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Digital Version In the vibrant and rapidly evolving world of talent acquisition, Dr. Dorcas Tan has carved a unique niche with her innovative and human-centered approach. As the founder and CEO of Recruit Inc. Pte Ltd, Dr. Tan has not only redefined recruitment practices in the Asia-Pacific region but has also set new standards for excellence in the industry. Her journey, marked by a deep commitment to connecting people with opportunities, reflects a blend of visionary leadership and heartfelt dedication to making a positive impact on individuals and organizations alike. Through Recruit Inc., Dr. Tan has built a reputation for delivering personalized, effective, and forward-thinking recruitment solutions, transforming the way businesses and candidates perceive the recruitment process. Early Career and Inspiration Dr. Tan’s journey into the world of Human Resources (HR) and talent acquisition began during her university days. Engaging with peers about their future aspirations and career paths sparked a deep interest in the potential of individuals. This curiosity naturally led her into the field of executive search, where she quickly recognized the transformative power of strategic HR practices. These early experiences planted the seeds for what would become Recruit Inc., a company dedicated to bridging the gap between talent and opportunity.  Founding Recruit Inc. In November 2014, driven by a clear vision and a wealth of experience, Dr. Tan founded Recruit Inc. Her extensive background in HR had exposed her to significant gaps in the recruitment industry, and she was determined to address these challenges head-on. Building credibility in a competitive market was no small feat. Dr. Tan leveraged her professional network, tirelessly marketing her new venture, and engaging former colleagues and industry contacts. Her strategy was rooted in the reputation she had built over years of dedicated work and active participation in industry events. “When I started Recruit Inc., I knew I had to build something that resonated with both clients and candidates. It was about creating trust and delivering on our promises consistently,” Dr. Tan reflects.  Overcoming Challenges and Building Success The journey to establish Recruit Inc. was fraught with challenges. Building the company’s credibility in a market crowded with established firms required more than just a solid strategy; it demanded relentless effort and resilience. Dr. Tan’s extensive experience in the field proved invaluable. She introduced Recruit Inc. through her existing professional network and industry contacts, emphasizing the unique and personalized approach the company offered. Assembling a team that shared her vision and commitment to excellence was another critical step. Although this process was demanding, the results were immensely rewarding, offering valuable lessons that would shape the company’s future. “Challenges are the stepping stones to success. Every obstacle we faced taught us how to be better, stronger, and more innovative,” says Dr. Tan.  Core Philosophy and Unique Approach At the heart of Recruit Inc. lies a core philosophy centered on a personalized, client-focused approach to recruitment. Unlike larger firms that often adopt a one-size-fits-all methodology, Recruit Inc. tailors its strategies to meet the unique needs of each client. This commitment to personalized service is what sets Recruit Inc. apart in the competitive HR and resourcing industry. Dr. Tan believes that understanding the specific requirements and culture of each client is crucial to making successful placements and fostering long-term relationships. Success Stories and Impact While many of Recruit Inc.’s success stories remain confidential due to the nature of the business, the impact of the company’s work is clear. The satisfaction of their clients and the successful placements of candidates are a testament to Recruit Inc.’s effectiveness and dedication. Dr. Tan’s leadership and the company’s personalized approach have significantly improved their clients’ talent acquisition and workforce planning processes. The numerous success stories reflect the company’s ability to match the right talent with the right opportunities, benefiting both clients and candidates. “Our greatest achievement is the success of our clients and candidates. Their stories of growth and accomplishment are the true measure of our impact,” Dr. Tan shares.  Leadership and Growth For Dr. Tan, the most rewarding aspect of her journey is witnessing the success of Recruit Inc.’s clients and candidates. Seeing the satisfaction of clients who have found the perfect fit for their teams and knowing that they have positively influenced candidates’ careers brings immense fulfillment. Additionally, cultivating a team of consultants who align with the company’s mission and seeing them thrive is equally rewarding. Dr. Tan fosters a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within her team. This drive for innovation is reflected in Recruit Inc.’s approach to staying ahead of industry trends and integrating new strategies into their business model. “Leading Recruit Inc. means fostering an environment where innovation thrives and every team member feels empowered to contribute their best,” says Dr. Tan.  Cultivating a Culture of Continuous Learning Central to Dr. Tan’s leadership philosophy is the cultivation of a culture of continuous learning and development. She believes that staying ahead of industry trends and providing innovative solutions requires a commitment to ongoing education. This philosophy extends to both her team and herself, ensuring that Recruit Inc. remains a leader in the HR and resourcing industry. By investing in the professional development of her team, Dr. Tan ensures that Recruit Inc. can offer clients the most up-to-date and effective recruitment strategies. “Continuous learning is at the heart of our success. It keeps us agile, informed, and ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow,” says Dr. Tan.  A Personalized Approach to Client Service One of the defining features of Recruit Inc. is its personalized approach to client service. Dr. Tan believes that understanding the unique needs and culture of each client is crucial to making successful placements. This approach has earned Recruit Inc. a reputation for excellence in the industry, with clients often praising the company’s ability to find the perfect fit for their teams. Dr. Tan’s dedication to personalized service is evident in every aspect of Recruit Inc.’s operations, from initial client consultations to final placements. The Human Touch in Recruitment Dr. Tan’s approach to recruitment goes beyond

Digital Version In the ever-evolving landscape of education, Urshula Saindon stands out as a leader whose vision and commitment are shaping the future of learning. As the Principal of Silvermine Academy, Urshula has cultivated an environment where empathy, creativity, and innovative thinking drive both student success and educational excellence. From a Passionate Beginning to a Visionary Leadership Role Urshula Saindon’s entry into the world of education was serendipitous yet transformative. While in her third year at Stellenbosch University, she began teaching high school English as a means to support her studies. What was intended as a temporary solution soon revealed itself as a profound and lasting calling. The experience of teaching at Mondeor Eco School in Somerset West ignited a deep passion for education and highlighted for Urshula the disparities faced by many South African learners. Her role at Mondeor Eco School evolved from a teaching position to a directorial role, where she took on the responsibilities of guiding the school’s strategic vision. During this time, she spearheaded significant literacy initiatives in collaboration with local schools and the Western Cape Education Department. This period was instrumental in shaping Urshula’s approach to education, marked by her commitment to addressing educational inequalities and her drive to create impactful learning experiences for all students. In 2020, Urshula transitioned to Silvermine Academy, initially serving as the Business Manager. Her move was motivated by a desire to be part of an institution that embraced a unique community-focused educational model. The opportunity to advance to the role of Principal in 2023 allowed her to further her vision of fostering an inclusive and innovative educational environment. Education is most effective when it nurtures the whole person—academic growth and emotional well-being go hand in hand. Fostering a Community-Centric Educational Environment At the heart of Urshula’s leadership at Silvermine Academy is a steadfast commitment to a vision that emphasizes both academic excellence and emotional well-being. Her approach to education is grounded in the belief that students should leave school not only with academic knowledge but with the skills and values necessary to be proactive contributors to society. Under her leadership, Silvermine Academy has embraced a holistic educational philosophy that values empathy and care as integral components of the learning process. Urshula has implemented innovative policies that reflect this philosophy, such as the academy’s unique approach to smartphone use. By limiting phone use during school hours, she aims to create a more focused and engaged learning environment, encouraging students to interact meaningfully with each other and their educational experiences. Silvermine Academy’s educational framework under Urshula’s leadership is built on the principles of democratic pedagogy and emotional support. She emphasizes that every student has their own path to success and that achieving this requires a collaborative effort among students, parents, and educators. This approach fosters an environment where students feel valued and supported in their personal and academic growth. “True leadership in education is about being a lifelong learner and inspiring others to pursue growth and curiosity.”  Navigating Challenges with Resilience and Innovation The Covid-19 pandemic posed significant challenges for educational institutions worldwide, and Silvermine Academy was no exception. The shift to remote learning and the subsequent need for technological reintegration tested the resilience of both students and staff. During this time, Urshula’s leadership was characterized by a thoughtful and adaptive approach. She recognized the need for a balance between technological advancement and emotional support for the school community. Through innovative solutions and strategic adjustments, she led the academy through this challenging period, focusing on ways to maintain educational quality while addressing the emotional and psychological impacts of the pandemic. One of the notable achievements during her tenure was the organization of a student-led rebranding competition and a community-focused career conference. These initiatives not only demonstrated the academy’s ability to adapt and thrive but also showcased the creativity and initiative of the students. By involving the community and offering opportunities for engagement, Urshula reaffirmed her commitment to maintaining high standards of education and fostering a supportive learning environment. “Adapting to challenges isn’t about overcoming obstacles but about finding creative ways to turn them into opportunities.”  Cultivating a Culture of Lifelong Learning and Creativity A key aspect of Urshula Saindon’s leadership philosophy is the promotion of lifelong learning and continuous improvement. She believes that true leadership involves not only guiding others but also actively pursuing personal growth and development. Urshula’s dedication to her own learning journey is evident in her current studies of isiZulu and JavaScript. She views these endeavors as integral to her role as an educational leader, believing that personal growth enhances her ability to inspire and support both students and staff. Her approach encourages others to view learning as an ongoing process, essential for both personal and professional development. At Silvermine Academy, Urshula has fostered a culture where creativity and innovation are central to the educational experience. The academy’s policies and practices reflect this ethos, from the development of the smartphone policy to the implementation of weekly Enrichment lessons designed to inspire curiosity and exploration beyond the standard curriculum. Despite Silvermine Academy’s formal departure from the Sun Valley Group of Schools, Urshula continues to value the connections established with the group. She recognizes the importance of maintaining these relationships for mutual growth and alignment with shared educational goals.  Looking Ahead: Envisioning a Future of Excellence and Innovation As she looks to the future, Urshula Saindon envisions Silvermine Academy as a leader in the independent education sector and a model for developing future educators. Her long-term goals include establishing a bursary foundation to offer high-quality educational opportunities to students from disadvantaged backgrounds and expanding the academy’s role as a center for educational innovation. Urshula’s vision for Silvermine Academy includes positioning the institution as a pioneering force in the independent education sphere. She aims to use the academy’s success as a foundation for new initiatives and to create opportunities for young professionals in the field of education. Her commitment to fostering a strong connection with alumni and supporting their continued

Digital Version Imagine a world where learning is as engaging as your favorite movie and as impactful as a life-changing mentor. In this world, Alex Rayon Jerez stands at the forefront, redefining technology education for the modern era. As the Co-Founder and CEO of Brain and Code, Alex’s journey is a blend of early inspirations, bold innovations, and a relentless drive to revolutionize lifelong learning. From a defining childhood moment witnessing Garry Kasparov’s battle with IBM’s Deep Blue to leading a cutting-edge educational enterprise, Alex’s story is one of ambition, creativity, and transformative impact. Career and Inspiration Alex’s fascination with technology was ignited by three pivotal experiences in his youth. The 1996 chess match between Garry Kasparov and IBM’s Deep Blue marked the beginning of his interest in artificial intelligence and the potential of machines to mimic human thought. This spark was fanned by his grandfather, a visionary entrepreneur in Palencia, who instilled in Alex the values of innovation and foresight. Finally, the University of Deusto provided a nurturing ground for his academic and professional growth, equipping him with the knowledge and skills to pursue his dreams. Founding Brain and Code The founding of Brain and Code, part of Tekpolio, was driven by Alex’s recognition of a significant gap in lifelong learning. Traditional educational structures, particularly universities, were not adequately addressing the needs of individuals beyond their early twenties. With rapid socio-economic changes and an ageing population, Alex saw an urgent need for continuous education that adapts to the evolving job market. Brain and Code emerged as a solution, blending education, entertainment, and communication to offer a unique learning experience. This approach positions the company as a pioneer in the field, addressing the diverse needs of learners in a dynamic world. Innovating Technology Education Brain and Code’s approach to technology education is distinguished by its integration of training with entertainment. Alex believes that the dichotomy between education and entertainment is a false one; instead, they should complement each other to create a more engaging and effective learning experience. This philosophy is evident in their academy programs, developed in collaboration with major Spanish companies like Air Europa and Vegalsa-Eroski. These programs provide asynchronous training to thousands of employees, using entertaining videos and practical exercises to ensure high engagement and effective learning. Additionally, Brain and Code’s omnimodal video courses combine podcasting with educational content, offering a flexible and modern approach to learning. Leadership and Growth For Alex, the most rewarding aspects of leading Brain and Code are creating jobs and receiving positive market feedback. Inspired by entrepreneurs like Amancio Ortega and Juan Roig, Alex finds immense satisfaction in generating social value through job creation. He believes that the true measure of success lies not just in economic growth but also in the societal impact of providing meaningful employment and contributing to the community. Fostering a culture of creativity and continuous improvement within his team is a core priority for Alex. He emphasizes the importance of hiring innovative individuals who thrive in a dynamic environment. Drawing from lessons in Reed Hastings’ book “No Rules Rules” and Donella Meadows’ “Thinking in Systems,” Alex nurtures an organizational culture that values change, innovation, and systemic thinking. This approach ensures that Brain and Code remains at the cutting edge of technology education, continually adapting to new challenges and opportunities. Future Trends in Technology Education Alex identifies three key trends that will shape the future of technology education: generative artificial intelligence, the integration of education and entertainment, and globalization. Generative AI is poised to revolutionize education, enhancing rather than replacing traditional methods. Alex envisions a future where education and entertainment are intertwined, recognizing that modern society often values entertainment as much as education. By blending these elements, Brain and Code ensures that learning is not only informative but also enjoyable and engaging. Globalization presents opportunities for diversity and cross-cultural exchange, with Brain and Code actively incorporating these elements into their programs. With the growing demand for lifelong learning, Alex anticipates significant growth for Brain and Code, driven by the increasing need for continuous education in an evolving job market. Plans to expand into Latin America reflect the company’s commitment to bringing its innovative blend of education and entertainment to a broader audience, fostering a global learning community. Leveraging Data and Analytics Data and analytics play a critical role in Brain and Code’s strategy. The company focuses on three key metrics: repeat purchase, recurring revenue, and lifetime value. These metrics reflect the company’s commitment to building long-term relationships with its clients, ensuring that their offerings continuously meet the evolving needs of their audience. By leveraging data to personalize and optimize their programs, Brain and Code enhances the learning experience and achieves better outcomes for their users. Future Vision Looking ahead, Alex envisions significant growth and expansion for Brain and Code. With the increasing demand for lifelong learning, particularly in the fields of AI and cybersecurity, Brain and Code is poised to continue its rapid growth. The company plans to expand into Latin America, leveraging its unique blend of education and entertainment to reach new audiences and foster a global learning community. By continually adapting to the evolving needs of learners, Brain and Code is set to remain at the forefront of technology education, driving innovation and transformation in the field.

Digital Version In the intersecting worlds of finance and mental health, Viktorija Aksionova, CEO of MindTales, stands out with a unique journey. Her career story is not just about professional milestones but also about the transformative power of prioritizing mental well-being. This profile explores Viktorija’s inspiring path, the founding of MindTales, and her vision for the future of mental health advocacy. Career Beginnings: A Dual Passion for Numbers and Well-Being Viktorija’s fascination with finance started with a love for numbers and the intellectual challenge the industry presents. Her early days in asset management were filled with learning opportunities, surrounded by some of the brightest minds in the field. But amidst all the technical and soft skill training, she noticed a glaring omission: mental well-being. Observing the stress and pressure that affected her colleagues ignited her passion for mental health advocacy. She realized that even the most successful professionals needed tools and resources to support their overall well-being, which drove her to bridge this gap in the corporate world. Founding MindTales: From Vision to Reality The inception of MindTales was deeply personal for Viktorija, influenced by the mental health challenges she witnessed during the pandemic. She saw the significant impact these challenges had on individuals in high-stress environments and felt compelled to act. Leveraging her expertise in asset management and her passion for mental health advocacy, Viktorija embarked on extensive research into mental health needs and digital wellness solutions. This research laid the foundation for MindTales, a platform designed to provide personalized mental health support anytime and anywhere. Witnessing the toll that mental health challenges took on individuals, especially during the pandemic, was a defining moment for Viktorija. By leveraging AI technology and assembling a dedicated team, Viktorija brought her vision to life, making mental wellness tools readily accessible to empower individuals and organizations alike. Unique Approach: Tailored and Culturally Sensitive MindTales stands out by focusing relentlessly on its users. The platform constantly evolves, driven by user feedback and the latest research to offer cutting-edge tools and resources. With services available in multiple languages, MindTales caters to the diverse needs of individuals across the MENA region. Viktorija emphasizes that the platform’s commitment to personalization goes beyond language; it involves understanding cultural nuances and providing tailored support that truly resonates with users. By focusing on prevention and empowerment, MindTales aims to build a lasting foundation of mental well-being. Success Stories: Transforming Lives in Real-Time A standout success story for MindTales was its partnership with Takeda, a leading Japanese pharmaceutical company, to support their division in Ukraine during the conflict. Recognizing the immense stress and trauma faced by Takeda’s employees, MindTales swiftly tailored its platform to meet their specific needs. Through personalized coaching, stress management tools, and a supportive online community, MindTales provided a safe space for employees to navigate their challenges. The initiative was a resounding success, with 95% of Takeda’s Ukrainian staff finding the platform beneficial for managing their mental well-being during such a difficult time. Most Rewarding Experience: Witnessing Personal Transformations For Viktorija, the most fulfilling part of leading MindTales has been seeing the profound changes in their users’ lives. Whether it’s helping an individual overcome anxiety, fostering stronger team bonds through workshops, or driving a cultural shift towards mental well-being within organizations, these success stories are incredibly rewarding. Knowing that MindTales makes a tangible difference, empowering individuals to thrive personally and professionally, fuels her passion and motivates the entire team to continue innovating and expanding their reach. Promoting Innovation: A Culture of Creativity and Improvement Innovation is at the heart of MindTales, fostered by an environment of open communication and idea-sharing. Regular brainstorming sessions, workshops, and innovation challenges are integral to their process, encouraging team members at all levels to contribute their ideas. Viktorija highlights the importance of professional development and staying updated with the latest trends in mental health and technology. By nurturing a collaborative and inclusive culture, MindTales ensures that innovation and growth remain central to their mission. Future Trends in Mental Health: A New Corporate Paradigm Viktorija envisions a future where mental health in the workplace becomes a strategic priority. Companies are increasingly recognizing that happy employees are productive employees, leading to a shift from reactive to proactive approaches in mental health. This future focuses on building resilience, preventing burnout, and fostering open conversations about mental health. Leaders will play a crucial role in this transformation by prioritizing their own well-being and setting an example for others. The goal is to create a culture of well-being where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered to thrive. Integrating Technology: Enhancing Personalized Support MindTales leverages technology to enhance mental health support through AI-driven personalized wellness programs. These programs analyze individual data, such as stress levels, sleep patterns, and lifestyle habits, to provide tailored recommendations and resources. Viktorija believes that technology, when used thoughtfully and ethically, can be a powerful tool for empowering individuals on their mental health journey. This personalized approach ensures that the support provided is relevant and effective, leading to better outcomes and sustained engagement Data-Driven Strategies: Refining Mental Health Initiatives MindTales uses data and analytics to refine its mental health initiatives. By analyzing user data to understand patterns, preferences, and areas for improvement, the platform can personalize content and track individual progress. Key metrics such as user engagement, program completion rates, and self-reported well-being scores are prioritized. This data-driven approach allows MindTales to continuously refine its offerings, optimize areas needing improvement, and empower users to achieve their mental health goals. Vision for MindTales: Expanding Horizons Looking ahead, Viktorija aims to embed mental health advocacy more deeply into corporate culture and public health initiatives. She anticipates a greater emphasis on preventative care and early intervention, utilizing data analytics and wearable technology to proactively monitor mental well-being. As awareness and education improve, the stigma surrounding mental health will continue to diminish, leading to more open discussions and supportive environments both in the workplace and society at large. Viktorija’s long-term aspirations for MindTales include expanding their reach and