Female CEO of the Year Awards 2023 Furniture Sustainability CEO of the Year 2023: Megan Draper When undertaking refurbishment projects, one concern is always quick to present itself: What can be done with the leftover, decommissioned furniture? With a waste crisis currently sweeping the globe, there has never been a higher demand for alternative solutions that benefit both people and the planet alike. Enter Furniture Reuse Solutions, a women-led collective that aims to leverage its solutions and connections to empower disadvantaged communities across the world. Spearheaded by its Founder and CEO, Megan Draper, Furniture Reuse Solutions has brought a new meaning to sustainability and social responsibility. Featuring:
Welcome to the Female CEO of the Year Awards 2023 CEO Monthly is happy to announce the return of the Female CEO of the Year Awards. Following a successful launch in 2022, this highly anticipated awards programme spotlights the best in Female CEO leadership. 2023 is a landmark year where for the first time more than 10% of the Fortune 500 CEOs are women. Progress is happening within the leadership structure for gender equality. Some industries have this equality to a greater extent, but these figures prove that C-Suite leadership is transforming. Now is the perfect time to celebrate these individuals. Recognition in an international awards programme is a fantastic method to showcase the many successes of the Female CEO. Worldwide, there is an imbalance in the number of Female CEOs. Often overlooked for leadership roles, women face many challenges before they are promoted to the CEO position. Gender stereotypes are but a few hurdles the Female CEO must overcome. Attitudes towards women and female leadership also prevent women from taking a C-Suite role. These opinions have been changing over recent years, but experts agree that there is still work needed in this area. A Female CEO over her career has experienced and overcome many different challenges than her male counterpart. Rewarding these hardworking women, who are often trailblazers in their industry, is a proud accomplishment for CEO Monthly. Sofi Parry, Senior Editor Website: www.ceo-review.com AI Global Media, Ltd. (AI) takes reasonable measures to ensure the quality of the information on this web site. However, AI will not assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any information that is available through this web site. If errors are brought to our attention, we will try to correct them. The information available through the website and our partner publications is for your general information and use and is not intended to address any particular finance or investment requirements. In particular, the information does not constitute any form of advice or recommendation by us or any of our partner publications and is not intended to be relied upon by users in making or refraining from making any investment or financial decisions. Appropriate independent advice should be obtained before making any such decision. Any arrangement made between you and any third party named in the site is at your sole risk and responsibility.
4. Furniture Reuse Solutions Inc.: Furniture Sustainability CEO of the Year 2023: Megan Draper 8. WAM Renovations and WA Marble & Granite: Natural Stone Manufacturing CEO of the Year 2023 (Western Australia): Maria Byworth 10. Proto Energy: Most Innovative LPG Energy Solutions CEO 2023 (East Africa): Amanda M Donahue 12. Paragon Digital Consulting: Best Digital Consulting CEO 2023 (Canada): Sarah-Mae Amde 14. DSM Tax Solutions: Financial Services Entrepreneur of the Year 2023 (Southwest USA): Damika Martin 16. Bright Future Development Organisation (BFDO): Poverty Prevention CEO of the Year 2023 (UK): Manal Adam 17. Heritage Dental Group: Dental Health Care Management CEO of the Year 2023 (Texas): Heather Foster 18. SJB Hearing: Audiology MD of the Year 2023 (UK): Sarah-Jane Brown 19. Pivotal Solutions LLC: Most Innovative Growth & Strategy Consulting CEO (Southern USA): Windy Elstermeier 20. Image At Work: Most Innovative Marketing & Branding CEO 2023 (Gauteng): Tanya Naidoo 21. Artfundi: Most Innovative Art Management Software CEO 2023: Tamzin Lovell 22. Waddesdon Enterprises: Hospitality CEO of the Year 2023 (Buckinghamshire): Holly Saunders Contents
CEO MONTHLY / Female CEO of the Year Awards 2023 4 Furniture Sustainability CEO of the Year 2023: Megan Draper When undertaking refurbishment projects, one concern is always quick to present itself: What can be done with the leftover, decommissioned furniture? With a waste crisis currently sweeping the globe, there has never been a higher demand for alternative solutions that benefit both people and the planet alike. Enter Furniture Reuse Solutions, a women-led collective that aims to leverage its solutions and connections to empower disadvantaged communities across the world. Spearheaded by its Founder and CEO, Megan Draper, Furniture Reuse Solutions has brought a new meaning to sustainability and social responsibility. pecializing in the art of repurposing furniture left behind following decommissioning projects, Furniture Reuse Solutions is a consulting firm that has already made its presence known throughout the United States and various other nations alike. With connections spanning from nonprofit to humanitarian organizations, the collective has managed to accumulate a vast reach that, to this day, continues to touch the lives of many communities across the globe. Despite only having three years under its belt, Furniture Reuse Solutions is consistently demonstrating an excellence beyond its years, resulting in a firm that has transcended the constraints of distance, age, and background to improve the lives of all who collaborate alongside it. However, if one were to attribute the firm’s rapid success to anything, it would be to the decade of industry experience held by Founder and CEO, Megan Draper. Before launching Furniture Reuse Solutions in 2020, Megan had spent much of her life deeply immersed in the art of helping others. Initially raised in a small town in New England, Megan made the move to California in 2016, equipped with a unique perspective that gave her the boost she needed. After all, Megan had gone above and beyond throughout her career, resulting in her finding herself working in every corner of the US. Due to her on-hand experience and seasoned background, it was only natural for the creation of a firm such as Furniture Reuse Solutions to become the next logical step. Megan Draper truly is a fascinating individual, possessing attitudes and ideals that completely transcend simply wanting to help. When presented with the choice to step away from committing to a plan that could ultimately spell disaster, Megan recognized the potential she held, should it not flourish in the way she’d hoped. She understood that, if she didn’t take the step, the chances of someone else doing so were incredibly slim. Megan had the necessary talents to reshape the world, and expressed how, when speaking with her peers about the possibility of founding Furniture Reuse Solutions, “We can’t just walk away from this.” It takes a great mind to identify one’s own capabilities, but it takes further dedication to commit these capabilities to a cause greater than any one person. Megan is one such person – someone who knew that she had something special and decreed to do something truly meaningful with the talents she had amassed. Although, to truly understand Furniture Reuse Solutions’ impact under Megan’s careful guidance, we believe it essential to delve into some case studies. Available on the firm’s website, these case studies represent the best of the collective. Most notable is its partnership with San Diego State University in the summer of 2022. As an entity wholly committed to sustainability, when San Diego State University’s Chapultepec Hall underwent a complete refurbishment overhaul, it sought out a means to manage the surplus of decommissioned furniture. The answer was, naturally, Furniture Reuse Solutions, who was contacted to help divert almost 3,000 surplus items from the university’s dormitories away from landfills. Taking the inventory into account was no straightforward feat. As expressed within the case study for San Diego State University, the resale value of dormitory furniture is practically indiscernible, and the disposal costs that partner such a staggering inventory are incredibly high. In addition, recycling the furniture is also a challenge, resulting in limited avenues for the university. It’s for this very reason that Furniture Reuse Solutions was contacted – the firm was already renowned throughout the local area, with word of mouth consistently praising it for its straightforward, charitable solutions. Though the volume was huge, the project soon found resolution using charitable reuse, wherein Furniture Reuse Solutions matched the inventory with nonprofit organisations within and outside the US. The result exemplifies everything that Furniture Reuse Solutions, and Megan, stands for – the university generated 2,925 furniture items for reuse, ranging from bed frames and mattresses to dressers, chairs, and cabinets. By enlisting the assistance of Furniture Reuse Solutions, San Diego State University successfully managed to avoid producing 100 tonnes of landfill waste. In turn, this resulted in massive cost savings, while simultaneously maximizing Nov23288 S
CEO MONTHLY / Female CEO of the Year 2023 5 the positive social impact of the team. Furniture Reuse Solutions’ team ensured these items went to domestic nonprofits for community and thrift store distributions, including shipments that found their homes worldwide – in Africa and the Caribbean. This very outcome is just one manifestation of Megan’s ultimate dream for Furniture Reuse Solutions. Thanks to her eye for identifying who would benefit the most from the unneeded assets of others, she was able to lend a helping hand to every type of individual. Furniture Reuse Solutions fostered hope in ways that these people may have never expected, from those struggling with monetary challenges to schools and refugee aid programs. In particular, the San Diego State University project ended up increasing fundraising for affordable housing throughout California, Kansas, and Missouri, distributing furniture to disadvantaged communities in Oklahoma, providing for trade school student housing in Swaziland and the Dominican Republic, enhancing fundraising for addiction recovery programs in Lebanon, and assisting refugee aid in Spokane. Furthermore, from May 30th to July 21st, 2023, classroom furniture was decommissioned from 20 schools in a northern California school district, meaning Furniture Reuse Solutions had a big job ahead of it. Furniture Reuse Solutions sent 36 shipments to charities and non-profit organizations across 12 countries for those eight weeks, working alongside the installation team in the intense summer heat. This sustainable solution presented by VIRCO ensured that the school district could uphold its sustainability goals, which resulted in positive outcomes for the community and, of course, the environment. Furniture Reuse Solutions has shipped a wide range of unique items, from Tripp Lites to recycling barrels
CEO MONTHLY / Female CEO of the Year Awards 2023 6 Nov23288 and, more recently, sizeable folding cafeteria tables. Having already repurposed over 24,722 items across the Long Beach Unified School District alone with more still to ship, Furniture Reuse Solutions has been able to divert well over 290 tons of items and materials from landfills. Before the end of 2023, the business even found a charity able to use linens from UC Santa Barbara – demonstrating its commitment to the environment. Thinking outside the box and finding new uses for everyday items is a unique challenge and talent. Overall, the team at Furniture Reuse Solutions has assisted in moving over 6,000 shipments, which is no small task! Further expanding on the aid that Furniture Reuse Solutions has provided, the Jordanian Refugee School Furniture Aid case study exemplifies Megan’s determination to spread her firm’s kindness beyond the US’s borders. When a middle school in the Pacific Northwest opted to upgrade its furnishings, more than a thousand decommissioned items were left with no further purpose within the school district. As such, the school turned to Furniture Reuse Solutions, which connected with an international charity that is committed to providing disaster relief to international communities. Once all 1,161 pieces of furniture were loaded onto two 40’ ocean containers, they were set on their way to Amman in Jordan to be used in refugee schools within the area. With such a pressing refugee crisis that is still ongoing to this day, Jordan has been in dire need of assistance in almost every vein. Included among humanitarian organizations such as Helping Hand for Humanity, Furniture Reuse Solutions has made it exceptionally clear that it is willing to go the extra mile to give what it can to communities that will cherish the items they receive, regardless of whether or not they’ve been used. So long as furniture is in good enough condition to confidently serve its purpose and withstand the transit, Furniture Reuse Solutions is determined to get it where it needs to be. Of course, this all stems from Megan’s initial wish: to create a conduit for making the world a better place than it was when she came into it. Megan has helped make a difference for over 65 schools nationwide, with many more scheduled through the end of 2025. Whether she’s creating connections with nonprofit and humanitarian organizations in desperate need of the extra assistance or helping collectives with their furniture sustainability solutions, her ambition to look back and see that she’s done an excellent job is never-ending. Furniture Reuse Solutions is a selfless firm that has changed how individuals across the US perceive the process of relocating unneeded furniture items, with their decommissioned assets often restructuring the lives of those in need. What started as a selfless goal has transformed into a collective making a difference worldwide, spearheaded by Megan’s avid love for encouraging real change through furniture. Though some may believe that having furniture in a space is a small concept, to some, it can mean the difference between having to learn in a barren space and being enriched by a fully furnished environment. Delivering a means to excel the quality of life of individuals around the world is what Megan has always wished to accomplish – something that has persisted over her time in manual labour and office work. It has flourished into something tangible; Furniture Reuse Solutions is bringing a new light to people’s lives and is truly becoming the go-to for furniture sustainability solutions. Used furniture serves no purpose in a landfill, but when given to the right people, it holds the power to provide them with new hope. First and foremost, Furniture Reuse Solutions revolves around sustainability. Finding new uses for old furniture is where it has excelled in the past three years, and it’s clear that this talent has only grown as the firm has thrived. Though she would never claim it to be solely due to her leadership, it’s undeniable that Megan’s role as CEO has played a huge part in the firm’s success. From how she handles her staff, down to the collaborative efforts that she’s made with various organizations on both a national and international scale, Megan demonstrates an acute understanding of how to identify every person’s strengths. From there, she has expertly amplified the capabilities of her firm and workforce, resulting in a cohesive collective of highly skilled individuals. This individuality, partnered with its women-led nature, sets Furniture Reuse Solutions apart as a firm concerned only with increasing the wellbeing of different communities across the US and the world. By proving that women are beyond capable of making such a staggering difference, Megan has become the role model that she wished she had when she was younger. Not only that, but she also brings a voice to women who are passionate about what they do while simultaneously protecting those who may have found themselves in unfortunate positions or circumstances. Megan’s work is important because it showcases that women can and should pursue their dreams. As such, it’s no wonder Megan has earned herself such renown as a female CEO.
CEO MONTHLY / Female CEO of the Year 2023 7 Despite its young age, Furniture Reuse Solutions has served to completely transform the situations of disadvantaged individuals in many corners of the globe. With a fantastic reputation built on the mutual trust between the collective and its collaborators, it has garnered the power to provide furniture sustainability solutions to a myriad of clients. Of course, every firm has a heart, and Furniture Reuse Solutions’ heart is undoubtedly its Founder and CEO, Megan Draper. Megan has done something that no other CEO in her field has managed – not only has she helped some of the world’s most struggling communities, but she has done so with uncontested levels of compassion. Her aptitude is second to none, and we’re so incredibly proud to present her with the title of Furniture Sustainability CEO of the Year 2023: Megan Draper. To close, we’d like to share some words from Megan herself on what she believes to be her crowning achievement throughout her brimming career: “Starting Furniture Reuse Solutions and watching it grow these past three years into a firm our clients respect and recommend and seeing the charities we partner with ultimately benefit from our hard work. Watching others become recipients of what can ultimately be perceived as a highly complex process that we break down into manageable steps is very satisfying.” With such impressive resolve backing her, we’re certain that Megan Draper will only continue down the road of greatness as we progress through the new year. We simply can’t wait to see where Megan takes Furniture Reuse Solutions next. Contact Details Contact: Megan Draper Company: Furniture Reuse Solutions Inc. Web Address: www.furniture-rs.com
CEO MONTHLY / Female CEO of the Year Awards 2023 8 Natural Stone Manufacturing CEO of the Year 2023 (Western Australia): Maria Byworth WA Marble and Granite (WAMG) is a leading supplier of high-quality stone bench tops and related stone products for builders, cabinet makers, commercial properties, and residential homes. At the helm of the business is CEO Maria Byworth, an experienced Managing Director in the construction industry. In 2019, she established WAM Renovations to become part of the WAMG group, offering complete interior and whole house refurbishments. Here, we explore Maria’s career and the excellent work of both companies. erving the building industry, cabinet makers, and the residential market since 1935, WAMG is a Perthbased supplier and installer of stunning stone products. Since the very beginning, its team have provided clients with sound advice, skilled workmanship, and premium quality stone sourced from around the world. Whether they are building or renovating, WAMG believes that it is important for clients to take into consideration which stone is best for their lifestyle, interior design, and budget. For this reason, it strives to work closely with them, learning about their needs and preferences to support them in making the right decision. WAMG’s team of expert stonemasons will then sculpt their perfect kitchen bench top, vanity, BBQ top, staircase, wall cladding, furniture, reception top, or fireplace. Nothing compares to the beauty of customworked marble, granite, or reconstituted stone; strong and timelessly beautiful, it can add aesthetic appeal to any space. Due to extensive family tradition that dates back almost 70 years, the company uses only the best materials. In 1995, Maria Byworth joined WAMG, taking on the position of CFO. At the same time, she ran her own bookkeeping company, where she helped businesses with their everyday administration needs, implemented systems to help improve their efficiency and profitability, and set up all their accounts. Maria also helped struggling companies to write business plans, manage their cash flows, and create budgets, guiding them to focus on achieving their goals and targets. With this strong background, she was well-equipped to take on the task of handling WAMG’s finances. Within Maria’s first few years at WAMG, the owners of the business invited her to buy shares in the company and become a director, an offer that she gladly accepted. Later, in 2018, the opportunity arose to buy out her partners and become CEO. Following this, she was responsible for running all aspects of the company, from sales to accounts to production to installation. In 2019, Maria’s house tragically burned down, destroying all her family’s possessions. Whilst this was undoubtedly a difficult experience to deal with, she was inspired to get her building license so that she could rebuild her home. This ultimately enabled her to establish WAM Renovations. Primarily working with private customers, WAM Renovations offers a full turnkey service, taking clients’ renovation projects from conception to completion within six weeks. The company offers everything clients need for a full renovation, including bathrooms, kitchens, curtains, carpets, flooring, painting, feature lighting, wallpapers, furniture, styling, wall removal, and structural work. It also offers a number of external works, including landscaping, rendering, painting, pools, fencing, and more. WAM Renovations prides itself on its ability to take the worry out of renovating, working with clients to help them create their dream home whilst increasing the value of their property. Whether their goal is to create a new room for their growing family, upgrade their living space, or simply breathe some new life into their home, WAM Renovations will deliver their vision, guaranteeing timeframes with precision. For those who require a fast renovation service that does not compromise on quality, always delivering perfection, the team of experts at WAM Renovations are the perfect partner for your project. Clients can trust that their experience will be smooth sailing, without the standard long lag times, headaches, and hassles. At WAM Renovations, Maria is the main contact for clients, guiding them through the whole process. Over the years, she has completed hundreds of renovation projects across Perth with the help of a superior team of subcontractors. She handles all accounts, supervision, quoting, and presentation herself, leveraging her extensive experience as a Managing Director to ensure that her company delivers excellence in their work whilst providing outstanding customer service. As a result of Maria’s exceptional leadership, both WAM Renovations and WAMG have received glowing praise from clients over the years. For example, on their experience with WAM Renovations, one satisfied customer shares, “I would not recommend any other company for Oct23258 S
CEO MONTHLY / Female CEO of the Year 2023 9 my family and friends to go to. Maria and her team were nothing but professional and efficient at what they do. I felt comfortable and confident in the company from the moment I stepped in the door at the showroom/ warehouse in Malaga until the moment my kitchen renovation was completed. Their workmanship is often admired by visitors at my house, and they assisted in making the kitchen renovation process easy. Thank you!” Moreover, on WAMG, another client states, “The purchasing process was conducted over the phone with extensive and useful information being provided on the product and installation. Excellent service from both the salespeople and installers! The end result on both projects exceeded our expectations! The installers were ‘perfectionists’, friendly, and obliging. The company conducts business in a very friendly and professional manner. We are delighted to refer WA Marble & Granite and have already done so to neighbours and friends.” For her remarkable work as CEO of WA Marble & Granite (WAMG) and WAM Renovations, Maria Byworth has been named Natural Stone Manufacturing CEO of the Year in the Female CEO of the Year Awards 2023. In the years to come, Maria plans to work on bigger development projects, building new houses from scratch as well as taking on renovations. Furthermore, with the likelihood that a number of engineering products will be banned in Australia, she is also looking at importing her own natural stones from other countries. Contact Details Contact: Maria Byworth Company: WAM Renovations and WA Marble & Granite Web Address: www. wamg.com.au and www. wamrenovations.com.au
CEO MONTHLY / Female CEO of the Year Awards 2023 10 Most Innovative LPG Energy Solutions CEO 2023 (East Africa): Amanda M Donahue Kenya based Amanda M. Donahue is the group CEO of Africa Gas & Oil (AGOL), an energy services company that specialises in import and distribution of LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) for industrial, commercial, and home users. AGOL was established ten years ago to address the challenges within the energy sector across Kenya, and to promote the Governmental objective to encourage clean energy through LPG, curb deforestation, and reduce carbon dioxide emissions. The crossover of these two areas of interest is a force of major positivity for East Africa. ne of the challenges in Kenya’s energy market concerns lack of access to clean cooking fuels. In order to combat this, AGOL embarked upon constructing a state-ofthe-art terminal enabling the importation and distribution of LPG to the tune of some 1,400,000MTs a year, via the Port of Mombasa. The terminal comprises facilities intended to receive, store, and redeliver LPG in bulk, both for local use and for export to neighbouring countries and islands located in the Indian Ocean. This terminal has allowed for a much more reliable, steady supply of LPG to consumers, and at a far more economical rate. Bolstering existing infrastructure, and improving health and safety, has meant that AGOL has brought a welcome level of stability to the LPG industry. This has been supported by its downstream business partner, PROTO Energy, a manufacturer of cylinders that enables LPG cooking fuel to be supplied to households across Kenya. In doing so, PROTO has also created business opportunities for thousands of Kenyans. This includes delivery drivers, LPG distributors, cylinder manufacturers, plant staff, retailers, and many more. It has created the only shipto-home, self-contained ecosystem for its LPG energy concerns. Group CEO Amanda M Donohue holds a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) from the Northwestern University, Kellogg School of Management. She has contributed many valuable insights to the industry with her robust skill set, including leadership, product marketing, direct marketing, marketing management, and team building. Under her leadership the company has assumed a market leading position as the downstream distribution arm of LPG within Kenya. This has meant an aspirational and much needed product has become widely available. Furthermore, Proto Energy has worked closely alongside regulators to implement the strictest of safety protocols for its cylinders, and throughout all operational procedures. This has gone a long way towards fostering confidence in the LPG market as a safe and reliable source of energy. For Amanda, what began as a break from the corporate world of the US, some 15 years ago, transpired into a Kenyan journey of varied adventures. Early on her Kenyan odyssey she found herself running a chicken farm. True to her tenacious character, however, it wasn’t long before she had grown the business from 250 to 6,000 chickens. With this success under her belt, and running efficiently, she handed the farm over to a new owner and turned her own attention to a novel venture. Having noticed a desperate need for help in 3 slum areas of Nairobi, she created a maternal health programme that educated and supported 35,000 Kenyan women. Amanda realised many Kenyans lacked access to technology and digital services, and believed this was an area she could support by connecting with the private sector and introducing more accessible services. Having spent so much time in the less economically fortuitous regions, she was able to spot the gap in the market and help to introduce technology that bridged it. Following on from this, she was led towards work in fintech, a position that enabled her to broker collaborations with TelCom, banks, and local governments across 34 African countries. This was a rewarding experience for Amanda, but her attention had already been captured by a new company, PROGAS. To clarify, PROGAS is the product that is produced and sold by PROTO Energy. It was launched in 2017, and has since become a household name in Kenya, easily recognisable by its vibrant pink cylinders What attracted Amanda to the company was its ability to uncover solutions for a pressing issue, and make LPG available to awide market, all while maintaining affordability. Amanda was impressed by the company’s innovation, and knew she wanted to join in any capacity. As it was, becoming the CEO allowed her to immerse herself by jumping straight in, taking on new challenges, and forging new pathways. Since joining three years ago, her meticulous attention to detail has boosted the business to such an extent that she has become known as the ‘Queen of LPG’. Utilising her vast experience in fintech, and more, Amanda has always made a concerted effort to level the playing field for women, Oct23685 O
CEO MONTHLY / Female CEO of the Year 2023 11 and working at PROTO has been no different. She was pivotal in its scheme to empower women from low income backgrounds to become tuktuk delivery drivers for the company, in a programme called ‘Queens of the Road’. This seems supremely fitting, coming from the queen of LPG herself. The programme has also boosted self-worth and confidence for many women in ways that can’t even be measured. Through their work they have been able to earn life-changing money that impacts their families and entire communities. They have also become trustworthy, valued employees at PROTO, which with Amanda at the helm is a company that truly values its young and growing team, from drivers up to C-suite level. Company: Proto Energy Web Address: www.protoenergy.com Contact Name: Amanda M Donahue
CEO MONTHLY / Female CEO of the Year Awards 2023 12 Best Digital Consulting CEO 2023 (Canada): Sarah-Mae Amde The new age of technology is an exciting one indeed. Digital assets provide a myriad of advantages just waiting to be harnessed, but doing so isn’t always as straightforward as it sounds. It’s for this very reason that digital consulting agencies such as Paragon Digital Consulting exist – to help clients elevate their businesses, regardless of the stage of transformation they find themselves in. Pioneering the transition into the digital age is none other than award-winning CEO of Paragon Digital Consulting, Sarah-Mae Amde. Below, we delve into how Sarah-Mae has cultivated the definitive digital consultancy for any client seeking a smooth, low-risk, high-reward digital transition. aragon Digital Consulting is a boutique consulting firm comprised of talented individuals who believe that, in order to thrive within the digital space, companies merely need the right kind of support. Determined to be exactly this for teams of a variety of sizes, Paragon Digital Consulting is committed to helping clients navigate the complex landscape of organisational change. Its senior leaders have long since recognised that growing a company’s digital economy comes down to the ambition and adaptability of its internal workforce, and they have since devised processes that are perfectly suited to encourage this growth on a company-wide scale. Essentially, Paragon Digital Consulting teaches collectives how to adopt new technologies, enhance learning and capabilities, increase productivity, and promote collaboration crossfunctionality. The hope is that, through its work as a digital consultancy, Paragon can facilitate a positive transformation experience for businesses, no matter the stage of their transformation process, without incurring any unnecessary risks. After all, navigating change can often times be both daunting and challenging; Paragon Digital Consulting therefore ensures that missteps are simply impossible. It mitigates the risks on behalf of its clients, granting them the tools to succeed without them having to sacrifice productivity. At the heart of Paragon Digital Consulting’s excellence is, of course, Sarah-Mae Amde. Leading a team of highly experienced professionals, Sarah-Mae brings a wholly unique perspective to the role – one that, in tandem with her passion, knowledge, and talent, creates a bespoke approach unseen from other consultancy firms of similar natures. Following fifteen years of experience working as a behavioural specialist, Sarah-Mae came to understand the depth of emotion that typically partners change as a whole. From there, she was able to devise strategies that fell in line with her time spent as a certified change management professional, ultimately resulting in what we see from Paragon Digital Consulting today. Now, companies have access to a change consultancy that aligns itself with their unique goals, and can therefore adapt personalised plans to secure success. It’s Sarah-Mae’s belief that “checking a bunch of boxes won’t get you where you want to be”, and she carries this mindset with her throughout Paragon Digital Consulting’s processes and approaches. After all, no business is the same, and each have differing goals that they’re striving to achieve. In response, Sarah-Mae fashioned Paragon Digital Consulting to investigate and respond to these unique needs, challenges, and aspirations. Whether these ambitions are large in scale, or relatively small, SarahMae’s immense passion for delivering solutions places Paragon Digital Consulting in the optimal position to help. Serving clients is where Sarah-Mae thrives – a quality that’s abundantly clear to see when observing her in her role as the company’s CEO. What makes Sarah-Mae so staggeringly different from others within the industry, however, is the sheer love that she demonstrates for creating order from chaos. For decades, she has spent tireless hours honing her techniques, finding excitement in problem solving, and seeking fulfilment in leading team after team to the success that they deserve. When undergoing change, many organisations, large or small, can often times feel as though the challenges that such transformations present are far too difficult to overcome. So to see these same collectives soar beyond their limitations with a little extra help from Paragon Digital Consulting is what Sarah-Mae finds true happiness in. Sarah-Mae frequently expresses that this line of work is where she best excels. Though she began her career as a high school teacher, she found her calling in the world of digital consulting. Once she discovered her niche in IT innovation – one that she complemented with behavioural neuropsychology - Sarah-Mae taught herself how to look beyond the surface. In doing so, she obtained a very unique skill that helped her to see patterns within the change management sphere. More so, she recognised that her skills could help others in ways she had never considered before. From this sentiment, Paragon Digital Consulting came to be, and it’s clear that Sarah-Mae views its inception as one of the crowning moments of her career. Oct23313 P
CEO MONTHLY / Female CEO of the Year 2023 13 Throughout her life, Sarah-Mae has learned valuable lessons that have helped to guide her to the point she finds herself at today. Instead of seeing challenges and limitations, she instead sees possibilities and opportunities, and always approaches them with a sense of positive pragmatism. Whether this manifests through the ways in which she leads her team, or through the interactions that she shares with her clients, SarahMae’s unwavering passion for reaching a satisfying and lasting conclusion is present throughout. As such, it’s easy to understand how she has become such a renowned icon within the digital consultancy sphere. We’re so very pleased to be able to present SarahMae Amde’s excellence to our readers. Her insatiable appetite for inviting success into companies who may be struggling to surpass the challenges of transformation is simply infectious. She’s a determined woman who has never let the prospect of failure enter her mind, and the result is a resolute digital consultancy that’s certain to explore its full potential throughout each collaboration. Paragon Digital Consulting is SarahMae’s promise to businesses who truly wish to change their processes for the better – a promise that, no matter how, she will ensure that their journey into a better future is as enjoyable as it is successful. Contact Details Contact: Sarah-Mae Amde Company: Paragon Digital Consulting Web Address: paragondigitalconsulting.com
CEO MONTHLY / Female CEO of the Year Awards 2023 14 Financial Services Entrepreneur of the Year 2023 (Southwest USA): Damika Martin Based in Arizona, DSM Tax Solutions is a dedicated financial service business specialising in the provision of comprehensive tax solutions to self-employed individuals, businesses, and W2 employees. Here, we speak to Founder and CEO Damika Martin to find out more about her journey and the future of the company. amika Martin is a single mother of four who discovered her love for finance during the Covid-19 pandemic and was soon inspired to establish her own company, naming it DSM Tax Solutions. Currently, she is studying to obtain a bachelor’s degree in Family Human Development at Arizona State University, graduating in 2025. As DSM Tax Solutions specialises in serving self-employed individuals, businesses, and W2 employees, the company assists individuals across a plethora of industries – no matter when they need an extra hand. Moreover, business owners and freelance professionals are so busy throughout the year, focusing on growing their operations and maintaining profitability, that important things like taxes can fall to the backburner. This is where financial service providers like DSM Tax Solutions comes in, delivering a full range of tax planning and preparation services. Committed to empowering its community by equipping individuals and firms with the tools they need to take control of their financial future, Damika and her team work hard to keep clients on track, helping them to maximise their tax refunds. By monitoring both their income and expenses, business owners can gain important insights into their cash flow and financial health, enabling them to make fully informed decisions related to pricing, artistic projects, investments, and other aspects of their business. Furthermore, with the help of DSM Tax Solutions, business owners are able to spend less time worrying about their taxes and more time focusing on themselves. In the modern day, it is all too easy for ambitious entrepreneurs to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of running a business, causing them to neglect their own physical and mental health. They must remember the importance of prioritising selfcare and taking regular breaks in order to ensure the long-term success of their business. To do this, they should surround themselves with companies that will work to uplift and support them whilst strengthening their business. As the owner of DSM Tax Solutions, Damika is responsible for overseeing its day-to-day operations, managing client relationships, and ensuring that its services meet the highest standards of accuracy and efficiency. She comments, “I’ve been working on my business for about 2-3 years now.” To date, one of Damika’s proudest professional achievements is having successfully established DSM Tax Solutions as a reliable and client-focused firm. “The journey has had its challenges, particularly as a woman in the corporate environment,” she adds. “Overcoming stereotypes and biases required perseverance and a commitment to excellence.” Throughout her career, Damika has witnessed many changes and developments in the corporate world, especially regarding women’s roles. Whilst it is still a largely male dominated area, she has noticed that the finance sector has become more inclusive in recent years, with women receiving more opportunities and recognition than ever before. However, a number of challenges still persist, so it is important to continue to advocate for diversity. “My advice to aspiring women in the industry is to be resilient, stay informed, and build a robust professional network,” shares Damika. “Embracing challenges as opportunities for growth is key. At DSM Tax Solutions, we actively support women through mentorship programmes and initiatives that foster an inclusive work environment.” Committed to supporting people and communities, DSM Tax Solutions hopes to soon offer mortgage loans and other useful services. “I like to believe I am very big on community outreach and helping the community in general,” Damika explains. “Here at DSM Tax Solutions, we have many different programmes to help those in need to join finance, including training and skill development.” As a rapidly expanding business, DSM Tax Solutions plans to roll out many more services in the years to come, including credit repair, rental assistance, notary services, and more. The company is poised for expansion and innovation, currently exploring new projects and technologies that it could leverage to enhance its services. Oct23468 D
CEO MONTHLY / Female CEO of the Year 2023 15 Damika’s plan for the coming months is to strengthen DSM Tax Solutions and its client base, streamline its processes, and always remain at the forefront of emerging industry trends. “Personally, my goals include furthering my education in finance and leadership,” she comments. “I aim to elevate DSM Tax Solutions to new heights, establishing it as a leader in the tax solutions sector. Continuous learning and adapting to industry changes are integral to achieving these goals.” In the bustling world of finance and tax services, Damika Martin stands out as a beacon of entrepreneurship and innovation. Considering her impressive success thus far, it is no surprise that she has been named Financial Services Entrepreneur of the Year, Southwest USA, in the Female CEO of the Year Awards 2023. With big plans for the years ahead, there is no doubt that she and her team at DSM Tax Solutions look towards a bright future. We are thrilled to congratulate them on their success in this prestigious awards programme and wish them the best of luck in all their endeavours. Contact Details Contact: Damika Martin Company: DSM Tax Solutions Web Address: dsmtaxsolutions.com
CEO MONTHLY / Female CEO of the Year Awards 2023 16 Poverty Prevention CEO of the Year 2023 (UK): Manal Adam Established in 1995, Bright Future Development Organisation (BFDO) is a non-profit organisation focused on empowering young people by equipping them with the skills and knowledge they need to excel in various fields. At the helm of the company is CEO Manal Adam, an experienced public health professional who is committed to ending all forms of poverty through education. Here, we explore her career, accomplishments, and goals in the wake of her success in the Female CEO of the Year Awards 2023. ore than two decades ago, BFDO was established by a group of community members who were inspired to respond to the significant need for a local organisation dedicated to helping homeless individuals. They envisioned a world where every person has access to the resources that they need to live a healthy, happy, and fulfilling life, no matter who they are or where they come from. Over the years, BFDO has grown into a thriving non-profit organisation that serves hundreds of individuals every year. Through volunteerism, the company strives to end poverty, empower the world’s youth, promote quality education, and address climate change. To accomplish these goals, BFDO works with a wide range of clients who share its commitment to nurturing the potential of young individuals. This includes schools, universities, community centres, community-based organisations (CBOs), and other organisations. BFDO also partners with a variety of local organisations, from food banks to healthcare providers, aiming to extend its reach and impact in the community. In May 2023, Manal Adams joined BFDO as CEO. Prior to this, she held various leadership roles in the public health sector, working to improve the health of the global population through prevention, protection, and promotion. She has also held positions in several governmental and non-governmental organisations, including a number of international NGOs. Throughout her career, she has gained valuable experience developing programmes for public health training, health and wellbeing awareness, and youth empowerment. Manal feels that her professional experience has provided her with valuable insights and perspectives, shaping the approach she takes to her current role as CEO of BFDO. Today, she leads a team of dedicated professionals, from case managers to outreach workers, who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of those they serve. Manal is proud of her team and appreciates the boundless effort they put into their work, contributing towards the creation of a bright future for the next generation. Like most women in the corporate world, Manal has faced several challenges and biases. However, by persevering, developing her skills, and leveraging a strong support network, she has worked hard to overcome them. “The advice I would give to other women looking to succeed in this industry is to believe in your abilities, seek out mentors, and actively participate in networking and professional development opportunities,” Manal shares. “Attributes such as flexibility, determination, and effective communication are vital to reaching the top of any company within the sector.” As a result of her outstanding leadership of the BFDO team and her commitment to the work she does, Manal Adam has been named Poverty Nov23367 M Prevention CEO of the Year, UK, in the Female CEO of the Year Awards 2023. In the years to come, Bright Future Development Organisation (BFDO) has many exciting projects lined up. For example, the company is working to expand its reach by launching online platforms and establishing partnerships with international organisations like UNESCO. It also plans to collaborate with local communities to establish vocational training centres for people in need, equipping them with in-demand skills that will help them succeed in emerging industries. Regarding her career goals as an individual, Manal hopes to offer young people, particularly young girls, opportunities for both leadership and professional development, empowering them to reach their potential. She also strives to enhance her ability to provide them with valuable assistance and support. She adds, “To achieve these goals, I am committed to engaging in ongoing learning, staying informed about industry trends, and actively seeking out opportunities to apply my knowledge and skills.” Contact: Manal Adam Company: Bright Future Development Organisation (BFDO) Web Address: www. brightfuturedevelopment.org
CEO MONTHLY / Female CEO of the Year 2023 17 Oct23207 Heritage Dental Group (HDG) is a company that proudly puts people first, fostering a positive and inclusive environment where the dedication and expertise of teams is recognised and championed. CEO Heather Foster takes primary responsibility for prioritising the continued growth and support embodied by the organisation, ensuring everyone across the company’s teams and network of partners feels valued, respected, and supported. With a positive internal culture in toe, a workplace environment exists where everybody is given equal space to thrive and contribute to the business’ collective achievements. More than just an average dental management support company, Heritage Dental Group is comprised of a team of dedicated professionals with a firm belief in partnering with exceptional dentists and providing them with an unrivalled support network. It is the company’s mission to empower doctors, affording them the means to achieve personal and professional growth, reach financial freedom, and run their business in line with their vision. At the heart of this operation is CEO Heather Foster, who acts as the driving force behind the company’s prosperity. We catch up with Heather to learn more about her career, support for other women, and how she has nurtured Heritage Dental into the success story it is today. As a pioneering woman in the industry, Heather reflects on the increased presence and empowerment of women in the field, calling this, “a remarkable phenomenon that deserves recognition.” To this end, HDG proudly honours its female colleagues, celebrating the valuable perspectives they bring and the significant contributions they have made. Heather has made it her personal mission to guarantee that anybody, regardless of race or gender, is provided equal opportunities for success at HDG, shaping a future where the industry can be lead with excellence by men and women alike. Outside of direct HDG business, Heather supports local women’s groups, sharing what she has learned over the course of her career with the purpose of providing mentorship and actively engaging in speaking engagements to inspire and empower the next generation of female CEOs. As Heather explains, “by providing a platform for dialogue and [the] sharing of ideas, we can collectively work towards breaking down barriers and achieving greater gender equality in leadership roles.” Heather has grown into the successful CEO she is today as a result of numerous previous positions that have allowed her to develop personally and professionally, as well as provided her with invaluable experiences and insight into the dental industry. Having worked as COO for an array of dental companies, Heather has garnered the necessary skills to oversee operations ands drive growth. Previous experience owning her own dental coaching company has too proved beneficial, and other roles in the sector inclusive of dental assistant, regional manager, and vice president of operations have all yielded a comprehensive understanding of every element the industry has to offer. Over the course of her storied career, Heather has had the privilege of working with countless outstanding groups and individuals, yet she believes the pinnacle of her career to be the present, leading HDG towards new heights in the field. Along with this, Heather cites some of the fantastic work her company has done for charity among her career highlights, including the active supporting of Heroes 4 Healthy Smiles, an organisation which helps children who are battling cancer, through the providing of oral healthcare and general well-being assistance to children and their families. Looking ahead to the future, HDG is driven to secure future growth, and next year plans to expand its reach by adding new locations to its network. This will allow more communities to be served, and the best dental care to be delivered across a wider patient base. Expansion will not cause a decline in the calibre of service however, with Heather reassuring that, “we remain focused on maintaining the same level of support and empowerment for our dental professionals [and] will continue to partner with exceptional dentists who share our values”. A proud female CEO in the dental industry, Heather Foster is ultimately an advocate for women in dentistry, and through Heritage Dental Group, has curated a dental management service where everybody is afforded equal opportunities to succeed. With a host of experience under her belt, Heather has established herself as a frontrunner in the industry and is committed to providing exceptional dental care far and wide across the United States. Contact: Heather Foster Company: Heritage Dental Group Web Address: hdg-dso.com Dental Health Care Management CEO of the Year 2023 (Texas): Heather Foster
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