In partnership with We Feature You
1 – Ilona Alidzaeva
In the vast landscape of the beauty industry, one name has become synonymous with excellence and innovation. Ilona Alidzaeva, a woman of unwavering determination, passion and the CEO of Revoläshion, has embarked on an extraordinary journey that has left an indelible mark on the beauty industry.
Born in Russia and raised in the vibrant landscape of Montreal, Canada, Ilona discovered her profound connection to the beauty realm at the young age of 18. Despite being an immigrant twice over, Ilona overcame numerous personal obstacles and defied all odds to ascend to the pinnacle of success in her field. Over the course of 15 remarkable years, which brought her from St-Petersburg Russia, to Montreal Canada, Miami Florida, and now Laguna Beach California, she has elevated herself as a living embodiment of triumph.
Guided by the desire to bring innovation to the beauty industry, Ilona founded Revoläshion — a brand that has transformed the world of lash artistry and set new standards of excellence.
The humble beginnings of Revoläshion, affectionately nicknamed “Revo” by the many artists who love it, trace back to a modest little apartment in Montreal, where Ilona, driven by her unwavering dedication and vision for her future, embarked on a journey that she had yet to discover would revolutionize the lash extension industry.
Fuelled by a relentless pursuit of perfection, she searched the globe for the finest products, developing each one with meticulous precision. Today, Revoläshion has blossomed into a world-renowned academy and a pro supply shop, boasting an awe-inspiring collection of more than 100 products.
Beyond her many professional achievements, Ilona’s impact can be measured by the numerous lives she has touched. Traveling all over the world to personally train over 1,500 artists in her Master Classes and in doing so has become a catalyst for positive change, helping lash artists either start or completely transform their businesses. Through her enlightening seminars, mentorship, and guidance, she has nurtured a new generation of beauty entrepreneurs, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to thrive in a competitive industry. Moreover, she has solidified her position as an influential figure in the empowerment of women, providing professional education and guidance to one of few industries that are female-dominated.
Ilona’s vision transcends beauty itself. She strives to empower women, create a strong community and impart its members with the tools to achieve success and financial independence through entrepreneurship in the lash industry –– an industry that is now commanding a staggering $1.5 billion segment. Ilona envisions a future in this realm where women continue to emerge as triumphant entrepreneurs and esteemed business leaders.
Now, with a team behind her to help grow the brand internationally, Ilona’s passion and vision are set to reach new horizons. Their collective expertise, boundless enthusiasm and unwavering commitment to excellence serve as the driving force behind Revoläshion’s global expansion.
Allow yourself to be captivated. Take a peek into Ilona’s enchanting world of Revoläshion, where a symphony of resilience, and empowerment resounds. You can find Ilona and Revoläshion on all major social platforms under @Revolashion and @Ilosparks
2 – Kate Granchelli
Kate Granchelli, the Founder and CEO of Modern Minders, is a remarkable individual whose journey from a small town to a driving force in the private staffing industry inspires all who run into her. Kate has more than 15 years working in the private staffing industry on both sides of the table. As a former nanny, private educator, and consultant to high-net-worth and high-profile families around the world, Kate’s broad experience and understanding of family dynamics set her apart from her competitors. Her and her team’s ability to match talented professionals with families has earned her a reputation for excellence, honesty, and authenticity. She believes that the two most valuable assets one can have is their network and their reputation and Kate leverages hers well for the benefit of her clients.
Talk to Kate for 5 minutes and you’ll understand why those in the know slide her name across the table when they are recommending a nanny agency; knowing they will be using a service that believes strongly in connecting you to humans you’d want your kids to learn from and do life with. Charming, authentic, kind, and inquisitive- Kate isn’t trying to over-commercialize Modern Minders- she’s purely about high-quality introductions with a personal touch. Modern Minders keeps its eye on the ball. Kate is well respected in her community as a professional agency owner and advocate for those she represents. She’s a trusted face and energy and knows (intimately) the candidates her discerning families are looking to meet.
Under Kate’s leadership, Modern Minders provides private and discrete solutions that solve all your household needs. The agency stays tapped into the ever-changing landscape of this nuanced hiring industry. In 6 short years, Modern Minders’ has become the go-to preferred agency for the most talented and dynamic nannies in the world; catering to the who’s who of Hollywood, professional athletes, Ultra High Net Worth, and High profile families across the nation. Modern Minders is where nannies go to find the best positions with the most incredible families. Dedicated to quality and long-term success, Kate’s team works closely with a select number of families at any one time to ensure that placements are curated. Modern Minders’ expertise and visionary approach have garnered significant recognition, notably featured on the Dr Phil Show. This major platform, alongside other renowned outlets such as WBW ABC Buffalo, Shoutout LA, Voyage LA, and CBS Face the Truth, highlights Modern Minders impact on the household staffing industry.
Along with her professional endeavors, Kate mentors local youth and supports arts programs. In her view, genuine connections and the importance of making people feel valued are the driving forces behind the magic of Modern Minders. She reminds us that authenticity and kindness are the keys to standing out. With Kate at the helm, the future holds endless possibilities for Modern Minders and the families it serves.
3 – Michelle O’Grady
Michelle O’Grady, Founder and CEO of Team Friday, has carved out a niche as an influential figure in marketing and communications. Hailing from Los Angeles, Michelle has dedicated her career to advising foundations, non-profit organizations, policymakers, and businesses on strategies that reshape culture and foster connections within communities.
The leadership of Michelle and Team Friday has garnered widespread acclaim across a variety of industries, including fashion, consumer product goods, entertainment, and healthcare. Renowned organizations such as the LA Philharmonic, County of Los Angeles Public Health, AARP, and Whole Foods have entrusted Michelle and her team with their most crucial marketing endeavors.
In 2022, Michelle proudly joined the esteemed ranks of the 23.7% of women-owned businesses that celebrated a remarkable milestone—a decade of operation. An impressive feat, considering the limited information regarding particularly the percentage of Latina-owned firms that attain such longevity.
Michelle’s faith in the power of curiosity and the invaluable lessons that can be learned from failures distinguishes her as a truly influential figure. Her impassioned call for individuals to embrace curiosity, appreciate diverse perspectives, and view failure as a catalyst for personal and professional growth resonates on a profound level.
Undeterred by obstacles, Michelle envisions herself as a leader, spearheading initiatives that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact. Presently immersed in the pursuit of a doctorate, Michelle delves into the intricate interplay between media narratives, marketing practices, and their profound influence on patterns of belonging. Her aim is to unravel the complex economic landscape within BIPOC communities, fully recognizing its wide-ranging implications. Michelle’s advocacy for diversity and inclusion within the realms of small business, communications, and marketing reflects her tireless commitment to fostering a more equitable, vibrant, and inclusive industry.
4 – Matt Canzoneri
Matt Canzoneri, Founder of DwellWell, has left an imprint on entrepreneurial history. Following work in private equity and rapid growth technology companies, Matt embarked on a mission to redefine the homebuying experience. With DwellWell, he envisioned a platform guiding homebuyers through every process at their own pace, instilling knowledge and confidence. As part of its innovative approach, the platform connects buyers with a carefully selected network of agents with local knowledge and negotiation skills that give buyers cash back when they close on a property. Through Matt’s unyielding commitment to individual empowerment and his effort to revolutionize the industry, aspiring homeowners have been given a fresh perspective and clarity of mind.
With years in the field come numerous achievements. As a pivotal member of the founding team at Preact, Matt played a crucial role in the company’s successful acquisition by Spotify. His commitment to cultivating a nurturing and empowering work culture has also earned him recognition from BuiltIn Los Angeles, acknowledging DwellWell as one of the “Best Places to Work” earlier this year.
Harnessing his extensive entrepreneurial background, Matt imparts wisdom to aspiring entrepreneurs, drawing upon his experiences to guide their journeys. As an entrepreneur, he stresses the importance of maintaining a balanced approach, urging budding visionaries to thoroughly research their ideas, gauge market demand, and assemble a team of exceptional talent before embarking on their endeavors. His view of success and candid disapproval of overnight success narratives serve as a valuable source of practical guidance, educating aspiring entrepreneurs about the realities of success.
Looking towards the future, Matt envisions a pursuit of DwellWell’s monumental goal: to create a modern, all-inclusive homebuying hub that financially rewards individuals for making astute decisions. Nevertheless, his aspirations go beyond DwellWell, as he hopes to contribute to the entrepreneurial community as an educator, sharing his knowledge and inspiring the next generation of trailblazers.
5 – Liz Tenuto
Liz Tenuto, also known as The Workout Witch, has emerged as a powerful force in healing the physical effects of trauma & stress. As the CEO and Founder of The Workout Witch, she has made it her life’s mission to popularize somatic exercises, after suffering herself from chronic pain and unexplained health problems from trauma in her twenties. After discovering somatic exercise, her life took an entirely new turn. Within four lessons of somatic exercise, her chronic pain had dissipated, and her years-long struggle with insomnia seemed to be over. This transformation ignited a spark in Liz, which led her to delve deeper into the field.
As a psychology graduate of UCSB, who has also been certified in Feldenkrais and Pilates, specializing in injuries and pathologies, Liz possesses a wealth of knowledge and expertise. Using somatic exercises, she helps individuals heal from unexplained pain and unresolved trauma, restoring harmony and vitality to their bodies. Through her dedication to her craft, she has touched the lives of over 90,000 women who have sought solace and healing from her teachings. A pivotal year in Liz’s career occurred in 2022 when the release of her hips and trauma 30-day online course created 4000% growth for her company. Additionally, her online presence has grown rapidly, with more than 2 million followers on social media platforms and 11.5 million views on some of her TikTok videos.
Although she has achieved many victories, Liz aims for a broader horizon. At present, she is in discussions with major publishers about the possibility of a book deal that would expand her reach and impact even further. Along with her professional aspirations, she possesses a compassionate heart, motivated by a desire to improve the lives of others. Ultimately, she would like to establish a fund to provide financial assistance to women breaking free of narcissistic families and toxic relationships, allowing them to rebuild their lives and heal without debt. Through her philanthropic endeavors, Liz is determined to make a lasting difference in the lives of those affected by mental health challenges.
6 – Natalie V. DiBlasi
As an entrepreneur, public speaker, and co-founder of LACED Agency, Natalie V. DiBlasi, is a force to be reckoned with in the digital marketing space. Throughout her two-decade career in advertising and marketing strategy, she has established herself as a visionary strategist, a master of communication, and a problem solver. With an unwavering commitment to excellence and a relentless drive to succeed, Natalie has transformed LACED from a startup into an award-winning powerhouse.
At the heart of Natalie’s work is her passion for supporting mid-sized companies. She offers a LACED Agency Brand Starter Kit™, a comprehensive marketing package designed to enable businesses to launch and grow within their budgets successfully. Using a unique blend of math and magic, Natalie harnesses the power of data-driven marketing, AI technologies, and advertising to deliver exceptional results. As a result of her belief in her clients’ potential, she empowers them to compete with industry giants online and amplify their brands to affluent heights. Natalie’s achievements and recognition speak volumes about her impact on the industry. From winning multiple Davey Awards and Horizon Awards to being named one of the “Top Ten Hottest Digital Marketers of 2012” by iMedia Connection, from an early social media marketing expert to a leading voice for cannabis marketing and advertising, to sharing insights on how to save millions on lead generation campaigns, later joining the Forbes Business Council and now driving conversations around AI-supported tech to help businesses grow – she has consistently raised the bar and set new standards of excellence. Her advice to others is simple but key: keep pushing forward, embrace resilience, and never give up.
Looking ahead, Natalie envisions LACED Agency as the leading force in digital advertising and marketing for mid-sized businesses. She is bolstered by an exceptional team and business partner Michael Walsh, fortified by a history of navigating economic storms, and driven by a commitment to staying ahead of industry trends; her sights are set on a future of perpetual growth and resounding success. Natalie’s aspirations extend far beyond business alone. They transcend earthly confines as she dreams of venturing into space and observing Earth’s wonders. As a multifaceted entrepreneur, she seeks to nourish her creativity, particularly in writing captivating children’s books and developing film projects with her husband, filmmaker Anthony DiBlasi. Fuelled by her passion for sustainability, Natalie also has set her sights on launching an organic product line to address the growing demand for healthy and environmentally friendly alternatives.
7 – Rory Bebbington
Rory Bebbington, a name that resonates with triumph and perseverance, has carved an inspiring path in the music and staffing industries. Rising from the tough streets of South East London, Rory’s story proves that dreams can be achieved against all odds. His passion for music production and DJing led him to graze grand stages worldwide and collaborate with industry giants such as Sony, Universal, and Warner Music Group. Following his arrival in the United States, he directed his skills to the staffing industry, where he developed his skills as a tech recruiter over seven years.
Having been exposed to invaluable insights into recruitment, Rory’s determination to make a lasting impact on the industry led him to establish Fabric Staffing, a revolutionary concept in the recruiting industry. As a visionary thinker, he introduced a subscription-based business model that provided financial security to his clients and business in an ever-unpredictable labor market. For him, the company transcended a mere business venture; it became his mission to provide safety and financial stability in an unpredictable job market. Through secure paychecks and unwavering support, he crafted an employment agency that genuinely cared about the well-being of its employees. His achievements in building engineering and product teams for prominent companies like HeadSpace, Twitter, Discovery, Beats by Dre, and others have garnered well-deserved recognition. In late 2022, he even had the opportunity to engage in a conversation with Kathy Ireland from the FOX Business Network.
Beyond his accomplishments, Rory’s genuine wisdom lies in the essence of authenticity. He advocates staying true to oneself, one’s business, and employees – a philosophy that has transformed Fabric Staffing into a nurturing environment where individuals thrive, and creativity flourishes. As he envisions the future, Rory seeks to cultivate a world where dreams are nurtured, and achievements are celebrated collectively. This vision is firmly grounded in his desire to be surrounded by a fulfilled and inspired community—a privilege he hopes to extend to others, just as he has achieved for himself. Likewise, he intends to cultivate a supportive community, mentor others, and empower them to turn their dreams into reality, mirroring his chosen path.
8 – Malcolm Coronel
Founder and CEO of Ktizo, Malcolm Coronel, has emerged as an inspirational figure in the music industry, coming from a background of poverty and adversity in the vibrant Bay Area. As a man driven by unyielding determination, he transformed his hardships into a beacon of redemption that reshaped the landscape of the field. While Malcolm had initially envisioned himself as a hip-hop artist and music producer, fate had other plans for him. Eventually, he found solace in licensing his music to reality shows, reigniting the flames of his artistic dreams and laying the foundation for the creation of Ktizo.
Under Malcolm’s steadfast leadership, Ktizo quickly emerged as an influential force in the music industry. Using cutting-edge artificial intelligence, the platform bridged the gap between artistic creativity and commercial viability, providing a seamless experience for artists and music supervisors. His vision of an ecosystem that benefits all parties equally has become a tangible reality, revolutionizing the once-flawed music licensing process.
In addition to his role as an entrepreneur, Malcolm imparts invaluable wisdom that extends well beyond the boundaries of the music industry. To him, entrepreneurship transcends a mere pursuit of personal success; it becomes a lifelong odyssey of leadership. Encouraging us to view pressure as a privilege, he urges individuals to embrace the unknown and leverage it as a catalyst for growth. Peering into the horizon, Malcolm envisions Ktizo soaring to unprecedented heights, continuing its transformative journey through the music industry. Ultimately, his ambition lies in assuming an active mentorship role, fostering artists’ careers, guiding aspiring entrepreneurs, and profoundly impacting underserved communities.
9 – Rahul Khatri
Rahul Khatri, Co-founder of Stoggles, has etched an indelible mark in eye care through his visionary approach. Armed with a distinguished Master of Science in Industrial Design, he embarked on a mission to revolutionize protective eyewear perception. With millions of people suffering from preventable eye injuries each year, and 90% of these incidents preventable through proper protection, Rahul and his team at Stoggles were driven to develop their unique product.
Their ingenious creation, Stoggles, defies conventional norms by seamlessly integrating the quintessential functional elements of exceptional protective eyewear into frames that mirror everyday glasses’ chic aesthetics. The result is a groundbreaking game-changer – protective eyewear that ensures paramount safety and exudes unparalleled comfort and sophisticated flair, shattering the uninspiring stereotype of “safety glasses”. Throughout the world, Stoggles’ impact resonated, earning well-deserved recognition such as a spot among the Top 100 Innovations of 2020 in the Best of What’s New Awards by Popular Science.
Beyond Stoggles, Rahul’s influence extends to the academic community, where he serves as a Design Thinking Advisory Committee member at the University of California, Riverside. His invaluable contributions have played a vital role in shaping the Design Thinking program, empowering the next generation of innovative thinkers. In Rahul’s view, his wealth of wisdom comes from a commitment to the theory that exceptional ideas often appear unexpectedly. The implementation of these ideas, however, requires a tremendous amount of dedication, patience, and perseverance.
Looking ahead, Rahul envisions himself fully engrossed in the captivating realm of creation and curation. Stoggles, having firmly cemented its position as a transformative institution, has not only made a profound impact on the lives of many but has also emerged as an ally for healthcare workers navigating the treacherous waters of the pandemic. Fueled by his passion for crafting products and services that instill feelings of empowerment and positivity, Rahul’s dreams brim with visions of birthing diverse, innovative offerings.
10 – Cardinal Mason
In the dynamic realm of digital marketing, Cardinal Mason has emerged as a formidable force, defying conventions and revolutionizing the art of copywriting. Having started as a freelance copywriter at just 22 years old, Mason swiftly garnered acclaim for his exceptional prowess, boasting a portfolio of thousands of meticulously crafted emails, ads, blog posts, and websites that delivered exceptional results for his clients. Later, he founded an email marketing agency, achieving seven-figure revenue in a matter of months. Beyond personal success, Mason’s impact resonates closer to home, as he proudly supported his family by retiring his mother and employing his younger brother. Empowering others, Mason co-created Copy MBA, a groundbreaking program designed to equip aspiring copywriters with essential skills and mindset to thrive in the competitive industry, cultivating a new wave of six-figure income earners and dissolving the stigma surrounding online entrepreneurship.
Cardinal Mason’s achievements extend far beyond personal success. At just 22 years old, he scaled his freelancing business to a staggering $48,000 per month. By the age of 23, his agency crossed the seven-figure mark, solidifying his reputation as a visionary entrepreneur. Moreover, Mason’s social media presence has skyrocketed, amassing over 50,000 followers on Twitter and a remarkable 385,000 followers on TikTok in just over a year. He has also made a profound impact on his family’s life, successfully retiring his mother and employing his younger brother, serving as a testament to Mason’s dedication, tenacity, and unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of those around him. Through Copy MBA, Mason envisions empowering 10,000 students to embrace the transformative path of untapped possibilities in the digital landscape, reshaping perceptions, and fostering a global community of thriving entrepreneurs.
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