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Exclusive Interview of Maxim Galash of Coinchange Financials Inc.. Edited by Powered Magazine. Maxim Galash is an innovative leader at the forefront of the digital currency revolution. With a deep understanding of blockchain technology and a relentless drive for excellence, Maxim has made significant contributions to the field of digital currency exchange as well as the broader adoption of blockchain solutions. In this exclusive interview with Powered Magazine, we have the privilege of delving into the mind of Maxim Galash. From his entrepreneurial journey and the challenges he has overcome to his insights on the future of digital currency and blockchain, we gain valuable insights into the world of digital finance and the vision that drives Maxim's innovative endeavors. Tell us about yourself and your business. I'm Maxim Galash, CEO of Coinchange, a prominent platform in the DeFi market that generates yield through carefully crafted quantitative and systematic strategies. These strategies are combined into diversified portfolios, each with a unique risk-reward profile. Our portfolios are distributed through direct-to-business and direct-to-consumer applications, utilising APIs for partnerships and offering separately managed accounts for our institutional clients. Additionally, we operate an OTC desk, servicing institutional clients, crypto miners, and other entities in the blockchain and payment business sectors. My background is quite varied. I graduated from the University of Toronto as an electrical computer engineer, worked at 3G Capital, and served as a general partner at the venture fund BGS Venture LP. Afterward, I founded my own professional services agency, building apps for various clients. I also ventured into the startup realm, launching several mobile applications in the social and music industries, some of which I later sold. After a sabbatical period spent buying crypto, my fascination with the blockchain grew, leading me to start building an online OTC. Later on, I incorporated the DeFi investment portfolio business into the operation. Today, Coinchange offers a multitude of products and service lines to our clients, who are predominantly fintech and blockchain-native businesses. As for my education, besides my bachelor's degree from the University of Toronto, I also completed my MBA through a power MBA program. What were your biggest challenges when starting your business? Launching a business is a daunting task and requires courage to initiate the process. The key is to think, talk, build, and do everything related to the project. The journey often involves several core challenges. Funding: Finding the necessary capital to get your venture off the ground is usually one of the first obstacles to overcome. Team Building: It's crucial to assemble a team that shares your vision and is committed to realising it. Timing: Assessing whether the market is ready for your product is vital. If the timing is off, even the best idea can struggle to take off. Geography and clients: It's important to ensure there is a genuine demand for your product and not just a perceived one. You need to understand whether your target clients truly want what you're offering and if your chosen geographical location aligns with that demand. Move forward one step at a time, reflect on past experiences, and seek new connections. Use your network to inspire and evaluate the market's, clients, and product's potential. This will help you make informed decisions as you navigate these challenges. How have you handled success and failure over the course of your career? Over the course of my career, I've experienced numerous failures. Out of five startups I launched, three didn't succeed. These failures are always difficult to process. Recognising failure and having the strength to step back and reflect rather than relentlessly trying the same approach is a real challenge. As entrepreneurs, we're often counselled to relentlessly push forward, never surrender, and persistently strive towards our objectives. However, discerning the right moment to halt, pivot, or initiate a transformation can be a delicate balance to maintain. Every failure has been a learning opportunity for me, teaching me to recognise when the potential rewards don't justify the cost or effort or when there's simply no viable opportunity left. I've learned to identify my weaknesses and hire a team that can complement them. Delegation has been a crucial lesson. Understanding your limitations and building a team that can bridge those gaps is essential. Knowing what you don't know is as important as knowing what you do know. It's vital to look at the market and your product objectively and to have the courage to make a change when necessary. Choosing the right partners at the start of any venture is crucial. The business journey is often a rollercoaster, and having partners you can rely on for funding, advice, and sharing the pressures of external circumstances can make a significant difference. These lessons have been invaluable for me, and I believe they are essential for anyone embarking on a business journey. There will always be more lessons to learn. Being open to them is key to growth and resilience. What strategies do you use to stay competitive in a changing market? The primary strategy I employ is straightforward: listen to your clients. Ensuring that you're in tune with their needs and feedback and integrating that into your business and product offerings is paramount. Next, fostering a culture of constructive contradiction within your team is key. It's important not to seek unanimous agreement on every issue. Instead, encourage team members to voice their unique perspectives and reward them for doing so. This diversity of viewpoints enriches decision-making and stimulates innovation. Third, strive to minimise bureaucracy and excessive management oversight. While essential controls in areas like finance and operations are necessary, they should not be so constrictive as to stifle creativity and impede new initiatives, product changes, or marketing campaigns. Aiming for a flatter organisational structure can help ensure a dynamic flow of ideas and feedback. Cultivate an open and transparent feedback culture to increase agility and responsiveness in a rapidly changing market, which is essential for maintaining competitiveness. What motivations drive you to keep pushing forward in the face of adversity? Human motivation often arises from two primary factors: fear and pleasure. Much like anyone else, I am no exception to these driving forces. Fear, while typically seen in a negative light, can indeed be a powerful motivator. Fear of missing out, of being last, of losing, of appearing foolish, or of not realising one's aspirations can spur relentless perseverance. Simultaneously, the pleasure derived from overcoming challenges, satisfying clients, and fostering a happy and prosperous team provides a strong dopamine boost, which fuels motivation. A sense of purpose in what we do is a vital source of motivation. Our work helps people earn more and encourages financial independence, giving them the freedom to decide how they want to spend their time. This contribution to our clients' lives—the ability to help them navigate towards a better, more secure future—is a deeply rewarding driver for the entire team. What advice would you give to someone just starting out in their chosen field? My foremost advice would be to pursue what you love and do it exceptionally well. Ensure that your chosen path is not driven solely by the desire for monetary gain or personal pleasure but rather by a harmonious blend of both. Being truly passionate about what you do is vital, as this will fuel your commitment and resilience, particularly when navigating the ups and downs inherent in a startup environment or any new venture. So, stay passionate, love what you do, and strive for excellence. This commitment will not only bring you satisfaction but also improve your chances of success in your chosen field. How have technological advances affected the way you conduct business/operate your venture? The recent wave of artificial intelligence (AI) has been transformative for our business, particularly in our marketing and sales operations. We've been leveraging AI technologies, such as GPT (Generative Pretrained Transformer), for various tasks. AI helps us generate prospect lists and identify target client profiles. With input from sales and marketing teams, AI creates extensive lists of potential prospects and curates them, obtaining contact information for key decision-makers, filtering, structuring, and categorising them. AI is used to generate content for newsletters, blog posts, and social media content, as well as to create images and videos, complementing the work of our design and marketing teams. AI's role in development and quantitative strategy teams is less pronounced than in human creativity and iterative processes. AI has yet to find a suitable role in integrating these methodologies into a systematic approach. We use AI-infused systems for CRM, customer support, compliance, and fraud detection, but don't directly utilise them as we operate as clients of these service providers. AI has revolutionised sales and marketing operations, improving efficiency and reach. We anticipate further AI integration across other areas of our business in the future. In what ways has customer feedback/response influenced how you prioritize goals/objectives for your business/venture? Customer feedback is essential for our product development and business strategy. We listen closely to our customers and adjust our product roadmap based on their needs and responses. We also take into account market research, management decisions, and overall market conditions, but customer feedback holds the highest degree of influence in shaping our goals and objectives. Our business has changed from a predominantly retail-focused business to a B2B-focused one due to customer feedback. We noticed that our B2B clients were more engaged with the platform, requesting more features, and generally showing higher account balances. We are investing more heavily in our B2B platform, sales channels, and operations while still maintaining our retail offering. In essence, customer feedback plays a crucial role in determining the direction of our product development, market approach, and overall business objectives. It's an invaluable tool that enables us to align our goals with the needs of our most engaged and valuable customers. What trends do you see emerging in your industry that are likely to shape its future growth and development? There are several emerging trends in our industry that I believe are going to shape its future development and growth significantly. Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs): NFTs are having a tremendous impact not just in art and collectibles but also in digital applications like gaming. For instance, platforms like Sorare allow users to collect and trade NFT cards, build their sports teams, and compete online. It's a fascinating blend of gamification and blockchain technology that brings new levels of transparency and engagement. Decentralised Finance (DeFi): DeFi, which essentially takes intermediaries out of financial transactions, is another transformative trend. It promotes peer-to-peer transactions, scalability, and personal control over financial activities. Moreover, participation in DeFi markets can be rewarding, with many platforms providing returns for engagement. Security Tokens: The rise of security tokens is another notable trend. These tokens allow for the securitization of virtually any asset, from real estate and cars to jewellery and mines. This process enables fractional ownership, allowing anyone in the world to purchase these tokens and gain exposure to the revenue, dividends, and potential appreciation of the underlying asset. These trends are creating new and exciting opportunities in the crypto and Web3 landscapes. As a leading yield optimisation platform in the DeFi space, we are actively participating in these trends. We act as an asset manager, offering both custodial and non-custodial ways for our clients to earn in these evolving markets. What have been the most rewarding and difficult aspects of your chosen career/business path? One of the most challenging aspects of my career path has been making pivotal decisions that significantly impact the direction of the business. For instance, when we decided to shift our focus from B2C to B2B, it required an extensive restructuring of our business, which was certainly a difficult endeavour. We had to reduce our operational expenses, let go of some of our employees, reorient our marketing and sales strategies, and reassess our overall positioning. The process of letting people go was particularly tough, but it was necessary for the sustainability of the business. As for the most rewarding aspects, nothing can replace the exhilaration of achieving key milestones. When we started seeing our first clients sign up, generating our initial revenue, reaching the first million in deposits, or acquiring our first thousand clients, these were truly exciting moments. Seeing the tangible impact of our hard work and the value we were creating for real users provided immense motivation and fulfilment for the team and me. Ultimately, it's the balance of these challenging and rewarding experiences that forms the essence of entrepreneurship and makes the journey worthwhile. Are there any skills or areas of expertise that you think are essential for success in your field? Absolutely. Staying ahead in a rapidly evolving field like cryptocurrency requires a unique blend of skills and attributes. Here are some key areas of expertise that are particularly essential: Research and Analysis Skills: With new protocols, tokens, and blockchain technologies constantly emerging, it's critical to have strong research and analytical skills. This helps to understand the utility, risks, and real value behind every new financial product introduced in the market. Technical Understanding: A background in mathematics or engineering can be highly beneficial. This provides the ability to synthesise and interpret complex data effectively, which is necessary to make informed decisions in this technical and often complex field. Adaptability: Given the fast-paced nature of the cryptocurrency industry, being able to quickly adapt to changing circumstances is vital. This includes the ability to pivot, offer new services, and adjust your approach based on market evaluation and reflection. Strategic Thinking: Strategic decision-making skills are also essential. This involves synthesising information from a variety of sources, assessing potential risks and opportunities, and making informed decisions that align with your broader business objectives. Industry Knowledge: Lastly, a deep understanding of blockchain technology and cryptocurrency markets is a given. This includes knowledge of different cryptocurrencies, an understanding of blockchain protocols, smart contracts, and decentralised finance (DeFi) trends. These skills, when combined with a passion for the field and a willingness to stay updated with the latest developments, can help drive success in the cryptocurrency industry. How has working remotely or online impacted your business/venture over the past year? Operating remotely has indeed affected our business, but it's been mostly a positive experience for us. Being remote-first, we were ahead of the curve when the pandemic began, as we were already well accustomed to working from home. The challenges lie in fostering a sense of unity and shared culture when everyone is dispersed. To maintain this, we conduct regular stand-ups where the team can catch up, and I make myself readily available to anyone who needs assistance or guidance. Additionally, we face the challenge of ensuring everyone is aligned with our vision and has a clear understanding of their responsibilities. This comes down to open communication, setting clear expectations, and trust. The beauty of remote work is the flexibility it offers everyone on the team. We can cast a wider net in terms of talent and skills because we're not restricted to one geographical location. This has helped us form a diverse, talented team, all working together to drive the business forward. There is a learning curve to managing remote teams effectively, but with the right tools, clear communication, and a strong culture, we've found it to be a rewarding experience. What tips would you like to offer to others who are in a similar position to you but looking to take their careers/business further? First and foremost, always maintain honesty with yourself. Understand where you are and what you're capable of, and don't let biases cloud your judgement. Knowing your starting point is crucial to planning your journey. Second, don't let optimism make you underestimate the challenges. Projects often take more time and resources than initially estimated. It's vital to account for this in your planning. Third, always have a plan and backup plans. The ability to adapt and pivot is crucial, especially in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. Things don't always go according to plan, so having alternatives ready can save you a lot of stress. Fourth, maintain a healthy level of paranoia. This might sound strange, but in a competitive business landscape, it's vital to stay on your toes, continuously thinking about how you can improve, stay ahead, and outperform your competition. Lastly, ensure you surround yourself with the right people. Building a team that complements your skills and shares your vision is vital. It's equally important to incentivize them appropriately to ensure their dedication and commitment to your shared goals. These are some broad pieces of advice that have served me well, and I believe they can be useful for anyone looking to advance in their careers or business ventures. Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers that we haven’t already discussed? Absolutely. There are a few more points I'd love to highlight. Our business operates within the realm of decentralised finance (DeFi); we employ a systematic, quantitative approach to asset management. Our platform specialises in optimising yield, and we've developed several robust portfolios. If anyone is interested in exploring DeFi investment products, I would highly recommend checking out what we have to offer. We're also open to collaborations, so if you have a DeFi or yield product that you think would fit well with our platform, please don't hesitate to get in touch. Additionally, for those of you who may have idle cash sitting around and want to see it work more effectively for you, our separately managed accounts (SMAs) could be an excellent solution. We're always eager to work with new partners and clients. Thank you for this opportunity to share our work. We're excited to connect with those interested in DeFi, yield optimisation, and overall financial growth. I look forward to potential future collaborations. Be the change; yield the impossible!

Exclusive Interview of Balázs Slezák of Wozify. Edited by Powered Magazine Join us as we embark on an extraordinary exploration of Balazs Slezak's vision for a connected world, and discover how his relentless pursuit of technological excellence is shaping industries and transforming the way we live, work, and connect. In this exclusive interview with Powered Magazine, we have the privilege of delving into the mind of Balazs Slezak. From his early inspirations and career journey to his groundbreaking innovations and future aspirations, we uncover the insights and perspectives of a true technological pioneer. Tell us about yourself and your business. I've spent nearly ten years in the startup world, and my name is Balázs Slezák. If I were to be dramatic, I would say innovation runs in my bloodstream. I have founded three tech startups and achieved a successful exit with one in 2018. Since then, I've been wearing two hats: one as the leader of my software development firm, Wozify, and the other as a startup mentor. Both roles have recently taken a direction towards the space industry. As a mentor for the European Space Agency and the EU’s CASSINI Space Entrepreneurship Initiative, I find myself at the intersection of the space industry and the startup world. My mentoring activities and my current venture, Wozify, are built upon the years of ups and downs, failures, and successes that I experienced as a startup founder. What were your biggest challenges when starting your business (and how did you overcome them)? Every business I've started has posed different challenges. For instance, fresh out of university, I founded an advertising agency despite knowing nothing about advertising or, to be honest, business in general. I had to learn everything on the fly. Although it generated revenue and allowed me to earn a modest living without getting a 9-to-5 job, this business was destined to fail. However, it transformed me into a generalist who is now confident across all areas of the business world, including sales, marketing, and finance. With my very first startup, my co-founders and I fell into the most common trap inexperienced young entrepreneurs face: based on an idea, we started building something the world didn’t really need. We failed, but we learned our lesson: start with the market first and build a product second. With Forma Eyewear (the 3D printed eyewear company that was later acquired), we needed to simultaneously develop high-quality materials, create a cloud-based software solution for fitting, and build a fashion brand, all on a very limited budget. The solution was to assemble a team with diverse skillsets where everyone was capable of wearing multiple hats. With Wozify (my current business), the biggest challenge was standing out in the highly competitive market of software development. Our solution was specialisation (focusing on startups), and then, when we were dissatisfied with our growth, we decided to specialise even further (targeting space industry startups). How have you handled success and failure over the course of your career? Failure is inevitable. Except for a few outliers, the vast majority of entrepreneurs experience several failures before achieving success. These failures provide invaluable opportunities for personal and business growth and serve as building blocks for future success. While failures can be painful and it's natural to grieve, the ability to bounce back every time is what ensures you're unstoppable. I believe that perseverance, combined with taking calculated risks, paves the way to overcome a series of failures and eventually achieve success. To paraphrase a popular movie quote, you either die a failure or you live long enough to see yourself become a success. However, we mustn't forget survivorship bias. The stories we often see in the media focus on successful individuals who persevered, but they usually represent the exception, not the norm. That's why taking calculated risks is crucial. It's important to always protect the downside and avoid taking risks so substantial that, if they materialise, they could put you out of commission for years. As a leader, I find it beneficial to assume all responsibility for failures, losses, and setbacks and share credit with my team when we win. This fosters a positive culture and drives performance. What strategies do you use to stay competitive in a changing market? The world is changing so rapidly that it's unprecedented in human history. Continuous learning, both at the personal and organisational levels, is the only way to stay relevant. Moreover, an abundance mindset is tremendously beneficial. Networking, getting to know, and eventually forming partnerships with competitors can create greater value for all market players involved. Business, in the vast majority of industries, is not a zero-sum game. However, the most important factor remains delivering value to the customer. Being exceptional in the areas that customers deem most important secures a long-term competitive edge. What motivations drive you to keep pushing forward in the face of adversity? I have long-term goals and a vision for my own personal growth as well as that of my companies. Short-term adversities, setbacks, and failures can be painful, but in the grand scheme of things, they are just bumps in the road. What motivates me most is creating value in everything I do, whether it's leading my team, mentoring startup founders, or teaching. And of course, I hope to capture a portion of that value that translates into financial success. I firmly believe that material wealth is always a side effect of making an impact on the world. What advice would you give to someone just starting out in their chosen field? This might seem counterintuitive, but for young individuals starting their careers, securing a job is often a better initial move than starting a business. If your ultimate goal is to launch a venture in a specific industry, first gain employment within that industry. Gaining real-world experience while being paid by your employer helps mitigate risks in your career strategy and simplifies the process of starting a business later. As for navigating the startup world, my advice is straightforward: Begin with the market. Aim to solve a problem or fulfil an existing desire within the market. Make something people want. This is where the vast majority of startup attempts, including my first one, stumble. What trends do you see emerging in your industry that are likely to shape its future growth and development? Everyone is talking about AI now, and not enough people are talking about space. I strongly believe that we are at the advent of the golden age of space entrepreneurship. Working with Earth observation and satellite data to create value on Earth has enormous untapped potential. Space tourism, space manufacturing, and asteroid mining are all nascent industries that are bound to flourish. Right now, the space industry makes up a negligible fraction of global GDP, and everything indicates that an exponential boom can be expected. What have been the most rewarding and difficult aspects of your chosen career or business path? I love what I do, and there are so many rewarding experiences. For instance, speaking at conferences and conducting workshops and training for people who are genuinely interested is a joy. However, the best feeling always comes from the success of a client or mentee. When they reach an important milestone, for example, raising a round of venture capital, getting featured in a prestigious publication, or being acquired, it fills me with a sense of pride and accomplishment. Are there any skills or areas of expertise that you think are essential for success in your field? Contrary to popular belief, being a jack-of-all-trades is extremely useful when founding a company, especially when combined with a willingness and ability to learn quickly. The best strategy is to be T-shaped, having deep knowledge and skills in a particular area along with the ability to collaborate across disciplines. How has working remotely or online impacted your business or venture over the past year? Wozify had been operating as a remote-first company with a geographically distributed team even before the first wave of COVID hit. We transitioned to a fully remote organisation then and have never looked back. This structure allows us access to a larger talent pool both nationally and internationally, and it affords our colleagues the flexibility to become digital nomads if they so choose; in fact, recently, one of our team members relocated to South America and continues to work from there. Additionally, it saves us a significant amount of commuting time. Of course, we understand that remote work isn't suitable for everyone, so we make this clear to candidates during our recruitment and selection process. What tips would you like to offer to others who are in a similar position to you but looking to take their careers or businesses further? Look beyond the obvious. Look for insufficiently solved problems. Niching down is almost always the best strategy in the beginning. Give value first; expect money second. Embrace change and try to anticipate its ramifications. Maintain a strong work-life balance. Pay attention to your health. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.

Exclusive Interview of Jill McAbe of BOOM-U Media. Edited by Powered Magazine In this exclusive interview with Powered Magazine, we have the privilege of delving into the extraordinary accomplishments and insights of Jill McAbe. From her career highlights and experiences to her perspectives on gender equality, diversity, and driving social impact, we uncover the depth of her passion and the breadth of her contributions. Tell us about yourself and your business. I'm Jill McAbe, a business course creator and bestselling author specializing in productivity and business development for purpose-driven independent professionals. With a background in leadership, certifications in change and coaching, and a wealth of business experience, I've used my expertise to help others achieve emotional and financial well-being. After a life-changing car accident, I refocused my efforts to empower purpose-driven professionals, reaching over 20,000 students through productivity courses like "The Neuroscience of Goal Setting". My business development courses, such as IGNITE and True2Brand, have helped my clients become micro-influencers in their fields. What sets me apart is my unique blend of business acumen, scientific knowledge, and spiritual teachings. My commitment to balance is admired by my community; I prioritize well-being over the relentless pursuit of financial gain. I've been recognized by Forbes, Fast Company, and Entrepreneur Magazine, among others, and featured on many top 1% podcasts. What were your biggest challenges when starting your business? When starting my business, my biggest challenges revolved around selecting a single skill set and carving out a niche. The abundance of potential products and services initially overwhelmed me, and I hesitated to choose just one. However, I soon realised the importance of focusing on building one product at a time to achieve success. This gradual approach eventually led to the development of an ecosystem of products. Another hurdle was finding my niche. While consulting for high-earning entrepreneurs and assisting them with vision, strategy, and leadership development, I thrived on their energy. However, working with team members who lacked the same enthusiasm for growth proved draining. This prompted me to shift my focus towards independent, purpose-driven professionals who not only pursued financial success but were also committed to making a positive impact through their work. How have you handled success and failure over the course of your career? I view both success and failure as essential in shaping our journeys. Inspired by Teresa Amabile's research at Harvard, I've come to understand the significance of recognising even the smallest victories. It fuels a positive feedback loop in our brains, propelling us forward. Similarly, failure plays a critical role as a teacher. Throughout my two decades of entrepreneurship, I've encountered failed initiatives, launches, and challenging financial periods. However, these experiences have provided invaluable lessons and guided me towards a path I know is better. Embracing the saying "when one door closes, another opens," I've learned to let go of circumstances beyond my control and embrace a calm curiosity. This mindset has led to the discovery that setbacks often pave the way for better opportunities. I'm deeply grateful for my past failures, as they have ultimately led me to pursue what I love today. What strategies do you use to stay competitive in a changing market? To keep up with changes, I’ve employed listening, purpose, and persistence. For instance, when the COVID pandemic struck, I noticed a sudden influx of new "business coaches". Despite my decade-long track record and the $100 million in value my clients had collectively created, I now faced a wave of new competition. A new wave of coaches offered prescriptive ‘follow-my-lead’ business systems, but business, I believe, isn't one-size-fits-all. Each enterprise is a unique puzzle that needs a tailored approach. To succeed, professionals must grasp the foundations of business and apply them to their specific circumstances. Following someone else's blueprint doesn’t typically achieve the desired results. To stay competitive, I leaned on my years of experience and commitment to serving my market. The breadth of my programmes and my inside-out methodology became a unique selling point. Above all, it's my passion for helping people who help people that truly sets me apart. What motivations drive you to keep pushing forward in the face of adversity? My drive is fueled by the joy I feel when my clients succeed! Many of my clients and course participants have become leaders in their spaces or micro influencers. It brings me to tears of joy when I see them surrounded by people who love them. The positive ripple effect that I know is unfolding in the world, and the fact that I am a small part of it, makes me feel incredible. What advice would you give to someone just starting out in their chosen field? The most crucial advice I can share is to pick something you genuinely enjoy. There will be challenging times, so your passion will serve as a necessary motivator, guiding you through tricky stages like marketing your business and finding your community. While initial clients often come from personal networks, the true test lies in reaching a broader audience beyond personal ties. To succeed, a clear and compelling brand message is essential. This is often overlooked by professionals, hindering their business growth potential. I recommend developing a founder’s story following the structure of a hero's journey as the first step. Crafting this story for oneself allows all other messaging, such as unique selling propositions and social media topics, to naturally align. This powerful narrative accelerates trust-building and becomes a remarkable catalyst for marketing efforts. What trends do you see emerging in your industry that are likely to shape its future growth and development? In my industry, I observe a significant trend towards holistic wealth, transcending a fixation on financial prosperity alone. This shift, driven by global changes in social, economic, and environmental landscapes, is leading individuals to reevaluate their priorities and definitions of success. Purpose-driven entrepreneurship is gaining momentum, with an increasing emphasis on creating value aligned with personal and societal impact. The rise of registered B-Corps and the demand for leadership development exemplify this commitment to positive social change. As society undergoes transformative crises, individuals are prioritising personal fulfilment and societal improvement. This awareness is reshaping our industry. In response, my Wealthy System offers a holistic approach to wealth creation, focusing on balanced, purpose-driven success that benefits both individuals and broader communities. Are there any skills or areas of expertise that you think are essential for success in your field? The key to success in my field is leadership, not merely as a means of managing others but as a means of bringing out the best in them. Before this is possible, however, one must learn to bring out the best in oneself. Self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and embracing one's truth are vital. My programmes, designed around an inside-out methodology, advocate for this personal growth as a pathway to professional success. Hence, a holistic approach to leadership and personal development is essential, fostering both personal and professional thriving. Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers that we haven’t already discussed? Never doubt that you were purpose-built for success. Far too often, I hear of people abandoning their dreams after being told they 'weren't good enough'. Don't let others dictate your worth or the fate of your dreams. Embrace your calling. Remember, many successful individuals faced rejection. It's essential to remember that one person's feedback doesn't define you. The world needs your solution. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. Believe in yourself, trust in your abilities, and make your mark on the world. If you need help getting to the next level of success, I invite you to my monthly First Friday Fireside Chats for free group coaching. I’d be happy to help you! You can RSVP at Eventbrite here.

Exclusive Interview of Harsh Patel of Water and Shark. Edited by Powered Magazine Harsh Patel is a highly accomplished professional with a strong background in International Corporate and Business Laws, tax, cross-border structuring, family office, corporate compliance, real estate transaction advisory, start-up venturing, and strategic advisory. As the Founding Member and Global CEO of Water and Shark, he has established the company in numerous countries, including India, the United States, the United Kingdom, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, and others. Tell us about yourself and your business. I am the founder and chief executive officer of Water and Shark, and my name is Harsh Girish Patel. I have law licences to practise in several nations, including the UAE, India, the UK, and others. I am a corporate lawyer and a qualified chartered accountant. My journey as a professional began with a small dream. A dream to be able to help others and showcase my abilities as a problem solver. To define and establish myself as a leader of the new age, and to help others grow along with me. I embarked upon a journey to become a chartered accountant, one of the most coveted professional qualifications one can aspire to have. Once I was able to achieve this, it motivated me to further enhance my skills. At the mere age of 19, I was able to start my own business and venture out into the vast waters of the business world. Hence began the journey of water and sharks. What were your biggest challenges when starting your business? I started the journey in a tiny office in a metro city in India and have scaled it and expanded it from a regional firm to a global firm in the past decade. Yes, it was a roller coaster ride with its ups and downs, where a decade ago the technology, the infrastructure, the team, and the requisite skill sets were not easily attainable. But with a vision to be the world's best and to be able to compete in the same ring as the industry stalwarts, we motivated and drove ourselves to where we are. How have you handled success and failure over the course of your career? Personally, I attribute my success not only to myself but also to those who have supported and guided me throughout my journey. People who stay by you during your hardship are those who deserve to be with you during your success. I have always re-evaluated my methods and choices when I have faced challenges that seemed unsurmountable in order to ensure that I don’t repeat them. And in my success, I have never let my hunger die. What strategies do you use to stay competitive in a changing market? We consider ourselves a one stop shop for the modern era. With this belief, we claim to be up to date with the ongoing trends. We try to blend our style and essence into modern methods of business and cater to clients' requests. We tend to be creative with ads and urge everyone to be relentless. The motto is to do better and be better, not only today but to compete with tomorrow. What motivations drive you to keep pushing forward in the face of adversity? I am a firm believer that problems and challenges give way to opportunities, and these opportunities build and shape your foundation for growth. During the pandemic, we have seen many businesses face challenges and difficulties; we are no different, but having a positive attitude and perseverance has enabled us and the firm to move forward. Trust and faith that these are just challenges and not the end, and by sticking together and collectively putting our minds towards the challenge, we overcome it. Being able to stand firm in tumultuous times is a sign of a strong foundation, which we have nurtured and established in the last decade. What advice would you give to someone just starting out in their chosen field? My advice to beginners would be that every path or journey you embark upon will be filled with hardships and challenges. It’s the mindset and the discipline that prevail to conquer these challenges and achieve what you have set out to do. If you fail or falter, it's not the end; you can always choose a different approach. Life is long, and it offers more opportunities than one can imagine, but opportunities come to those who seek them. So be confident, be smart, and do not let the negatives drag you down; keep on learning from your failures. How have technological advances affected the way you conduct business or operate your venture? Yes, technology has eased the way business is conducted. Living in the 21st century, we are surrounded by technology that is constantly evolving and advancing. Any firm that fails to adapt to or embrace technology in their business will be left behind. Be it in any part of the industry, business, or sector, including financial and legal profession firms, from the reduction of human intervention to automating and efficiently optimising services, there has been a significant advancement in the new business era. Due to technological changes, we are able to provide services across the globe without any hindrance. Our employees can work from remote locations, which helps improve their morale with such flexible working conditions. Overall, technological changes, especially in the last two decades, have helped businesses grow manifolds, including ours. In what ways has customer feedback or response influenced how you prioritise goals or objectives for your business or venture? A customer’s feedback is always to be taken as positive, because it would either be an appraisal of the service you have provided or an insight on what could be better. Being able to offer your services in a better manner gives you immeasurable satisfaction. What trends do you see emerging in your industry that are likely to shape its future growth and development? Due to advancements in technology and the rapid growth of digitization, the advisory and service industries are no longer confined to geographical boundaries. Sitting in one corner of the world, you will be able to advise clients all over the world. With the right skills and mindset and by aptly utilising the resources around us, the growth for this service sector is exponentially high. What have been the most rewarding and difficult aspects of your chosen career or business path? Every businessman on the path to success has to be willing to lose something. Sacrifice is the key to achieving something that is not easy to get. To be where I am today, I have sacrificed my comfort, my time, and many other things that were difficult. But these sacrifices have gotten me where I am, and that is the most rewarding thing. To be able to stand at a podium with other stalwarts of the business community is a feat not achieved by many. Are there any skills or areas of expertise that you think are essential for success in your field? In the service industry, knowledge and communication go hand in hand. One without the other would never lead to success. You need to be aware of all the changes in your industry and the world and be up to date about the latest trends while being presentable and having the right skills to convey the message in its true essence. How has working remotely or online impacted your business or venture over the past year? Working remotely has been both a boon and a bane. As a boutique firm engaged in providing business solutions and services to clients, it can be done from any corner of the world, which has provided a sense of flexibility in work. But at the same time, the impact of being physically present for a client is not good. Certain times, being physically present, be it in a meeting or an office work space, plays a significant role for not only the business but for an individual too. What tips would you like to offer to others who are in a similar position to you but looking to take their careers or businesses further? My sincerest advice to others in a similar position is that, in the world of business, the ups and downs are the only constants. Embrace these moments in their stride and keep on developing yourself. The key is to take your failures as lessons and your successes as milestones to achieve something greater and bigger. With all the knowledge of the world at the tip of your fingers, only you can steer your ship to the shores of success.

Exclusive Interview of Brian Thomas of City of Lawrence. Edited by Powered Magazine In a world where technology has become the cornerstone of progress, leaders like Brian Thomas are at the forefront, driving innovation and transforming cities. As the esteemed Chief Information Officer (CIO) of the City of Lawrence, Kansas, Brian Thomas has been instrumental in leveraging technology to enhance public services and improve the lives of citizens. In this exclusive interview, we delve into Brian's visionary mindset, his groundbreaking initiatives, and the remarkable impact he is making as a catalyst for technological advancement in Lawrence. Join us as we uncover the driving force behind the city's digital transformation and gain insights from the remarkable journey of Brian Thomas. Tell us about yourself and your role. I, Brian Thomas After serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, my background and education have been in the technology field, predominantly healthcare. I am currently the CIO for the City of Lawrence, Kansas. As the CIO, my top priorities are helping our city’s leadership implement the strategic plan, assisting with a performance improvement programme, and providing technology vision and support for 950 employees. What were your biggest challenges when serving as CIO at the city or other companies? Challenges come in many forms, but what I have found sitting in the C-Suite and over my career is that planning and communicating help mitigate challenges that are avoidable. I discovered early in my career that if I was able to thoroughly learn the business I was supporting, I was able to provide solutions and better support the company and its customers. How have you handled success and failure over the course of your career? When handling success, I have always maintained a sense of humility and remembered where I started in my career. While I have contributed to many successful milestones, I like to say it was always a team effort. I’ve been proud to serve with many great people and teams over the years, and it’s because of them that I’m successful. As far as failures go, I would say they were some of the best learning experiences one could have. Each failure taught me a great lesson and made me look for a path to be successful at the next opportunity that came my way. What strategies do you use to stay competitive in a changing market? Education and networking Over the last 25 years, technology has massively changed and is still changing. Keeping your skillset sharp is key to knowing, but more importantly, having that knowledge to apply solutions to problems. Networking with peers and other leaders has also been my go-to strategy. I learn so much from others, and keeping a strong network of various professionals and leaders allows me to be available and stay marketable. What motivations drive you to keep pushing forward in the face of adversity? Knowing that adversity and challenges bring a new lesson or new benefit to experience. It’s important to note that there will always be peaks and valleys, and you need to remember to pace yourself and plan accordingly. What advice would you give to someone just starting out in their chosen field? You can’t learn everything in one day. Pace yourself and take deep breaths when feeling overwhelmed. Also, try to go the extra mile in everything you do. Focus on excellence and providing the best customer experience possible. Lastly, build relationships at all levels. How have technological advances affected the way you conduct business? You don’t realise how many things have changed in the last couple of decades until you sit down and reflect on how things were done when you first started your career. I would say the last 3–4 years have really been a game changer with some of the latest platforms, process automation, and machine learning. With conversational AI, we are seeing use cases for just about everything. For example, having a chatbot manage simple but high-volume customer requests will change everything and enhance the customer experience. In what ways has customer feedback or response influenced how you prioritise goals and objectives for the business? I believe that customer feedback, good or bad, is the best way to improve your product or service. I would rather get some negative responses on our surveys than none at all. Receiving no feedback can be misleading, and I believe some people think that no feedback is good feedback. If you aren’t getting feedback, then I would make it a priority to reach out and engage. Keeping your pulse on the customer is a great way to keep true north on your compass. What trends do you see emerging in your industry that are likely to shape its future growth and development? As mentioned previously, I believe leveraging some of these newer and emerging technologies is key to bringing more efficient processes to your organisation. Additionally, let your employees lead. They are your best asset and are fully capable of doing great things. Give them the goal, and they will amaze you with better outcomes and solutions. What have been the most rewarding and difficult aspects of your chosen career or business path? The most rewarding aspect of my career has certainly been the people and relationships. On the flip side, regarding difficult aspects, one could say the same about people. However, my philosophy has always been to treat people the way I’d like to be treated and to be a good listener. This has guided me to both success and personal fulfilment. Are there any skills or areas of expertise that you think are essential for success in your field? Sure. There’s a certain amount that is technical, but by and large, I would say that having those soft or people skills is by far more essential than the technical. Being empathetic, communicative, and transparent have certainly contributed to my success. How has working remotely or online impacted your business over the past year? A lot. I could spend eight hours discussing this topic. At the end of the day, remote work is a positive perk for staff. However, building camaraderie and keeping staff engaged can certainly be challenges. I have recently read a book from a good colleague of mine, “The Successful Hybrid Team”, and it has provided a lot of insights and solutions to some of the most common challenges working in a hybrid or remote environment. What tips would you like to offer to others who are in a similar position to you but looking to take their careers further? As I mentioned earlier, start with building foundational, long-lasting relationships. Next, find a mentor. Whether you’re a customer service representative or the CEO, this is vitally important to help navigate challenges and guide your career trajectory.

Exclusive Interview of Neil Mann of Future Horizon. Edited by Powered Magazine In an era defined by rapid technological advancements and profound societal transformations, there are visionary individuals who dedicate their lives to shaping the future. Neil Mann, a distinguished futurist, advisor, writer, consultant, and founder of Future Horizon, stands at the forefront of this paradigm shift. With Future Horizon, Neil has established a platform that fosters dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge exchange among forward-thinking individuals and organisations. Through this visionary venture, he has created a vehicle that actively shapes the trajectory of the future. Join us as we explore the remarkable journey of Neil Mann, uncovering the depth of his expertise, the impact of his insights, and the transformative power of his forward-thinking mindset. Tell us about yourself and your business. “If you’ve ever wondered what the cross between a Swiss Army Knife and a Chameleon looks like, I’m it,” is how I introduce myself. For the last 20+ years, I’ve worked as a strategy expert for major advisory firms, as an internal consultant, and as an independent specialist. I’ve worked in different roles in diverse industries in various parts of the world, and the constant theme that runs throughout is that I’m all about delivering tangible business outcomes via digital innovation. I founded Future Horizon in 2022 in response to seeing a huge need for business-focused, independent strategic advisory. I refer to this need as future-forward digital change. What were your biggest challenges when starting your business? Many people misunderstand what a futurist is, so really refining the brand message and positioning took time to ensure the value is straightforward to consume for non-technology people. In a nutshell, we translate, simplify, and de-mystify the latest cutting-edge digital trends. A futurist does not and cannot predict the lottery numbers for next week; it is all about strategic anticipation: rapidly synthesising detailed technical information, then forming and communicating a compelling big-picture forecast perspective. How have you handled success and failure over the course of your career? There are three fundamentals that shape how I approach tasks and respond to events. As a Stoic, I only spend calories on what I can influence and control; everything else simply “is”, regardless of what you may think of it. This pragmatism has helped me throughout my life, but especially during challenging periods in my career. To move forward and grow, I believe in first learning from the past; it is prudent to look backwards before one looks forwards (something clients often find surprising coming from a futurist). I’ve also learned that my instinct and “gut feel” are two of my most valuable assets, and hard-won experience has demonstrated I ignore them at my peril. What strategies do you use to stay competitive in a changing market? Market flux is the precise reason why Future Horizon exists: to bridge the gap between where you are today and what the future might bring tomorrow. We help you stay ahead of what's next, providing reconnaissance into the edge of technology—we scout the digital frontier, as it’s not what you look at that matters, it’s what you see. My main route to market is via my strong professional network—through connections, introductions, recommendations, and referrals. Though I work globally, Asia has been my home for more than 12 years now, and the importance of cultivating strong long-term relationships and partnerships has had a profound impact on my approach. I work backwards from my target customers; when it comes to innovation and “hot topic” buzzwords, they want analysis, clarity, perspective, insight, and advice that is specific to them, their business, industry, and overall context. For example, what is this technology, how does it work, what are the implications, give me some examples, what are my options, what should I (my company) do, and when? Also important is my active participation in local associations, regional societies, and international industry communities. Finally, learning from the startups that I advise, mentor, and invest in – they are often the first to really try something new. What motivations drive you to keep pushing forward in the face of adversity? One of the reasons for creating Future Horizon was that in other organisations I always felt a degree of constraint, especially when it came to questioning the embedded status quo. Politics and hierarchy would invariably nerf any direct challenge but, being the founder the buck stops entirely with me; be that success or failure. I wholeheartedly embrace that. How have technological advances affected the way you conduct business or operate your venture? The future is not something that just happens to us; the future is something we do. Every day I research, explore, and evaluate bleeding-edge technical studies and innovative projects, developing an ever-evolving perspective on new market frontiers. It’s an incredibly exciting time, and I am optimistic about how we can positively shape our future. I was regularly working from home, perhaps one day a week, with international clients back in 2008 when I was at Gartner, so the ability to work remotely from anywhere is nothing new for me. Future Horizon is a digital-native business, as one might expect, and that allows us to engage with the widest gamut of firms, organisations, and individuals from around the world using the latest collaborative tools. That said, where practicalities, time, and budget allow, there is, as yet, no real substitute for meeting and working with clients face-to-face (particularly at the start and end of engagements) to create shared understanding, build relationships, and drive momentum. What trends do you see emerging in your industry that are likely to shape its future growth and development? Technology innovation and digital disruptions will continue to increasingly permeate every aspect of our day-to-day lives and, in some ways, transform them like never before. For example, the rapid uptake by the masses of conversational interfaces powered by GPT models has been down to seamless accessibility; it is the “iPhone moment” for artificial intelligence (AI), and we’re only getting started in understanding both the applications and implications of these tools. We are exceptionally bullish on how future enhancements will boost and enrich how we live, morphing work, home, culture, and society. Businesses will either change or be changed, and so when conventional approaches are not enough, clients must continue to seek out trusted, deep, independent expertise to deliver practical solutions to their unique problems. One area where we are seeing considerable demand is strategies for how companies can more proactively anticipate – leveraging strategic foresight – regulatory changes which may affect their operations. For key verticals such as financial services, pharma, natural resources, hospitality, logistics, or media – the ongoing cost of compliance is an unavoidable price of doing business. Connecting the dots is not easy, but automated analysis and analytics can deliver reliable insights. What have been the most rewarding and difficult aspects of your chosen career or business path? I find it stimulating and satisfying to work with business leaders and boards to help shape their strategic direction; my work often falls into advisory circles around “we need to stop doing X” or “we desire to do Y but are not sure how to get there”. Helping organisations be better prepared to face the future and reduce their risk of being blindsided by change is enormously fulfilling for me. This is especially true when I work with them on an retained basis as you really get to see the adaptations occur over time. In terms of challenges, a common theme is senior executives who have read or heard about a particular technology and seek guidance and empowerment on how to approach it rapidly. Often this is a hammer looking for a nail and, other than some potential short-term positive PR spin, is not the path to sustainable long-term value. We call this “innovation theatre,”, as it's not fundamentally focused on core change but more for show. It’s all about balance. Are there any skills or areas of expertise that you think are essential for success in your field? My superpower is being able to take what is occurring at the bleeding edge of innovation and convey the future implications in consumable business language. I’m a passionate believer that we are not victims of what the future might hold if we prepare ourselves in advance. Being an information junkie is a prerequisite; I spend hours daily researching what might be the newest developments, innovations, pivots, and disruptions. In my line of work, it’s not enough to just keep abreast of market news on any given day; it’s much more expensive in scale: assessing trends, detecting vectors, forecasting, signal-scanning, scenario-planning, and always challenging yourself to think bigger and not be constrained by existing de-facto norms. Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers that we haven’t already discussed? Exploring futures and building anticipation is zero risk for a business. Even with significant resources and smart personnel, it is difficult to anticipate what’s coming around the bend. especially when you are inside looking out. I therefore challenge business leaders to question if they can afford for their organisations not to ingest, synthesise, and form a viewpoint on swiftly moving horizons, risks, opportunities, and trends, especially in such uncertain times. Think bold. Think broad. Think beyond.

Exclusive Interview of Lama Naseer of Aanaab. Edited by Powered Magazine In the realm of financial management and strategic decision-making, Lama Naseer has established herself as a seasoned professional, driving financial excellence as the CFO of Aanaab. With a proven track record of delivering tangible results and a deep understanding of financial intricacies, Lama plays a pivotal role in shaping the financial landscape of the organization. In this exclusive interview with Powered Magazine, we have the privilege of gaining insights into the world of financial management through the lens of Lama Naseer. From her career journey and the challenges she has encountered to her perspectives on financial leadership and the evolving landscape of finance, we uncover the wisdom and expertise of a trailblazer in the field. Tell us about yourself and your business. My name is Lama Naseer, and I’m Aanaabs’ CFO and an early stage investor in the company. I joined Aanaab in its second year because I saw the potential impact this company could accomplish, and now in its fifth year, Aanaab has demonstrated that many times over. I have always been interested in initiatives that support balancing the scale, like co-founding CellA+ for Professional Women, being part of Riyalis’ Financial Literacy programme for kids, starting the Acumen+Jeddah chapter for social entrepreneurship, and in the career choices I made. Aanaab is an EdTech that started catering to a need for upskilling Arab speaking teachers (B2C track) and catering to school needs through training and recruitment (B2B track). Today, it has expanded to address an even bigger need in terms of becoming the eLearning platform that builds your skills, knowledge, and mindset around your profession of choice. It brings the best in terms of international and regional collaborations and customises it to market needs. In markets with young populations, huge growth, and a huge need for skilled professionals, the potential and the demand are huge, and we’re here as the first and, in some cases, the only ones in the region to offer what we do. How is a startup CFO different from a corporate CFO? Startup CFOs are value creators; while they handle all the financial functions of a traditional CFO, they spend more time shaping a startup's strategy and product iteration. They come in early to build the financial structure as well as, in many cases, handle investor relations, fund raising, and, on a need-by basis, other roles such as legal. They’re strategists and visionaries who take on a more collaborative role with different departments than traditional budget management. They must have a scaling up mindset to accommodate the decisions needed for growth hacking. Finance in general gives visibility to every aspect of a company; startup finance, by necessity, is involved in day-to-day operations, and in my opinion, it’s the most exciting role in a startup. What were your biggest challenges in your role as a startup CFO? I think one of the biggest challenges of being a startup CFO is finding that balance between a healthy cash runway and meeting growth requirements. It took some adjustment in my case; you need to adopt a different mindset where profitability and bottom line are not at the forefront of decision making in those early years, at least not as the main drivers. What motivations drive you to keep pushing forward in the face of adversity? I believe that in different phases of life, what drives us evolves and shifts, and that’s ok. My earliest motivations were to prove myself by going into a challenging career, and then it was to have impact on a larger scale. While now as a mom to an amazing daughter, Dala, it’s to be the best role model to her, demonstrating by example that everything is possible, and continuously trying to be the best version of myself. Are there any skills or areas of expertise that you think are essential in your field? A solid financial foundation is a must. Resourcefulness is another, and it will come in handy in seeking different sources of funding. Thinking outside the box, creativity, and flexibility. If you like structure and clarity, then this role is definitely not for you. Communication and networking skills. Startup CFOs must show their abilities as outward facing CFOs; they must be more strategic. Their background is not necessarily from traditional roles in accounting but could be from investment banking or other prior careers. What have been the most rewarding aspects of your chosen career or business path? At Aanaab, we help scale up impact on a national and regional level. Utilisation of EdTech speeds up the implementation while increasing the reach geographically and socioeconomically. Two of the projects I’m most proud of are supporting the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Culture in one of our markets for the introduction of music teaching in kindergartens. Training 16,000 public and private school teachers. Another is a collaboration in 2020 with the Ministry of Health, at the time of the coronavirus pandemic, for an online course on how teachers can teach awareness about COVID-19 and precautionary measures, reaching 11,000 teachers across the MENA region. What advice would you like to give someone starting their career? Love what you do, pay it forward, and be open to different experiences. Love what you do: life is too short, and we give our best contributions when we are passionate about what we work for. Pay it forward: be generous with your help, advice, and time whenever you can. From experience, supporting others always comes back positivity, whether it’s through karma or the people you once helped who end up helping you and being there for you when you most needed it and least expected it. Be open to different experiences: because you never know where your career might take you. The more you experience, the larger the option pool will be. What about advice for someone interested in starting a tech company? Educate yourself about metrics, because it all comes back to that when it’s time to fundraise down the line. Have clear expectations that your business model will iterate many times. Know that the growth stage is a completely different ballgame. People who were there in the beginning will not necessarily be the right team to steer the company through growth. Priorities shift, and you need to be flexible while juggling the different parts. Finally, I cannot stress enough the importance of finding the right investors, especially in the seed stage.

If your business is feeling the effects of a downturn, you're not alone. Many businesses are struggling to adjust their sales strategies in order to stay afloat. However, it is possible to set your business up for success even in tough economic times. By focusing on the right sales strategy, you can weather any storm. In this post, we'll outline some key points to keep in mind when setting your B2B sales strategy during a downturn. By following these tips, you can ensure that your business comes out on top. Ready to get started? Let's dive in! Define your target market - who are you selling to and what do they need/want? Despite the competitive nature of the market, understanding your target market is essential to success. To define your target market, you must identify who is most likely to purchase the product or service you are selling. This involves looking at factors such as age, gender, location, interests, and more to better understand their needs and wants. Knowing this will allow you to create tailored marketing strategies designed specifically for that segment of your audience. This could be through sales strategies such as discounted offers or creating content catered to a certain group they already resonate with. Through this research, you can build relationships and provide value whilst demonstrating the appeal of your product or service in order to successfully convert customers. Research your competition - what are they doing differently that you can learn from or improve upon Knowing what other companies in your industry are doing differently from you is essential for staying competitive. Doing research on how your competition is succeeding can help you gain insight into what strategies they're utilizing that could be helpful in improving or expanding upon your own objectives. Furthermore, creating a better or different product may involve analyzing what your competition is focusing on and differentiating yourself by delivering something unique or revolutionary. In conclusion, it's beneficial to stay informed on the efforts of others in order to stay ahead of them and continuously adapt to grow your business. Create a sales strategy that is flexible and can be easily adapted as the market changes Sales strategies are incredibly important for any business in an ever-changing industry. Having a plan that is both flexible and easily adaptable to market changes can help ensure success. The key is to understand the environment and competitor climate, as well as customer preferences. By keeping up with trends and having a reasonable expectation of how the market will change, a business can stay agile. Additionally, it's important to keep meticulous records of what works, so that when the rules of the game change you can quickly adjust to effectively pursue customers in a new marketplace. Ultimately, creating a successful sales strategy requires anticipating future developments, so your company knows which way to go no matter what happens. Set realistic goals for your team, based on their skills and experience levels Setting realistic goals for your team can be an effective way to raise morale and spur innovative thinking. Having attainable targets helps to build a strong sense of accomplishment within the team and increases confidence among team members. Setting the right goals that are appropriate to the skills and experience level of the individuals in the team is key, as it encourages creativity while reducing frustration. It is important to remember that everyone learns differently; allowing them to grow at their own pace yields far better results than directing them with an unrealistic agenda. Establishing goals and taking deliberate actions not only deepens your understanding of what's achievable with a team but ensures all members have ownership over project success. Train your team members on the new B2B sales strategy and give them the resources they need to succeed Training is an essential part of implementing any new strategy in the sales department and building successful teams. For a team to be truly engaged with the new sales strategy, they need to have a clear understanding of the goals and objectives and the individual components that are in place to accomplish them. To ensure positive results, they should be given access to all the resources necessary, from materials and tools to proper instruction and coaching. This will empower them to make decisions confidently, stay focused on common goals, and take advantage of every opportunity for success. In this way, both leaders and talent can enjoy the benefits of improved performance by effectively training a winning team. Monitor your results regularly and make changes as needed to ensure success In order to reach your goals and objectives, it is essential to monitor the results of your efforts regularly. Tracking your success can reveal insight into where you're making progress and which areas need more focus. This data can be extremely useful when adjusting strategies and ultimately achieving success. When evaluation reveals pitfalls in the process, it's important to make changes as needed to accomplish the desired outcome. An effective system for monitoring progress and taking corrective actions will help ensure you meet or exceed the objectives that matter most. By taking the time to understand your target market, researching your competition, and creating a sales strategy that is flexible, you can ensure success for your team. Set realistic goals for your team based on their skills and experience levels, and monitor your results regularly to make changes as needed. Give your team members the resources they need to succeed and train them on the new sales strategy. By following these steps, you can be sure that you are providing the best possible service to your customers and staying ahead of the competition.

In an ever-changing world, remote working is becoming increasingly popular. Whether you’re looking for the perfect spot to work from for a short period or considering long-term options, here we look at the best places to set up shop for remote working in 2023 if you’re looking for a remote lifestyle. Bali, Indonesia Bali is a great option for remote workers as it has an excellent digital infrastructure, vibrant culture, and stunning scenery. There are plenty of opportunities to work flexibly from anywhere on the island, allowing you to make the most of your time here, whether learning about Balinese spirituality or simply chilling on the beach for hours on end! Estonia Estonia is a tech-forward country that has embraced remote working wholeheartedly. It’s hard to beat the strength of their digital infrastructure, and the social and cultural environment makes it an ideal spot for those seeking an off-the-grid lifestyle. Costa Rica Costa Rica has become a hotbed of remote living over the last few years, thanks to its great weather year-round and natural beauty that can’t be found anywhere else. Not only will you find plenty of nature activities to enjoy, but many tech companies now have headquarters in San Jose, making it easy to bridge both worlds. Canada With its high quality of life and abundance of technology jobs, Canada is becoming an increasingly popular destination for global nomads looking for a home away from home. Taxes are low, and the healthcare system is world-class, so you know you’ll have the best care available if needed. India India is a unique destination for digital nomads, as it provides access to some of the best resources and infrastructure in Asia with costs that are still very affordable compared to other locations around the globe. Multiculturalism also adds greatly to the experience, allowing one to learn about many cultures at once while enjoying all that India has to offer through working remotely. Malaysia: Malaysia has seen its economy boom over recent years, making it a great option for those who want to work abroad but remain relatively close to home (in terms of distance). It boasts lots of modern amenities along with tropical mountains and sandy beaches - perfect for escaping the daily grind into relaxation mode quickly! Philippines The Philippines offers a wealth of options when it comes to locations suitable for remote working – from fully geared up cities like Manila, where you can find excellent coworking spaces all across town; or out on Balabac Island dotted with white sand beaches surrounded by crystal clear waters where taking breaks is simply part of life here! Thailand For those seeking more cultural experiences than nature getaways during their time abroad, then look no further than Thailand! Both Bangkok and Phuket boast fantastic amounts of quality coworking spots along with plenty of exploring options nearby if you need a break from your computer screen at any point in time! Mexico Mexico is another great country performing very well economically now, which makes it attractive not just due to its culture but also our opportunities in the industry too – plus, there's no shortage of sunshine, delicious food & engaging activities making this one hard place not fall in love with! Poland Poland may not be everyone's first thought when thinking about potential places to work remotely, but don't let this fool you – a visit here makes abundantly clear why this European country should certainly be considered when planning relocation plans as they boast incredibly high standards modern facilities & workforce skills that make any type job hunting easy & successful here!. From European countries with high-tech infrastructure, beautiful natural getaways, and bustling cities with endless opportunities, there is something out there for everyone when it comes to finding your home away from home. Our list of the top 10 remote working places in 2023 will guide you on your next big adventure!

Exclusive Interview of Zen Koh of Fourier Intelligence. Edited by Powered Magazine Tell us about yourself and your business. My name is Zen Koh, and I'm Fourier Intelligence's co-founder and global CEO. I co-founded Fourier Intelligence with the intention of utilizing cutting-edge technology to enhance the lives of people with physical disabilities and neurological conditions. I have a strong background in engineering and more than 20 years of experience developing medical devices and rehabilitation technology. By innovating in the exoskeleton and robotic technology for rehabilitation, our business has become a global leader. With a focus on improving functional movement, mobility, and overall quality of life, our product line is specifically designed to satisfy the special demands of individuals with neurological and musculoskeletal problems. Our product line includes ground-breaking items like the Fourier ArmMotus™ EMU, which helps people regain function in their upper extremities after a stroke or other neurological disorder. We also provide the Fourier ExoMotus™ M4 Lower Limb Exoskeleton, which aids individuals with neurological conditions such as spinal cord injuries, strokes, and other neurological conditions in standing and walking. Image: Handout Our commitment to innovation and quality at Fourier Intelligence is shown in the numerous honors and accolades we have received for our ground-breaking technologies and innovations in rehabilitative robots. Research and development are given first priority as we seek to build products that are simple to use, efficient, and reasonably priced. We are motivated by our unshakable dedication to improving the lives of people in need, and we are resolute in our quest to create ground-breaking rehabilitative technology. What were your biggest challenges when starting Fourier Intelligence? Starting Fourier Intelligence has its share of difficulties, as with any new business. Gaining momentum and establishing our credibility in the very competitive medical device and rehabilitation technology development market was one of the major hurdles. Finding funds for research, development, product manufacture, and marketing was another significant problem. Without the required funding, we would not have been able to launch our ground-breaking solutions and significantly improve the lives of those suffering from neurological and musculoskeletal diseases. In addition, creating a solid team of professionals with the ideal combination of talents and knowledge was crucial to overcoming our obstacles. We needed to find and keep employees who shared our enthusiasm for innovation and commitment to enhancing the lives of people with physical and neurological problems. Notwithstanding these difficulties, we were motivated by our unshakeable dedication to our objective, which served as our compass and guided us through our difficulties. We overcame these obstacles and made Fourier Intelligence a world leader in creating cutting-edge rehabilitative robots and exoskeleton technology by utilizing our enthusiasm, knowledge, and creative approach. We are dedicated to conquering new obstacles and carrying on with our innovative and revolutionary work in the field of rehabilitative technology. We are certain that our team's knowledge, devotion, and an unshakable dedication to our objective will allow us to succeed even more in the future. How have you handled success and failure over the course of your career? As the co-founder and global CEO of Fourier Intelligence, I thoroughly understand how success and failure are essential components of the company experience. I think Fourier's strong business plan, competent staff, and crystal-clear goal are essential factors in its success. Our success has also been significantly influenced by our capacity to swiftly adjust to changing conditions and keep up with consumer demands and business developments. Our main goals at Fourier Intelligence are innovating and upending conventional business and clinical treatment models. To do this, we create cutting-edge products and services that cater to unmet client demands. This strategy has enabled us to stand out from other market participants and obtain a competitive edge. We have, however, encountered a great deal of difficulty and roadblocks along the way, just like many businesses do. Finding finance to develop and launch our products or services has been one of the biggest hurdles. Furthermore, we have had to overcome regulatory challenges, market saturation, and unanticipated roadblocks that impede our development and expansion. Despite these difficulties, Fourier Intelligence has been able to go through them and adjust. These difficulties have provided insightful learning opportunities. By examining what went wrong, we were able to pinpoint areas for improvement, improve our approach, and strengthen our will to prevail. Ultimately, I think the startup path must include success and failure. Long-term success requires the capacity to adapt, learn from setbacks, and endure in the face of difficulties. What strategies do you use to stay competitive in a changing market? Our company stands out in the market for its innovative rehabilitation technology solutions that leverage robotics, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality. We focus on customization, adaptability, and patient-centered care to deliver more effective and efficient rehabilitation. Our technology solution, RehabHub™, is adaptable and scalable, making it versatile and valuable for healthcare providers. They also provide a supportive and empowering environment that helps patients feel motivated and confident in their recovery, leading to better patient satisfaction and improved outcomes. Their unique approach to rehabilitation technology makes them well-positioned to make a meaningful impact on the healthcare industry and help patients achieve their rehabilitation goals. What motivations drive you to keep pushing forward in the face of adversity? I have faced many challenges and obstacles, but my passion for progress and growth and my strong sense of purpose have kept me motivated and steadfast in my pursuit of creating innovative healthcare solutions for neurorehabilitation. Technology can be a powerful tool for positive change, and I'm committed to using it to improve the lives of those in need. The satisfaction of overcoming challenges and achieving goals also drives me forward. I've faced numerous obstacles, from securing funding to navigating regulatory hurdles, but each has provided a valuable learning experience and an opportunity to refine my strategy and approach. By staying committed to my mission and embracing the challenges that come with it, I'm confident that I can continue to make a meaningful impact in this vital field. What advice would you give someone starting in their chosen field? The most important details in this field are the importance of focusing on innovation, creativity, and patient-centered care when starting out in the technology-driven neurorehabilitation industry. It is important to stay abreast of the industry's latest trends and emerging technologies, build a strong network of mentors, colleagues, and industry experts, and seek opportunities for collaboration and partnerships with other organizations. It is also important to remain adaptable and flexible as the industry constantly evolves, being open to feedback and willing to adjust your approach. Finally, never lose sight of the ultimate goal of improving the lives of those in need. With dedication, hard work, and a willingness to learn and grow, anyone can make a meaningful impact in this industry. How have technological advances affected the way you conduct business or operate your venture? We focus on rehabilitation technology solutions that leverage robotics, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality, which is a testament to the transformative potential of technology in the healthcare industry. Our RehabHub™ system uses virtual reality to create immersive and engaging rehabilitation environments, while our robotic exoskeletons enable patients to engage in more intensive and targeted rehabilitation exercises. These technologies have enabled us to create new and innovative solutions that were previously impossible. Technological advances have revolutionized how we conduct business and operate our ventures, allowing us to be more agile and responsive to market needs. Cloud computing, digital marketing, and social media have enabled us to quickly reach and engage with our target audience, generating interest in and awareness of our products and services. By embracing these innovations and leveraging them to create new solutions and improve existing ones, we can continue to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare industry and improve the lives of patients in need. In what ways has customer feedback or response influenced how you prioritize goals or objectives for your business or venture? Fourier Intelligence takes customer feedback and response seriously, as it provides valuable insights into their needs, preferences, and pain points. Through customer feedback, we have identified key areas for improvement and innovation, such as developing more adaptable and personalized technologies that can be tailored to individual patient requirements. This has resulted in increased patient satisfaction and better rehabilitation outcomes, and one of the company's latest products, ArmMotus™ EMU, has won several global design awards. Customer feedback and response play a critical role in prioritizing goals and objectives for our business. This has enabled us to identify new market opportunities and expand our business offerings, resulting in increased customer engagement and interest in our solutions. By listening to our customers and incorporating their input into our decision-making processes, we can stay agile, innovative, and responsive to changing market needs. What trends do you see emerging in your industry that are likely to shape its future growth and development? AI and ML can transform how we approach rehabilitation by providing real-time data and analysis to inform and optimize treatment plans. By leveraging data from wearable devices, sensors, and other sources, we can gain insights into patient progress and tailor treatment plans to their specific needs and abilities. We are seeing a growing trend toward using virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) in rehabilitation technology. These technologies have the potential to provide more engaging and immersive rehabilitation experiences that can improve patient outcomes and increase motivation. Additionally, telehealth and remote monitoring solutions offer a way to provide quality care to patients without requiring in-person visits. We are excited about the potential of these emerging trends to shape the future of neurorehabilitation technology and are well-positioned to make a meaningful impact on the healthcare industry and improve patients' lives worldwide. What have been the most rewarding and difficult aspects of your chosen career or business path? Fourier Intelligence's technology-driven neurorehabilitation solutions have helped countless individuals recover from neurological and musculoskeletal conditions and improve their overall quality of life. This has been a rewarding experience for the co-founder and global CEO, as they have been able to make a meaningful impact on the lives of patients in need. The journey to building a successful business from scratch has been challenging, with one of the most difficult aspects is securing funding. The healthcare industry's highly regulated nature presents its own challenges, such as navigating the complex regulatory landscape and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations. However, the rewards have far outweighed the challenges, as the potential to transform the healthcare industry is motivating and makes it all worthwhile. Are there any skills or areas of expertise that you think are essential for success in your field? I think that to succeed in the rehabilitation sector, one must thoroughly grasp the fundamentals of clinical rehabilitation, robotics, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality principles. Strong problem-solving skills and a creative mindset are essential for identifying new opportunities and addressing complex challenges. Thinking outside the box and approaching problems from multiple perspectives is essential for finding unique and practical solutions. We believe that technical expertise, problem-solving skills, communication and collaboration skills, and a passion for innovation are essential for success in the rehabilitation technology industry. These skills are essential for developing and implementing successful rehabilitation solutions, and staying up-to-date with the latest developments and technologies is essential for remaining competitive. At Fourier Intelligence, we strongly emphasize cultivating these skills and fostering a culture of innovation and continuous learning to drive our success and impact in the industry. How has working remotely or online impacted your business or ventured over the past year? Due to the pandemic, Fourier Intelligence has transitioned to working remotely, allowing us to expand our geographical reach and create a more diverse and inclusive team. This has led to a significant improvement in creativity and innovation within the team. The shift to remote work has enabled us to reduce costs on international travel, office space, and equipment, allowing us to reallocate funds towards other business priorities. This has helped us remain financially sustainable amidst the pandemic and even register growth. However, communication and collaboration can be difficult, so it is important to have effective communication channels and tools to ensure everyone is on the same page. As a company, we are committed to continuing to adapt and evolve our operations to meet the demands of the new normal. What tips would you like to offer to others in a similar position but looking to take their careers or businesses further? Having a clear vision and purpose is essential for success. Invest in learning and development, stay up-to-date with trends and developments, and build a strong network of contacts and collaborators. Take risks and embrace failure as a learning opportunity, but remember that failure is not the end. Attend industry events, connect with others in your field, and build relationships with people who can help you grow your career or business. Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers that we haven’t already discussed? The field of neurorehabilitation robotics is rapidly growing, offering exciting opportunities for those looking to make a difference in the lives of people with neurological disorders. It is at the cutting edge of technology, offering opportunities for innovation and creativity, and is poised for significant growth in the coming years. As the population ages, more opportunities for career advancement and job security will exist. As the incoming president of the industry association, IISART, I encourage readers to consider joining the field and exploring its exciting opportunities. Read more from Zen Koh

Exclusive Interview with Seif El Hakim of Momentum. Edited by Powered Magazine Seif El Hakim is a Global CEO of Momentum. We reached out for an interview. Read more to find out how you can succeed as a leader. Tell us about yourself and your business. Seif El Hakim is a highly decorated global CEO with more than 15 years of experience working abroad in the UAE, Egypt, Turkey, the CIS Region, the UK, and South Korea in both corporate headquarters and local roles, in addition to managing his own businesses. Seif El Hakim is a highly acclaimed businessman, entrepreneur, investor, business strategist, and advisor. His expertise spans a variety of industries, including coaching, marketing, e-commerce, retail management, consumer electronics, real estate, sports and fitness, tourism, and food services. Seif is a businessman at heart; he creates organizations and leaders. a leading expert in entrepreneurship, marketing, leadership, and exponential success. He is a highly sought-after strategic advisor for leaders and enterprises all over the world. He is a former corporate executive turned remarkable entrepreneur who develops businesses and leaders. Providing a unique advantage through actual Fortune 500 experience Along with managing several companies, Seif also blogs about being a CEO on his social media platforms, where he has more than 1.3 million followers. Former Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of the CIS region for the electronics behemoth Samsung Electronics, having experience in all major categories. For more than nine years, Seif oversaw the CIS organization and business, turning around outcomes and winning several local, national, and worldwide accolades. Previous to that, I managed regional marketing initiatives and new product launches in foreign markets while employed at the Samsung Electronics headquarters in South Korea as a global product strategist. Seif has received honors and awards from several worldwide organizations as a top marketing professional, business thinker, and entrepreneur. Inspirational and business-minded speaker, as well as a frequent contributor to several business and marketing websites His goal over the years has been to inspire, motivate, and grow leaders and organizations seeking change, fulfillment, and success, in addition to developing his career and enterprises. Seif has been honored and awarded internationally on several occasions as a top marketing executive, business strategist, and entrepreneur, in addition to being awarded as the “man of influence” in 2023. What were your biggest challenges when starting your business? I do believe that the majority of businesses face the following challenges while starting up, and we all must navigate through them to succeed: Securing adequate funding: Obtaining sufficient funding to launch and sustain my businesses was a challenge. Building a skilled team: Assembling a skilled and committed team that shares my vision and fits the culture was challenging, especially in the early stages. Building brand awareness and acquiring or attracting customers in a competitive market is a daunting task. Managing cash flow and having financial stability is a constant challenge for start-ups. Developing a “sustainable” business model Navigating legal and regulatory requirements can be complex and time-consuming. How have you handled success and failure over the course of your career? Both success and failure are not an end point for me. Handling success can involve acknowledging and celebrating achievements while also remaining humble and grateful. It's important to recognise the contributions of others, maintain a growth mindset, and avoid complacency. Success can be an opportunity for learning and growth, and it's crucial to set new goals and continue pushing oneself forward. On the other hand, handling my failure required resilience, persistence, and a positive mindset. I always viewed my failure as a learning experience rather than a definitive setback. analysed what went wrong, identified areas for improvement, and made adjustments that, in the end, contributed to the success that followed the failure. In both success and failure, maintaining a balanced perspective is key. Successes should be appreciated but not exaggerated, and failures should be seen as temporary setbacks rather than permanent obstacles. What strategies do you use to stay competitive in a changing market? There are a couple of strategies I do use, and all my leadership team, Innovation and adaptation: embracing innovation and being open to change Continuously improving my products, services, or processes to meet evolving customer needs and stay ahead of the competition. Customer focus: I do prioritise understanding and meeting customer needs. Developing a deep understanding of my customers, their pain points, and preferences to build loyalty and maintain a competitive edge Talent management: attracting and retaining the right talent Investing in development and creating a culture of innovation and collaboration Fostering diversity to leverage diverse perspectives and drive creativity and innovation Strategic partnerships: collaborating with other businesses to leverage complementary strengths and expand market reach Branding and marketing: building strong brand identities and differentiating ourselves from competitors And finally, using customer feedback to pivot when needed What motivations drive you to keep pushing forward in the face of adversity? I don’t believe in motivation; I believe in having goals backed with a solid “why” and having the discipline and persistence to achieve them. Motivation fades! Some tactics I use to keep me on track to achieve my goals Having my clear goals backed with a solid “why” Set routines and discipline Personal growth and development rituals well-cultivated support network Having a positive mindset and optimism What advice would you give to someone just starting out in their chosen field? Everyone's journey is unique, and there will be ups and downs along the way. What I would recommend is to stay true to yourself, be patient, and embrace the learning opportunities that come your way. If someone is just starting out, here are some key pieces of advice to consider: Set clear goals—your goals, not someone else’s goal or a trend. Be open to learning and acquiring new knowledge. We are all equal as souls, but not equal in the marketplace. Network and build relationships; your network is your network, and as I like to say, the more hands you shake, the more money you make. Be proactive and take initiative. Don't wait for opportunities to come to you. Embrace resilience and persistence. Expect that setbacks and challenges will occur along your journey. Finally, take immediate and massive actions; don’t overthink and wait for the right time; there is never a right time. How have technological advances affected the way you conduct business or operate your venture? Technology has transformed various aspects of my business operations across different verticals, improving efficiency, expanding my market reach, and enabling more personalised interactions with customers. Starting with the simple advancement of communication and collaboration, allowing my businesses to connect and work together regardless of geographical locations. Automation, including AI, has enabled my businesses to automate repetitive tasks, optimise workflows, and improve overall operational efficiency. The use of data management for a data-driven approach helped in making informed decisions, identifying patterns and trends, and improving business strategies overall. E-commerce and online presence allowed my businesses to significantly expand their customer base and, of course, elevate their brand presence. Finally, one of the most important parts goes to customer engagement and personalization using CRM, chatbots, and AI powered marketing tools. In what ways has customer feedback or response influenced how you prioritise goals or objectives for your business or venture? Customer feedback and response play a crucial role in shaping the goals and objectives of my businesses and ventures. Identifying customer needs provides valuable insights into the needs, preferences, and pain points of my target audience. My businesses benefited tremendously from understanding what features, improvements, or solutions my customers are looking for and helping myself and my team prioritise our goals accordingly. Improving products and services: it highlights areas where my products or services can be enhanced. By listening to our customers' suggestions, complaints, and reviews, my business identified opportunities for improvement and prioritised goals related to product development, quality enhancements, or even service upgrades. Addressing customer pain points: Customers often share their frustrations and challenges they face with a product or service. By addressing these pain points, my business improved customer satisfaction and loyalty. Prioritising goals that aim to resolve customer issues and enhance their overall experience led to much better business outcomes. Identifying market trends: Customer feedback can reveal emerging market trends, evolving customer preferences, and competitive insights. By actively listening to my customers' feedback, I was able to be responsive to the market and stay ahead of the competition. Enhancing customer engagement: Positive customer feedback indicates areas where a business is succeeding in meeting customer expectations. By leveraging customer testimonials, reviews, and positive feedback, businesses can prioritise goals that focus on strengthening customer engagement, building brand advocacy, and leveraging positive word-of-mouth. Customer feedback and responses provide valuable insights that can shape a business's goals and objectives. By listening to customers, my businesses can prioritise initiatives that align with customer needs, improve products and services, address pain points, and stay competitive in the market. What have been the most rewarding and difficult aspects of your chosen career or business path? Most rewarding overall was, as a foreigner, reaching the chief marketing officer level of the tech giant Samsung Electronics for the CIS region. Most difficult, switching from corporate to own business required a totally different mindset and skillset. I am extremely grateful that I passed both in my career (corporate and own businesses). Are there any skills or areas of expertise that you think are essential for success in your field? I do believe the skill sets that I will mention will help anyone reach the success they want. Communication skills Sales and marketing skills Negotiation and persuasion skills Personal branding How has working remotely or online impacted your business or venture over the past year? Over the past year, my businesses have experienced both positive and negative impacts from working remotely or online. On the positive side, remote work has allowed us to continue our operations during the pandemic and maintain productivity. It has also provided flexibility for employees and reduced the need for physical office space, resulting in potential cost savings. Furthermore, working online has opened up new opportunities for my businesses to reach a global customer base, expand their market reach, and collaborate with partners from different geographical locations. It has also enabled my companies to tap into a larger talent pool by hiring remote team members. However, there have been challenges as well. Remote work blurred the boundaries between personal and professional life. In addition to some challenges in adapting my business models to an online or remote work approach, Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers that we haven’t already discussed? Seif El Hakim is the founder of the “Alpha Movement” He founded the Alpha Movement to combat a culture of laziness, lack of control, lack of courage, and mediocrity. He saw a world where people were not living up to their potential and created a movement to push boundaries and achieve massive success and wealth. With his unmatched blend of business, personal, and athletic achievement, Seif provides the principles to help individuals make quantum leaps in their lives, health, business, or careers. The Alpha Movement allows individuals to learn, gain the needed skillsets, and connect with a community of like-minded individuals who are all working towards a common goal: becoming Alphas in their own lives, achieving massive success and wealth, and becoming prominent leaders in their communities.

Exclusive Interview of Otunba Michael Balogun of Tour2Nigeria. Edited by Powered Magazine Join us as we embark on a captivating journey with Otunba Michael Balogun, the visionary behind Xtrm Tours 2 Nigeria Ltd. Prepare to be inspired and captivated by the untold stories, hidden gems, and remarkable beauty of Nigeria, as we delve into the transformative power of travel with a true trailblazer. Tell us about yourself and your business. My name is Otunba Michael Balogun, CEO and Founder of Xtrm Tours 2 Nigeria Ltd., brand name Tour2Nigeria. I am from Nigeria, home to some of the best tourist destinations in Africa. Tour2Nigeria is a multi-award-winning domestic tour company based in the aquatic city of Lagos State. I founded the company with my childhood friend Kole Majekodunmi, a professional photographer based in the UK. Our company was established solely for the purpose of offering tour packages, promoting them, and creating an inroad to Nigeria's tourism destinations. I am also the South-West Vice President of the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP). It has been a great joy for me to personally show tourists from all over the world various destinations in Nigeria in almost a decade of this journey, and the excitement is the same every day to show the beauty of our country to the world. We have also partnered with a lot of hospitality businesses across the continent, and in the process, we collaborated with a fellow colleague from Tanzania (Msifari Travels and Tours) to create a dedicated group called Intra Africa Travels, and we invited dedicated tour operators from the African continent to join to start promoting our continent and advocating for a borderless Africa. What were your biggest challenges when starting your business? Tourism, like any other business out there, comes with its own challenges. Part of the challenge I faced in the beginning was more of an infrastructure, funding, and insecurity problem, which is not peculiar to just Nigeria but the whole world; thankfully, it is now becoming a thing of the past in our country. Starting off in a new terrain comes with some surprises and panic attacks, but I'm glad those days are far behind and there is now a lesson to teach the next generation. How have you handled success and failure over the course of your career? Success and failure are the best friends of every business owner and entrepreneur. With failure comes a new lesson. Over the years, we have tried several business models to scale our business. While some worked, others failed, and through that process, we have found new solutions from the failures and have been able to scale our business over the years. Failure is a great part of success. Success for me can be defined as doing what others thought couldn't be done. Many businesses I know closed shop during our first two years of starting in the tourism sector, and most thought it was the worst time for our brand to sell tours to Nigeria. But here we are today, still selling and promoting the best of destinations in Nigeria and Africa as a whole. What strategies do you use to stay competitive in a changing market? Our strategies have been based more on feedback from clients and business partners. And it is important to understand that the strategies we employ also involve the latest technologies like virtual reality, augmented reality, and mixed reality. By also regularly evaluating the market, adapting to changes, and staying customer-centric, we have maintained competitiveness in the tourism industry. What motivations drive you to keep pushing forward in the face of adversity? Passion and Purpose: A deep passion for travelling and the outdoors have kept the fire burning for me. Like I have always described tourism as a way of life, it involves meeting new people as you travel to different countries, tasting different foods and drinks, and experiencing new cultures. Also, my strong sense of patriotism and love for my country make it so easy to keep forging ahead and to create a legacy for my children and the next generations to come. These are the factors that have helped fuel my strength to persevere in the face of adversity. What advice would you give to someone just starting out in their chosen field? The best advice I can give to anyone starting out in their chosen field is to find their purpose first in the sector they are embarking on. Passion and love for their chosen path. You must be able to wake up each day and love what you do, unless you are going to be frustrated by your own dreams and visions. You must love yourself and be able to ask yourself, "Why do I want to do this? How have technological advances affected the way you conduct business or operate your venture? Technology has become a part and parcel of our existence, so to speak; from our smart homes to our smart phones, we almost feel lost without having them with us. With the help of technology like virtual reality (VR), our world has become a simple click away, either by using our smart phones or using the head gear mount (Meta 2). This gives you an immersive experience of a destination like never before, right from the comfort of your home. With the use of social media platforms, millions across the globe can connect with our business and get to know more about Nigeria straight from our Instagram handle, LinkedIn, and Twitter. In what ways has customer feedback or response influenced how you prioritise goals or objectives for your business or venture? Tour2Nigeria is a customer-centric company and brand, and over the years we have relied on our customers feedback, either through their reviews on our TripAdvisor page, via our social media platforms, phone calls, or emails. Tour packaging is a fully human-interactive social form of business since we practically deal with humans on a daily basis. Feedback from our clients and customers has been a direct source of information for our company and its growth. Who else gives the best feedback than your customers, who are spending their hard-earned money buying our tour packages, so they come with the best advice and feedback? What trends do you see emerging in your industry that are likely to shape its future growth and development? Evolving technologies are now the new frontiers in the travel and tourism sector, from AI like Chat GPT to VR (virtual reality). With a click of an app, you can book a flight ticket to Nigeria, check into any hotel across the world, hail a cab from an app like Uber, and the rest. These technologies help everyday travellers travel stress-free, and from the comfort of your home, you can now take a virtual tour of destinations in Nigeria or any destination around the world. What have been the most rewarding and difficult aspects of your chosen career or business path? The most rewarding aspects of my chosen career were getting Nigeria listed on the world's largest tour booking site, Viator, a TripAdvisor-owned company, way back on June 17th, 2015; my different awards, both local and international; a special recognition by our esteemed Nigerian Ambassador to the Netherlands during the Nigerian Independence Day event at the Hague in the Netherlands; and most recently, I was given the Chieftaincy title of Otunba Fiwajoye of Ilado-Akoko Kingdom in Ondo State by HRH (ENGR) Rotimi Ikugbe, the Olu of Ilado-Akoko. Are there any skills or areas of expertise that you think are essential for success in your field? Every career path comes with a set of skills and qualifications. Relevant courses in travel and tourism are a good example. For tourism, you definitely must be a people person, charming, good at storytelling, and customer service oriented. A smile you must learn to wear daily in this line of business. You cannot afford a mood swing or an aggressive attitude when working in this industry. How has working remotely or online impacted your business or venture over the past year? During the COVID-19 pandemic and with the world shutting down, we all adapted literally to working from home remotely, and so many of us got comfortable at this. For me, it didn't really affect me that much; we used platforms like Zoom and Google Meet to keep in touch with our staff and clients as well. I would rather work from home than spend half of my productive time stuck in traffic. What tips would you like to offer to others who are in a similar position to you but looking to take their careers or businesses further? My favourite tip is this: there is no shortcut to success, and remember, patience is a virtue. Tourism is a long-term return-on-investment type of business, so do not rush into it if you are not willing to go the whole nine yards. Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers that we haven’t already discussed? Please come visit my beloved, beautiful, and picturesque country, Nigeria. Thank you so much for this opportunity to talk about my business.

Are you tired of feeling guilty about your eating habits? Do you wish you could enjoy food without feeling "doing it wrong?" If so, then mindful eating may be for you. Mindful eating is a way of relating to food that can help you feel more peaceful and satisfied with your meals. It involves being present and aware of your thoughts, feelings, and sensations around food. Mindful eating can help you become more attuned to your hunger cues, learn to trust your body's wisdom, and break free from chronic dieting. Plus, it's a whole lot more fun than counting calories! Ready to give it a try? Here are some tips to get started. Mindful eating is an approach to eating that involves paying attention to what, when, and how you eat. Rather than automatically relying on sticks or scales for feedback on dietary success, mindful eating focuses on connecting with how the body feels before, during, and after eating. This can involve learning how to become more aware of physical signals that indicate hunger and fullness as well as emotional cues such as boredom or stress. Practising mindful eating can lead to a better understanding of triggers that may cause overeating or situations where food is used as a crutch in difficult times. It can also help foster healthier relationships with food by recognizing its role in providing fuel while still enjoying it sensually in moderation. By becoming attuned to our bodies’ needs and experiencing gratitude for all the flavors we have access to, mindful eating allows us to see food beyond just calories and fat grams but rather as an opportunity to nourish the mind and body. Mindful eating is an essential tool for achieving optimum health and vitality. Not only does it help to reduce overeating, but it also has the potential to improve digestion and absorption of nutrients. By being mindful when eating, we can be present at the moment, aware of the colours and textures of our food and how our body responds to what we are consuming. Mindful eating helps us appreciate every bite while differentiating between physical hunger and emotional cravings. The main benefit of this practice is that it allows us to control our food decisions rather than making poorly thought-out choices based on impulse. This can ultimately enable us to create positive habits that nourish and balance our bodies and lives. Eating mindfully is a great way to be more conscious and aware of your food intake. To begin, it's important to listen to your body's hunger cues so you don't eat out of boredom or stress. Before eating: Ask yourself if you are truly hungry and how hungry you feel on a scale from 1-10. If your hunger is low or non-existent, ask yourself why you want to eat and look for alternatives such as drinking some water, going for a short walk, or talking with someone. If you are truly hungry, savor every bite - enjoy the smell, taste, texture and presentation of the food. Pay attention to hunger signals again throughout the meal and take regular breaks between bites to help increase mindfulness. Eating mindfully can lead to increased satisfaction when eating, better understanding of nutrition needs and all-around healthier habits. Mindful eating is an effective way of helping you make healthier food decisions, reduce stress levels and develop a healthier relationship with food. Incorporating this practice into your daily life can have lifelong benefits. An easy way to start is to create an intentional atmosphere while you’re eating - free from distractions such as television and phones. Thinking about why you’re eating and how it will benefit you can help focus the mind. Before each meal, pause for several deep breaths and ask yourself whether you’re actually hungry or if there are other reasons for wanting to eat. Remind yourself that your health needs come first and that it’s ok both to skip a meal or opt for something healthy instead of something convenient! Lastly, learn to listen to your body by tuning into hunger and fullness cues; taking the time to chew your food properly will also aid in being present so that when you feel full, you can stop eating. If you're looking for some additional reading to continue your mindful eating journey, plenty of books can help. For instance, Intuitive Eating by Evelyn Tribole and Elyse Resch is a great starting point as it provides readers with practical tools to overcome rigid diets and fear-based food rules. Another great read is The Joy of Eating: How to Eat Mindfully by Steve LeClaire, which is a comprehensive guide on how to eat mindfully in order to maximize nourishment, pleasure, and satisfaction. If you want something that focuses more on healthy recipes as part of a mindfulness-based lifestyle, then Everyday Mindfulness: A Practical Guide by Amanda Todd is exactly what you need. Whichever path you take, the goal with all these books is to ultimately reestablish a positive relationship with food and let go of the guilt associated with eating. Mindful eating has become increasingly popular in recent years and for a good reason. The incredible benefits of mindful eating include improved digestion and absorption of nutrients, a more pleasurable relationship with food, and enhanced overall well-being. It requires the practice of being mindful of what you’re eating and tuning into your body’s hunger cues. With some simple techniques like reflecting on why you eat, cutting back on distractions during meals, and recognizing when you’re full, even the busiest among us can reap the rewards of mindful eating. To take your practice to the next level, plenty of books are available with further guidance on this topic and guided meditations to start your journey. The possibilities for self-growth through mindful eating are boundless!

Like most people, you probably have a list of goals you want to achieve. But if you're not careful, letting life get in the way and sabotage your best intentions is easy. That's why it's important to develop habits that will help you stay on track and be productive. Here are five simple habits to boost your productivity that can make a big difference in your ability to reach your goals. Implementing these habits into your everyday routine can help set you up for success! Set a daily or weekly goal to focus on and work toward it Having a set goal, both daily and weekly is an effective way to stay focused and motivated. Setting smaller goals helps break down the monotony of longer-term goals into achievable steps. It also increases satisfaction since you feel you are actively accomplishing something daily. Planning helps us be less reactive and more proactive in our lives and leads to tremendous success in the long run. Plus, it keeps us accountable since there is a tangible goal to strive for - an essential element needed to push ourselves forward. Establishing a daily or weekly goal is a great way to stay on track with your long-term ambitions. Make a to-do list for the day or week ahead of time and check things off as you complete them Making a to-do list and checking tasks off as you complete them can be a great way to ensure you get everything important. Doing this in advance can also help you feel more organized and prepared for the day or week ahead. Prioritizing your tasks can also help you focus on the most important items first, rather than getting overwhelmed or sidetracked by less urgent ones. Checking tasks off your list as you complete them can also be a great way to stay motivated, giving you a sense of accomplishment and progress. Taking the time to make a to-do list at the start of each day or week can have amazing benefits that will lead to increased productivity and efficiency. Get enough sleep so you're well-rested and can focus throughout the day Getting enough sleep is important in living a healthy, productive lifestyle. When you fail to get the recommended 7-8 hours of sleep per night, it affects your body and can negatively impact your ability to focus on tasks at work or school. Staying well-rested helps you concentrate better and be more productive during the day. Make sure to go to bed at a reasonable hour and avoid drinking caffeinated beverages late into the night to feel energized and focused when starting the day. You'll be sure to thank yourself come morning! Eat healthy foods that will give you sustained energy instead of sugary snacks that will make you crash Eating healthy, energy-sustaining foods is one of the most important things you can do for your body. Foods such as fresh fruits, dark green vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins provide our bodies with the fuel to stay energized throughout the day without crashing like we would after ingesting sugary snacks. Eating healthy gives us abundant energy to use for activity and exercise that can improve our overall well-being. Not only will a diet full of nutrient-packed foods give your body enough energy, but it also reduces cravings and helps combat long-term health issues such as obesity or diabetes. So if you want to get more out of your energy levels without crashing afterward, try making healthier food choices that maximize the nutrition you get per bite. Take breaks throughout the day to move your body and get some fresh air to clear your head Taking a break throughout the day can be a great way to reset your mind and reenergize your body. Going outside to get some fresh air and move around is ideal; walking or doing a quick stretch can help you refocus without taking up too much of your time. Even if you only have just five minutes, it can still make a big difference in how productive and alert you are throughout the rest of the day. At any point, feeling overwhelmed with work and taking even a short break can be a mental health boost! Staying motivated and focused throughout the day takes time, practice, and commitment. Whether you prefer to work in short sprints or keep going until you hit a goal, setting the intention and planning are key elements to success. Set achievable goals. Have a plan that allows for flexibility, give yourself space to breathe, sleep well, eat healthily, and be mindful of your mental state. Making an effort to take good care of yourself physically and mentally will set you up for success every day. Don’t overlook the importance of motivation; focus and dedication will become second nature when you understand how paramount it is in achieving anything worth having. Let this serve as a reminder that each of us has potential within reach if we can find the courage and determination needed on the journey forward.

Looking to lead a more eco-friendly lifestyle but not sure where to start? Reducing your carbon footprint is a great way to do your part for the environment. Here are some simple tips on making your home and lifestyle more sustainable. Educate yourself about what a carbon footprint is and how it's measured Understanding the concept of a carbon footprint and how it's measured is important in today's world. A carbon footprint measures the amount of greenhouse gases produced from the activities of an individual, business, or country, ultimately leading to climate change. Learning about your carbon footprint can be a great way to reduce negative environmental impacts. While many calculators are available online for estimating your carbon footprint, it is useful to learn about the various factors behind it and take the necessary steps to address them. To decrease your carbon footprint, you can try simple changes like decreasing driving frequency or opting for energy-efficient appliances and more advanced solutions like investing in renewable energy sources. Educating yourself on one's carbon footprint provides an invaluable opportunity to ensure that precious resources are not wasted needlessly. Learn about the things that contribute to your carbon footprint Being aware of the things that contribute to your carbon footprint is an important step toward reducing your overall impact on the environment. It's not just driving cars and burning fossil fuels that contribute to the harmful effects of climate change; small changes in our everyday lives can also have a huge impact. For example, we can reduce our carbon emissions by eating local produce, taking public transportation to reduce car trips, consolidating errands into fewer trips, and using reusable bags when shopping. Choosing items made with renewable energy sources or locally will also help reduce your carbon footprint. The more informed we are on creating a zero-carbon lifestyle, the better our chance of curbing climate change for future generations. Find ways to reduce your reliance on fossil fuels As technology advances, more and more opportunities to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels arise. There are numerous ways to make a change, from improving the efficiency of existing fuel sources to switching to renewable energy sources. Maximizing public transportation or investing in a hybrid vehicle can help lower emissions while shopping sustainably reduces the need for petroleum-based goods. Alternative energy sources like solar and wind power offer clean, renewable energy sources that don't rely upon finite resources or produce harmful emissions. Even small changes like keeping an eye on your thermostat and unplugging rechargeable devices can significantly reduce fossil fuel usage. With so many alternatives already available, now is the time to proactively change our lifestyles to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels! Make changes in your lifestyle to reduce your carbon footprint It is becoming increasingly important to make changes in our lifestyles to reduce our carbon footprint. Our everyday activities, ranging from the food we eat to how we travel, contribute to the emissions of greenhouse gases that are dangerous for our planet. Fortunately, there are many simple ways we can make a difference. We can begin by becoming conscious of how much energy we use within our homes by unplugging electronic devices when not in use and switching off lights when leaving a room. We can limit transportation that causes pollution such as taking our bikes or public transport instead of taking a car and investing in renewable energy sources for our home when possible. Eating seasonally and limiting animal products - or even changing to a fully plant-based diet - is another great way to reduce factory farming and food production emissions. Making sure you recycle, reuse and compost any waste created is a final step towards living an eco-friendlier lifestyle that will help meet the challenge of reducing our carbon footprint. Spread the word to others about the importance of reducing their carbon footprints One of the most important things each and every person can do to protect our planet is to reduce their carbon footprint. Every action taken towards sustainability helps, no matter how small. Spreading the word to others about making conscious efforts to reduce their carbon footprints is an absolute must in creating a lasting solution. From something as simple as recycling to larger changes such as investing in energy-efficient appliances or working with sustainable companies – there are countless ways that we can work together to make an impact. Educating yourself and spreading the word about reducing our collective carbon footprints can be an easy way for everyone to get involved in making our world a better place!

It's no secret that having a positive outlook in life can lead to greater happiness and success. But did you know that there are specific strategies you can use to cultivate a positive mindset? In this post, we'll explore the power of positive thinking and provide some practical tips for training your brain to think more optimistically. So read on, and get ready to start achieving all your goals! Define what the power of positive thinking is and how it can benefit your life Positive thinking is a mental attitude that embraces optimism based on believing that good will ultimately prevail. This type of thinking has been proven to have far-reaching effects on an individual's life, improving overall health, strengthening problem-solving skill sets, contributing to more positive interactions with others, and significantly boosting morale. Through this outlook, challenges become opportunities for growth rather than sources of despair. Not only does it bring about more productive solutions, but it also contributes to a healthier mindset which leads to improved physical well-being. With positive thoughts at its core, optimism can help transform life from mundane existence into an enriching experience. Understand the science behind positive thinking and the brain Examining the science behind positive thinking and the brain can help to explain why having a more upbeat outlook on life can bring about profound changes. Chemicals like serotonin, dopamine, oxytocin, and endorphins are all produced in greater quantities when a person takes part in activities that boost happiness, such as feeling gratitude or expressing kindness. This can lead to improved moods and increased satisfaction with life. Additionally, positive thinking has been shown to increase focus and productivity by helping reduce stress levels. It has also been linked to higher levels of resilience, encouraging people to keep trying despite setbacks instead of giving up altogether. By understanding how positive thinking affects our brains and bodies, we can use this knowledge to create lasting beneficial changes in our lives. Learn strategies for cultivating a positive mindset, including gratitude journaling, visualization, and self-compassion The cultivation of a healthy and positive mindset can be a life-changing journey. Journaling your gratitude, visualizing yourself achieving success, and practicing self-compassion are just a few strategies to accomplish this. A daily diary expressing appreciation can help us stay connected with our purpose. Visualization is also key for seeing the bigger picture, identifying trends, and acting on them for our desired outcome. Learning to be compassionate towards ourselves may sometimes seem easier said than done. But building up healthier feelings of appreciation and mindfulness will improve well-being and emotional understanding of self. Through these practices, you can create a more positive outlook and foster happiness in your daily routine! Put these strategies into practice in your own life to start reaping the benefits of positive thinking! Incorporating positive thinking into our lives can be a wonderful way to achieve ongoing well-being. Begin by practicing gratitude: each day, write down three positive things that have happened. This will help you by providing daily optimism and reminding you that life has purposeful moments. Additionally, look for the silver lining in difficult situations and try to come up with the best possible solution - this type of attitude allows us to feel empowered without getting overwhelmed. Finally, focus on positive affirmations like "I am capable" or "I can create my own happiness", as they can help redirect our thoughts and positively impact our moods. So why not try it out? Implementing these strategies in your life could be the first step towards an enhanced mindset and feelings of joy! To conclude, positive thinking is a great way to bring positivity and joy into your life. You can adopt a more positive mindset by understanding the science behind how our brains process thoughts. Remember that it takes practice to form habits, but as you continue to practice visualizing success and journaling, you will find yourself increasingly happier and more productive! Furthermore, don’t forget the importance of practicing self-compassion, for we can optimize our potential through that medium of kindness. Always remember: no matter what adversity or challenge may come your way, always choose to see the glass half full; your best days are yet to come!

In today's wired world, we are constantly bombarded with messages telling us that we need more stuff to be happy. But what if the opposite is true? What if we can achieve greater happiness by simplifying our lives and eliminating excess clutter? This is the premise behind minimalism, a lifestyle movement gaining popularity recently. This post will explore minimalism and how it can lead to a happier life. So whether you're considering simplifying your life or want to learn more about the minimalist lifestyle, read on! Define minimalism and explain how it can benefit your life Minimalism is living a simplified life with fewer possessions and obligations. The philosophy behind minimalism is to focus on what truly makes us happy and remove anything that distracts us from that bliss. One can mitigate distractions such as material items by embracing minimalism, keeping only those with significant value or utility. As a result, minimalism can bring clarity in our lives, helping us focus on activities and relationships most important to us and avoiding time wasters. Living in this manner opens up more free time for ourselves and encourages decluttering of clutter from both physical spaces (such as homes) and mental ones (such as unhealthy thoughts). Ultimately it sets the stage for a more purposeful life full of joy and satisfaction. Describe how to declutter your home and belongings Decluttering your home can be challenging but rewarding if done step by step. Start small and focus on one area, like your living room, bedroom, or closet, at a time. First, sort through any superfluous items, decide what you want to keep, and can donate or sell. Next, take the items that are staying in the house and group them together according to their usefulness or purpose. Finally, assign each item its own place so it's easily accessible when needed and won't require frequent shifts of other objects. Following these few steps can help maintain an orderly and stress-free home environment while ensuring you keep only those items that truly matter to you. Offer tips on how to live a more minimalist lifestyle Living a minimalist lifestyle can seem overwhelming at first, but there are some simple steps we can take to make the process meaningful and rewarding. Start by decluttering your physical space – begin with clothing, going through and only keeping those items that bring you joy. Next, focus on your "mental space", by striving for solitude daily. It can be as simple as taking 10 minutes of quiet reflection or an entire day of unplugging from all technology. Finally, create an intentional schedule. Plan out each day in advance and limit yourself to no more than three major tasks a week. After taking these small steps, it won't take long before you start noticing the positive shift towards living a life with more purpose and less stuff! Share stories from people who have embraced minimalism Minimalism has become an increasingly popular lifestyle choice because it emphasises living a life of intention. Many success stories have been shared by people who have adopted a minimalist lifestyle, with some that are incredibly impressive. One such story comes from Peter Chislett, who sold all his possessions and moved onto the sailboat he lived in for the next seventeen years. His minimalism allowed him to experience travel and adventure more frequently than ever, ultimately teaching him valuable lessons about himself and the world around him. Another example is Elena Brower, who, after becoming an entrepreneur at age 25, could pay off her seven-figure debt by embracing minimalism and making responsible financial decisions. Both stories deserve to be celebrated as they stand as testaments to how powerful minimalism can be in creating exciting opportunities. Discuss the challenges of minimalism and how to overcome them Adopting a minimalist lifestyle is often seen as a desirable way to reduce stress and gain freedom, and while that is certainly an admirable goal, it can also be a challenge. One of the biggest challenges to becoming a minimalist is letting go of possessions; most people have difficulty parting with items they have grown to love or have been attached to for many years. Another challenge might be staying motivated in the midst of the daily grind; it's easy to adhere to a minimalistic lifestyle when everything is going well but more difficult during stressful times. To overcome these difficulties, setting clear goals and holding yourself accountable is important. Establishing parameters - like what items you want to keep, donate, or throw away - will help you focus on your desired outcome. Additionally, surrounding yourself with supportive people engaging in similar pursuits can motivate and ensure sustained progress towards minimalistic living. Encourage readers to try out minimalism for themselves Minimalism is a trend that has been picking up steam in recent years, and it could be the perfect thing to help you take your life to the next level. By cutting out extraneous items and focusing on only the essential things, you can gain clarity when making decisions and create more space for meaningful experiences. And it doesn't have to be an all-or-nothing approach; even small changes can make a big difference. Whether you follow minimalist trends to the letter or use minimalism selectively, you'll quickly realize that living with less is often more gratifying than living for excess material possessions. So why not give it a shot? You might find yourself pleasantly surprised! Despite the challenges that come with minimalism, it is clear that embracing this way of life has the potential to enhance your lifestyle and bring peace of mind drastically. The stories from people who have embraced minimalism are a testament to its transformative power and how much can be gained from living simply. As you take steps towards consciously reducing your possessions and distractions, remember to maintain an open mind and recognize that minimalism looks different for everyone. Whether you want to take baby steps or dive right in, we encourage you to try minimalism – it's not something you'll regret! The rewards of minimalism are plentiful, so if you choose to embrace this lifestyle, it will benefit your environment, create balance in your life, and help you focus on what truly matters.

Exclusive Interview of Robin Vermaat of RV Consultancy. Edited by Powered Magazine Meet Robin Vermaat, the Founder and CEO of RV Consultancy, a visionary leader dedicated to driving organizational success. With a remarkable track record of transforming businesses, Robin is renowned for their expertise in strategic planning and operational excellence. In this exclusive interview with Powered magazine, we delve into Robin's entrepreneurial journey, leadership philosophy, and their unique approach to empowering businesses. Discover valuable insights, practical advice, and their vision for a future where companies thrive. Tell us about yourself and your business. My name is Robin Vermaat. I’m from the Netherlands and have been living in the UAE for over a decade. In 2021, I started my own consulting business, RV Consultancy, which provides logistics and management solutions on a commercial level. We provide commercial growth strategies to the logistics/3PL industry, and for the management business, we cater to all industries with our soft skill processes and training. What were your biggest challenges when starting your business? Securing businesses and projects on a consistent basis was one of our biggest challenges when starting our business. We had to work hard to establish ourselves as a reliable and trustworthy partner for our clients and build a strong reputation in the industry. However, through persistence and dedication, we were able to overcome these challenges and grow our business successfully. How have you handled success and failure over the course of your career? Always move on; never quit. Failure is part of life and of business when you start, so don’t be afraid to fail. Learn from your mistakes and use them as opportunities to improve and grow. Similarly, when you experience success, don't become complacent and always strive to continue growing and improving. What strategies do you use to stay competitive in a changing market? Try to be innovative and persistent. The market is competitive, but if you have a good product or solution that is "missing,” try to capitalise on that while providing your proposition. Additionally, staying up-to-date with industry trends and consumer behaviour can also give you an edge. It's important to be adaptable and willing to pivot your strategy if necessary. What motivations drive you to keep pushing forward in the face of adversity? Adversity always happens This can’t be avoided, but you need to be agile and keep pushing forward, as there will be a moment when things will click in your favour. Every day is a new learning day. It's important to have a clear goal and purpose in mind, as this will give you the drive and determination to overcome any obstacles that come your way. Additionally, having a support system of friends, family, or mentors can provide encouragement and help you stay motivated during tough times. What advice would you give to someone just starting out in their chosen field? Never give up, keep pushing forward, and create a good client portfolio or connection when starting out that can support you when needed. It's also important to continuously learn and improve your skills, as the industry is constantly evolving. Seek out opportunities for professional development and networking to stay ahead of the game. What trends do you see emerging in your industry that are likely to shape its future growth and development? Automatization, digitalization, and drones are the current trends that the logistics industry is looking into, and with RV Consultancy, we provide those services to our customers to fulfil their needs and requirements. What have been the most rewarding and difficult aspects of your chosen career or business path? Being nominated and winning awards for my work by several institutions is one of the most rewarding aspects of my career and business path. It shows recognition for your hard work. On the other hand, dealing with difficult clients or navigating through tough economic times can be challenging. However, overcoming these obstacles has helped me grow both personally and professionally. Are there any skills or areas of expertise that you think are essential for success in your field? You must be persistent, agile, flexible, and, in my opinion, have out-of-the box thinking. With all this, you have a good chance of being successful in your field. Having strong communication and interpersonal skills is also crucial. Being able to effectively collaborate with others and build relationships can greatly enhance your career prospects. Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers that we haven’t already discussed? If you want to have an assessment of your company and are interested in growing your business locally or internationally, please let us know and we can schedule a free call via my LinkedIn page. https://www.linkedin.com/company/rv-consultancy/

World's Leading Cryptocurrency Exchange Faces Legal Battle Over Regulatory Compliance. In a significant blow to Binance, the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has filed a lawsuit against the company and its CEO, Changpeng Zhao. The complaint, filed in a federal court in Washington, D.C., accuses Binance of operating a "web of deception" and lists 13 charges, including artificially inflating trading volumes, diverting customer funds, misleading investors about market surveillance controls, and failing to restrict U.S. customers from its platform. The SEC alleges that Binance and Zhao secretly controlled customers' assets, allowing them to commingle and divert investor funds at their discretion. The complaint also claims that Binance established separate U.S. entities as part of a scheme to evade U.S. federal securities laws, corroborating investigative reports published by Reuters in recent years. According to the SEC, from three years ago until June 2022, a trading firm owned and controlled by Zhao, Sigma Chain, engaged in wash trading on the Binance.US platform, artificially inflating the trading volume of crypto asset securities. The SEC revealed that Sigma Chain spent $11 million from an account on a yacht. SEC Chair Gary Gensler commented, "We allege that Zhao and Binance entities engaged in an extensive web of deception, conflicts of interest, lack of disclosure, and calculated evasion of the law." In response, Binance stated that it intends to vigorously defend itself, emphasizing that the SEC's jurisdiction is limited as Binance is not a U.S. exchange. The news of the lawsuit had an immediate impact on the cryptocurrency market. Bitcoin, the largest cryptocurrency, experienced a drop of up to 6%, reaching its lowest level in nearly three months. Binance's native cryptocurrency, BNB, also declined by over 5%. Industry experts predict that the lawsuit's ramifications will extend beyond Binance and could significantly affect the broader crypto industry. This legal action adds to Binance's existing legal challenges, as the company was previously sued by the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) in March for allegedly operating an "illegal" exchange. Additionally, the company is under investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice for suspected money laundering and sanctions violations. Binance released a statement on Twitter: Today, the SEC filed civil claims against Binance s in what is the latest example of regulation by enforcement under the current Commission. To be clear, we believe the lawsuit is baseless and we intend to defend ourselves vigorously. However, we want to address what has become an all-too-common occurrence for entities and individuals operating in the American digital assets industry. For nearly two and a half years, Binance has engaged in good faith with the SEC. All along, the objective of our engagement has been consistent: work constructively toward a clear, practical regulatory framework that enables businesses like ours to grow, create jobs, and provide American consumers safe access to digital assets. While we remain open to a productive compromise that protects our customers and their digital assets, with this latest action taken against our business and following similar actions taken against Coinbase, Gemini, Kraken, and other market participants, the SEC seeks a near eradication of our industry. Simply put, today’s filing is unjustified by the facts, by the law, or by the Commission’s own precedent. The relief sought by the Commission would harm the very investors the SEC is charged with protecting. It would also stifle innovation and punish our company and industry rather than working to allow American businesses to thrive. We continue to call on Congress to step in and pass bipartisan legislation that creates a workable regulatory regime for digital assets and reins in the bureaucratic overreach of which our industry is the victim. Until then, our country’s role as a leader and innovator will continue to be undermined. As Binance faces these legal battles, its future remains uncertain. The outcome of the SEC lawsuit will have significant implications for the exchange and may reshape regulatory approaches to the cryptocurrency industry in the United States. Market participants are closely watching the case as it unfolds, awaiting further developments that will shape the landscape of crypto trading and regulation. Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or financial advice. The information provided is based on the knowledge available at the time of writing and may be subject to change as the legal proceedings progress.

Exclusive Interview of Abiola Adediran of Genea. Edited by Powered Magazine In the realm of wealth management and family office services, Abiola Adediran stands as a trusted partner dedicated to nurturing wealth, fostering long-term prosperity, and safeguarding legacies. As a Partner at GENEA FAMILY OFFICE, Abiola brings a wealth of expertise, insight, and a genuine passion for helping families navigate the complexities of managing their wealth. In this exclusive interview with Powered Magazine, we have the privilege of exploring the insights and expertise of Abiola Adediran. Tell us about yourself and your business. I Abiola Adediran, grew up as the first of four children in an average middle-class family. Growing up for me was marked by very strict discipline, and I was often surrounded by people who were much older than me, and I learned a lot from observing and listening to them. I started out as a science student and studied project management technology. I also qualified as a chartered accountant while I was at the university. My professional career began as an investment banker at Oceanic Capital in Nigeria, after which I moved to consulting at one of the Big 4 consulting firms, KPMG Professional Services, where I was involved in statutory audits and other advisory engagements for clients in the financial services industry, mostly banks and insurance companies. I left as a manager and moved into the investment management industry, where I worked as the group chief financial officer of Coronation Group. I had oversight of multiple businesses and was instrumental in growing them into sustainable businesses. During this time, I was also involved in setting up and managing a single-family office, Tengen Family Office, that managed the assets and affairs of the promoters of the businesses. My work in the last fifteen years has focused on delivering cutting edge strategic transformation for businesses and creating sustainable impact and returns for all stakeholders. I now run an independent, boutique multi-family office, Genea Family Office, which provides innovative advisory services to wealthy families and enterprises, helping them to build lasting legacies and preserve their wealth for multiple generations. What were your biggest challenges when starting your business? The biggest challenge I’ve had when starting my business has been building the brand to grow and scale. More often than not, consulting businesses are about the exchange of intellectual knowledge for value and are usually very hard to scale. I needed to build a business that would thrive without me and could generate and execute client mandates without relying on me. I was able to build a unique model that allowed me to leverage technology and a virtual consultant consortium to serve more clients and grow the business. How have you handled success and failure over the course of your career? I enjoyed a great deal of success in navigating my career, and I was fortunate to be able to access the right training, exposure, and mentorship that gave me a lot of leverage and helped me harness my strengths and improve my weaknesses. I don’t dwell on my past successes, but I’m always quick to move on to the next big thing and reach for more because I believe that the possibilities are endless and you only get as much as you reach for. I’ve also had my share of failure, and this has helped me develop the staying power and determination to manage difficulties and the resilience I need to press through challenges and cut through complexities. What strategies do you use to stay competitive in a changing market? It has been about clearly defining the target market we serve and understanding their needs well enough to be able to create unique solutions that solve their problems. We remain nimble and quickly adapt to changing market trends and customer preferences while leveraging technology as much as possible. What motivations drive you to keep pushing forward in the face of adversity? I’m motivated by the desire to make an impact and leave a lasting legacy. I’m also of the opinion that adversity does not last forever. Setbacks and failures are a part of life, and when the going gets tough, the easiest thing is to look for something to blame and play the victim, but rather than do that, I choose to change how I think about hardship. I try to see the lessons in hardship and how I must change and evolve to become a better person and make better decisions by using the experiences to grow stronger. What advice would you give to someone just starting out in their chosen field? My advice to new start up founders would be that they should decide what is important. They need to have the ability to see through what is not very important. Although tempting, fancy office spaces and exotic branded stationery are vanity progressions. Having a tested product or service that people are willing to pay for and getting more people to know about it and actually buy it should be the focus at the early stage. Another thing is the fact that entrepreneurs don’t just need money; they also need support. I’d encourage them to get business mentorship from experienced business leaders, attend meetups within their industry or local community, and seek out online support via forums and groups. You’ll be surprised at just how willing others will be to help and offer advice for free. Lastly, they should stay focused and ensure that they understand the purpose of what they are doing because it’s easy to get distracted by shiny objects. If you find that you are heading in a direction that doesn’t support your business purpose, you risk derailing due to potential distractions. How have technological advances affected the way you conduct business/operate your venture? We leverage technology significantly in running business activities. From managing virtual teams to executing client mandates and meetings online, we use different technology tools to ensure that tasks are done on time and maintain a good level of productivity. In what ways has customer feedback/response influenced how you prioritize goals/objectives for your business/venture? We seek customer feedback to improve our product and service offerings and ensure that we’re changing with the realities of the business environment. We use insights from customer feedback in new product development to ensure it is tailored to their needs. What trends do you see emerging in your industry that are likely to shape its future growth and development? A new form of globalisation that recognises interdependence and the good of humanity based on the collective actions of countries, businesses, and people will start to emerge. As a result, companies will change their governance and business management models with a greater focus on corporate social responsibility and the well-being of people. Another trend is the accelerated rate of digital transformation through the use of AI, which will force companies to take radical steps to adopt technological advancements and modernise their culture, organisational structures, measurement systems, and operating architectures. Even if the organisation is ahead today, we have to be continually prepared to change, take calculated risks, and fail fast, or the business will get disrupted. The use of an on-demand workforce will increase, especially with the increase in global mobility. Organisations need to understand and learn how to engage and retain on-demand talent with improved people management programmes, strategies, and tools to create value for an on-demand workforce. What have been the most rewarding and difficult aspects of your chosen career/business path? The most rewarding aspect of my career path is that it prepared me very well for the entrepreneurial path I’m currently pursuing. I had the opportunity to develop the depth of my expertise as a transformational business strategist, cutting across critical areas of enterprise building. Are there any skills or areas of expertise that you think are essential for success in your field? Transferable skills like problem solving, communication, critical thinking, showing initiative by proactively handling situations and finding answers to questions without direction, and leadership skills using interpersonal skills to coach and develop others are skills that are critical for success. How has working remotely or online impacted your business/venture over the past year? Working remotely has allowed us to scale and increase the reach of our business beyond our local geography. We’ve been able to leverage virtual teams/consultants and serve clients in other jurisdiction without having to move or set up offices in multiple locations. What tips would you like to offer to others who are in a similar position to you but looking to take their careers/business further? For those looking to transition from a professional career to business, they need to be prepared before they launch out. They need to have a clear and compelling vision of what they are meant to be doing, develop themselves by developing relevant skills that help develop resilience, and understand how to build a business from scratch. They should also test their ideas and ensure that they are sustainable and profitable before they decide to make the move.