Dina Barazza, Founder of Avanti Women
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Whatâ°Ãªs your Story?
I think back when I was in corporate life and how I would always want to learn from other successful women and when I would approach them â°ÃÃ more often I was faced with a negative response or a lack of interest to support other women. This made me wonder about how I was able to manage and learn from this and commit to ensuring that one day I will be a resource for women to ensure they continuously develop both personally & professionally.
What do you love most about the work that you do?
Making an impact and having people think differently or approach problems with a different perspective.
What do you value the most in life? How do you prioritize what is most important?
Friendship and love… with the continuous support of my family, husband and friends, I am able to stay grounded and have real conversations.
What did you learn early in your career/experience that has made the biggest difference?
When to keep your mouth shut. In corporate life one must understand timing and protocol. Speak when you are asked too.
How do you define success?
Waking up happy and knowing that you're serving your purpose.
Who is your favourite superhero? And why?
Wonder Woman, because she supports and empowers other women.
How important have mentors been in your career?
Extremely significant, as I would have mentors at all points of my personal and professional life. They were honest and really listened to my needs and I appreciated the questions they challenged me with to help me determine what next step I should take.
What is the one thing you canâ°Ãªt live without?
My dogs! I find them my balance and they make me laugh. Walking with them an hour a day has kept me grounded and healthy. It reminds me to be appreciative and how simple things can bring so much joy.
What motivates you?
I have a high level of self motivation and work ethic and constantly strive for innovation & collaboration.
If you had to give one key ingredient to your recipe for success, what would that include?
Nurturing your network. Sending thank you notes!
What is your favorite book?
The Four Agreements by don Miguel Ruiz.
What is your most valuable resource?
My Gut â°ÃÃ I follow it all the time. She never lets me down.
If you could make one wish â°ÃÃ what would it be?
To have more wishes to ensure:
Stopping global warming, world starvation, ending racism, bullying and educating people on mental health issues.
What is your biggest challenge as a leader?
Managing competing priorities. What I do to ensure laser beam focus is go back to my goals and identify how my work effort is aligned. Doing this helps me always.
What advice do you have for women who are entering your profession?
I encourage all women to do what they love and to start with a plan, execute on that exact plan and learn from it. Change what feels right and keep learning. My favourite advice is embracing test pilots.
How do you know that your service/product is actually working?
I consistently ask for feedback and to date, it's been honest, fair and encouraging.
If you could give advice to your 20 year old self, what would you say?
Never give up!
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