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Name: Juliana VanLaanen Business Name:  2MamaBees Location:  Fort Lauderdale , USA Category:   Sustainable & Innovative Toy Manufacturing Website: www.2mamabees.com Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliana-vanlaanen/ Company Detail: 2MamaBees is a twenty-time award-winning manufacturer specializing in luxury playhouses, swing sets, and children’s toy products designed to inspire creativity, foster family bonding, and promote sensory development. Founded in 2019, the company has grown from a small Etsy shop into a leading domestically manufactured brand, available in over 120 retail locations, including Target, Walmart, Sam’s Club, Saks Fifth Avenue, and FAO Schwarz. The products stand out for their exceptional craftsmanship, sustainable design, and heirloom-quality materials, handcrafted by skilled Amish artisans. The company prioritizes eco-friendly practices, incorporating real-plant window boxes, non-toxic finishes, and instruction booklets made from seed paper that can be planted after assembly. Beyond delivering high-quality, innovative play experiences, 2MamaBees is committed to giving back. The company actively supports environmental and charitable initiatives through partnerships with American Forests, the BumbleBee Foundation, and Dec My Room, ensuring its impact extends beyond just play. Unique Selling Proposition or Competitive Advantage: 2MamaBees sets itself apart in the market through a unique combination of luxury design, sustainability, and child development-focused innovation. Unlike mass-produced alternatives, its heirloom-quality playhouses and swing sets are handcrafted by Amish artisans in the U.S. using sustainably sourced wood and non-toxic materials, ensuring durability, safety, and eco-conscious manufacturing. Parents choose 2MamaBees because it creates more than just toys—it creates experiences. The playhouses feature real-plant window boxes, allowing children to engage with nature, and the instruction booklets are made from biodegradable seed paper, reinforcing the company’s commitment to sustainability. Additionally, the products are designed to promote sensory play and motor development, incorporating interactive elements like click-turn stove handles, cuttable play food, and climbing structures that encourage physical activity and imaginative play. Customers also trust 2MamaBees for its award-winning designs, premium craftsmanship, and dedication to giving back. Through partnerships with American Forests, the BumbleBee Foundation, and Dec My Room, every purchase contributes to reforestation efforts and charitable initiatives supporting families in need. The brand’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and meaningful play makes it the preferred choice for families seeking luxury, purpose-driven, and environmentally responsible children's products. Challenges Faced During the Journey: Building 2MamaBees has been an incredible journey, but it has not been without its challenges. One of the biggest hurdles the company faced was breaking into the manufacturing and toy industry as female entrepreneurs. This space is traditionally male-dominated, and early on, there was a need to prove credibility to suppliers, investors, and even customers who were not used to seeing women at the forefront of this kind of business. Instead of letting that be discouraging, the founders used it as motivation to build something exceptional and redefine what leadership in this industry looks like. Another major challenge was navigating growth while maintaining a commitment to sustainability and quality. From the beginning, the goal was to produce eco-friendly, heirloom-quality playhouses and swing sets, but that required choosing domestic manufacturing, sustainable materials, and ethical production methods—all of which can be more expensive and logistically complex. Finding Amish artisans to craft the products was a turning point, allowing the company to offer something truly unique while staying true to its values. Funding and cash flow management were also significant obstacles. The business was self-funded in the early days, which meant every decision had to be strategic. Breaking into major retailers like Walmart and Sam’s Club was a huge milestone, but getting there required persistence, networking, and proving that the products could compete at scale. Lastly, balancing business and motherhood has been one of the most personal challenges. 2MamaBees was built with family in mind, yet as founders and mothers, there has been a continuous effort to navigate the difficult reality of running a fast-growing company while being present for their families. It is a constant learning process, but by building a business with purpose, sustainability, and heart, the goal has always been to create something that truly makes a difference—for children and for future generations. Advice for Women Entrepreneurs: Juliana VanLaanen’s biggest piece of advice to young women aspiring to be entrepreneurs is to trust themselves and take the leap, even if they do not have all the answers yet. Expertise in everything is not required to start—learning happens along the way. Surrounding oneself with mentors, industry peers, and people who believe in the vision is crucial. Seeking advice is important, but doubt—whether internal or external—should not be a reason to hold back. Another key lesson is to embrace resilience. Entrepreneurship is filled with challenges, setbacks, and moments of uncertainty, but persistence is what separates success from failure. Every obstacle is an opportunity to learn and refine the approach. Staying adaptable, being open to feedback, and never being afraid to pivot when needed are all essential traits. Most importantly, it is advised to build a business that aligns with personal values. Whether focusing on sustainability, inclusivity, or social impact, having a deeper purpose fuels passion and makes the journey more fulfilling. Success is not just about profits—it is about creating something meaningful that makes a difference. And most importantly—women deserve a seat at the table. If one is not offered, they should pull up their own chair. Women belong in leadership, in boardrooms, and at the forefront of innovation. The key is to keep pushing forward and not be afraid to take up space.

Name: Trayee Sinha Business Name:  Prayaas Location:  Chennai , India Category:   Education Advisory Website: www.prayaasconsulting.com Company Detail: Prayaas is an endeavour to empower education leaders, educators, and educational institutions. It predominantly works to change the mindset of all stakeholders towards education and creates awareness for endless possibilities to make education a joyful yet deep journey for all involved. It also works with parents to set realistic expectations and co-create goals for their children. Unique Selling Proposition or Competitive Advantage: Prayaas doesn’t believe in selling; instead, it handholds its clients until they celebrate success and accomplish their goals. The stories created together with clients are tailored to their needs, making Prayaas unique. Challenges Faced During the Journey: The biggest challenge was to establish that Prayaas is more than just an education consultancy and to highlight what sets it apart from others in the same field. Reaching out to the right client was also a challenge. Both challenges were overcome to a great extent. Advice for Women Entrepreneurs: Being an entrepreneur is like having a baby. The baby needs attention, care, nourishment, and strategies for holistic growth. Giving up is not an option, nor can unrealistic expectations be set. Meticulous planning helps and creates opportunities to manage time effectively. It is not just about dreaming but making the dream a reality.

Name: Aarti Pandey   Business Name:  Freedom From PCOS Location:  Pune , India Category:   Health & Wellness Website: h ttps://freedomfrompcos.com/ Instagram: Instagram.com/aartipandeyofficial Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/company/freedom-from-pcos/ Company Detail: Freedom From PCOS (FFP) is a transformative health and wellness platform dedicated to helping women naturally balance their hormones and break free from conditions like PCOS, thyroid disorders, infertility, diabetes, and more—without relying on medication. The mission is to empower women with science-backed, holistic solutions that address the root causes of hormonal imbalances through nutrition, lifestyle modifications, and emotional well-being strategies. With over 6,500 success stories and 1,000+ women conceiving naturally, FFP has created a proven system that helps women regain control of their health. The structured programs offer a step-by-step, sustainable approach, combining personalized coaching, expert-led workshops, and in-depth support systems to ensure long-term results. Unlike conventional treatments that focus on temporary symptom relief, FFP helps women achieve true hormonal balance, restoring their health naturally. This initiative is not just transforming individual lives—it is shaping a movement where women’s hormone health is prioritized, understood, and empowered at scale. Unique Selling Proposition or Competitive Advantage: What sets Freedom From PCOS (FFP) apart is its root-cause, medication-free approach to hormonal balance, empowering women to heal naturally from PCOS, thyroid disorders, infertility, diabetes, and other hormone-related conditions—without lifelong dependence on pills or invasive treatments. Key Differentiators: 6500+ Proven Success Stories & 1000+ Natural Pregnancies The results speak for themselves—women who had lost hope of conceiving or reversing chronic symptoms have transformed their health through this structured, holistic approach. Personalized, Science-Backed & Sustainable Approach Unlike conventional treatments that only mask symptoms, FFP provides customized solutions based on each woman’s unique health profile, focusing on root-cause healing through food, lifestyle, and emotional well-being. Medication-Free, Long-Term Results Women who join FFP break free from years of hormonal medications, birth control, and insulin resistance drugs, achieving sustainable health improvements that last a lifetime. Expert-Led, 360° Support System The programs go beyond diet plans—offering medical guidance, emotional healing, physical fitness, and a strong community of like-minded women to ensure holistic healing. Empowerment Beyond Just Health FFP is more than a program; it’s a movement. Women not only regain their health but also rediscover confidence, vitality, and a deeper connection with their bodies, leading to empowered decision-making and a renewed sense of self-worth. Women choose FFP over any other solution because it delivers life-changing transformations, not just temporary relief—helping them reclaim their health, fertility, and energy for good. Challenges Faced During the Journey: Building Freedom From PCOS (FFP) into a movement that has transformed 6,500+ women’s lives and helped 1,000+ women conceive naturally didn’t come easy. The journey was filled with challenges—societal, personal, and professional—but each obstacle only strengthened the resolve to redefine how women approach hormonal health. Fighting the Deep-Rooted Belief in Medication as the Only Solution One of the biggest hurdles was challenging the traditional medical mindset that treats PCOS, infertility, thyroid disorders, and diabetes with lifelong medication rather than addressing the root cause. Women are often told, “Take birth control,” “You need IVF,” or “PCOS is lifelong.” Convincing them that their body can heal naturally required not just education but real transformations that proved it was possible. Breaking Through Misinformation & Quick-Fix Culture The internet is flooded with fad diets, supplements, and false promises that mislead women looking for a cure. Building FFP meant standing against the noise and proving that sustainable, long-term healing comes from a holistic, lifestyle-based approach—not quick fixes. Building Trust Without Traditional Medical Backing Unlike hospitals and pharmaceutical-driven solutions, FFP is an independent, holistic wellness movement. Gaining women’s trust meant delivering real results, one success story at a time, and showing that healing is possible without lifelong dependency on pills. Managing Resistance from Women Themselves Many women hesitate to invest in their health, believing they must “just accept” their hormonal struggles as normal. Overcoming this required deep mindset shifts, helping them realize that they deserve to feel good, be healthy, and live without limitations. Scaling Without Losing the Personal Touch As the movement grew, ensuring every woman felt supported, guided, and personally heard became a challenge. This was overcome by building a structured, high-touch support system—expert-led coaching, emotional well-being sessions, and a thriving community. Defying Societal Expectations Leading a wellness revolution meant facing skepticism, criticism, and the weight of proving that natural healing works. But with every success story, every woman who conceived naturally, and every diabetic who reversed their insulin resistance—FFP’s impact spoke louder than any doubt. Balancing Purpose with Growth The biggest challenge has been ensuring that FFP remains a mission-first movement rather than just another health program. Staying true to the vision of helping 10 million women while growing sustainably has required constant evolution, innovation, and deep emotional resilience. Despite these challenges, FFP is now one of the most trusted platforms for women’s hormonal health, delivering real, life-changing transformations at scale—and this is just the beginning. Advice for Women Entrepreneurs: For every young woman stepping into entrepreneurship or already on the journey—the power lies within. The world may try to box women into traditional roles, question their capabilities, or tell them to “play it safe.” But here are key lessons learned: Purpose is the Superpower Business isn’t just about money—it’s about impact. When work is driven by a mission bigger than oneself, no setback can break the momentum. Build Before Feeling Ready The perfect time does not exist. Starting messy, starting small, but starting now is key. Confidence isn’t a requirement—it’s a result of taking action despite fear. Embrace Rejection, It’s Proof of Doing Something Big Doubters will exist, clients will say no, and some ideas will fail. That’s a good sign—if no one is resisting, the boundaries aren’t being pushed enough. Own the Voice and Take Up Space Women are taught to be polite, accommodating, and “not too much.” That mindset must change. Speaking up, being bold, and setting non-negotiable boundaries is crucial. Learn to Sell—Ideas, Vision, and Self Sales isn’t just about money—it’s about influence. Communicating confidently about the work ensures the right people, clients, and opportunities come along. Financial Independence Equals True Freedom Financial literacy is non-negotiable. Business should not just provide passion—it should provide power and financial freedom. Prioritize Health—It’s the Business’s Foundation Burnout isn’t a badge of honor. Taking care of oneself is essential to lead, create, and scale successfully. No Permission Needed, Just Conviction Validation is not required to start, charge what is deserved, or take risks. The world doesn’t hand out permission slips—self-authorization is key. Entrepreneurship isn’t just about building a business. It’s about building the woman one is meant to be. And that woman is powerful.

Name: Jessie Dhaliwal Business Name:  Solidarity Therapy Location:  Langley, British Columbia , Canada Category:   Health and Wellness Website: https://www.solidaritytherapy.ca/ Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessie-dhaliwal-mentalhealthcounsellor/ Company Detail: Solidarity Therapy is a multidisciplinary counselling practice providing services for individuals, couples, and families in Langley, BC. The team humbly acknowledges that they provide healing work on Unceded Coast Salish Territories. Unique Selling Proposition or Competitive Advantage: Solidarity Therapy draws from its values of anti-oppression and intersectionality to understand each client's identity and experience. The team recognizes that systemic oppression continues to impact BIPOC and 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals. They work in solidarity with clients to help deconstruct systems of power for collective healing and empowerment. Challenges Faced During the Journey: As eldest daughters of immigrants, the founders have overcome obstacles of systemic racism to gain the training and experience needed to open this collective. As two queer women, they have navigated challenges within heteronormative systems. Being a BIPOC and Queer collective founded by two women of colour in the current climate presents both challenges and acts as a form of resistance. Advice for Women Entrepreneurs: Women, including women of colour, are born worthy of entrepreneurship. It is the colonial patriarchy that indoctrinates them to think otherwise. They carry the strength and wisdom of the women who came before them—their ancient matriarchs. By stepping into their power, they also create a ripple effect of healing for the women of the past and future generations.

Name: Jennifer Rider Business Name:  Hera Associates LLC Location:  Fairfax , USA Category:   Social Impact Consulting Website: https://www.hera-associates.com Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/riderjennifer/ Company Detail: Co-founded by Jennifer Rider, Hera Associates is a mission-driven consulting firm dedicated to helping nonprofits, government agencies, and mission-focused businesses lead with purpose, scale with impact, and drive lasting social change. The firm's approach is rooted in net positivity—ensuring every strategy, initiative, and transformation creates more value than it consumes. Expertise: Strategic & Organizational Growth  – Aligning mission, vision, and execution to maximize long-term success. Leadership Development & Equity-Centered Training  – Cultivating inclusive, empowered teams that drive innovation. Operational Optimization & Change Management  – Strengthening systems for greater efficiency, sustainability, and impact. Hera Associates goes beyond consulting—it ignites transformation. The firm’s work is data-driven, equity-focused, and results-oriented, helping organizations not only achieve their goals but also leave a positive, lasting impact on their communities. Hera Associates: Elevating Leadership. Maximizing Impact. Creating a Net-Positive Future. Unique Selling Proposition or Competitive Advantage: Hera Associates: The Net-Positive Advantage in Social Impact Consulting Hera Associates doesn’t just provide consulting services—it catalyzes transformation with a net-positive approach, ensuring that every initiative creates more value than it consumes. Clients choose Hera Associates because it delivers: Strategic, Data-Driven Solutions  – Combining deep industry expertise with evidence-based strategies, ensuring that every decision is informed by research, best practices, and measurable outcomes. Equity-Centered, Human-Focused Change  – Unlike traditional firms, Hera Associates integrates diversity, equity, and inclusion into every aspect of strategy, leadership, and operational transformation—making organizations more effective, sustainable, and inclusive. Hands-On, Partner-Driven Execution  – Going beyond theory, Hera Associates embeds itself as a thought partner to help organizations move from vision to action, ensuring long-term success. Net-Positive Impact  – The firm’s approach ensures that organizations not only meet their goals but also leave a lasting, positive imprint on their communities, employees, and stakeholders. Why Choose Hera Associates? Hera Associates doesn’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Every engagement is customized, ensuring that strategies are not just effective but practical, sustainable, and built for real-world success. Hera Associates: More than Consulting—Building Sustainable, Net-Positive Futures. Challenges Faced During the Journey: Resilience, Innovation, and a Net-Positive Mindset: Overcoming Challenges to Build Hera Associates Building Hera Associates into a leading social impact consulting firm required navigating complex challenges, adapting to change, and staying committed to a net-positive vision—creating more value than it consumes. Some of the key obstacles included: 1️⃣ Establishing Credibility in a Competitive Industry Breaking into the highly competitive consulting space—where large firms dominate—meant proving distinct value. This challenge was overcome by delivering high-impact, results-driven solutions, prioritizing client success stories, and consistently demonstrating measurable outcomes that set Hera Associates apart. 2️⃣ Navigating Government Contracting Complexities Government contracting involves rigorous compliance, lengthy procurement cycles, and extensive competition. Hera Associates tackled this by strategically positioning itself as a trusted, mission-aligned partner, ensuring proposals not only met requirements but also exceeded expectations in innovation and impact. 3️⃣ Scaling While Staying True to Core Values As a start-up with limited resources, balancing expansion while maintaining a hands-on, personalized approach was a challenge. This was addressed by building a strong, mission-driven team and creating sustainable, scalable systems without compromising a client-focused, equity-centered philosophy. 4️⃣ Pioneering the Net-Positive Approach While many firms focus solely on profit and efficiency, Hera Associates set out to redefine success by embracing net positivity—ensuring that every engagement leaves organizations, communities, and stakeholders better off. This required challenging traditional business models and proving that impact-driven work can also be financially sustainable. The Road Ahead Through resilience, strategic innovation, and a commitment to social impact, Hera Associates has transformed into a trusted partner for mission-driven organizations. Every challenge has reinforced the vision for a future where leadership, equity, and operational excellence create lasting, positive change. Hera Associates: Turning Challenges into Opportunities, Creating a Net-Positive Future. Advice for Women Entrepreneurs: To the young women stepping into entrepreneurship—belonging in the room, at the table, and leading the conversation is a right, not a privilege. The path isn’t always easy, but it’s worth every challenge. Here’s key advice to navigate and thrive: 1️⃣ Own Your Value & Speak with Authority Waiting for validation is unnecessary—knowing self-worth and claiming space is essential. Women bring unique perspectives, talent, and expertise that the world needs. 2️⃣ Build with Purpose, Not Just Profit Success isn’t just about revenue—it’s about impact. Creating something meaningful, a business that solves problems, serves communities, and leaves the world better than it was found, is crucial. 3️⃣ Be Relentless in Overcoming Barriers Women entrepreneurs face bias, doubt, and challenges—but these should fuel determination rather than halt progress. Resilience is a superpower. Learning from setbacks, adapting, and continuing forward is key. No one hands out a seat at the table—it must be built. 4️⃣ Surround Yourself with the Right People Finding mentors, allies, and champions who support and challenge is invaluable. Seeking out women who have paved the way, peers who push forward, and a team that shares the vision makes all the difference. The right network opens doors, provides wisdom, and keeps ambitions grounded. The future belongs to bold, purpose-driven women. It’s time to step up, stand tall, and build something that changes the game.

Name: Smt Aradhna Painuly Business Name:  Himalayan fresh juice private Limited Location:  Dehradun , India Category:   Agribusiness & Food Processing Website: www.mountainlove.in Company Detail: Although India is positioning itself as a worldwide leading economic power, it is still home to one-third of the world’s poorest people, concentrated mostly in its rural areas. The growth potential of rural India, however, is enormous with an increasing concern about food security and increasing food prices. The new approach could well capitalize on the immense potential of rural India and break through the inefficiencies of the current rural production-trade relations, which need a substantial investment in infrastructure and technology. The project with apple-growing farmers was started with the intention to set into motion a self-perpetuating model to assist small-scale apple-growing farmers in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh states of India. To do so, the social investor SHGW (a Netherlands-based private foundation), Fresh Food Technology (FFT, a Dutch private company), and SJS (an Indian NGO based in Rishikesh) started with the farmers, to have them organized in trusts, which would become their legal business partners in the new business entity called farmer joint venture companies. Subsequently, joint venture companies were formed for value addition at the primary level (sorting, grading, packing, and pre-cooling at the orchard level) and later also at the secondary level (for long-term storage of premium apples, for off-season sales, as well as for juice processing of inferior quality apples). These joint venture companies are collectively owned by the investor, the private sector partner, and the farmer trusts. Special provisions are made in the article of associations, to ensure that: The investments and provisions (loans) for working capital are to be fully repaid to the investor, from the profit that the company makes. The farmer trusts have full economic rights to the additional income that the company is able to generate, which is paid to them proportionally on the basis of supplies either as a premium or shares in the joint venture companies. The joint venture companies are sufficiently capitalized for their long-term survival and expansion. Unique Selling Proposition or Competitive Advantage: A partnership model has been demonstrated in Uttarakhand, and now the company is moving up to ‘Partnering for Rural Prosperity’ by partnering with small and marginal farm collectives and investors. It was started as an idea by a family foundation in the Netherlands. The point is that if investment is provided to small growers, they can move up in the value chain of agri-producers. On one hand, they can earn more through their produce and on the other hand, the supply system can be improved. Once this partnership model started, apple farmers asked for much higher prices from the collectives than the prevailing market prices. So there are difficulties in this model: one, how should the market scenario be explained to growers. Two, if these collectives are formed, how can they bring technologies and investment for creating the value chain, from collection to grading, storage, distribution, etc. Then the farmers were organized with one producer for getting produce, and enough investment was secured based on the feasibility of the chain by partnering with a foundation for investment. The third partner is the market, where a good business partner is needed, who can form the joint venture company. Only if there is a company that is involved in the value addition business, can professionals be found to work for them. Businesses are being sought as third partners. In such a system, NGOs and corporations can play a big role. Because all three partners - businesses and investors, investors and collectives, and collectives and businesses - are competitors amongst themselves, organizers are also required for nurturing these partnerships. The initiative started in 2007 in Uttarakhand. All the companies were formed with two shareholders: one is the farmers’ collectives of more than 500 farmers organized in a trust, and the second shareholder is the investor. Whenever the company makes sufficient profit, the investor’s money is repaid on a simple business principle and proportionately the ownership is transferred to the farmers’ trust. At the end of the cycle, when the investment is repaid fully, the farmers’ trust becomes the full owner. These are slightly different from cooperatives as farmer collectives are shareholders in a corporate company. But this company is managed by professionals, who are in agri-business, who understand market dynamics, profitability, and the risk of the company. A business-driven company is being created as a joint venture between farmer collectives and investors. The investor is asked to support these collectives or initiatives through a mix of loan and grant support. For organizing small producers, giving them enough training and skills, and arranging the right professionals for this company, grant support is needed. For the company, it should be a purely loan-based investment to create infrastructure. So for this initial investment, the regular business subsidies from the government or the public fund can be sought by the company, not by the shareholders, either the farmers’ collectives or the investors. In that way, these collectives can access the business support of public funds; business as usual, not as a subsidy or a loan waiver. Then they should not be dependent on public money for moving up the value chain. So far, the benefits are that these small farmers somehow improve their incomes comparatively with the prevailing market prices at the time because they have the capacity now to hold the produce. Challenges Faced During the Journey: Due to its biosphere, the Himalayan region in South Asia is blessed with unique, healthy, and organically grown fresh as well as dry products, such as fruits, vegetables, special grains, spices, herbs, and medicinal plants. These precious (and often rare) products are in high demand, both nationally and internationally. However, farmers are not able to optimally benefit from this situation for several interrelated reasons: Slow delivery to consumers Absence of infrastructure Absence of a professional value chain Improper handling affects quality Absence of technical assistance Dependency on intermediaries Absence of farmers’ organizations Advice for Women Entrepreneurs: Apple Project aims to increase and strengthen the bargaining capacity of small apple farmers in India and to increase their income level substantially, by: Organising:  Creating formal farmer organizations that will jointly handle, sell, and/or process their apples. Providing:  Providing these farmer organizations with appropriate financial means and equipment to allow them to collect, sort, pack, pre-cool, and handle the apples in a professional manner. Marketing:  Arranging that premium apples can be sold to long-term storage, whereas medium-grade apples go directly to the market, and inferior grades (and other fruits) are used for producing juice. Owning:  Using the profits generated through the legally registered companies to make premium payments to the supplying farmer groups; repay the investors in the companies; gradually transfer the full economic ownership of the companies to the farmers. The main socio-political purpose of this intervention is essentially to change the local power balance in the apple value chain in favor of small and marginal apple farmers.

Name: Anujja Vavhal Business Name:  A Different Way by Anujja Location:  Dadar, Mumbai , India Category:   Vastu & Numerology Consultancy Website: https://www.adifferentwaybyanujja.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a_different_way_by_anujja LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ar-anujja-vavhal-b4231a1ab/ Company Detail: A Different Way by Anujja Anujja Vavhal is an Interior Holistic Solutions Expert with 24 years of experience in Architecture & Interior Designing. Since 2013, she has been involved in holistic services like Vastu, Numerology, and Music Therapy. This knowledge has provided her with a new perspective on viewing the world. A Different Way provides a path that enhances life and assists individuals in connecting with their spiritual selves. It helps people find the right path and lead a fulfilled life. Unique Selling Proposition or Competitive Advantage: SERVICES • Architecture & Interior Designing Planning, Designing, Execution in Residential as well as in Commercial. • Vastu Consultant Suggestions without demolishing the structure.Analyzing 16 zones & Balancing 5 elements.Remedies as per Color Therapy. • Personal & Corporate Numerologist Name correction as per birthdate.Strength & Weakness analysis according to birthdate.Five elements balancing with the help of Crystals. • Music Therapy It is a Spa for the Brain.A form of therapy that uses music to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs. • Other Services Angel Card ReadingReiki, Dowsing & Crystal HealingSwitchwords & Healing CodesEmotional Freedom Techniques & NLPLaw of Attraction with Positive Affirmations Challenges Faced During the Journey: Anujja’s journey has been one of resilience and transformation. Transitioning from a successful career in architecture and interior design to holistic sciences came with challenges—breaking societal norms, gaining trust in unconventional fields like Numerology and Music Therapy, and establishing a unique identity. She had to overcome self-doubt, financial hurdles, and the challenge of educating people about the benefits of holistic healing. Through perseverance, continuous learning, and unwavering belief in her vision, she created ‘A Different Way’—a path that blends science with spirituality to transform lives. Advice for Women Entrepreneurs: For young women entrepreneurs, Anujja emphasizes the importance of following passion while staying practical. She advises building a strong foundation, taking smart risks, and embracing adaptability. Balancing business with well-being, creating a unique niche, and continuous learning are crucial. She believes that success is not just about profits but also about purpose and growth. Her message to aspiring women entrepreneurs is to keep evolving and shine in their own ‘Different Way’!

Name: Snigdha Singh Business Name:  IIC Interactive Labs Location:  Mumbai , India Category:   Business Strategy & Design Website: Website: https://iiclab.com/ Social Media: https://in.linkedin.com/company/ink-in-caps https://in.linkedin.com/in/snigdhasingh17 Company Detail: IIC Interactive Labs is a MarTech (Marketing+Technology) Agency that provides tech solutions to brands for scalable marketing campaigns. Technologies like AR, VR, CGI, Projection Mapping, Metaverse, Gesture Recognition, and many more are utilized for experiential marketing. The company has recently worked with BMW, Star Sports, Kalpataru, Rustomjee, JIO, Deloitte, and many more giants. Unique Selling Proposition or Competitive Advantage: At Ink In Caps, brand experiences are transformed through seamless integration of cutting-edge technologies like AI, AR/VR, and motion capture. The strength of the company lies in creating custom digital solutions that solve real business challenges while delivering measurable engagement results. By combining creative storytelling with advanced tech capabilities, it helps brands stand out in a crowded digital landscape, as demonstrated through work with industry leaders like Deloitte, Star Sports, and Amazon. Challenges Faced During the Journey: The journey to where Snigdha Singh is today hasn’t been smooth or straightforward; it has been a mix of persistence, reinvention, and embracing the discomfort of growth. The biggest challenges weren’t just external but deeply internal—navigating personal expectations, carrying the weight of leadership, and constantly pushing for clarity in an industry that never stands still. Building something from the ground up is exhilarating, but it comes with immense responsibility—not just for her, but for the team and the culture being created. Leadership, for her, has never been about authority; it’s about mentorship, setting standards, and ensuring that what is built is meaningful. That weight can be overwhelming at times, knowing that every decision impacts not just a project but the people behind it. Excellence has always been her non-negotiable, which means never settling for “good enough.” It’s a constant battle between pushing creative boundaries and knowing when to let go. In a space where technology, content, and strategy evolve overnight, staying ahead isn’t a one-time effort—it’s a mindset of continuous learning and adaptation. Perhaps the hardest part has been breaking personal limits—challenging personal thinking, unlearning what no longer serves, and making peace with the sacrifices along the way. She has never been one to chase work-life balance in the conventional sense because work isn’t just a job—it’s a part of who she is. That has meant being unavailable at times, missing out on things, and recalibrating what free time looks like. But she is incredibly grateful to have a support system that understands this drive, giving her the space to build without guilt. Every challenge has been a lesson in disguise. The weight of leadership taught her how to build something bigger than herself. The pursuit of excellence showed her the fine line between perfection and progress. The ever-changing nature of the industry forced her to embrace uncertainty, stay adaptable, and trust her instincts. And through it all, one thing remains clear—she wouldn’t have it any other way. Advice for Women Entrepreneurs: For women entrepreneurs, especially in leadership roles, the path is less about balancing and more about committing fully to a vision. Here’s why. Entrepreneurship, particularly for women, is an all-encompassing journey. It’s not about segmenting hours into tidy categories of work and life; it’s about showing up with discipline, focus, and intent every single day. The stakes are high—not just for themselves but for the organizations they nurture. Unlike managing a few responsibilities, being a woman entrepreneur means mentoring, guiding, and nurturing hundreds of individuals professionally, creating a culture that blends excellence with empathy. This is a role that demands unwavering commitment, and achieving it often requires making peace with the fact that personal time may take a backseat—at least in the initial years. This advice is solely for entrepreneurs; on the other hand, for the strong enabling team, work-life balance with upskilling on an everyday basis is essential in the field of strategy and technology. For the former, a robust support system becomes crucial in this dynamic. A family that understands the vision and provides the space to excel is invaluable. Similarly, a circle of friends who respect the demands of this life—who accept that availability might not always be possible but support aspirations—makes this journey sustainable. These connections create the foundation that allows women entrepreneurs to pour their energy into their work without guilt or hesitation. To Snigdha Singh, women’s leadership goes beyond hitting targets. It’s about setting high standards, fostering a culture of growth, and creating a nurturing environment that aligns professional excellence with care and responsibility. Women entrepreneurs bring something unique to the table—a blend of resilience, empathy, and the ability to lead with heart and purpose. This isn’t just about breaking glass ceilings; it’s about redesigning them to create structures that support others. In industries like technology, the ability to humanize innovation is crucial. She firmly believes that technology should serve as the enabler, while compelling storytelling and thoughtful design take center stage. Making tech accessible, impactful, and relatable through visualization is not just a skill; it's a responsibility. And to thrive in this space, continuous learning and adaptability are non-negotiable. Being an entrepreneur means staying curious, evolving constantly, and ensuring that the approach aligns with the changing world. The industry can do its part by shifting the conversation from “balance” to “empowerment.” Women entrepreneurs don’t need hand-holding; they need platforms that amplify their leadership and celebrate their unique approach to building ecosystems. Recognizing the dual role women play—not just as business leaders but as mentors and cultural architects—is key. By celebrating women who lead with authenticity and resilience, the industry can inspire others to carve their own path.

Name: Maria Rodriguez Business Name:  care counseling center Location:  Somerville , USA Category:   Mental Health & Counseling Services Website: carecounselingcenter.org Company Detail: Care Counseling Center is a leading mental health organization founded by Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a renowned Licensed Professional Counselor and expert in immigration evaluations. With a mission rooted in compassion-first care, the center specializes in trauma-informed therapy, immigration psychological evaluations, and mental health support for individuals and families navigating emotional and legal challenges. The center offers psychotherapy services tailored to address PTSD, anxiety, depression, and family trauma, as well as specialized evaluations for immigration cases, personal injury, and workers' compensation. Its work is widely recognized, earning Best of Somerville in 2022 and 2023, and its expertise has been featured on FOX, PBS, and other media outlets. Care Counseling Center empowers clients to overcome obstacles, heal from trauma, and reclaim their lives with personalized, culturally competent support. Unique Selling Proposition or Competitive Advantage: Care Counseling Center stands out because of its deep expertise, personalized approach, and cultural competence in mental health and immigration-related psychological services. What Sets It Apart? ✅ Expert-Led & Recognized Authority  – Founded by Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a renowned mental health professional, best-selling author, and media expert, the center brings over 20 years of experience in psychotherapy, trauma recovery, and forensic evaluations. ✅ Specialization in Immigration Evaluations  – Unlike general counseling centers, it provides comprehensive immigration psychological evaluations that support asylum, hardship waivers, VAWA, U-visas, and more, increasing the chances of successful legal outcomes. ✅ Culturally Competent Care  – As a first-generation immigrant and Latina leader, Dr. Rodriguez understands the unique struggles of immigrant communities and ensures the services are culturally sensitive, bilingual (English & Spanish), and trauma-informed. ✅ High Success Rate in Legal & Personal Injury Cases  – The immigration and personal injury psychological evaluations have been highly regarded by attorneys and courts, making Care Counseling Center a trusted choice for legal and medical professionals. ✅ Media & Industry Recognition  – Featured on FOX, PBS, and major platforms, the center is recognized for shaping the conversation on mental health and immigration. It was also awarded Best of Somerville 2022 & 2023, and Dr. Rodriguez was named Top Licensed Professional Counselor of the Year. ✅ Holistic & Compassionate Approach  – Beyond therapy, Care Counseling Center empowers clients to heal, rebuild, and thrive, whether overcoming trauma, managing anxiety, or navigating complex legal challenges. With a reputation for expertise and a commitment to advocacy, clients and attorneys trust Care Counseling Center to deliver life-changing results in both therapy and immigration cases. Challenges Faced During the Journey: The journey to creating Care Counseling Center was not without struggles. As a first-generation immigrant, a woman of color, and a survivor of personal hardships, Dr. Maria Rodriguez had to navigate numerous obstacles to establish herself as a leading mental health professional and business owner. 1. Personal & Cultural Barriers Growing up as a Dominican immigrant, Dr. Rodriguez faced the challenges of cultural adaptation, family separation, and economic hardships. Being sent to the Dominican Republic at the age of 2 and reuniting with her mother at 9 was a difficult transition, shaping her deep understanding of emotional trauma and resilience. 2. Financial & Educational Struggles Pursuing higher education as an immigrant came with financial and emotional burdens. Dr. Rodriguez had to work tirelessly while earning multiple degrees, often balancing multiple responsibilities alone. Despite this, she pushed forward, earning a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Ph.D. in General Psychology, proving that determination can break systemic barriers. 3. Professional Challenges & Breaking Stereotypes Entering the mental health and forensic evaluation field as a Latina woman meant challenging biases and stereotypes. The industry lacked diversity, and she had to work twice as hard to establish credibility. Refusing to be overlooked, she proved her expertise through thousands of successful psychological evaluations and media appearances on FOX and PBS. 4. Building a Business From the Ground Up Starting Care Counseling Center was not easy. Dr. Rodriguez had to learn how to navigate the business world, gain trust from clients and attorneys, and create a sustainable practice. The lack of funding, resources, and mentorship in the beginning meant she had to learn everything on her own—from operations to marketing to legal requirements. 5. Advocating for Immigrants & Trauma Survivors One of the biggest challenges was witnessing the mental health struggles of immigrants who lacked access to proper care. Dr. Rodriguez knew she had to be their voice, even when it meant standing against powerful systems. Today, her evaluations and therapy work have helped countless individuals secure asylum, legal protection, and healing from trauma. Each of these struggles became the foundation of her mission-driven work, giving her the empathy, resilience, and knowledge to create a space where immigrants, trauma survivors, and individuals battling mental health issues can find hope and healing. Advice for Women Entrepreneurs: For young women dreaming of building something of their own, whether just starting or already navigating the entrepreneurial journey, Dr. Rodriguez shares key lessons learned along the way: 1. Own Your Power & Believe in Yourself No one will believe in you more than you believe in yourself. Doubt and imposter syndrome may creep in, but you are enough. Your voice, skills, and vision matter—so show up with confidence. 2. Be Willing to Learn & Adapt You don’t have to have all the answers. The best entrepreneurs are lifelong learners. Be open to feedback, invest in knowledge, and don’t be afraid to pivot when necessary. 3. Build a Strong Support System Success is never a solo journey. Surround yourself with mentors, peers, and a community that uplifts you. Not everyone will understand your vision—find the ones who do. 4. Don’t Be Afraid to Take Up Space As women, especially in male-dominated industries, proving oneself is often necessary. Take up space. Speak up. Demand what you’re worth. Don’t shrink yourself to make others comfortable. 5. Turn Challenges Into Your Superpower Every obstacle shapes the leader you are meant to be. Use struggles as fuel. The very things that tried to break you may become the foundation of your greatest success. 6. Financial Independence is Key Learn how to manage, invest, and grow your money. Financial literacy is power, and as women, taking control of financial futures is essential. 7. Balance is a Myth—Prioritize What Matters Work-life balance is not about doing everything perfectly. It’s about knowing what deserves your energy and when. Give yourself permission to rest, set boundaries, and choose self-care when needed. 8. Give Back & Lift Others as You Climb True success is not just about achievements but also about helping others along the way. Be the mentor you wish you had, advocate for other women, and build a legacy that makes a difference. Final Words Women in business are forces to be reckoned with. Dream big, work hard, stay resilient, and never let anyone make you feel like you don’t belong at the table. And if they do? Build your own table.

Name: Kelly Dodds Business Name:  Ori Rehab Limited Location:  Berkshire , United Kingdom ( UK) Category:   Cancer & Cardiac Rehabilitation Solution Website: www orirehab.co.uk Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-dodds-mcimspa-a08107170/ Company Detail: Ori Rehab is a digital innovation designed to support people with a cancer or cardiac diagnosis. It is a mobile app that provides assistance at all stages of treatment—physically, nutritionally, and emotionally. Kelly Dodds is passionate about helping people and strongly believes that having a digital tool will allow her to assist many individuals, which aligns with her mission. The goal is to get the app supported by the NHS and potentially expand to the USA and Canada. Unique Selling Proposition or Competitive Advantage: Ori Rehab serves as an all-in-one companion app, providing comprehensive support for individuals throughout their journey. It offers assistance during prehab, treatment, post-surgery, and long-term recovery. Many individuals report a lack of long-term support, and the app aims to bridge that gap. Additionally, it addresses cardiac issues, particularly those that arise as side effects of cancer treatments. All exercises are provided by Kelly Dodds, a senior specialist in both cancer and cardiac rehabilitation. Challenges Faced During the Journey: The journey of developing Ori Rehab has involved extensive work, planning, and consideration. Kelly Dodds is guided by three highly experienced advisors who dedicate their time and expertise to support her and the cause. She has had to learn multiple new fields, which has been beneficial but also challenging. Balancing entrepreneurship while raising a young family has been demanding, yet the experience has been equally rewarding. Advice for Women Entrepreneurs: Networking is key. The more people an entrepreneur can reach out to, the better. Engaging in conversations, asking questions, and listening to experts in various fields can provide invaluable insights. A single connection can lead to unexpected opportunities. Persistence is crucial—entrepreneurship is not easy, but for those who thrive on challenges, the rewards are worth it. Making a difference in people's lives serves as a powerful motivator to keep going.

Name: Natalie MacLees Business Name:  AAArdvark Location:  Los Angeles , USA Category:   Digital Accessibility Solution Website: https://aaardvarkaccessibility.com Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nataliemac/ Company Detail: AAArdvark is an accessibility testing platform designed to help professionals ensure their websites and digital content are accessible to all users. It offers tools for both manual and automated testing, issue tracking, and remediation guidance, making it easier for teams to identify and fix accessibility issues. Unique Selling Proposition or Competitive Advantage: AAArdvark's unique selling proposition lies in its comprehensive approach to accessibility testing. It combines automated testing, manual testing, issue tracking, and remediation guidance into one seamless platform, making it easy for teams to identify, prioritize, and resolve accessibility issues. Its focus on usability, alongside expert guidance, makes it a preferred choice for ensuring digital inclusivity. Challenges Faced During the Journey: Building a business from the ground up has come with many challenges. One of the biggest has been achieving profitability while staying small and maintaining a sustainable work culture. Bootstrapping and ensuring financial stability, especially while developing new SaaS products, has required careful prioritization and resource management. Natalie MacLees did not come from a family of entrepreneurs. Business ownership was not something she grew up around, and her family has always found entrepreneurship risky and intimidating. Without that background or built-in support system, she had to learn everything about running a business through trial, experience, and collaboration. Fortunately, she has a great business partner, and together they have tackled the complexities of hiring, financial management, product development, and marketing. As a woman in tech, she has had to navigate biases and break into networks that are often male-dominated. Finding the right support system and professional communities has been difficult, especially as many women-focused groups cater to different industries or business models. Scaling a team while keeping operations lean has been another challenge. Natalie MacLees and her partner have had to balance growth, maintain product quality, and ensure their team has the resources they need without overextending financially. It has required constant adjustments and strategic decision-making. Additionally, they have faced common startup hurdles like hiring the right people, refining their products based on customer needs, and dealing with the unpredictability of sales and market shifts. Despite these challenges, persistence, adaptability, and a focus on delivering real value have helped them and their company continue moving forward. Advice for Women Entrepreneurs: Natalie MacLees’ biggest piece of advice to young women who want to be entrepreneurs is this: go for it. If there is a desire to start a business, do not wait. She dreamed of being an entrepreneur since childhood but put it off for years due to fear—fear of failing, not knowing enough, and not having the right background. Looking back, her biggest regret is not starting sooner. There is no need to have everything figured out from the beginning. Learning happens along the way, and growth into the role occurs naturally. There is no perfect time to start, and waiting until feeling completely ready will only cause delays. Trusting oneself, taking the leap, and knowing that figuring things out along the way is possible is essential. Entrepreneurship is challenging, but it is also incredibly rewarding. Surrounding oneself with people who support the vision, seeking out mentors, and staying persistent are key factors. The world needs more women-led businesses, and any aspiring entrepreneur’s business could be one of them.

Name: Philippa Rickards Business Name:  My Bookkeeping Buddy Location:  Geelong Victoria , Australia Category:   Accounting & Bookkeeping Services Website: www.mybookkeepingbuddy.com.au Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philippajrickards/ Company Detail: My Bookkeeping Buddy is a boutique full-service bookkeeping firm with a mission to help small businesses grow and ease their burden. What makes the firm stand out is the offering of individualized, customized services tailored to each client’s specific needs. Unique Selling Proposition or Competitive Advantage: The firm gives clients back their time. Challenges Faced During the Journey: Single parent, health issues, stigma of being female. Advice for Women Entrepreneurs: Trust yourself and believe that you can do it.