cause-focused” organizations and contributed a lot the society. MINDMAP FORMAT with a summary 1. Women’s Action Alliance: It was founded by Gloria Steinem, Brenda Feigen Fasteau, Catherine Samuels, and others to provide resources to women working to change their lives by overcoming sexism and sex determination. Within a few months of its formation, the Women’s Action Alliance was receiving about two hundred letters weekly from women all over the nation seeking advice and information. 2. National Women Caucus: The group’s main purpose is to get women into power positions, women who are committed to the causes of other women who are going to just imitate the male politics as it has been practiced all these years. An organizing committee for the NWPC was hosted in Washington, DC from July 10 to 11, 1971. A count of 324 women was confirmed that represented 27 states and the District of Columbia too. 3. Women’s Media Center: To be able to reach the necessary goals, WMC strategically uses an array of interconnected channels and platforms to transform not only the media landscape but also a culture in which women’s and girls’ voices, stories, experiences, and images are neither sufficiently amplified nor placed on par with the voices, stories, and experiences. 4. Helped to establish Women Centric Organizations: The group created a network of feminist activists, coordinated resources, and led initiatives on several issues. The Women’s Action Alliance helped to raise discussion for a national agenda of feminist legislation, developed strategies for countering gender stereotypes in developmental education and helped open the first battered women’s shelters.

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Books: Besides the many books Gloria Steinem has written, her writing appears in many anthologies and textbooks. The poems and her writings in the anthologies have created a significant impact and have inspired many women. She has written several best-seller books and has been featured in many women-oriented magazines. Her paternal grandmother, Pauline Steinem, was the chairwoman of the educational committee of the National Woman Suffrage Association. Here is a list of her bestsellers: My life on the road: It is a book about how the early years of Gloria Steinem led her to live an on-the-road kind of life, traveling, listening to people, learning, and creating change. Revolution from Within: A Book of Self-Esteem: For a long time, Gloria has been a part of the social revolution against injustice. In this book, she decides to restore the self-awareness that the injustice has sabotagedin men as well as women, across boundaries of race, religion, age, and ability. Outrageous Acts and Everyday Rebellions: About this book, Gloria Steinem says this book is a great reflection on the struggles many people before have made to make her liberties a reality. She realizes very well that even in today’s times many women do not enjoy equality. Moving Beyond Words: The women’s movements which are carried on in the 1990’s, are scrutinized by Gloria Steinem in this book. She offers possibilities for the future, focusing on such issues as economic empowerment, women politicians, and life affirmations that affect women today. As If Women Matter: A series of thought-provoking essays on feminism brings out the many forms of disgraceful facts that revolve around it. Gloria Steinem has implemented extensive research on the subject in a developing country like India and many other developing countries.

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Some Interesting facts about Gloria Steinem: 1. Gloria’s mother was a writer too: Before the birth of Gloria Steinem, her mother, Ruth, had been a reporter and an editor for a newspaper. She used a male pseudonym so that her work would get published. Her husband gave her a penniless and nomadic lifestyle which she couldn’t bear. Resulting in her taking the tough decision of divorcing her husband and falling into depression and dependent on tranquilizers. Gloria had to take care of her mother post all these events at a young age. 2. She used to write sketch comedy for a television show: In 1964 Gloria Steinem wanted a short break from print journalism so she opted to write for a sketch comedy show named That Was the Week That Was, which aired on BBC. It was for the time being for BBC too. The 30-minute live show hosted by David Frost included satirical sketches about each week’s political news and featured celebrities like Alan Alda, Henry Fonda, and Gene Hackman. 3. Helped to establish two famous magazines: In 1968, Gloria Steinem helped launch New York magazine, where she wrote a political column and the occasional long-form content. During the December 1971 issue of the magazine, she headed the development of an insert titled Ms. that covered women-centric articles and subjects. She continued to work for the publication for 15 years and is still considered an important part. 4. Lived in the same building for more than half a century: In 1966, she lived in a rented apartment on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. She bought the apartment in the 1990s and purchased another one soon after. Till 2017, she was the owner of 5 such apartments in the brownstone building. The third apartment which she bought was used as a meeting place for traveling feminists. 5. Christian Bale’s stepmother: She got married at the age of 66 which was quite a surprise for the public. As she got married to a British businessman and animal rights activist David Bale, she became the stepmother of Christian Bale, an Oscar-award-winning actor. To her misfortune, David Bale tragically succumbed to brain cancer in 2003 and passed away.

Awards and Recognitions:

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Cover Story

TyAnn Osborn A Visionary Leader Shaping Corporate Workforce Dynamics Osborn Consulting Group, LLC | Founder

t the heart of any successful company lies its invaluable asset – its workforce. The pitfalls of toxic work culture often stem from misplaced expectations, a topic frequently explored in articles and interviews. The question arises: is the employee truly incompetent (unlikely - after all, you hired them), or has the company failed to unlock their full potential by diverting them from their expertise (more likely)?

To answer this, TyAnn Osborn, a visionary leader and strengths coach, champions the belief that every individual within a company possesses unique strengths. And when harnessed correctly, these strengths can lead to unparalleled success for the company. With a mission to propagate this straightforward yet profound concept, Ty has become one of the top women leader coaches, dedicating her expertise to shaping corporate environments globally.

CIO Women Magazine |

Cover Story

About

TyAnn

Ty is a beacon of transformational guidance and empowerment in the realm of personal and professional development. Serving as a success guide and strengths guru, she is dedicated to accompanying individuals on their journey towards being the best they can be. Through her innovative strengths-based training and coaching, she unlocks the untapped potential within leaders and employees, allowing them to recognize the inherent value of their unique abilities.

TyAnn’s approach fosters heightened engagement, strengthened relationships, and an authentic presence in daily life. With a wealth of experience, she has positively impacted the lives of thousands, architecting stronger, more fulﬁlling paths for those under her guidance.

TyAnn’s Diverse Range of Services Strengths-based Workshops 6 Month Executive Coaching Conference Keynotes & Breakouts Educational & Professional Blueprint for Entrepreneurship TyAnn’s educational and professional journey is a testament to her dynamic style, expertise and adaptability. Armed with a BBA in Economics and Management from Baylor University and an MBA from St. Edward’s University, she embarked on a career that blended academic prowess with practical experience. Her professional journey began at a management consulting ﬁrm, where she discovered a passion for solving problems quickly. This early experience planted the seeds for her aspirations of establishing her own consulting company. Excelling in process improvement assignments at PepsiCo’s food distribution division and Dell Technologies became the canvas for most of her corporate endeavors. Following a rewarding tenure, Ty transitioned to Michael and Susan Dell’s private family foundation, where she crafted a global human resources function and collaborated closely with employees and grantees around the world.

Ultimately, after ﬁve impactful years, the time ripened for Ty to channel her wealth of experience into her venture. However, she acknowledges that her most profound lessons stem from real-world experiences and the wisdom imparted by others, emphasizing the dynamic interplay between education and hands-on learning in shaping her entrepreneurial journey. From Corporate Insights to Personal Empowerment While working at the corporate organizations, Ty noticed a common issue in performance evaluations – too much focus on what employees lacked, with little attention to their strengths. The idea of making everyone well-rounded often meant moving them away from what they were good at or had interest in. In 2001, she discovered the book “Now Discover Your Strengths” by Dr. Don Clifton and Marcus Buckingham, which changed her perspective. It introduced the idea that people can grow a lot in their strengths but only a little in other areas. This realization and the burnout from the demands of corporate life led Ty to start her venture, focusing on helping others rediscover their talents. What began as a solo venture in 2012 has evolved into a team comprising a bookkeeper, executive assistant, social media manager, and brand and marketing manager. Today, TyAnn’s clientele ranges from nonproﬁts to Fortune 50 companies and spans industries. This accomplishment results from Ty’s success in instilling the belief that the world of strengths knows no limits in terms of functions or company size.

CIO Women Magazine |

Learning beyond the Classroom Beyond her education, a crucial factor shaping TyAnn’s entrepreneurial journey was the profound inﬂuence of her mother, who was an English teacher for almost 40 years. Immersed in a world of literature, her mother’s constant references to books ignited TyAnn’s love for reading, shaping her belief that leaders are avid readers. This early passion for learning became a cornerstone of Ty’s philosophy, and she now imparts invaluable advice to her clients, emphasizing the transformative power of dedicating just 30 minutes daily to professional development through reading. Furthermore, her entrepreneurship journey is deeply intertwined with her personal life experiences and a steadfast belief in the power of independence. Growing up, she fostered a strong sense of self-reliance, fueled by the notion that achieving anything was possible with determination. This intrinsic belief in the realm of possibilities serves as a guiding force in her entrepreneurial endeavors. As a result, TyAnn is motivated to inspire others who dream of starting their own business. She wants them to know that achieving their entrepreneurial dreams is possible no matter their situation. TyAnn’s Tale of Trials, Triumphs, and Transformations Embarking on her entrepreneurial journey after years of hard work in the corporate world, Ty’s ﬁrst instinct was to take a break, something she had never allowed herself before. Yearning for a lengthy sabbatical, she envisioned time to decompress before delving into the complexities of creating a business. At this point, she lacked a business name, website, pricing model, or a clear outline of her services.

In the initial stages, Ty faced the typical entrepreneur’s dilemma—accepting consulting projects that did not align precisely with her desired focus. This early compromise, driven by the fear of financial uncertainty, brought forth the challenge of repositioning herself later for projects aligned with her true passion. She now cautions others about this trap. Another challenge that emerged after a few years in business was the need for robust systems and support structures. This limitation hindered growth, forcing TyAnn to spend excessive time in areas of weakness rather than leveraging her strengths. The turning point came when she recognized the need for support in operations, administration, online presence, and brand development, leading to transformative improvements in her business approach. Leadership Mantra TyAnn’s leadership philosophy centers around the belief that leadership is an active, ongoing process where awareness of the impact on others is paramount. For her, leading is not confined to managing large groups; it’s a constant responsibility regardless of the scale. She underscores the significance of understanding that every action leaves an impression once in a leadership position. Individuals observe and learn from their leader when leading a substantial team or a smaller group. It’s a perpetual influence, and TyAnn advocates for being the kind of leader that others aspire to emulate, fostering an environment where people are drawn towards leadership rather than seeking an escape. A Strengths-Driven Success Story

However, her plan for a leisurely break took an unexpected turn. Instead of the anticipated respite, TyAnn found herself immediately sought after by clients eager for her consulting expertise. Though it was a favorable circumstance, it presented a unique challenge: building a business while actively engaged in client work. The necessity of simultaneous creation and implementation proved demanding, reshaping her early entrepreneurial experience. It wasn’t until later that Ty felt she could carve out time for herself by ultimately crafting a life where work was fulﬁlling rather than necessitating an escape.

The enduring success of Ty’s company can be attributed to her unwavering passion for the work she does—bringing the transformative gift of strengths to the world. It’s not just a job for her; it’s a source of genuine joy and motivation. This profound love for her craft not only lights up TyAnn’s professional journey but serves as a driving force that propels her forward. Her commitment to sharing invaluable insight into strengths has created a lasting impact, resonating with clients and fostering a sense of fulﬁllment.

Cover Story CIO Women Magazine |

Cover Story Entrepreneurial Resilience in the Post-Pandemic Era In the post-pandemic landscape, entrepreneurship has undergone a significant transformation. Remote work has emerged as a prevalent and efficient mode of operation. TyAnn acknowledges that the pandemic acted as a catalyst, hastening the adoption of remote collaboration. Initially facing a dip in business due to the suspension of live training and speaking engagements, Ty pivoted swiftly in response to client demands for virtual alternatives. This shift not only allowed her to adapt to the new normal but also led to an unexpected boon—she attracted even more clients than before. The limitations imposed by travel budgets and physical space for in-person events became obsolete, unlocking the potential to serve clients globally without constraints. Now, the virtual realm provides an expansive platform, eliminating geographical barriers and allowing an unlimited number of participants to engage in virtual sessions. The pandemic-induced changes have redefined the entrepreneurial landscape, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of businesses. TyAnn’s experience serves as an example of how embracing virtual modes of operation became crucial. It not only sustained her business during challenging times but also opened up unprecedented opportunities for growth. The shift to virtual operations enabled her to expand her outreach on a global scale. TyAnn’s Quest to A Life Aligned As an avid reader, Ty always harbored the desire to pen down her life story and share it with the world. If she were to encapsulate her journey, it would bear the title “A Life Aligned,” which is also the name of the book she is currently writing. In this forthcoming work, Ty delves into the challenges of fitting into societal molds, initially feeling at odds with predefined expectations. The narrative unfolds as a revelation, emphasizing the realization that one size does not fit all and that there exists a unique place in the world for individual gifts. The choice of this title mirrors TyAnn’s narrative of breaking free from the constraints of conformity and aligning her life with her inherent gifts.

Future Horizons Looking ahead in her consulting journey, TyAnn reflects on past uncertainties about the enduring allure of strengths work. Today, she enthusiastically affirms that helping individuals discover their talents brings boundless joy and energy, propelling her forward. Her passion for the transformative impact of strengths remains steadfast and intensifies over time, revealing a profound connection to the work that transcends monotony. Ty is eager to expand her reach and extend services to a broader clientele each year, with her ambitious vision supported by an exceptional team and collaborative partnerships with fellow strengths experts. Sound Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs For budding entrepreneurs, TyAnn offers valuable advice rooted in her journey. Firstly, she encourages those who want to create something of their own to heed that inner whisper. In a world filled with noise, they should tune in, pay attention, and jot down ideas that can add value to the world. Listening to the inner voice and envisioning the contribution one wishes to make sets the foundation for entrepreneurial endeavors. In navigating the present, Ty advises intentional thinking for those who still need to be in their desired work position. Deliberately consider the skills being acquired, recognizing them as building blocks for the future. Additionally, individuals should acknowledge compliments received at work, as they often unveil hidden talents and areas where one can contribute substantial value. While embarking on this journey, finding joy and fostering a love for learning is crucial. Rather than rushing through the educational and professional journey, TyAnn suggests savoring the process and embracing moments of fun and curiosity. Her advice serves as a reminder that the journey is not just about climbing the corporate ladder but also about finding fulfillment and avoiding the pitfalls of burnout.

CIO Women Magazine |

ith every step, I lost a small fraction of my consciousness. I was intoxicated. The breeze traveled long through the mountains and seas and peeped through the gaps between the stones at Machu Picchu. As if the air was the catalyst between the centuries-old walls and the story of the hands that made them. It whispered in my ears, unclear and camouﬂaged with the sweet smell of the mountains. After several failed attempts I gave up, and those whispers transformed into melodies like a French song. However, this was just the beginning, as the perfectly engineered stones turned into alphabets and the walls became a paragraph, each portraying stories. Stories of the people who lived here cooked food, and danced all night long under the twinkling stars. Machu Picchu is a place of mystery bundled up in the beauty of nature. Its rich history and the untamed culture based on the womb of nature makes it one of the best place to visit. Not just travelers and explorers admire it, but also adored by architects, archaeologists, and researchers worldwide. However, a lot about this place is unknown, and questions are ﬂung like why it was abandoned. What and whom was it built for? This article is the answer to all of these questions and the ultimate guide for the one who dreams of traveling to this paradise.

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Tales of the Past Nestled in the rocky countryside northwest of Cuzco, Peru, Machu Picchu is believed to be a royal estate or sacred Inca site. It remained hidden for centuries after the fall of the Inca civilization to Spanish invaders in the 16th century. The sprawling citadel spans 5 miles, featuring over 3,000 stone steps connecting its diverse levels. Built during the height of the Inca Empire in the 15th and 16th centuries, it was likely abandoned around a century later, coinciding with the Spanish conquest in the 1530s. While there's no evidence of direct Spanish attacks, some speculate that its residents left due to a smallpox epidemic. Modern archaeologists lean towards Machu Picchu serving as a royal estate for Inca rulers, though many theories exist, suggesting it might have been a religious site or even a hub for trade, testing new crops, a women's retreat, or a city for royal coronations. The mysteries surrounding this place continue to captivate, leaving room for various interpretations of its historical purpose. Stumbling Hiram “In the summer of 1911, I, an American archaeologist, Hiram Bingham, set foot in Peru with a small team of explorers. Our mission was to find Vilcabamba, the last Inca stronghold to fall to the Spanish. On foot and by mule, we ventured into the Urubamba Valley, where a local farmer told us about ruins atop a nearby mountain called Machu Picchu, meaning “old peak” in Quechua. On July 24, after a challenging climb in cold weather, I, along with a group of peasants led by an 11-year-old boy, discovered the stone terraces marking the entrance to Machu Picchu.” “Excited about this find, I shared it in a popular book, “The Lost City of the Incas,” attracting tourists to the once-obscure Inca Trail. I excavated artifacts from Machu Picchu, sparking a custody dispute with Yale University, where I took the items for inspection. While I'm credited for making Machu Picchu known globally, it's uncertain if I was the first outsider to visit, as evidence suggests others may have explored the site earlier but were less vocal about their discoveries.” These would have been the very words of Hiram Bingham, the real-life Indiana Jones if he was still alive. Reaching the top of this old peak, he pulled out his notebook and wrote, “Fine ruins....fine houses, streets, stairs”, took some photos, and left soon after, convinced he had seen all there was to see.

Figure SEQ Figure \* ARABIC 2 Hiram Bingham at Machu Picchu, Peru, 1912.

An Engineering Enigma Hiram Bingham was right about the Inca being skilled engineers, as seen in his 1913 observations. Luckily, he was also a good photographer, and his 1930 photo of the Agricultural Sector and the intact canal, abandoned for over three centuries, proves the Inca's engineering prowess. The photo displays a 1 percent grade reach of 31 meters. Bingham's 3D drawing of the community in 1930 reveals the canal aqueduct over the “Dry Moat” and the lost aqueduct, emphasizing the Inca's hydraulic engineering capabilities. Despite Bingham's limited time in 1912 at Machu Picchu, he acknowledged the Inca's extraordinary skills in planning and designing water supply systems, showcasing their ability to harmonize nature with human needs through accumulated knowledge and expertise.

Photo of the Agricultural Sector and the intact canal by Hiram Bingham, 1930.

New symphony Enough about the history, it is now time to discuss the present situation of Machu Picchu. Ever since it was designated as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007, it has become the most visited attraction and South America's most famous ruins, welcoming hundreds of thousands of people a year. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983, led to a drastic increase in tourism, hence the development of nearby towns and environmental degradation. This increased number of visitors also endangered the home to several diverse species. As a result, the Peruvian government has taken steps to protect the ruins and prevent erosion of the mountainside in recent years.

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Best Parts of Machu Picchu During the tour, I witnessed some of the most fascinating parts wrapped in architectural beauty, each telling a story. It has a total of 196 tourist spots, including archaeological sites, squares, temples, water fountains, monuments, and residences. All are intricately connected with the natural surroundings. The citadel is divided into two distinct sectors by a 400-meter wall. One focused on agriculture with terraces and farmer houses, and the other urban featured the Royal Residence, the Sacred Plaza, and the Intihuatana Pyramid with a solar clock. Here is the list of the parts each contributed to my intoxication.

The Temple of the Condor Home to a large rock shaped like the Andean bird, a symbol of power and fertility. Ÿ Part of the Inca trilogy with the puma and the snake. Ÿ It is believed to be a site for celebrating and worshiping rituals.

The Temple of the Sun A sacred space dedicated to adoring and worshiping the Sun god. Ÿ Access was restricted to priests and the elite of the Inca Empire. Ÿ Used for making oﬀerings and paying homage to the powerful celestial entity. Ÿ

Huayna Picchu

Intihuatana Renowned monolithic sculpture in Machu Picchu, functioning as a solar clock. Ÿ Used shadows to create an astronomical calendar, measuring time and marking the seasons. Ÿ Signiﬁcant in deﬁning the beginning and end of each year's seasons. Ÿ

The mountain towering at 2720 meters, serves as a surveillance center for Machu Picchu. Ÿ Provided a panoramic view of the valley, enabling the Incas to detect potential attacks. Ÿ Known as the Old Mountain, features carved stairs leading to the summit. Ÿ

The Sacred Rock Enormous monolith with dimensions reaching three meters in height on a seven-meter base. Ÿ One of the most mystical symbols and is believed to have astronomical signiﬁcance. Ÿ Speculated to be oriented for the study of stars. Ÿ

A Natural Wonderland Beyond History Machu Picchu is more than a historic site, it's a haven for diverse and exotic flora and fauna. Nestled between the Andes and the Peruvian Amazon, with the Urubamba River flowing through it, the sanctuary supports a rich biodiversity. Among the inhabitants are the Andean fox, puma, vizcacha, spectacled bear, and white-tailed deer, complemented by over 420 bird species. These include the striking cock of the rocks and the majestic Andean condor. With more than 30,000 hectares of wooded areas, steep mountains, and snowcapped peaks, it boasts diverse tree species. Notably, the sanctuary is a floral paradise, hosting 370 types of orchids, making it the world's largest collection of native orchids, as recognized by the American Orchid Society.

Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu remains open year-round, with October to April being the oﬃcial rainy season, though rain is possible at any time. Peak crowds are in July and August, and Sundays, when locals from the Cusco province visit for free, tend to be the busiest. There is no ideal time to visit due to consistent crowds and unpredictable weather. During the rainy season, mornings are often foggy, which can either obscure or enhance the view depending on personal preference. Afternoons may see fewer visitors as day-trippers head back to Cusco. However, I was lucky enough to witness the melting sun from this high altitude as the stars seemed even closer.

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The Inca Trail and Other Treks An adventurous option to reach Machu Picchu from Cusco is by joining an organized multi-day trek on the Inca Trail, part of the extensive network of Incan roads. While it may seem challenging, thousands like me choose this option to trek annually. Numerous tour operators provide Inca Trail hikes with diﬀerent durations and comfort levels all involving camping. Keep in mind that the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance every February.

Salkantay Mountain

Choquequirao

Lares

Height

Approximately 20,574 feet (6,271 meters)

Approximately 10,010 feet (3,050 meters)

Varies based on speciﬁc trekking routes within the Lares region. However, approximately can be 15,777 feet (4809 meters)

Trek Time

Typically 4 to 7 days, depending on the chosen route and tour operator.

Generally 4 to 5 days, though longer trekking options are available.

Typically 2 to 5 days, depending on the chosen itinerary and starting point.

FAQs: 1. When is the best time to visit? The dry season from May to September is generally considered the best time to visit. However, it is open year-round.

2. How do I get to Machu Picchu? Most visitors travel to Cusco and then take a train to Aguas Calientes, known as the gateway. From Aguas Calientes, you can either hike up or take a bus to the site.

3. Do I need to book tickets in advance? Yes, it is advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during the peak season. Tickets have a daily limit, and they can sell out quickly.

4. What should I wear and bring? Wear comfortable and layered clothing. Bring a hat, sunscreen, water, comfortable shoes, and a camera. If you're trekking, pack accordingly for the duration of your trek.

5. Is there an age limit for visiting Machu Picchu? There is no speciﬁc age limit. However, it's essential to consider the physical demands, especially if planning to hike or climb.

6. Are there guided tours available? Yes, guided tours are available, providing insightful information about the history and signiﬁcance of the site.

hotography can capture everything from raw emotions to the beauty of nature. It has a remarkable ability to freeze time and evoke emotions by telling stories without uttering a single word. Quotes by photographers incorporate the essence and spirit of every photographer. Each of these quotes sheds light on perspectives, technical skills, and profound observations that come together to create stunning visual narratives. You should read these quotes by photographers if you are seeking some motivation.

PHOTOGRAPHERS

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“

In photography, there is a reality so subtle that it becomes more real than reality.”

“

- UNKNOWN

When words become unclear, I shall focus on photographs. When images become inadequate, I shall be content with silence.”

“

- EDWARD WESTON

If I have any ‘message’ worth giving to a beginner it is that there are no shortcuts in photography.”

“ 4.

- ALFRED STIEGLITZ

- DUANE MICHALS

Photography deals exquisitely with appearances, but nothing is what it appears to be.”

“

- DOROTHEA LANGE

Photography takes an instant out of time, altering life by holding it still.”

“

- DOROTHEA LANGE

The camera is an instrument that teaches people how to see without a camera.”

“

- KARL LAGERFELD

What I like about photographs is that they capture a moment that’s gone forever, impossible to reproduce.”

“

- PAUL STRAND

Your photography is a record of your living, for anyone who sees.”

8. CIO Women Magazine | 41

10.

11.

“

- PAUL CAPONIGRO

It’s one thing to make a picture of what a person looks like, it’s another thing to make a portrait of who they are.”

“

- ANNIE LEIBOVITZ

A thing that you see in my pictures is that I was not afraid to fall in love with these people.”

“

- MARC RIBOUD

Taking pictures is savoring life intensely, every hundredth of a second.”

“

- ANSEL ADAMS

The single most important component of a camera is the twelve inches behind it!”

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13.

14.

15.

“

It’s a world, someone’s face. When I capture it, I see the future of the world.”

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- SCOTT LORENZO

The picture that you took with your camera is the imagination you want to create with reality.”

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- ANDY WARHOL

The best thing about a picture is that it never changes, even when the people in it do.”

“ 16.

- MALICK SIDIBÉ

- ANSEL ADAMS

There are always two people in every picture: the photographer and the viewer.”

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17.

18.

19.

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- RICHARD AVEDON

A photographic portrait is a picture of someone who knows he is being photographed.”

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- GARRY WINOGRAND

Photographers mistake the emotion they feel while taking the photo as a judgment that the photograph is good.”

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There is only you and your camera. The limitations in your photography are in yourself, for what we see is what we are.”

“ 20.

- ERNST HAAS

- DOROTHEA LANGE

Photographers stop photographing subjects too soon before they have exhausted the possibilities.”

Images have the power to convey emotions without even directly speaking about them. We hope these quotes by photographers inspire you in your journey to becoming a better photographer. You can keep them to increase focus on your passion for photography.

C o omen Magazine

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