What motivated you to become an entrepreneur OR take your career in the direction you did? Is having your own business OR this role you are in something you always wanted?

I was motivated by the lack of space for young professionals to work in the private sector. There was no safe space for people like me. It really felt like I was the only one just trying to work in my field and had nobody to guide me. It also felt like those already successful in the field found us dispensable as young dentists. Feeling like I had no space almost forced me to create it, and now I have created that space for others.

To be honest, it is not what I wanted because I had a different view and understanding of the industry I work in when I started than I do now. Nothing ever happened the way I thought it would, but the real answer I want to give now is, I am exactly where I should be and now I want more.

Which woman has positively impacted you in your career/business?
And what is the one lesson she taught you?

My mother has been my biggest business influence. Probably my biggest influence all around. Ofcourse as my mother she has taught me many, many important things. In this context however, she taught me to put my money (no matter how much I had) where my dream is. She taught me that the most important yes I needed to make something of myself was my own.

How do you define success?
Success is a moving target for me. I think for me it looks like always being able to take a step forward/progressing in the things I want to achieve. It’s goal the goal after the goal.

One insight for anyone interested in the industry you are working in?

One of the most important things I did was to get a mentor. It is so difficult to navigate the industry without one. There was a lack of platforms when I started out that I felt offered the type of guidance a young dentist needs but even now, I would identify a dentist/medical professional and just ask them to guide me.

What is your one key guiding principle in your work life?

To do things well and to the best of my ability. I am committed to doing things properly, thoroughly and in a just manner.

What do you believe is the most impactful and immediate action your industry can take to Accelerate Gender Equality Through Economic Empowerment. (this is the theme for INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY in 2024)

I think somehow making private sector owners take a more active role in mentorship of new graduates, almost like how big corp has internships. Imagine being a young dentist not knowing where to turn to and there is someone who is responsible to guide you and equip you to thrive in an industry as difficult as the one I am in. This would breed more business minds and probably ensure an increase in the business survival of private sectors.

The three books that changed your life