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Dr. Sheila Robinson, Founder and CEO of Diversity Woman Magazine, featured by Fortunes Time Magazine on cover of The 10 Most Iconic Women Leaders to Watch in 2024
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The 10 Most Iconic Women Leaders to Watch in 2024 May 2024 PG NO. 42 Supporting Businesses and People in Unleashing their Fullest Potential Elevating Underrepresented Voices while Guiding Cultural Change Dr. Sheila Robinson www.fortunes?me.com
EDITOR’S NOTE Research spanning decades has demonstrated the impact of female executives on increased output, teamwork, commitment to the business, and equity in the workplace. In the twenty-first century, women still face more barriers to power and achievement than their male counterparts. Nevertheless, women are climbing the professional ladder gradually and steadily in spite of these obstacles. We seek to honor women who are achieving great things and serving as role models for other women who have entrepreneurial ideas or aspire to become leaders. Role Models for Next Generation Fortunes Time's latest edition “The 10 Most Iconic Women Leaders to Watch in 2024”has featured success stories of renowned business leaders from across the world whose expertise in leadership is echoing globally. The cover has Dr. Sheila Robinson. She is well-known for her work in publishing, writing best-selling books about leadership, giving inspiring talks, and helping companies find new talent. As the driving force behind Diversity Woman Media, Dr. Robinson has emerged as a trailblazer in advancing all dimensions of diversity and inclusion (D&I). Her company is nationally recognized as a leading multi-platform enterprise, offering innovative programs that propel organizations toward gender parity, equity, and belonging. With a comprehensive blend of academic prowess and practical expertise, Dr. Robinson assists leading companies in catalyzing cultural transformation. Drawing upon her own ascent from the factory floor to the executive suite during her 14-year tenure at a Fortune 100 company, she combines personal experience with evidence-based workplace insights to guide organizations toward success. Also, while you flip through the pages, don't forget to read the articles created by our in-house editorial staff and industry experts.
FORTUNES T IME CREDIT PAGE Elizabeth Graves Vijay Khulpe Dafny Meyer Tony Anderson Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor Executive Editor Assistant Editor Art & Design Director Head of Design Department Charles Lee Sanket Zirpe Associate Designer Sarah Jones Business Development Manager Business Development Executive Noah Wagner Robert Taylor Digital Marketing Manager Sales Manager Marketing Manager Technical Specialist Circulation Manager Laura Wright Albert Hill Stacey Flores Jennifer Thomas Carol Green MAY 2024 For More Details : Email: info@fortunestime.com Address. 8 The Green Suite R, Dover, DE 19901, USA Copyright 2024 Fortunes Time, All rights reserved. The content and images used in this magazine should not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from Fortunes Time Reprint rights remain solely with Fortunes Time.
COVER STORY 08 Elevating Underreprese nted Voices while Guiding Cultural Change CONTENT PAGE Dr. Sheila Robinson
Jennifer Owens Danielle Sabrina Tricia Griffith 16 24 20 Kirsten Green Lauren Freedman Jenny Lee 34 28 38 Sharvette Mitchell Shanesha Scott Joey Wat 42 46 52
Dr. Sheila Elevating Underrepresented Voices while Guiding Cultural Change Cover Story 08 | May 2024
In the world of diversity and inclusion, there are leaders who make a big difference. Dr. Sheila Robinson is one of those leaders. She is well-known for her work in publishing, writing best-selling books about leadership, giving inspiring talks, and helping companies find new talent. As the driving force behind Diversity Woman Media, Dr. Robinson has emerged as a trailblazer in advancing all dimensions of diversity and inclusion (D&I). Her company is nationally recognized as a leading multi- platform enterprise, offering innovative programs that propel organizations toward gender parity, equity, and belonging. With a comprehensive blend of academic prowess and practical expertise, Dr. Robinson assists leading companies in catalyzing cultural transformation. Drawing upon her own ascent from the factory floor to the executive suite during her 14-year tenure at a Fortune 100 company, she combines personal experience with evidence-based workplace insights to guide organizations toward success. Dr. Robinson's journey is a testament to resilience and determination. Overcoming formidable obstacles as an African-American businesswoman in the South, she defied the odds to ascend to the pinnacle of corporate leadership. Her experiences fueled a profound desire to empower other aspiring leaders, spurring the creation of Diversity Woman Media as a platform for driving meaningful change. color and Black women, Dr. Robinson felt compelled to initiate a program aimed at offering ideas, solutions, and resources to help women from diverse backgrounds overcome these barriers. She observed a lack of business magazines catering specifically to women, while there were numerous publications targeting men. Dr. Robinson's background in marketing communications and her passion for media motivated her to address these disparities through publications and events, aiming to empower women of all races, cultures, and backgrounds in their professional endeavors. For over two decades, Dr. Robinson's visionary leadership has propelled Diversity Woman Media into a multifaceted enterprise, delivering tangible business results through diversity, inclusion, and talent development initiatives. Her unwavering dedication to championing underrepresented voices and fostering inclusive environments has left an indelible mark on the corporate world, inspiring leaders to embrace diversity as a driver of innovation and success. Certified Expertise Dr. Robinson has authored three books: "Lead by Example: An Insider's Look at How to Successfully Lead in Corporate America and Entrepreneurship" (2014), "Your Tool Kit for Success: The Professional Woman's Guide for Advancing to the C-Suite" (2017), and "Redefining Your Life D.I.E.T.: Transform How You Look, Feel and Perform" (2021). Breaking Barriers After spending 15 years in corporate America and encountering obstacles for women, especially women of Fortunestime.com | 11
She is actively involved with influential organizations dedicated to fostering equity, equality, and inclusive workplaces. These include Paradigm for Parity (Advisory Board Member), Catalyst (Strategic Business Partner), Executive Leadership Council (Media Partner), Women's Business Collaborative (WBC - Diversity Council), Twitter (Member, Inclusion Diversity Council), and Simmons College Institute for Inclusive Leadership (Board of Advisors). work. She feels fortunate that her role involves purposeful leadership. The most gratifying aspect for her is when they have been able to provide women with information, resources, job referrals, coaching, salary negotiation assistance, and more, ultimately aiding them in advancing to the highest level of success possible. Advancing Women in Leadership Dr. Robinson acknowledges that traditionally, companies have been male-dominated, particularly at the highest executive levels. However, there has been noticeable progress in recent decades in promoting more women to senior leadership roles within these organizations. Despite this progress, studies continue to reveal an underrepresentation of women, particularly women of color, in leadership positions compared to their proportion in the overall workforce. Dr. Robinson attributes these challenges to factors such as unconscious biases, limited mentorship opportunities, and issues related to achieving work-life balance. She recognizes the need for ongoing efforts to address these barriers and create more equitable opportunities for female leaders to grow and thrive within the industry. Dr. Robinson holds certificates from Stanford University's Professional Publishing Program (2007), Wharton's School of Business Chief Learning Officer Program (2013), and Cornell University's Diversity and Inclusion Program (2019). In 2017, she became a Certified Executive Coach and member of the International Coach Federation, advising CEOs, CDOs, and CHROs. Her insights have been featured in prestigious publications such as Forbes, Fortune, Entrepreneur, and Publishing Executive magazines. Dr. Robinson earned both a Masters of Education and a Doctorate of Education from the University of Pennsylvania. Diversity Woman Magazine Role of the Founder & CEO in Business Dr. Robinson explains that Diversity Woman Magazine is a publication dedicated to offering ideas, solutions, and resources to women from various racial, cultural, and background perspectives. The magazine includes articles by experts in women's leadership development and workplace equity, as well as insights from thought leaders who provide readers with new perspectives and practical advice. Additionally, the magazine features inspirational stories of women leaders, offering valuable insights on how readers can progress in their careers. Dr. Robinson shares the critical role of a Founder & CEO in shaping and executing business strategy, particularly in the early stages of a company. Here are some key reasons why this role is pivotal: Ÿ Vision and Goals: The Founder & CEO typically establishes the company's overall vision, mission, and long-term goals. Their strategic insights drive the direction and priorities of the company. Ÿ Decision-Making Authority: As the top executive, the Founder & CEO holds ultimate decision-making authority on major strategic matters, such as market expansion, product development, and acquisitions. Ÿ Resource Allocation: The Founder & CEO plays a vital role in allocating resources, including capital, personnel, and technology, to support the company's strategic plans. Ÿ Culture and Values: The Founder & CEO sets the tone for the company's culture, values, and operating Empowering Women in Business As the publisher of Diversity Woman Magazine, Dr. Robinson concentrates on business development, strategy, and sales. She collaborates directly with partnering companies that enlist the magazine as an external partner to aid them in achieving business outcomes through various programs. Dr. Robinson expresses that it has been an honor and privilege to assist numerous women throughout her 12 | May 2024
principles, which significantly influence strategic approaches and decision-making processes. External Representation: The Founder & CEO serves as the public face of the company, communicating its strategy to external stakeholders like investors, partners, and the media. Strategic Oversight: While specific strategic initiatives may be delegated to other executives or teams, the Founder & CEO maintains oversight to ensure alignment with the company's overall strategic direction. decision-making, and innovation within organizations. Business Performance: Companies with strong DEI cultures often outperform competitors in areas such as profitability and innovation, highlighting the tangible benefits of prioritizing diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Demonstrating Value and Making a Positive Impact Dr. Robinson's favorite advice to aspiring visionaries centers around demonstrating value and making a positive impact within the organization. She emphasizes that the primary goal is to prove to the organization that they made the right choice in hiring you. This involves various aspects, starting from your attitude and behavior at work, including your emotional intelligence, engagement, ambition, and initiative. A Strategic Imperative Dr. Robinson puts emphasis on the importance of embracing diversity and inclusion in the workforce to align with customers and communities. Here are several reasons why companies should prioritize diverse and inclusive environments: Ÿ Talent Attraction and Retention: Cultivating strong diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) cultures helps companies attract and retain top talent. Ÿ Regulatory Compliance and Risk Mitigation: Robust DEI initiatives assist organizations in complying with laws and regulations concerning equal opportunity, reducing legal risks. Ÿ Social Responsibility and Ethics: Many companies view DEI as an ethical and socially responsible commitment to their employees, customers, and communities. Ÿ Improved Innovation and Decision Making: Diversity fosters inclusive perspectives that enhance problem-solving, Additionally, Dr. Robinson guides individuals to focus on making their boss's job easier. This implies being proactive, reliable, and supportive, and actively contributing to the success of the team and the organization as a whole. By embodying these qualities and approaches, individuals can effectively demonstrate their worth and contribute to the overall success of the organization. Fortunestime.com | 15
Danielle Sabrina A Renowned Name in Media and Brand Strategy Fortunestime.com | 17
Tricia Tricia Griffith President & CEO at The Progressive claims operations. Previously, Tricia held the position of President of Customer Operations, where she was in charge of claims and the customer management group. This group included the company's contact center division (sales and delivery), in addition to the customer experience, systems experience, and workforce management divisions. In July of 2016, Tricia was elected to the Board of Directors and appointed as the President and Chief Executive Officer. Before taking on the role of CEO, Griffith was the company's Chief Operating Officer for Personal Lines since April 2015, managing the departments of Personal Lines, Claims, and Customer Relationship Management. Tricia completed the Advanced Management Program at the Wharton School of Business and holds a bachelor's degree from Illinois State University. In 1988, Tricia began working with Progressive as a claims representative. Throughout her career, she has held several important leadership roles. In the Claims division, she served a number of executive roles before to being appointed Chief Human Resources Officer in 2002. She went back to Claims in 2008 and took on the role of group president, managing all Fortunestime.com | 21
About The Progressive The majority of individuals don't dream of working in insurance as children. We most definitely didn't, but after being here, we understood that Progressive is unique—in a good way. It aims to establish an enjoyable and adaptable work atmosphere where workers are motivated to take chances, gain knowledge, and develop themselves. Our progressive culture, emphasis on work-life balance, and possession of one of the nation's biggest collections of modern art contribute to our ranking as one of the finest places to work. Progressive has provided consumers with a broad selection of insurance options for over 80 years, offering plans for motorcycles, boats, cars, homes, renters, commercial vehicles, small businesses, and more. When all Progressive employees work together, the company ranks third among US car insurers. With over 50,000 skilled workers from all 50 states, all business sectors, and all walks of life, we are a varied team. There could be a position for you among the hundreds of employment options available, such as IT, data analysis, sales, marketing, legal, customer service, claims, and Level20, the company's new business incubator. Fortunestime.com | 23
Jennifer Owens Owens Improving Resident Services and Community Empowerment at Columbia Residential Fortunestime.com | 25
The Vice President of Resident Services at Columbia Residential, Jennifer Owens boasts extensive experience in managing supportive services delivery to low to moderate-income families and seniors, ensuring housing stability. She has overseen resident relocation projects focused on preserving affordable housing and developed culturally diverse community-led programs. She is recognized as one of Urban Land Institute Atlanta Women's Leaders 2021. In her role at Columbia Residential, Jennifer manages the delivery of services and resources to residents, aiming to maintain housing stability and promote healthy communities. Her team works closely with residents to understand any challenges that may affect their housing or create barriers for growth, such as changes to employment, physical and mental health issues, lack of access to affordable childcare and youth educational programming, and emergency assistance for special needs. Jennifer fosters relationships with community partners to increase access to resources and services, alleviating potential challenges and barriers for residents. In 2017, Jennifer expanded service delivery by founding Dash and Dwell, LLC, a relocation services entity providing quality relocation services to residents affected by redevelopment or acquisition of their apartment homes. As Founder and CEO, she manages all operations, ensuring compliance with federal and state relocation policies while supporting residents' comprehensive needs throughout the process. Dash and Dwell has successfully completed nine relocation projects, assisting over 1,700 families and seniors. In 2022, Jennifer founded Core Connect, Inc., a non-profit entity of Columbia Residential, to extend access to direct financial assistance resources for residents. The organization's vision is to see every family become financially stable by meeting basic needs, championing affordable housing, and prioritizing education as a pathway to build generational wealth. As Board President, Jennifer establishes the vision and strategic direction of the organization, working to identify an Executive Director to fulfill the mission. Prior Journey Jennifer grew up in Massachusetts and has called Atlanta, Georgia home for the past 18 years. She pursued undergraduate studies in Anthropology and International Affairs at the University of New Hampshire, driven by her deep interest in other cultures. This passion led her to serve in the United States Peace Corps in Ecuador as a Public Health Extensionist from 2001 to 2003. Fortunestime.com | 27
Kirsten Green Founder, Partner of Forerunner Ventures About Forerunner Ventures Forerunner is a thesis-driven, research-focused venture capital firm committed to meeting the complex demands of a rapidly evolving society. It is a firm believer in acting with conviction, taking initiative, and forming committed partnerships. The company uses its research to find business opportunities and invests in companies like Faire, Chime, Glossier, Hims&Hers, ŌURA, The Farmer's Dog, Ritual, and others that are best positioned to change categories and contribute to cultural transformation. Furthermore, the effort continues after investment. 28 | May 2024
American venture investor Kirsten Green founded Forerunner Ventures and serves as its managing partner. Kirsten founded San Francisco- based Forerunner Ventures in 2010 and holds the positions of Founder and Managing Partner. She did this by combining an uncommon and distinctive combination of her professional background with her gained investing knowledge. In addition to being recognized on Vanity Fair's New Establishment list, she received the 2017 Crunchies Awards' VC of the Year title from TechCrunch. As a founder member of All Raise, a network of women mentors, Kirsten actively supports women in the digital sector. Kirsten covered publicly-traded retail and consumer stocks as an equities research analyst and investor at Banc of America Securities, previously Montgomery Securities, before joining Forerunner. Kirsten holds a CPA license and a CFA certification in addition to her B.A. in Business Economics from UCLA. Kirsten's 20+ years of assessment and investment success in an uncertain consumer market are a result of her blend of consumer understanding, product knowledge, and a thesis-driven strategy that has served as the foundation for all of her investments, from pre-revenue startups to multi-billion dollar businesses. Leading institutional investors have contributed more than $2 billion to Kirsten's efforts as a founder, and she has invested in more than 100 startups. She is presently a member of the Curated, Hims & Hers, Faire, Glossier, Ritual, Prose, and Balance Board of Directors. She was also a board member of two Forerunner portfolio businesses that have significant sales: Dollar Shave Club and Bonobos. She also serves on Nordstrom, Inc.'s (NYSE: JWN) board of directors. Time's 100 Most Influential People, The New York Times' Top 20 Venture Capitalists in 2018 and 2017, Forbes' Midas List for the previous six years, and the magazine's World's 100 Most Powerful Women are just a few of the accolades Kirsten has received. 30 | May 2024
Lauren Freedman Freedman Freedman Your Trusted Real Estate Professional in Connecticut 34 | May 2024
“Work hard, build your name and your reputation.” In real estate, where every client presents a unique set of needs and expectations, the paramount focus is on delivering optimal results while ensuring absolute comfort. The commitment to this philosophy is embodied by Lauren Freedman, now a licensed real estate broker. Lauren's journey in real estate began in 2010 when she obtained her initial real estate license with the intention of collaborating with her mother, a seasoned real estate appraiser. However, as she delved into the industry, Freedman discovered her true passion lay in the realm of sales. Over the years, she dedicated herself assiduously to emerge as one of the most renowned and respected Realtors in the area, earning accolades not only from her clients but also from her peers. The evidence of Lauren's excellence is reflected in stellar client reviews, a 5-Star ranking on Zillow, and global recognition in the Top 30 under 30 of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage associates. Additionally, she has been honored with inclusion in the National Association of Realtors' 30-Under-30, standing as a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence and the unparalleled service she consistently delivers. “I am ready to impress my clients with my service, encourage them with my trustworthiness, and thrill them with my commitment to urgency,” says Lauren, who is energetic, passionate, knowledgeable and “all about the client”. “The customer's needs and concerns are my number one priority.,” She explains. “My goal is to be available to my customers and to work with their best interest in mind. I consistently go above and beyond for my clients and will strive to find the right buyer, the right property to fit their needs and desires.” A Trailblazer with a Record of Success Lauren possesses an easygoing style paired with an intense attention to detail. With her boundless energy, formidable marketing abilities, top-notch negotiating skills, and an in-depth knowledge of both the area and the real estate business, she emerges as the ideal choice for clients seeking assistance with their real estate needs. 36 | May 2024
Over her 15-year career in the real estate business, Lauren has demonstrated remarkable success, having sold over $403 million worth of real estate and closed deals on nearly 1,400 properties. This impressive track record has positioned her as the #1 Realtor in New Haven County and Middlesex County. Moreover, she has consistently held the title of CB #1 Realtor for Connecticut and Westchester NY for multiple years. HVAC specialist, and other high-quality, affordable tradespeople. Among her many accolades, Lauren has been twice named to the Coldwell Banker "30 Under 30" and recognized as one of the Top 100 real estate agents in the United States in the REAL Trends "The Thousand" report published in "The Wall Street Journal." She has received top agent honors from New Haven Living Magazine and the New Haven Middlesex Association of Realtors. Lauren has also earned professional designations as an Associate Broker, Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Property Specialist, and Graduate, Realtor Institute. Additionally, she has served on the Board of Directors of the New Haven Middlesex Association of Realtors for five years. Throughout her career, Lauren has earned numerous accolades, establishing herself as a leading real estate agent in the New Haven shoreline area. Since 2015, she has held the coveted position of the No. 1 real estate agent in the Coldwell Banker Realty office in Branford, extending her dominance to surrounding towns as well. Her Real Estate Journey Commencing her career at the age of 20, Lauren has steadily ascended the ranks to become a top-producing real estate agent in her market, boasting millions of dollars in closed transactions. Leveraging Coldwell Banker's cutting- edge technology and extensive marketing plans, she maximizes exposure for her properties on various platforms, including coldwellbanker.com, realtor.com, zillow.com, trulia.com, lauren- freedman.com, and others. Before venturing into real estate, Lauren garnered valuable experience in the restaurant industry. This background not only provided her with the chance to meet a diverse range of people but also honed her communication and multitasking skills, setting a solid foundation for her current profession. Lauren's commitment to unparalleled service is evident in the reviews and five-star ranking she has earned. Her approach is rooted in the belief that each client is unique, emphasizing the importance of tailoring her efforts to achieve optimal results while ensuring their comfort and exceeding expectations. Communication is a cornerstone of her methodology, and she pledges to keep clients informed at every step of the process. Lauren's commitment to her clients is unwavering, evident in her 24/7 availability and willingness to assume as much responsibility as necessary to ensure a smooth transaction. She leads a team of professionals, including a licensed buyer transaction assistant, general contractor, painter, stager, photographer, cleaner, carpenter, window washer, hardwood floor refinisher, electrician, paver, plumber, Fortunestime.com | 37
Jenny Lee About Granite Asia (GGV Capital) There has never been a more interesting or complicated investing environment. While investors seek more liquidity, the finest firms continue to operate in private for longer periods of time. There is a need for new finance arrangements. Granite Asia is a multi-asset investment platform that specializes in creating custom frameworks to support the region's intentional growth. Asian by birth, the business has a special understanding of the potential and difficulties involved in establishing a successful presence in the fastest-growing area in the world. 38 | May 2024
Senior Managing Partner GGV Capital 40 | May 2024
Jenny Lee works at GGV Capital Asia as a managing partner. She established GGV's first office in China and reopened the Singapore office in 2019. She also oversees global investor relations and strategy. Jenny, a self-starter, investor, and businesswoman, has lived abroad for the past 23 years and is usually the first to invest in cutting-edge new goods and applications. In the previous five years, her portfolio has included nine initial public offerings (IPOs) on five different international markets, totaling more than $1 billion in value. Jenny, who was born and reared in Singapore, is well-liked in the local business community and is on the boards of Temasek and SATS Ltd (SGX: S58). She is a member of the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy and Duke-NUS Medical School governing boards. She is also a council member of the Asia Business Council and a member of Singapore's Research, Innovation and Enterprise Council (RIEC), which is presided over by the prime minister of Singapore. Since 2012, Jenny has been included in Forbes Global 100 VC Midas list. In 2015, she became the first female to get into the top 10. In addition, she was listed on Forbes Asia Power Businesswomen 25 in 2019 and won the Business Times' Outstanding Overseas Executive Award. Forbes also named her one of the World's 100 Most Powerful Women in 2023 and 2022. Fortunestime.com | 41
Shanesha Scott Supporting Businesses and People in Unleashing their Fullest Potential Step into the world of Shanesha Scott, an Industrial and Organizational Psychologist whose remarkable journey has captured the attention of global audiences. From being recognized in World Leaders Magazine to gracing the pages of Forbes and achieving Amazon's #1 best- seller status with her book "Birthing the Leader Within You," Shanesha's authentic story resonates with countless individuals seeking genuine inspiration. At the heart of Shanesha's philosophy lies authenticity—a rare trait she embodies effortlessly. In a world where sincerity is often elusive, Shanesha's commitment to being true to herself resonates deeply with those around her. She believes in embracing one's true self, free from hidden agendas or ulterior motives, inviting others to do the same. With a passion for unlocking human potential, Shanesha leverages her expertise as an Industrial and Organizational Psychologist to empower both individuals and organizations. 42 | May 2024
Through her best-selling book and cutting-edge insights, she offers a unique perspective on leadership and organizational dynamics, inspiring others to tap into their innate abilities. Shanesha's impact extends beyond the pages of her book and into real-world advocacy. As a partner with End Workplace Abuse, she champions safe and psychologically healthy work environments, leading efforts to enact legislation for workers' rights in Massachusetts through the Workplace Psychological Safety Act. Committed to lifelong learning, Shanesha launched S. Scott's Learning Academy, an online school offering a vast array of digital products designed to enhance skills and knowledge across various domains. From e-courses to webinars, her academy empowers individuals and organizations to thrive in today's dynamic business landscape. The Academy educating, Shanesha initially ventured into life coaching before transitioning to leadership coaching in 2023. Her focus shifted towards empowering leaders and aspiring leaders to develop essential leadership skills and advance in their careers. This transition also led her to author a best-selling leadership book titled "Birthing the Leader Within You: Your Guide to Becoming An Effective Leader," which provides valuable guidance for individuals in leadership roles or aspiring to such positions. The book, available on Amazon, serves as a foundational resource for leadership development. The grand opening of S. Scott's Learning Academy in 2023 marked a significant milestone for Shanesha, enabling her to empower individuals in a new and impactful way. With a strong belief in lifelong learning, the academy serves as a platform for continuous personal and professional development. Through a diverse range of offerings, including virtual courses, e-books, and podcasts, S. Scott's Learning Academy provides learners with the tools and resources they need to expand their knowledge and skills across various domains. Through her consulting practice and online academy, Shanesha equips organizations with the tools and insights needed to cultivate high- performance teams and foster positive work cultures. With a focus on empowerment and growth, she invites you to embark on a journey of transformation and success. Book a consultation with Shanesha Scott and unlock your full potential today. In addition to her book, Shanesha established S. Scott's Learning Academy, an online platform offering a wide array of digital products. With over 600 offerings, including virtual courses, e-books, and podcasts, the academy covers diverse topics ranging from business and marketing to health and fitness. Through her academy, Shanesha continues her mission of facilitating learning and personal growth across various domains. This commitment to lifelong learning aligns seamlessly with Shanesha's broader mission of empowerment, which is also reflected in her book, "Birthing the Leader Within You: Your Guide to Becoming An Effective Leader." By leveraging multiple avenues, including the academy and her book, Shanesha aims to inspire and empower leaders to reach their full Journey to Achieving Excellence Shanesha's journey from makeup artist to certified life coach reflects her deep desire to make a meaningful impact on people's lives. After overcoming various challenges in her own life, she felt compelled to pursue a path of helping others navigate their own struggles and achieve personal growth. With her company's mission centered around assisting, inspiring, and Fortunestime.com | 43
potential and make a positive impact in their respective roles and industries. fear, bullying, or harassment. Her involvement with End Workplace Abuse reflects her deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to such a meaningful cause and make a positive difference in the lives of workers across various industries. Initiative to Creating a Better Work Environment Shanesha's partnership with End Workplace Abuse underscores her commitment to advocating for safe and supportive work environments for all employees. By collaborating with this grassroots organization, she is actively involved in efforts to pass legislation, such as the Workplace Psychological Safety Act, aimed at addressing workplace bullying and harassment. The progress being made in Massachusetts is a testament to the collective efforts of individuals and organizations dedicated to this cause. Source of Love, Empathy and Inspiration Shanesha's grandmother, affectionately known as Granny, serves as a profound source of inspiration and strength in her life. From a young age, Granny played a pivotal role in shaping Shanesha's character, instilling qualities of greatness, compassion, and empathy. Her grandmother's unwavering faith, inspiring character, and unconditional love left a lasting impression on Shanesha, guiding her to embody these virtues in her own life. Shanesha encourages everyone to support these initiatives by signing the petition, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that every individual can work in an environment free from Mindful of the legacy she wishes to leave behind, Shanesha is driven by the desire to positively impact the lives of those she encounters. Reflecting on the biblical verse from Isaiah 61:3, "Beauty for Ashes," Shanesha derives the name of her company, "Beauty 4RM Ashes" (pronounced Beauty From Ashes). This name encapsulates her belief that amidst life's trials and tribulations, there is an inherent beauty and strength that emerges, akin to the transformation of ashes into something beautiful. For Shanesha, her company serves as a beacon of hope and encouragement, offering inspiration and support to individuals facing adversity. Through her work, she strives to embody the essence of the biblical verse, spreading positivity and resilience to those in need. Finding Joy in Every Moment Shanesha finds solace and joy in the simple moments shared with her family each morning. Having overcome adversity, she has gained a deeper appreciation for life's blessings and no longer allows minor concerns to overshadow her happiness. Instead, she cherishes the opportunity to let go and embrace moments of silliness with her children and husband, recognizing the profound impact of these seemingly small interactions. Additionally, Shanesha prioritizes personal growth and self-care as essential components of her daily routine. Whether it involves acquiring new skills, indulging in "me time," or enjoying leisure activities like binge- watching her favorite TV shows, she dedicates time to 44 | May 2024
nurture herself and cultivate a sense of fulfillment. Through this commitment to self-improvement, Shanesha has become a more well-rounded individual, empowered by the transformative power of self-love. Recognizing the intrinsic value of self-worth, Shanesha emphasizes the importance of valuing oneself as a cornerstone for achieving fulfillment and success in all aspects of life. By prioritizing self-love and embracing life's simple pleasures, she has cultivated a mindset of resilience and contentment, allowing her to navigate life's challenges with grace and gratitude. Extending Offerings to New Heights Shanesha's S. Scott's Learning Academy continues to expand its offerings, providing a diverse range of virtual learning experiences, e-books, and podcasts to its students. Looking ahead, she is excited to enhance the academy's catalog with additional learning opportunities focused on various career-building areas, ensuring that individuals have access to comprehensive resources for personal and professional development. Besides, Shanesha is eager to embark on consulting opportunities, leveraging her expertise as a newly certified Industrial and Organizational Psychologist. In this role, she specializes in understanding human behavior and applying psychological principles and research within the workplace. By implementing strategies to improve employee morale, job satisfaction, and overall effectiveness, Shanesha aims to make a meaningful impact on organizational dynamics and success. Shanesha encourages individuals interested in learning more about her businesses or the Workplace Psychological Safety Act to visit the following websites: Beauty 4RM Ashes: www.beauty4rmashes.org S. Scott's Learning Academy: www.scottslearningacademy.com Workplace Psychological Safety Act: Workplace Psychological Safety Act Email Address: info@beauty4rmashes.org Fortunestime.com | 45
Joey Wat Yum China Holdings Chief Executive Officer 46 | May 2024
Since March 2018, Ms. Joey Wat has led our company as CEO and has been a member of our board of directors since July 2017. She held the post of Chief Executive Officer at KFC from October 2016 to February 2017, having previously served as our President and Chief Operating Officer from February 2017 to February 2018 and as Chief Executive Officer at Yum! Restaurants China from August 2015 to October 2016. Ms. Wat began working at Yum! Restaurants China in September 2014 as the President of KFC China. In August 2015, she was elevated to the position of Chief Executive Officer. Prior to joining YUM, Ms. Wat worked from 2004 to 2014 in management and strategy roles at the global health, beauty, and lifestyle retailer A.S. Watson Group ("Watson") in the United Kingdom. About Yum China Holdings The mission of Yum China Holdings, Inc., the largest restaurant company in China, is to make every life taste beautiful. The firm is also known as Yum China (NYSE: YUMC and HKEX: 9987). From opening its first restaurant in 1987, the company has expanded to run more than 15,000 eateries in more than 2,000 cities and towns throughout all of mainland China's provinces and autonomous regions. Her final role at Watson was managing director of Watson Health & Beauty U.K., which from 2012 to 2014 ran the retail brands Superdrug and Savers, which sold prescription drugs and other health and beauty items. In 2007, she moved from being Watson's European head of strategy to managing director of Savers. Ms. Wat worked in management consulting for seven years, including three years at the Hong Kong office of McKinsey & Company, prior to joining Watson. In 2000, Ms. Wat graduated from Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management with a master's degree in management. Ms. Wat has been recognized by being listed on Forbes China's "100 Top Businesswomen List" from 2019 to 2023 and Forbes Worldwide's "The World's Most Powerful Women" list from 2020 to 2023. She has also been consistently honored on Fortune China's "50 Business Leaders" and Fortune magazine's "Most Powerful Women in Business" lists since 2018. She was also included in the list of "100 People Transforming Business in Asia" by Business Insider in 2020. Ms. Wat joins our board with a wealth of business understanding about the company as well as industry expertise gained from her career, which included holding many executive positions in retail businesses. Fortunestime.com | 49
