EDITOR’S LETTER
Businesshasbeenamale-dominateddomainforcenturies,wheremenhavereachedremarkable heightsofsuccess.However,womenhavenotlaggedbehindinanyotherfield,andhaveseized everyopportunitytomaketheirmarkandinfluencethebusinessworld,withtheirinnovativeideasand concepts.Theirachievementshavebeensoastoundingthatmanycompaniesarenoweagertohirewomenas CEOsorCMOs,hopingtobenefitfromtheirexpertiseintheirventures.
Despitethepersistentchallengesforgenderequalityinthecurrentscenario,therearethesebusinesswomen whohavealreadywonthisbattle,demonstratingadifferentwaytoattaintherespectandtreatmenttheydeserve inoursociety.Equalityisnotjustaboutprotestsorslogans;itrequireshardworkandcommitmenttoone's work.Thiscrucialpointhasbeenemphasizedbysuccessfulfemaleentrepreneurs.
Withthiscontext,wearethrilledtointroduceourlatestmagazineissuetitled“The10RevolutionaryWomen LeadersinBusiness,2023”Inthisedition,wehaveselectedacollectionofthetop10womenentrepreneurs whohavecrackedthecodeofsuccess,reachingthepeaksofaccomplishmentandservingasrolemodelsforthe nextgeneration.
OurcoverstoryfeaturesDrAnjulikaSalhan,Founder,CEO,ManagingDirector,andChiefTechnology Officer(CTO)ofSystemHoldings.Sheisatwo-timeEnglishWomen'sAwardwinnerandalsoadistinguished fintechentrepreneurwholeadsacompanyemployingmoderntechnologieslikeAIandNLP.Herfocusis simplifyingandenhancingbusinessoperationsforincreasedefficiencyandaffordability.
WealsofeatureEdithHamilton,NazSchinder,HollySinger,andCatherineVlaeminck.Theseamazingwomen leadershavecreatedtheirownwaystosuccess,movingforwardontheirjourneystobuildalastinglegacyand makealastingimpressioninthehistoryofwomen'sentrepreneurship.
HappyReading!
Tejas Tahmankar
Project Editor
ASHWINI
Founder,CEO,ManagingDirector,CTO
Inthebusinessworld,smallandmicro-sized businessesfacesignificantchallenges.With limitedresourcesandoftenlittleknowledgeof availableservices,theseenterprisesstrugglewith accounting,taxation,andadvisoryneeds.Essential servicesincludepayrollandaccountmanagement, bookkeeping,budgeting,andVAT Additionally, softwaresolutionshaveemergedasgame-changers, streamliningprocessesandefficientmanagement. However,acommonpitfallforsmallbusinessesis payingforunnecessaryfeaturesordiscoveringthat desiredcapabilitiesexceedtheirbudget.Moreover, analytics,oftenseenasaserviceforlarge corporationswithdedicatedteams,posesanother obstacle.
Dr.AnjulikaSalhan,adistinguishedfintech entrepreneurandatwo-timerecipientofthe English Women’s Award, tacklesthesechallengesdirectly.She servesastheFounder,CEO,ManagingDirector, andChiefTechnologyOfficer(CTO)ofSystem Holdings,aprominentfinancialtechnology(Fintech) company.Hercompanyleveragescutting-edge technologies,includingAIandNLP,todevelop solutionsthatempowerbusinessesofallsizes, makingtheiroperationsmoreefficientandcosteffective.Herprimaryfocusissimplifyingpeople’s livesbyenhancingfunctionality,easeof implementation,andaffordability.Inadditiontoher roleatSystemHoldings,sheisthefounderandCEO ofXpertTechnologies,asoftwaredevelopment company,andtheCEOofSalhanAccountants.
Asatrainedmathematician,Dr.Anjulikaholds impressivecredentials,includingtitleslikeFellowof theInstituteofMathematicsanditsApplications (IMA),CharteredMathematician,Chartered Scientist,andmembershipsintheEuropean MathematicalSocietyandtheInstituteandFacultyof Actuaries.
Thisnarrativepresentsadetailedconversationwith Dr AnjulikaSalhantoexplorethevariousaspectsof herexceptionalleadership.Sheisaresults-driven
corporateleaderwhoisreshapingthelandscape forSMEsandmakingessentialservices accessibleandaffordableforbusinessesofall sizes.
Dr Anjulikareflectsonherloveformathematics, stating, “Mathematics came naturally to me.” In apersonalrevelation,shementionstheprofound influenceofFrenchmathematicianSophie Germain,wholeftalastinglegacywithher work,particularlyinsolvingFermat’slast theorem.
Dr AnjulikaearnedherMScinMathematics fromtheIndianInstituteofTechnology,Delhi (IIT-D)between1989and1991.Shesecuredthe firstpositionthroughanationwidecompetitive entranceexamination,receivingtheNational BoardofHigherMathematicsAwardforher performance.IIT-Delhi,India’stoptechnology institutionprovidedacompetitiveenvironment thatinstilledinherthevalueofstrivingfor excellence.
Beforepursuinghermaster’s,shecompleteda BAHonsinMathematicsfromtheUniversityof Delhifrom1986to1989.Hercollege,Miranda House,ranksamongthetopcollegesofthe UniversityofDelhi.Uponcompletingherdegree, Dr AnjulikareceivedtheSilverJubileeaward (nowknownastheGoldenJubileeaward), recognizingherasthebeststudentacrossall subjectsduringherthree-yearprogram.Shealso earnedtheThiagarajanawardforexceptional performanceinthefirst-andsecond-year examinationsoftheMathematicsHons.Degree. Inherthirdyear,sheorganizedaninter-college mathematicsquizcompetitionattheuniversity, aneventstillhostedbyMirandaHouse, continuingatradition.
Dr.Anjulikacontinuedheracademicjourneyby earningaPh.D.inAppliedMathematics,her Ph.D.thesisbeingonthemodelingand simulationofunderwaterexplosionsandtheir interactionwithstructuresattheUniversityof Brighton.Shepursuedtwopost-doctoralresearch projectsfromSeptember1996toNovember
Ifyouhaveadream,youmustfollowit.
Don'tfeelguiltyaboutsharinghouseholdchores.
Putyourheartandsoulintoturningyour dreamintoareality.
2000.Herfirstprojectfocusedon “A Numerical Method for flows with a Moving Contact Line,” while thesecondexplored “The effect of a retarder on the early stages of hydration of tricalcium silicate.”
Shealsohadtheprivilegeofworkingona groundbreakingmathematicalproject,anexperimental approachtoteachingmathematics.Collaboratingwith esteemedmathematicianslikethelateProf.J.N.Kapur andProf.DineshSingh,Dr.Anjulikaauthoredaseries offivemathematicsbooksforprimaryschool,which arestillavailableonFlipkart.Shealsoworkedasa consultantforasoftwarecompany,providing mathematicseducationintheFarEast.
FromDecember1999to2009,Dr Anjulikaheldthe roleofSeniorMathematicianatMalvern Instruments,contributingherexpertisetonearlyall departmentsforalmostadecade.Duringhertenure, shefocusedondevelopingandimplementingcuttingedgetechnologiesforhigh-precisioninstrumentsused inparticlesizing.Shealsospearheadedthe developmentandimplementationofalgorithmsfor automatedimaginginadvancedparticle characterization,resultinginanautomatedstaticimage analysissystemthatprovidesdetaileddescriptionsof particulatematerials’morphologicalproperties.This periodsawDr Anjulikaemployingadvanced mathematicstodevelopandimplementstate-of-the-art technology
Dr.Anjulikahasbeeninstrumentalinadvancing SalhanAccountantsonthenationalstage.Her contributionsincludeintroducingnewservicesand strategicallyusingtechnologyinservicedeliveryand marketing.
In2010,aspartofanambitiousserviceexpansion,she tookonauniquechallengebyprovidingspecialized calculationsforlawfirmsincommerciallaw, especiallyinbankingandlending.Thisrequired blendingmathematicswithcomplexcommerciallaw Dr AnjulikacreatedcomputercodesinMATLAB, drawingfromtheOfficeofFairTradingandConsumer CreditLaw,tocalculatethetotalcostofcredit.These codesprovedinvaluabletomanylawfirms.Shealso appliedhermathematicalskillstoTaxLaw,using theseprinciplesinvariousVATcases,someofwhich wenttotheTaxTribunal.
Reflectingonherachievements,Dr Anjulika says, “I have been very fortunate to be able to save an innocent from being criminally convicted using my mathematical calculations where I worked with leading criminal barristers to assist them in their case.”
Withastrongeducationalbackgroundand professionalexperienceinthetechnologyand financesectors,Dr.Anjulikawasdetermined tomaketechnologyaccessibletosmalland medium-sizedbusinesses.Thisdriveled SystemHoldingstopioneertechnology solutionsforSMEsintheUK,offering affordabilityandcompetitivefinancial services.Inherjourney,shecontinuesto bridgethegapbetweencutting-edge technologyandaccessiblefinancialsupport forbusinessesofallsizes.
SystemHoldingsLimited,ledbyDr Anjulika,wasestablishedinMay2015witha clearmission: “To make it easy for SMEs to leverage the best fintech, cost-effectively – so their businesses become more efficient and sustainable.” Inacrowdedfinancial technologymarket,SystemHoldings(SH) standsoutwithitsfocusonpeople.
Asexpertsininnovationandfinancial technology,SHconcentratesoncreating technologyandprovidingfinancialservices thatmeetthespecificneedsofSMEs.Their missionstatementemphasizestheir dedicationtohelpingSMEsefficientlyand affordablyutilizetop-notchfintechsolutions, ultimatelyimprovingtheiroperational efficiencyandlong-termviability.
WhatdistinguishesSystemHoldingsisits strongcommitmenttoinclusivity They believethatoutstandingfintechshouldbe accessibletoeveryone,notjustintermsof functionalityandsupportbutalsoinpricing. Thiscommitmentdrivestheireffortsto ensurethattheirofferingsmeettheneedsofa widerangeofbusinesses,regardlessoftheir size.
Allwomenshouldaspire tobeleaders.Let'sget themstartedearlyon. “
SystemHoldings’associatedcompaniesplay crucialrolesinfulfillingtheirmission:
SalhanAccountants:ThisbranchoftheSystem Holdingsfamilyspecializesinofferingarangeof services,includingpayroll,accountmanagement, bookkeeping,budgeting,andVATexpertise.Their teamunderstandstheuniqueneedsofbusinesses andprovidessupporttoensurecompliancewith legalrequirements,financialtracking,informed decision-making,andearlytaxplanning opportunities.
XpertTechnologies:Asagrowingsoftwaresuite, XpertTechnologiescoversvariousessential functionssuchasinvoicing,reporting,analytics, leavemanagement,andmore.Itsseamless integrationprovidesclientswithacomprehensive setoftools,allatnocosttothem. Inthisway,Dr.AnjulikaandherteamatSystem Holdingsarecommittedtohelpingsmallbusinesses thriveinadynamicbusinesslandscape,ensuring theyhavethefinancialtechnologyandsupport neededtobuildefficientandsustainableenterprises. Dr Anjulika’sQuesttoDemocratizeTechnologyfor Businesses
Whenaskedaboutherprominentrolesather organization,Dr.Anjulikahighlightsthe transformativepotentialofmathematicsinsolving
real-worldproblems.Shestates, “Role of a Mathematician is not only limited to solving abstract problems or modeling real life solutions but to solve real life problems.” This approachhasbeencentraltoherbusiness journey,whereproblem-solvingandcareful thinkingareessential.Dr.Anjulikahasused hermathematicalandalgorithmicexpertiseto structureherbusinessinauniqueway, resultinginsignificantfinancialsuccess,as evidencedbyahighEBITA(Earningsbefore interest,taxes,depreciation,and amortization).Herachievementshaveearned herpersonalrecognitionandaccoladesforher business.
AtthehelmofSystemHoldings,Dr Anjulika playsacrucialrole,closelycollaboratingwith XpertTechnologiesandSalhanAccountants. Theirsharedfocusisonseamlessly integratingtechnologyintotheirservices, withthecoregoalofensuringaffordability andaccessibility Theirmissionistoprovide businesseswiththebestadviceandsoftware withoutimposingfinancialburdens.
Overtheyears,Dr Anjulikahasinvested significanttimeandeffortincreatingefficient systemsandinnovativesoftwaresolutions. ThiscommitmenthasbroughtSystem Holdingsintothespotlight,particularlyfor theirabilitytooffersoftwarelicensesto SMEsalongsidetheiraccountancyservices.
Anillustrativesuccessstoryinthisendeavor involvesamarkettradertheysupportedfrom thestart.Throughtheirguidanceandservices, thistraderexpandedtheirbusiness,now selling60,000productlinesworldwideon platformslikeeBayandAmazon.
Intherealmofanalytics,typicallyreserved forlargeenterpriseswithdedicatedteams,Dr. Anjulikahaschallengedthenorm.She introducedasystemthatautomatesanalytics usingAPIsandcloud-basedtechnology, allowingherorganizationtoofferthisservice atnocosttothousandsofclientsregularly Thisinnovationfurtherdemonstratesher commitmenttomakingtechnologyaccessible andempoweringbusinessesofallsizes.
Whenaskedaboutherapproachtobuildingan exceptionalteamandkeepingheremployees motivated,Dr Anjulikaoffersafreshperspective thatdistinguishesherfromtraditionalmanagement practicesoftenfoundinMBAliterature.
Dr Anjulikabelievesthatthefoundationofagreat teambeginswithattractingtherightemployees. Findingindividualswhonotonlyshareyour valuesbutalsounderstandthefundamental principlesofyourbusinessisthefirststepin assemblingateamoftruecollaborators.
Inhervision,thedifferentiationisvital.Dr. Anjulikawantsherteamtorecognizethattheir missiongoesbeyondconventionalpractices;they aimtobringchangetotheirindustry Withthis sharedvision,shefindsthatmotivationgoes beyondfinancialincentives.Employeesbecome partofateamof“Changers,”unitedbyacommon purposetodisruptthestatusquoandmakea meaningfulimpactintheirfield.
Dr Anjulikabelievesthatwomennaturallypossess leadershipabilitiesandcansuccessfullyestablish andmanagebusinesses.Thefocus,therefore,
shouldnotbeonaddressinggenderdisparities butonrecognizingandunlockingtheirpotential.
Inherperspective,empoweringwomenisnotthe solution.Itisaboutencouragingthemtorealize theirinnatepotential.Fosteringgenderequality beginsbyremovingbarriers,nurturingacan-do mindset,andprovidingthenecessarysupportfor womentocultivatetheirinnerbeliefsandthrive. Mostimportantly,itinvolvesbeingaguiding presencewhenevernecessary.Dr.Anjulika stronglyrejectstheideathatanysectorshouldbe consideredoff-limitstowomen.Drawingfrom herbackgroundasamathematician,she emphasizesthatnowomanwilleverface obstaclesinanyorganizationunderher leadership.
Whenaskedabouthersecretstomaintaining peakperformancewhileensuringaharmonious work-lifebalance,Dr Anjulikashares, “I maintain a healthy lifestyle. I make sure to exercise every day. I am a vegetarian and do not consume alcoholic drinks. I follow a strict routine, with consistent waking and sleeping times. I also prioritize spending time with my family, even though I have a busy work schedule.”
“
Motherscanshowtheirchildrentheimportance ofbeingaleaderandthentheirchildrenwillwant tobeleaders,itisimportantthatwehavethistrickle-downeffect.
Management-DaleMouscos,MarketingManager
URL-www.hoya.ca
Founded-1941
Description-HoyaVisionCare,a75-yeareyeglasslens pioneer,offerstop-tiersolutionstoeyecareclinicians, empoweringvisionarieswithacomprehensiveproduct linethatincludesMiyoSmartlensesformyopiain children.
Management-CatherineVlaeminck,VP
URL- CatherineVlaeminck,VP
Founded-2011
Description-Infinidat'sportfolioofprimaryand secondarystorageplatformsoffersbest-in-class performancewithguaranteed100%availability,built-in InfiniSafe®cyberresilience,andthelowesttotalcostof ownershipintheindustry.
Management-KimberlyTucker,CEOandFounder
URL-www.kcmedsolutions.com
Founded-2016
Description-KCMEDSOLUTIONS,amedical consultancy,helpsclinicsincreaserevenueandefficiency. Theirskilledteamassistswiththeintegrationofauxiliary servicessuchastreatment,streamlininginvoicing,and optimizingoperations,henceimprovingpatientcareand satisfaction.
Management-HollySinger,Founder
URL-www.milkjar.ca
Founded-2016
Description-MilkJarCandleCo isrenownedfor plant-based,phthalate-freeproducts.Committedto inclusivityandsafeworkplaces,theycreateprofessional opportunitiesforpeoplewithdisabilities.Theirtoxicfreeitemsandworkshopsfostercommunity A Canadianapothecarystaple,MilkJarislocally cherished
Management-EdithHamilton,ExecutiveCoach
URL-www.nextnewgrowth.com
Founded-2018
Description- NEXTNewGrowthisafirmthatoffers executivecoachingtoCFOs,COOs,andother executives.TheyassistCFOsandCOOswhoare facinghigherdemands,expandedduties,ornew problemsindevelopingadditionalcriticalskillsthat leadtosuccess
Management-SelenaProctor,CCO
URL-www.onapsis.com
Founded-2009
Description-Onapsissafeguardscriticalbusiness applicationsfor300+worldwidebrands,including20% oftheFortune100.OnapsisResearchLabs,in collaborationwithindustryexperts,discoversand mitigates800+zero-dayvulnerabilitiesinmissioncriticalsoftware
Management-NazSchinder,Founder
URL-www.schinderlawfirm.com
Founded-
Description-SchinderLawFirm'sbilingual,young,and passionatelegalstaffisdedicatedtoprovidingefficientand cost-effectivelegalserviceswithanemphasison communication,responsiveness,andattentiontodetail. TheyexcelinFDI,M&A,DataProtection/CyberLaw, Arbitration,andADR
Management-AmyBuynoski,MortgageBanker
URL-www.southstatebank.com
Founded-1934
Description-SouthStateBankoffersavarietyof services,includingcheckingandsavingsaccounts, creditcards,mortgages,andsmallbusinessbanking It hasreceivedrecognitionfromJ.D.Powerand AssociatesandFortunemagazineforitsdedicationto providinggreatcustomerservice.
Management-DrAnjulikaSalhan,Founder,CEO,Managing Director,andChiefTechnologyOfficer(CTO)
URL-www.system-holdings.co.uk
Founded-2015
Description-PaymanGroupisafintechcompany revolutionizingpaymentswiththeiruser-friendlywallet, paymentprocessingsolutions,andbillingservices. Theirmissionistosimplifyandmodernizepayments forindividualsandbusinesses,offeringseamlessonline, card,andmobilepaymentoptions
Management-AlisonArmstrong,co-founder&COO
URL-www.uscanuy.com/
Founded-2010
Description-UscanuyContractorsexcelsasEastBay's premierKitchen&BathroomRemodelContractors, renownedfortop-notchqualityandcustomer satisfactioninresidentialandcommercialconstruction, includingmajorbuildingprojects.
‘Marketing in the tech industry requires much more sophistication with data analytics and is more about making buyer journeycentric decisions based on data.
Where and how a company stores its data means everything.- Catherine Vlaeminck Vice President of Global Marketing | Infinidat
Intoday'sworlddrivenbydataandtheneed forsecurity,datastorageandcyber recoveryarecriticallyimportanttopicsfor largeenterpriseorganizationsandcloudservice providers.Theexplosivegrowthintheamount ofdatathatisgeneratedworldwidehas propelledthedemandformulti-petabytedata storagetoexpandrapidly,especiallytosupport digitaltransformationandtheproliferationof theInternetofThings(IoT).Concurrently,everincreasingcyberattacks,suchasransomware, continuetothreatencompanies,creatinga requirementforfastrecoveryofdata.Onthe frontlinesofbothisCatherineVlaeminck, VicePresidentofGlobalMarketingat Infinidat,aninternationalleaderinenterpriseclass,multi-petabytedatastorage.
Withthetechindustryshiftingfocusontocloud technologiesinrecentyears,Catherinehashad toevolvehercompany'smarketingpriorities ontoanewwaveinstorage–buildingaprivate cloudforanenterpriseorganizationorservice provider.Shesawtheopportunityto communicateamessageaboutempowering companieswiththeirownprivate,on-premises, cloud-basedstoragesystems.Sheleveragedthe strengthofInfinidat'sstorageplatformto supportthiscustomer-centricstoryofhowan organizationcankeepcontrolofitsdatawithan on-premisessolutionbutstillbenefitfromcloud technologies.
Now,herchallengeistotaketheawarenessof Infinidatintheenterprisemarkettothenext levelwiththiscompellingstory.Thishas requiredhertobetterunderstandthebuyers' journey,developnew,moreintegrated marketingstrategies,super-chargeacampaign framework,unleashstrategiccommunications, andenhancethedigitalmarketinginitiativesof
Infinidat. Sheisapplyingherdecadeofexperienceinthe storageindustryasamarketingprofessionaltodrive continuousimprovement.
Recently,theteamatMirrorReviewhadthechanceto interviewCatherine,tounderstandhowmarketingis catapultinghercompanyforward,whydatastorageand cyberrecoveryaresovitalinthebusinessworldtoday,and whatlessonsshehaslearnedthatareinsightfulforfuture marketingleaders.Herearethesnippets:
How has marketing changed in the tech industry? And how are these changes helping you with your goal to elevate market visibility for Infinidat?
Morethanadecadeago,mostpeopleinthetechindustry mayhavesaidthatmarketingisabouttechnicalproduct sheetsandtradeshows.Timeshavechanged,andsohas marketing. Now,thefocusofmarketingneedstobeonthe buyer'sjourney,digitalmarketing,andstorytellingtoreach alargeraudience.Takingtheapproachofacomprehensive campaignframeworkbringstogetherallthepiecesof marketingfollowingkeythemes,andtakesownershipof advancingbuyersalongtheirjourneytoadecision.
MyteamatInfinidathasutilizedthisapproachtoincrease externalawarenessaboutde-riskingabusiness, consolidatingITinfrastructure,andthevalueofflexible consumptionandelasticpricingindatastorage,among otherthings.Weaimtodemystifythecomplexityofthe technologies,simplifyingthewaywetalkaboutthe solutions,sowereachabroadermarket. Weworkhardto communicateamessageofbusinessvalue.
As a senior marketing leader with decades of experience, what do you see as your biggest opportunity at Infinidat?
OnethingIseeasabigopportunityistoworkwiththe company'snewCEO,astorageindustryveteran,tostartto th reinventInfinidatduringthisyearofits10anniversaryasa company,aswelookaheadinthisnextdecade.It'salongtermprocess,butwecanmakesignificantstridesforwardin marketingthisyear.Wearebuildingonthecompany's decade-longlegacyinenterprisestorage.
Inmarketing,wearedigital-firstandwe'retakingan account-basedmarketingapproach,workingcloselywith oursalesteamstotargetbest-fitaccounts.Rethinkinghowa cloudmodelcanbeapplied,Infinidathelpsorganizations buildtheirownprivatecloud.Aswefocusonwhy enterpriseswouldwantaprivatecloudaspartofahybrid
private/publiccloudstrategy,thisisagreatopportunityto telltheInfinidatstoryrelentlessly
What is your biggest challenge at Infinidat?
ThevisibilityofInfinidatacrosstheenterprisemarketisa challenge.WhenCIOsandotherITbuyersfindoutabout whatInfinidatcanofferthem,theychooseInfinidatmore oftenthannot,butnotenoughCIOsandITleadersknow aboutInfinidatyet.Althoughitwasfoundedbyastorage industryluminary,MosheYanai,ourcompanystillneedsto increaseourbrandrecognitioninthestoragemarket.
WhenItookoverglobalmarketinglessthanayearago,I setouttofirstchangethemindsetandthenelevatethe marketingfunction.2021isthefirstfullyearofthefirst stageofourtransformationofmarketingtoriseabovethe industrynoiseandstrategicallyusemarketingtoexpandthe company'svisibility,especiallyamongFortune500 companies.
What do you find most interesting working in the data storage industry?
st Thedigitalrevolutionofthe21centuryhasmadedata storage,backup,andrecoveryasimportantasever.The shifttothecloudoverthepastdecadehasalsocaused fundamentalshiftsinthisindustry Thisnewdecadeis alreadyseeingadvancementswithmachinelearningin storage,andIamproudtobeatthecompanythatisleading theway.
Disruptivetechnologiesandsolutionsarecreatingnew opportunitiesinthisindustry.Ifinditexcitingtogoup againstthebigincumbentsandusemarketingchannelsasa meanstoconnectenterprisecustomerstotherightsolutions attherighttime.Marketingisnotjustaboutpushingout information; it's all about the customer and how we can help them.
What advice do you have for future marketing leaders who are currently in the early stages of their careers?
Marketingisaboutestablishingarelationshipwithpeople whodon'tknowyouyet.Beingabletomanage complexitiesandambiguityisalsovital,butitalways comesbacktopeople.Youaremarketingtopeople,soyou needtounderstandthehumanelement.Youneedtotapinto theemotionallevelofpainpoints,challenges,anddemands thattheyarefacingtoengageeffectivelyandsolvetheir issues.
[Updated 2024]
In2023,SuccessfulWomenEntrepreneursin
theUSAcollectivelygeneratedanimpressive $2.1trillioninreceipts,employing10.5million andpaying$499.4billioninannualpayroll.
Thesefiguresunderscoretheincreasingeconomic influenceofwomenentrepreneurs.Despite challengeslikelimitedaccesstocapitalandgender bias,theseentrepreneursexhibitremarkable resilience,innovation,andleadership.
Amidsocialunrestandeconomicuncertainty,they contributenotonlytoindustrybutalsotosocialand environmentalwell-being.
Inthisblog,discovertheinspiringstoriesofthetop5 successfulwomenentrepreneursintheUSA.From diversebackgroundsandsectors,thesewomenhave builtrenownedbrands,createdsocialimpact,and offeredvaluableinsightsforaspiringentrepreneurs andseasonedbusinessownersalike.
1. DianeHendricks
● Companyfounded:ABCSupply
● Thefoundationofthecompany:1982
DianeHendricks,bornonaWisconsindairyfarmin 1947,co-foundedABCSupplyin1982withher rooferhusband,Ken.
Initiallyamodestventurewithonebranchandthree employees,thecompanyexpandednationwide.
AfteranunfortunatedemiseofKenin2007,Diane tookthereinsaschairmanandsoleowner,propelling ABCSupply’sgrowththroughstrategicacquisitions likeBradcoin2010andL&WSupplyin2016.
Underherleadership,thecompanyembraced innovation,introducingamobileappandavirtual realitysimulatorforcontractors.
DianediversifiedABCSupplyintovarious industries,fromtruckingtoinsurance, manufacturing,andrecycling.
AsofNovember2023,sheholdsthetitleofthe richestself-madewomanintheUS,boastinganet worthof$19.5billion.Herinfluenceextends
globally,earningrecognitionfromTime,Forbes,and Fortune.
Beyondherbusinessacumen,Dianeisanotable philanthropist,supportingcausessuchaseducation, healthcare,andthearts.
Sheattributeshersuccesstohardwork,passion,and vision,emphasizingtheimportanceoflearningfrom mistakesandperseverance.
Diane’sadviceforaspiringentrepreneurscenterson innovation,persistence,andagoalorientedmindset.
Sheurgesethicalresponsibility,generosity,and communityengagement.Hermantraresonateswithher journey:“themostimportantthingistolovewhatyou doanddowhatyoulove.”
2. JudyLove
● Companyfounded:Love'sTravelStops& CountryStores
● Thefoundationofthecompany:1964
JudyLove,anativeofOklahomabornin1937,played apivotalroleinco-foundingLove’sTravelStops& CountryStores.
TogetherwithherhusbandTom,theyembarkedon theirentrepreneurialjourneyin1964,initiatingwitha modestgasstationinWatonga,Oklahoma.Theyhave raidedthecapitalof$5,000loanfromTom’sparents.
Intheearlydaysoftheirventure,theyinitiallynamed itMusketCorporation.Lateriterationssawthe evolutionintoLove’sCountryStoresandultimately settlingonthepresent-dayLove’sTravelStops& CountryStores.
Judy,atthehelmofthecompanyuntil1975, temporarilysteppedbacktopursueadegreeininterior designfromtheUniversityofCentralOklahoma.
Today,thecompanyisafamilyaffair,ownedbyJudy andherfourchildren.SonsGregandFrankhave assumedtherolesofco-CEOssince2014.Beyond ownership,Judy’sinfluenceextendstothecompany’s expansion,acquisitions,andthecultivationofa distinctivecorporateculture.
Outsidetheboardroom,JudyLoveisrenownedforher philanthropicendeavors.Shechannelshersuccessinto supportingcausesclosetoherheart,spanningeducationto healthcare,therebyleavinganindeliblemarkonherhome stateofOklahoma.
Withastaggeringnetworthof$10.2billion,sheclaimsthe titleoftheUSA’ssecond-richestself-madewoman,earning accoladesfrombothForbesandFortune.
Sheidentifiesdedication,perseverance,andteamworkasthe pillarsofhersuccess.Drawingwisdomfromchallengesand opportunities,sheadvocatesforamindsetofconstant improvement.
Foraspiringentrepreneurs,Judyimpartsvaluableadvice:be passionate,flexible,andcustomer-centric.
Byfocusingtheimportanceofvision,planning,andpurpose, sheencapsulatesherphilosophywithasimpleyetprofound mantra—“themostimportantthingistolovewhatyoudo anddowhatyoulove.”
3. JudyFaulkner
● Companyfounded:EpicSystems
● Thefoundationofthecompany:1979
JudyFaulkner,CEOofEpicSystems,beganherjourneyin 1979with$70,000,foundingHumanServicesComputing.
Aftercompletinghergraduationinmathematicsand computerscience,shecodedtheinitialsoftwareonaData GeneralEclipse16-bitminicomputer,laterrenamingthe companyEpicSystems,nowbasedinVerona,Wisconsin.
Faulknerhaschangedthefaceofthehealthcare,providing electronichealthrecordsfor250millionpatients,utilizedby esteemedinstitutionslikeJohnsHopkins.
Notablysheisalsoregardedasoneoftheinfluential changemaker.SheintegratedgenerativeAIforpatient responsesandenhanceddataanalysis.
Alsoshehaveinitiatedaprogramconnectinghospitalswith clinicaltrials,she’smadealastingimpact.
Rankedthethird-richestself-madewomanintheUS,hernet worthis$7.4billionasofNovember2023.
TimeandForbesrecognizedheramongthemost influentialglobally,whileFortunelistedheramong America’stopbusinessleaders.
Faulkner’saccoladesincludetheErnst&Young EntrepreneuroftheYearandinductionintothe WisconsinEntrepreneurialHallofFame.
Hersuccessmantracentersoninnovation,quality,and customersatisfaction.Learningfrommentors,she valuesfeedback.
Shealwaysadvisesaspiringentrepreneurstobe creative,curious,courageous,ethical,responsible,and generous.
Committedtophilanthropy,shesignedtheGiving Pledgein2015,vowingtoallocate99%ofherassetsto charitablecauses.
4. LyndaResnick
● Companyfounded:TheWonderfulCompany ● Thefoundationofthecompany:1979
LyndaResnick,bornin1943inBaltimore,Maryland, venturedintoentrepreneurshipat19,foundingherown advertisingagency
Inthe1960s,shemetherhusband,Stewart,and togethertheydelvedintodiverseventures,acquiring businessesliketheFranklinMintandTeleflora.
Theirforayintoagriculturebeganin1979withthe purchaseofaCaliforniaorchard,expandinginto pomegranatesandlaterdiversifyingintoproductslike POMWonderfuljuiceandWonderfulPistachios.
Herimpactonagricultureismarkedbycreative campaigns,like“GetCrackin”forpistachiosand “DrinktoYourHealth”forPOMWonderful.
Moverover,herextendstosustainablefarming practices,embracingmethodssuchasdripirrigation andsolarpower
Asco-ownersofWonderfulCo,theResnicksoverseea $5billionagriculturalempirespanningvariouscrops andbrands,supportingover10,000employeesacross multiplelocations.
Withanetworthof$5.6billionasofNovember2023,Lynda Resnickranksasthefourth-richestself-madewomanintheUSA.
ForbesandFortunehaverecognizedheramongAmerica’sRichest Self-MadeWomenandthe50MostPowerfulWomeninBusiness, respectively
Also,heraccoladesincludetheHoratioAlgerAward,EllisIsland MedalofHonor,andtheLosAngelesBusinessJournal’sBusiness PersonoftheYear.
Resnickattributeshersuccesstopassion,curiosity,andintuition, emphasizingtheimportanceoflearningfrommentorsand customers.
Sheencouragesaspiringentrepreneurstobeauthentic,original, andsociallyresponsible.Alongsideherhusband,shehas committedover$2billiontocharitablecauses,reflectinga dedicationtoenvironmentalandsocialinitiatives,including climatechangeresearch,education,healthcare,andthearts.
5. ThaiLee
● Companyfounded:SHIInternational
● Thefoundationofthecompany:1989
BorninBangkokin1958,ThaiLee’sjourneytobecominga businesspowerhouseisataleofresilienceandadaptability
RaisedinSouthKorea,shelaterrelocatedtotheUS,whereshe pursuedstudiesinbiologyandeconomicsatAmherstCollegeand earnedamaster’sdegreeincomputersciencefromHarvard BusinessSchool.
Lee’scareertrajectorytookasignificantturnin1989whenshe, alongwithherex-husband,acquiredSHIInternational,asoftware reseller,forlessthan$1million.
RenamedSoftwareHouseInternational,thecompanyflourished underLee’sleadership,evolvingintothelargestwoman-owned businessintheUS.
BoastingaclientelethatincludesindustrygiantslikeBoeing, AT&T,andMicrosoft,SHIInternationalachievedaremarkable $14billioninsalesrevenuein2022,withaworkforceexceeding 5,000.
Hercommitmenttoinnovationisevidentinthecompany’s endeavors,fromtheestablishmentofacloudmarketplacetothe creationofacustomerinnovationcenter
Herinfluenceextendsbeyondthebusinessrealm, earningherrecognitionasoneoftheworld’smost powerfulwomen.
Withanetworthof$5.3billionasofNovember 2023,ThaiLeeisatthefifthplaceinthelistofthe successfulwomenentrepreneursintheUSA.
Timemagazine,Forbes,andFortunehaveall acknowledgedherimpact,solidifyingherstatusasa keyplayeringlobalbusiness.
Furthermore,basedonherexperiencesofherlife,she emphasizestheimportanceofcontinuouslearning andadaptabilityinachievingsuccess.
Acknowledgingtheroleofmentorsandcustomersin hergrowth,sheadvocatesforhumility,diligence,and acustomer-centricapproachforaspiring entrepreneurs.
Stressingthesignificanceofethics,loyalty,and collaboration,Leeaffirmsthatbuildingastrongteam andfosteringapositivecultureareparamountinany entrepreneurialventure.
Theseremarkableindividualshavenotonly triumphedoverchallengesbuthavealsoshared invaluableinsightsapplicabletosuccessfulwomen entrepreneursatanystage.
Frombreakingbarrierstofosteringinnovation,their storiesresonatewithresilienceanddetermination.
Asweconclude,weencourageyoutoreflectonthe lessonslearnedandsharewhichentrepreneur resonatedwithyouthemost.
Theirnarrativesnotonlycelebrateindividualsuccess butalsocontributetothebroaderconversationon genderequalityinbusiness.
Here’stothelimitlesspotentialwithineachofusand thecollectiveempowermentofaspiring entrepreneurs.
Also,letusknowwhichofthesesuccessfulwomen entrepreneurshaveinspiredyouthemostandwhy
"If you want to be a leader in finance, as a female you must manage your career proactively and courageously build relationships at least 2-3 levels above you."
Whydomaleexecutivesinfinanceandother
professionsearnmoreandgetgreater recognitionthanmostfemaleleaders?Typically menaremoresupportedbysenior-levelexecutivesandget promotedfaster.Ontheotherhand,womenoftengravitate tomentoring-stylepartnershipsthatprovidethemwith encouragementandadvice.Theyarelesslikelytotakerisks andelevatetheirownprofile.However,thissituationis changingasmorewomenleadersleaninandaskforclear sponsorshipandsupportfromtheircompanyleaders.One resourcemanyfemaleexecutivesturntoisEdithHamilton (ExecutiveCoachforCFOs,NEXTNewGrowth)whois equippingfinanceleaderstodrivechangeintheC-suite. SheequipsChiefFinancialOfficerstodeliverthegrowth, processimprovementsandprofitabilitythatdrivehigh multiples.
“I love the stories that numbers tell,” saysEdith.Financial statementsunfoldinsightsabouttheupsanddownsofthe organization.AsEdithfoundanaffinityfornumbersand lovedsolvingpuzzles,shebecameafinanceanalystinthe earlyyearsofherwork-life.Overthecourseofher corporatecareer,shereportedto8differentCFOs–andfrom someofthem,shelearnedhowtobeaneffectivefinancial leader.Fromothers,shelearnedwhatnottodo,andhow nottobe.
GivenEdith’sskills,experienceinthehealthcaresector,and recommendationsfromothers,anexecutivesearch consultantwhorepresentsalargeprivateequityfirm reachedouttohertoseeifshewouldcoachafemaleCFO ofahealthcarecompanyintheLosAngelesarea.Thisis howEdith’sjourneybeganasaCFOcoach;shelater becameaccreditedbytheInternationalCoachFederation aftera15-monthtraining,coachingandmentoringprocess ofherown.
DuringarecentconversationwithMirrorReview,Edith elaboratedonherprofessionaljourneyandthe establishmentofherorganization–NextNewGrowth Followingaresomesnippetsfromtheconversation:
1.Couldyoupleasesharewithusthemostinteresting storyaboutwhatbroughtyouintothefinancefield?
IactuallystartedasanEnglishmajorincollege!Iloved literature,andIhaveanaffinityforwordsasmuchasfor numbers.Backincollege,Ibeganworkingpart-timeatan investmentbankingfirm,whereIlearnedtousea spreadsheettoenterdataandcreateformulastoadd valuableinsightsandstatistics.Excelhelpedmeto
understand,organize,sort,andfiltermyworld.Suddenly, algebrahadpracticalapplicationsforme,andthedry statisticaltoolsIwasthenlearningincollegebecame meaningfulsourcesofnewinsightsformyboss,my colleaguesandourclients.Thispart-timejobduringmy collegedaysinspiredmetopivotandlooktowardacareer inthefinancefield.
2.Whatdoyouthinkmakesyoustandoutinthe competitivefinancesectorasaCFOCoach?
Foronething,I've“been there, done that”. Thisispartof whatmakesmeuniqueintheworldofCFOcoaching.In therealworld,Ihavewalkedamileintheirshoes. Additionally,IamtheonlyCFOcoachwhousesa technology-basedplatformtosupplementthevalueofour weeklycoachingsessions.Ithelpsfinanceleadersrewrite theirbrainsforpeakperformanceinrelationtotheirCEO, theirBoard,theirpeersanddirectreports.Theycanlearn toidentifyandsilencetheirgreatestinternalcriticsto attainsuccessbeyondwhattheycouldhavewithoutthese specifictools.Thisiswhatgivestopperformersanedge, whilealsoincreasingjobsatisfaction–andincreased abilitytomanagetheoverwhelmthat’scommonto executives.
3. Whataretheexclusiveservices/solutionsofferedfor CFOsbyNEXTNewGrowth?
Ourcompanyoffersexecutivecoachingservicesfor privateequityandpubliccompaniesthatwanttodeliver growth,processimprovements,andcostsavings.Some focusareasforusinclude:
a. CFO Coaching: Wedesigncustomizedplanstogether basedonthediscussionswiththeprivateequityOperating Partner(s),theCEO,andtheCFO.Itincludesintercepting certainpatternsorbehavioralissuesthataretrippingyou up,broadeningyourvision,improvingteamperformance, enhancingleadershippresence,anddrivingKPIs(key performanceindicators).
b. Executive Coaching and Leadership Development: NEXTprovidesleadershipcoachingforCOOs,CXOs, SVPs,andotherseniorexecutives.Thisincludesprecoachingandpost-coaching360assessmentsthathelp identifythegreatestopportunitiesforimprovement, coachingsessionsthatincreaseflexibilityandversatilityas aleader,andevendirectmentoring.
c. Tech-enabled Executive Mind Fitness Program: NEXTusesanappdevelopedbythePositiveIntelligence grouptoextendtheeffectivenessofitsweeklycoaching usingasmartphone.Theappstrengthenscoremuscles
aroundcuriosity,connection,creativity,emotional intelligence,andenablesyoutotakeclear,laser-focused actionbasedonyourvaluescombinedwithdata. d. CFO First 90-Days Coaching:Thisstrategictransition planhelpsyouachievealignmentwiththestrategy, structure,systems,skills,andcultureofyournewfirm.It alsoenablesyoutobuildcooperative,trustingrelationships thataccelerateyourintegrationplansandhelpyoudelivera fewimportant“quickwins”thatareimportanttoyour leadersandthatsolidifyyourimpact.
4.Whatresponsibilitiesdoyoushoulder?Whatareyour notableawardsandachievementsasaCFOCoach?
Mymainfocusistohelpotherfinanceexecutivesfindtheir ownpathasItrainthemtobeversatile,effectiveCFOs.As aleader,Icreatevalueattheintersectionofprivateequity andC-levelleadership.Icombinemybackgroundin finance,operations,processimprovement,andbusiness developmentwithexecutivecoachingandconsultingskills groomedbytopcoachesintheindustry.Inthisway,with toolsIhavegatheredorbuiltoverthecourseof25+years inthecorporatefinanceworld,IhelpCFOsandother leaderswhohaveincreasedexpectations,expanding responsibilities,ornewchallengestobuildadditionalkey skillsthatproducepersonal,team,andorganizational success.Ihavebeenfeaturedin Fortune magazine,the CFO Brew,andoneofmyclients,theCFOofa$2billion companywasrecognizedas CFO of the Year in2021.
5.Whatarethetoughestchallengesthatwomenfacein thefinancesector?
Thetoughestchallengeswomenfaceincludethe expectationthattheyhavetoactlike“oneoftheboys”.A lackoffemalementorsisalimitingfactor,andthetime womenspendoutoftheworkforceduetomotherhood,can impactthemomentumofadvancementforsome.Taking maternityleavehashistoricallyaffectedwomen’searnings, promotionpotential,andultimatelyfuturecareers.Butnot inallcases.Andthatisincreasinglychangingforthebetter
6.Whatisyourtakeon‘feminism’? Whatmeasures cansupportwomen'sempowerment?
Ithinkthat‘feminism’isanoutdatedterm.Ialwaysgained supportfrommaleCFOsIworkedwith.7outof8CFOs weremalesandeveryonehascontributedandengagedin mycareerpath.Asfemaleexecutives,themainthingwe needtodoistobeclearonourvalues,andpickgood bosses.Avoidworkingforajerk.Andifyoufindyourselfin
thatsituation,gogetyourselfanewrolewithabetter mentor.Someonewhowilladmireandappreciateyour skillsandcontributionsandwhoiswillingtobeyourally, andyouradvocateatthenextlevelupthechain.
7.Howisyourlifebeyondthecabin?Howdoyou ensurework-lifebalance?
Ihaveaconsiderablybigfamily,alargecircleoffriends andprofessionalconnections.AsafollowerofChrist,Iam activeasagroupleaderinmycommunityatJourneyof FaithinManhattanBeachCA.Ihavelearnedthatwehave toMAKEtimeforthethingsthatareimportanttous.Inmy case,IcreatedalistofthekeyrelationshipsIwantto nurtureandliterallybookappointmentstomeetwitheach ofthemmonthly,quarterlyinmypersonallife.Iliterally followachecklistthatshowsmeifI’venotconnectedwith someoneinawhile,andmaybeit’stimetocallthemwhile I’mdriving,orwalkingorsuch.Ibelieveyouneedto scheduletheimportantbutnoturgentstuffFIRST,andthen allowthelessimportantdailystuffbelikestreamthatflows aroundthoselargerocksinthemiddleoftheriver
8.Beingapersonofinfluence,whatisyourmessagefor buddingwomenleaderswhowishtomakeamarkinthe financesector?
● Lookforopportunitiesinyourcompanytogetinvolved withoperationsandwithP&LManagementopportunitiesto understandthebusinessandbuildyourcredibility
● Buildrelationshipswithleaderswhocanbeyour advocateswithintheorganization.
● Identifythewaysinwhichyouhaveatendencytoselfsabotageyourownsuccess. Youcanlearnmoreaboutthat here.
● Learnhowtocommunicatethevalueyouaddtothe company,andspeakforyourselfquicklyandconfidently
Mobilecommerce,orM-commerce,israpidly
growinginpopularity,andit’snothardtosee why Withtheriseofmobiledevices,consumers areincreasinglyturningtotheirsmartphonesandtabletsto makepurchases,accessservices,andengagewithbusinesses. Forindustryexperts,CEOs,andentrepreneurs,it’simportant tostayup-to-dateonthelatesttrendsanddevelopmentsinmcommercetostayaheadofthecurve.Inthisarticle,wewill exploreeverythingyouneedtoknowaboutm-commercein 2023,includingitsdefinition,trendsandstatistics,keyplayers, challengesandopportunities,andbestpracticesforsuccess.
M-commerceisasubsetofe-commercethatmakesuseof tabletsandsmartphones.Mobileapplicationsandresponsive websitesaretheprimarydistributionchannelsforthisbranch, allowingforsmoothoperation.Ithasservedbillionsofbuyers anddealersallovertheworld.Itspopularitygrewasaresultof itsmobility.Simplyput,thisisamobile-friendlydigital shoppingcounter.
M-commercevs.E-commerce
Almosteveryoneisawareofthe dominante-commerceplayerknown asAmazon.Therevolutionary approachandlast-mileconnectivity werethedrivingforcesbehindecommerce.Aftertwodecadesof service,anewbranchofecommercehasemergedthatis elevatingtheshoppingexperienceto newheights.M-commerceisa cutting-edgetechnologythathasthe potentialtoserveeveryindustry.Ecommerce,alsoknownaselectronic commerce,isnothingmorethan onlinebuyingandsellingona computerorlaptop.Whilemobile commerce(m-commerce)isdone throughwirelessdeviceslike smartphonesortablets.
Accessibleonwirelessdeviceslikesmartphonesortablets withlow-speedinternetconnectivity
Carryallthenecessaryinformationincompactresolution. Mobile-optimizedwebsitesandapplicationsmakeitmore convenient.
Itisaproductofcutting-edgetechnology Asaresult,it includesallofthenecessarysecurityfeatures,suchas biometriclocksandapplocks.Eventhedevice’sconstant securityupdatesequipitwithantivirus.
Lessflexible,asyouneedadesktopcomputerorlaptopwith speedyinternetconnectivity
Containsmoreinformationandheavyimagesthatneedhighspeedinternetandmaytaketimetogetthefullpageloaded.
Giventhatthebrowsingdevicemighthaveahiddenvirus, thelikelihoodofcyber-attacksanddatabreachesishigh. Evenfakewebsitesaredifficulttospot.Asaresult,active antivirussoftwaremustbeinstalled.
Astechnologyupgrades,newtrendsstartrevolvinginthe market.Hereareafewofthem-commercetrendsfor2023 thatmustbefollowed.
Millionsofpeopleareutilizingm-commerceservices acrosstheglobe.ThedatapublishedbyStatistashowcases agreathikeinsmartphonemobilesubscriberssince2016. Asthesearchvolumeincreases,itgetsmoredifficultto answereveryquery.Therefore,chatbotsstandatthe forefronttoeasetheprocessandmaketheresponsequick. EventheadaptabilityofAIishelpingchatbotsoperatemore efficiently
UpgradingAIandvoicecommandtogetherishighly promotingvoicecommandsearches.Won’tyouenjoy tellingyourphonetosearchforat-shirtforyouwhiledoing othertasks?Ofcourse,there’salotmoreyoucanmake yourphonedowithvoicecommands.However,thisis gettingbetterandbetterwithnewupdatesfromthe developerstoenhanceyoursearchprocess.
Thecovid-19pandemicmadeeverynormallifestandstill.It gaveasparktoretailshopdeliveryservices.Now,people expecteverythingtogetdeliveredtotheirdoorstep.They wanteverythingtobeeasilyavailable.Onlym-commerce makesiteasyforthemtoplaceanorderforgroceryitems andgetthemdeliveredinminutes.Since2021,mcommercehasaccountedforalmosthalfoftheecommercesalesintheUSA.Thenumbersare encouraginglyrisingintheUSAandUK,with7.3%and 15.6%ofretailtradeinmobilecommerce,respectively,in 2021.
Wouldyouenjoydesigningyourfavoritecaronyourcell phone?Orwillitbebetterifyougetapersonalizedpaint applicationtodesignyourwalls?Well,themajorplayers suchasBMW,Volvo,andIKEAprovidethiskindof service.Thebestpartisthatpeoplearewidelyaccepting
suchconcepts.Imaginebeingallowedtochoose yourcar’scolor,interior,andevenitsalloy designs.Thisvirtualgarageisoneofthemost enjoyedplacesfortheautomotiveenthusiast.
Carryingcashormakingpaymentsthroughcredit cardsisgettingreplacedbydigitalwalletsor mobilewallets.Itissafe,secure,andquicktopay Theinterestingpartaboutmobilewalletsisthat you,asamerchant,needfewerinfrastructuresto receivepaymentsascomparedtoaPOS(pointof sale)machine.MobilepaymentappslikeGoogle PayandApplePayareamongthemostusedfor merchantpayments.
Alistofnegativeandpositiveaspectsofmcommerceismentionedbelow.Hereareafew selectedonesthatarehighlightedintheinitial stagesofdevelopment.
Haveyoueverinstalledanapplicationandlater discoveredthatitwasnotworkingproperly? Whenyouhaveanoutdatedphonewiththelatest softwareprogramsinstalled,thisoccurs.Unlike software,olderhardwaredoesnotreceiveOTA updates.Asaresult,peoplewhodonotupgrade tendtodeleteappsthatappeartobeless importanttothem.Evenhavingasmallscreen limitstheuser’sabilitytohaveaseamless experience.
Thereisachancethatthemobilewebsiteorapp hasnotbeenoptimizedforsmoothoperation. Eveniftheuserresolvesthehandsetissue,the negativeuserexperiencemayharmthereputation ofyourbrand.Asaresult,yourmobilewebsite andtheappmustberegularlyupdatedand optimized.
Everyoneappreciatespersonalized services.Mobileapplications streamlineandexpeditethepurchasing process.Astheendusers,everything willbeattheirfingertips,from searchingforaproducttomakinga payment.Personalizedoffersand discountsmakeitevenmoreappealing. Asaresult,severalstudieshavefound thatuserswhoreceivediscountsmake frequentpurchases.
Accordingtomarketstatistics,the higherthelevelofengagement,the morelikelyacustomerwillbuya product.Mobileappswith
personalizedoffersanddiscounts encourageuserstostayontheappfora longerperiodoftime.Asaresult,the likelihoodofhigherclick-throughrates increases.Thiseventuallyleadsto increasedrevenue.
Thiswasjustashort,explanatoryblog onm-commercethatcovereditsinitial stages.Itisavasttopictobediscussed andworkedon.Theearlieryouenter, thebetteroffyouare.Therefore,we haveasimplesuggestionforthose marketexperts,CEOs,and entrepreneurs:getyourhandsonmcommercebeforethemarketgets floodedwithotherbigplayers.We hopethispieceofoureffortsfilled yourvaluabletimewithuseful information.Wekeeppublishingsuch knowledgeableblogsatregular intervals.Staytunedforthenextblog.
Incorporatingphilanthropicapproachesintobusinessyields
severalbenefitsandopportunities.Variousbusinessleaders worldwidearefusingphilanthropyintotheirbusinessidealsto establishapositiveoutlookoftheirbrandimageorcompany.
“I decided I could insert my love for philanthropy into whatever I created,”assertsHollySinger(FounderofMilkJarCandle CompanyInc.).Hollyfirmlybelievesitisherhumandutytouse thecompany'splatform,voice,andrevenuetoupliftthosewhoneed ahelpinghand.Withherinclusiveteamandworkofthepartnered non-profits,shehassuccessfullycreatedapositiveculturethat servesasasourceofinspirationforher.
Fromherearlyeducationbackgroundandcareerworkinginanonprofitandprivatelyforfamilies,Hollyharboredgreatpassionfor supportingpeoplewithdisabilities.Shedreamtofbecomingan OccupationalTherapistandcontinuingonherpathtohelpchildren connect,growandfeelagreatsenseofbelonging.Duetocertain challenges,Hollywasunabletopursueherdream.However,she wasdeterminedtofulfillherlife'spurposeanddecidedshecould incorporateherphilanthropicidealsintoherbusiness.Currently, HollyenvisionsMilkJartobecomeanexampleofabusinessthat employsallpeopleandissuccessfulbecauseeverysingleperson hasvalueandstrengthstooffer.
In2016,MilkJarwaslaunchedwiththeideologybasedaround
clean-burningcandlesandamoreorganicandhealthier alternativetomostcandlesonthemarket.Thecompany assertsexclusivitywith
• Materialsforcreatingaffordableluxuryproducts;
• Zero-wastejarreturnprogram;
• Dedicationtoprovidingqualityparaffin-freecoconut soycandles.
Thecompany'sdonationprogramservesasasolutionto themarket.InspiredbyHolly'spreviousgoals,MilkJar hasdonated$1fromeachcandlesaletoCanadiannonprofitorganizationstofundresourcesforthoseinthe communitysincethebeginning.Herdrivetocreatea healthieralternativetothestandardcandlemarket,and offeraidtothecommunityhashelpedbringMilkJarto whereitcurrentlyis.
ThecurrentexpansionoftheteamhashelpedHollygain moretimetofocusonherpreferredareasaboutMilk Jar—creatingnewscentsandteachingcandlemaking. Thecompanyofferscustomscentsandcandlecreationfor
“When you insert a greater purpose into your work, your drive to persevere through the challenges of business will be welcomed and not avoided, and you will garner incredible respect, love and support from the public.”
othercompanies.Hollyisalsofondofteachingothersto connectwiththeircreativesidebyrunningscentblending andcandle-makingworkshopsoutofthecompany's candlefactory AlongwithMilkJar'sgrowth,Holly ensurestheteam'sgrowthtomakesurethatsheisdoing thethingsthatdrewhertostartmakingcandlesinthefirst place.
MilkJarhasearnedseveralaccoladesduetoitsbusiness andphilanthropyapproaches.In2019,itwasawardedthe DEAM Award fordisabilityemploymentawareness month.In2020,Hollywasenlistedasoneof Alberta Avenue Magazine's Top 40 under 40.
MilkJar’steamincludesadiverseanduniquegroupof
people.Withacreativeandmotivatedmarketingteamand highlyskilledproductionteam,itsstaffisequippedto fulfillallneedsofthecompany.In2020,thecompany partneredwithGatewayAlbertatoexploreinclusive hiring.Currently,one-thirdofitsstaffarepeoplewith disabilities—enablingMilkJartopushagainstthestigma ofinclusiveemployment.
Eachteammemberistrainedincommunicationand accountability,allowingthemtoexcelintheirroleand growintootherparts.Tomaintainmotivationand encouragement,MilkJarhostsASLtraining,monthly staffmeetingworkshopswithanOccupationalTherapist, withdailycheck-insandcommunallunchesinitsshared officespace.
Inresponsetotheincreaseinsalesduringthepandemic, theteamofMilkJarexpandedformeetingdemandand manufacturingmoreproducts.Thecompanytransformed itsmarketingstyleanduseddigitalapproachesduetothe closureofretailspacesandmarkets.
Additionally,itaddedamembershipprogram,allowing peoplemonthlydeliveryofcandlesattheirdoorstep.As theteamgrew,thecompanyalsointroducedmoreroles andresponsibilities—toprovidesupporttoMilkJarfor leveragingmoreopportunities.
What are your opinions on women business leadership?
How are you trying to make an impact with your business?
Iseeseveralwomenasbusinessleaders,beingregarded fortheirstrength,tenacityandknowledgeintheirfields.I startedMilkJaroutofmyhomewithnobusinesspartner orfinancialsupport,onlyadrivetoturnmypassionfor candle-makingintoabusinesswithagreaterpurposeof supportingthedisabilitycommunityandinclusive employment.WhatwedoatMilkJarismuchmorethan theproductswesell—itisallabouthowwecanmakea positiveimpactinthelivesofothers.
How do you focus on surpassing the challenges presented to you?
Ileanonmyincredibleteamtoworkthroughthe challengesweface,anddrawtheirthoughtsandexpertise asweareafamilyatMilkJar.Everyonecaresaboutthe commongoalofcreatinginvitingspacesatMilkJar
Is the business sector welcoming for women? According to you, what are the necessary skills to thrive as a business leader?
Inmyexperienceofstartingandgrowingasuccessful businessIfeellikeIhavebeenwelcomedwithopenarms inthecommunity.Betweenspeakingandmentoring opportunitiestonewentrepreneurs,tocollaboratingwith largecompanies,Iamregardedasaleaderforwomen entrepreneurs.Ibelieveitismydecisivenessandtrustin myselfthathasledmetothriveinthebusinessworld.
Thepandemichasimpactedmillionsoflivesand businesses.Especially,thelawindustryhas undergonesignificantchangesandwitnessedthe trendofintelligenttechnologyandprofessionallawyers. Withthistrend,efficiencyoflegalfirmscanbeimproved andlawyerscanensureprofessionalizationoflegal services.Cateringtothisnecessity,manyleadersinthelaw sectoracceptedthischallengeandinculcatedthisnew patternintheirbusinesses.NazSchinder(Founder, SchinderLawFirm)isonesuchbrilliantleaderwhohas helpedthelawindustrytobemorecomprehensiveand transformeditintoanewmultidimensionalone-stop professionalserviceecosystem.
FearlessandAction-orientedEntrepreneur
NazgraduatedwithamasterinlawdegreefromAtmaJaya University.Priortoherlegalcareer,shegraduatedfroman artschoolandstayedtheretoteachfortwoyears. Subsequently,NazdecidedtostudyEnglishandenhance ChineselanguageattheXinjiangUniversityForeign LanguagesInstitute.Asshecouldnotfindasuitablejob aftergraduation,shedecidedtobuildabusinessthatshe trulyisinterestedin.Further,sheattendedHongKong FashionInstituteandcreatedherownfashionbrandafter graduation.Withinsixmonthsaftergraduation,shesetup 16storesandbecameoneoftheyoungestfemale entrepreneursintheregion.
Game-changingInception
NazfoundedSchinderLawFirm(SLF)18yearsagoinher livingroom.SLFhasevolvedfromastaffofonetothe mostsuccessfulleadinglawfirmsinIndonesia.Overthe years,Nazwatchedthepopularityandwideapplicationof AlternativeDisputeResolution(ADR)growboth internationallyandregionally Asshewantedtoput IndonesiaontheinternationalADRmap,shelaunchedBali InternationalArbitrationandMediationCenter(BIAMC)in 2017andsincethensheisservingasitsFoundingchairand CEO.“Our inspiration to create Indonesia’s first non-profit
international arbitration and mediation service center was simple. We could hardly ignore the game-changing global initiatives such as ASEAN and APEC or the local Indonesian primary directives to increase Foreign Direct Investment (FDI),” saysNaz.
SchinderLawFirmprovidesclientswithacomprehensive spectrumofdomesticandinternationallegalservices.They includeinitial investment,establishment,and foreign operationofasuccessfulIndonesianbusiness.The companysupportsitsclientsinbusinessformation, compliance,acquiringproperties,obtainingpermits,and hiringworkersandcontractors.Moreover,itspractice encompassesthewholerangeofcommercialandfinancial disputesincludingarbitrationandmediation,insurance litigation,bankinglitigation,administrativelawmatters, andproceedingsforjudicialreview.
Withrelentlessefforts,BIAMChasalsobecomean educationalandtrainingresourcefortheinternational arbitrationandmediationcommunity Thecompanyoffers introductoryandcertificationprogramsincollaboration withvariousregionaluniversities,institutions,and organizationsinbothformsofdisputesettlement.
Nazadmitsthat2020wasachallengingyearthatopened newopportunities.Asthepaceofdigitaltransformation accelerated,shefocusedondigitaldevelopment,privacy, anddataprotection.Forthat,togetherwithIndonesianand Foreignexperts,NazestablishedIndonesia’sfirstofficial associationforDataProtectionOfficers(APPDI).Itisa non-profitorganizationthatprovidesaforumfor professionalstosharetheirpracticesaswellastolearnand understandpersonaldataprotection.APPDIisdedicatedto buildingabroadnetworkofprivacyanddataprotection professionalsinIndonesiatoshareideas,knowledge,and passionforprotectingindividual’srightsinthedigitalera.
“Success does not have to be about wealth, knowledge, talent, or power. From the moment you set your goals, believe in your choices, your ability to learn, and your plan.”
Whenaskedaboutthemotivationbehindsuccess,Naz givescreditstoherdaughter “I am motivated by being a role model for her,” addsNaz.Shethrivestoshapeher best-selfandkeepsimprovinginallaspectstoinfluenceand inspireherdaughter.Colleaguesandemployeesalso motivateNazandtheychallengeandstimulateherina positiveway.Moreover,theirdedicationandhardwork inspireNaztodothebestasaprofessionalandaleader. Thoughthepandemichascausedphysicaldistanceand madeitimpossibletoworktogether,everyoneinthe companycontributesandhelpseachother
Speakingaboutthecomplexitiesintheindustry,Nazsays thatthelegallandscapeisextremelycomplexaswellas manylawshavevagueprovisionsandpooroperability Moreover,therearemanycontradictionsandconflicts betweenlaws.Theconstantchanginglawscreatealackof continuityinlawenforcementforforeignclients.Clients
finditdifficulttofullymeetandgraspthelatest requirements.Moreover,Indonesiahasdeep-rooted religioussentimentsandculturethatinfluenceoreven displacethecommonlegalpractice.Thischallengesits legalenvironmentandthus,asprofessionallegal practitionersandserviceproviders,Nazandteammust constantlyupdatetheirlegalknowledgeaswellasenhance theexperiencetosolveclient'sproblems.
Intheearlydaysofthebusiness,Nazfacedchallengesby thelawyersshehiredastheyrefusedtofindbettersolutions forclientsandneglectedtheinstructions.AsNazhadalittle legalknowledge,herbolddecisionswerequestionedand thisresultedinlowefficiency.However,shedecidedto proveherselfasalawyerandastrongwoman.Shetook challengesandsolvedproblemsoneafteranother. “I didn't take this as a challenge as a woman, I believe a male leader would be in a similar position if he didn’t have much legal experience,” addsNaz.Moreover,shefocusesonthework andbelievesthathersuccesscomesfromhardworkand dedication.
Nazhasplannedtofocusonthegoaltoworkineducation tomotivateandencourageyoungpeoplewithinspiring stories.Shewantstoprovidethemwithaclearpathto successandtofollowtheirdreams.Withyearsof experienceandwisdom,shealsowantstogivebacktothe societyandteachtheyoungergenerationwhowishtolearn, improve,andgrow.
Toachievetheultimatebenchmarkthatleadstosuccess, Nazbooststheconfidenceofyoungerwomenwithher valuableadvice.
● Ifstartingafamily,supportingyourhusband’s career,andraisingyourchildrenareyoursources ofhappiness,thendoit!
● Ifmoneycanbringyouhappiness,thenmakeit yourgoaltomakemoney.Learn,plan,execute, andacquire.
● Ifsocialstatusbringsyouhappiness,thenyoucan setagoal,learn,andexecute,andmost importantly,knowwhatroleyouwanttoplay.
