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IWBD Special Edition: Dagmar Turkova, COO, Co-Founder Inova Global Solutions

Early Life & Inspirations: What influenced your entrepreneurial mindset growing up, and how did your early experiences shape your career?

Growing up, I was always curious about how things worked – why some businesses thrived while others struggled, and what made certain leaders stand out. My entrepreneurial mindset was shaped by a mix of experiences, from watching family members navigate business challenges to seeing opportunities where others saw obstacles.

From an early age, I valued independence and problem-solving. I was drawn to creativity, strategy, and the idea of building something meaningful. Over time, I realized that I didn’t just want to follow a set path – I wanted to create my own, one that allowed me to bring fresh ideas to the table, make an impact, and drive meaningful change.

For years, I worked in the corporate world, gaining invaluable experience and navigating countless challenges. It was a journey that shaped me, but over time, I realized something was missing. The work, while structured, lacked creativity, and my ability to influence and drive change felt limited. There were moments when I wanted to do things differently—to offer my clients solutions I  believed in, to explore new paths, and to create something more meaningful. That desire to do more, to give more, and to shape my own journey ultimately led me to take a new direction—one where I could build, contribute, and make a real impact.

From Vision to Reality:

What was the driving force behind founding Inova Global Solutions, and what challenges did you face in the early stages?

Inova Global Solutions was born out of a shared vision—to create a full-service consultancy that helps companies from abroad navigate and establish themselves in the UAE and beyond. My partner and I saw a gap in the market for personalized, hands-on support that goes beyond just business setup. We wanted to guide companies through every stage of their journey, helping them not only enter new markets but grow and be successful in them.

As Inova grew, so did our mission. We became deeply involved in promoting corporate social responsibility (CSR), realizing how essential it is for businesses to involve sustainability into their core strategies. This commitment to responsible business practices led us to take another step forward – founding MEBAS (Middle East Business Association for Sustainability) here in the UAE, an initiative dedicated to driving sustainability efforts in the region.

Like any entrepreneurial journey, building Inova came with its challenges. From navigating the complexities of different markets to establishing credibility and building the right network, every step required perseverance and adaptability. But these challenges also made us believe even more in what we were building. Today, we keep growing, working with businesses that share our values and helping them succeed in a way that makes a difference.

Mission & Business Philosophy:

What is the core mission of Inova Global Solutions, and how does it contribute to innovation in the global market?

From the very beginning, I knew I wanted to build something that was not just about business but about creating real impact. At Inova Global Solutions, our mission is to help companies navigate new markets and connect them with the right stakeholders. Expanding into a new region comes with challenges, and we provide tailored solutions that simplify the process—whether through market research, entry strategies, or building the right partnerships.

What  excites me is working with companies that bring fresh, innovative ideas to the table. I have always wanted to be part of something creative, helping businesses not just enter a new market but actually build something meaningful there. Many of the companies we support are shaping the future of their industries, and by guiding them through expansion, we help turn their vision into reality.

It’s also rewarding to see how MEBAS is evolving, as it brings sustainability into the conversation. Just like with Inova, we are working with companies that have innovative ideas—this time in sustainable development. It feels like everything is coming together in a way that allows us to not only support businesses but also contribute to a more responsible and forward-thinking global market.

For me, it’s more than just building a business—it’s about being a part of my clients’ journey, watching them grow, and knowing that in some way, I’ve contributed to their success. Innovation isn’t just about new ideas; it’s about making them work in the real world, and that’s Where I feel the most rewarded.

Entrepreneurship & Leadership:

As a co-founder, what are the key leadership lessons you’ve learned while building and growing your company?

As a co-founder, one of the most important lessons I’ve learned in building and growing my company is the value of patience. In the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship, it’s easy to feel the pressure to make things happen quickly, but I’ve come to understand that some things just take time. Whether it’s business decisions or closing partnerships, the right opportunities often come when the time is right—and it’s important to trust that process, even when it feels frustrating.

Another key lesson has been the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people. A strong network and a supportive team are essential to building something meaningful. It’s not just about what you know, but also about who you can rely on to help you grow and succeed. To me, leadership is not just about leading the company—it’s also about helping others grow and succeed.

These lessons have shaped me both personally and professionally. It’s not always easy to be patient, especially when you’re passionate about moving things forward, but I’ve learned that success often comes with timing and the right support system in place.

Women in Tech & Business:

What are the biggest challenges women face in the business and tech space, and how do you advocate for change?

Women in business and tech often face challenges that go beyond just proving their expertise. I believe that one of the biggest obstacles is access—to opportunities, to investment, and sometimes even to the right conversations. Many times, women must work harder to be heard and taken seriously in industries that are still largely male-dominated. I’ve seen this many times, not only in my own journey but also through the many female entrepreneurs I’ve mentored.

For me, advocating for change starts with action. I believe in creating spaces where women can connect, learn, and gain the support they need to grow their businesses. Whether it’s through mentoring, opening doors to the right investors, or supporting women-led initiatives, I focus on helping women navigate the challenges and turn them into opportunities.

Another major challenge is confidence – not in their abilities, but in claiming their space at the table. Many brilliant women hesitate to ask for funding, negotiate deals, or step into leadership roles. That’s why I believe visibility is so important. The more we share stories of women who have built successful businesses, the more we normalize the idea that they belong in every room where decisions are made.

I am aware that change doesn’t happen overnight, but every time a woman secures funding, leads a major project, or enters a new market, it’s a step forward. That’s why I’m passionate about supporting women in business—not just because they deserve the same opportunities, but because their ideas and innovations have the power to shape the future.

Work-Life Balance:

As an entrepreneur and COO, how do you manage your time effectively between professional responsibilities and personal life?

Balancing work and personal life as an entrepreneur are not always easy, and there’s no perfect formula. It’s something you figure out along the way. But when you truly believe in what you do and enjoy it, work doesn’t always feel like a burden. Still, there are times when everything feels urgent, and making time for yourself and your loved ones can be tough.

What I’ve learned is that balance isn’t about rigid schedules – it’s about setting priorities and knowing when to step back. Having a strong support system makes all the difference. Family, friends, and the people around you can help you the most, but only if you let them. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that I don’t have to do everything alone. Asking for help, trusting others, and taking breaks are just as important as getting things done.

There will always be busy days, late nights, and moments when work takes over. But at the same time, I remind myself why I started this journey—to build something meaningful, not just in business but in life. So, I try to make space for things that matter – time with loved ones, moments of reflection, and doing things that bring me joy. Because in the end, success isn’t just about what we build; it’s also about how we live while building it.

Impact on Community & Industry:

How does your work with Inova Global Solutions bring positive changes to businesses and communities?

When we started Inova Global Solutions, the goal was always to do more than just help businesses grow. We wanted to make a real difference. Expanding into new markets can be a challenge, and that’s where we come in—helping companies navigate the complexities, connect with the right people, and build solid foundations for success.

But it’s not just about business for me. I’ve always believed in creating positive change. That’s why we’re also focused on sustainability. Through Inova, we’ve helped companies adopt more responsible business practices, and we’re now taking it a step further with MEBAS, the Middle East Business Association for Sustainability. It’s exciting to see how businesses with innovative ideas are not only growing but also contributing to a more sustainable world.

We’ve also started working with students from universities here in the UAE, helping them get involved in sustainability challenge competitions. It’s important to involve the next generation and show them how they can make a difference too.

In addition, we run initiatives like our Monthly Sustainability Insights, where experts share their knowledge of different topics within Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). These insights bring valuable perspectives and help businesses in the region take meaningful steps toward sustainability.

For me, the best part is seeing how businesses we work with can have a positive impact on the community and the industry. It’s not just about helping companies succeed; it’s about making sure that success benefits as many people as possible.

Technology & Innovation:

What trends in technology excite you the most, and how is Inova Global Solutions leveraging them?

What excites me most about technology is how it’s opening up endless possibilities for innovation, especially in areas like automation, data analytics, and sustainability. These are not just buzzwords – they’re changing the way businesses operate, and it’s incredible to see how they can improve efficiency, reach new customers, and make a positive impact on the world.

At Inova Global Solutions, we use technology to help our clients succeed. We combine data analytics to understand market trends and customer behaviours with real-world research, speaking to the right people to get valuable insights. By mixing technology with hands-on work, we make sure our strategies are practical and effective, saving businesses time and helping them focus on what’s important.

What really excites me is how technology is helping drive sustainability. It’s inspiring to see companies use tech to reduce their environmental impact and create solutions that can benefit our planet.

For me, technology isn’t just about making things more efficient – it’s about making a positive impact. It’s so rewarding to be part of that journey, helping companies use these tools to grow, innovate, and make a real difference.

Mentorship & Growth:

Do you mentor aspiring entrepreneurs? If so, what advice do you give to those looking to start their own businesses?

Mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women, is something I’m truly passionate about. I love seeing their excitement, fresh ideas, and the drive to make a difference. But I also understand the challenges they face—the fear, the struggles, and the moments of doubt. It’s completely normal, and I’m happy to share my experiences and offer guidance whenever they need it.

The biggest advice I give is not to be afraid to take that first step, especially if they’re coming from a corporate background. Starting a business can feel overwhelming, and it’s easy to wonder if they’re making the right choice. But the truth is, every successful entrepreneur has felt that way at some point. It’s all part of the journey.

Another key lesson is resilience. There will always be obstacles—whether it’s finding the right partners, facing financial challenges, or dealing with setbacks. It’s important to remember that it’s okay to stumble. What matters is how you pick yourself up and keep going. Building something meaningful takes time, and it’s not always a straight path. Stay focused, trust the process, and remember that growth happens little by little.

Being part of their journey, seeing them grow, and knowing that I’ve played a small role in their success is incredibly rewarding.

Business Expansion & Future Goals:

What are your future plans for Inova Global Solutions, and where do you see the company in the next five years?

I’m really excited about the future and all the possibilities ahead. The business world is changing so quickly, and we’re constantly learning and adapting along the way. I’ve always believed in flexibility – nothing is set in stone, and that’s especially true now with how fast technology and business are evolving.

Over the next five years, I see Inova Global Solutions continuing to support businesses but maybe shifting a bit from market expansion to helping them transition and focus more on sustainability. Whatever happens, we’ll always stay true to our mission and be there to help businesses grow and make a positive impact.

Overcoming Challenges:

What was the toughest obstacle you faced in your journey as a business leader, and how did you overcome it?

The toughest obstacle I faced was shifting my mindset from the corporate world to being an entrepreneur. In the corporate world, you have resources at your fingertips, a clear structure, and a team to support you. But as a founder, everything changed. Suddenly, I had to be the face of the business, the one out front, visible, and promoting myself. Building my personal brand and stepping into roles like public speaking and influencing others was something I never imagined myself doing—it didn’t come naturally. But over time, I learned that embracing this discomfort was key to growth. I focused on being authentic and sharing my story, and slowly but surely, I grew more comfortable with these challenges. It wasn’t easy, but it taught me the importance of stepping outside my comfort zone to push my business forward.

Legacy & Long-Term Impact:

What impact do you hope to leave behind, both professionally and personally, through your work?

The legacy I want to leave is simple but meaningful—helping others and making a positive impact. Professionally, I want to contribute to building businesses that not only succeed but also make a difference, particularly in the area of sustainability. Through the work we do at Inova and MEBAS, I hope to help companies grow and innovate in ways that are responsible and forward-thinking.

On a personal level, I want to inspire others, especially women, to believe in themselves and take risks. I understand how challenging it can be to step into the unknown, but I want to show that with determination and confidence, great things can happen. If I can help someone find their courage, build something meaningful, and make their mark, that’s the true legacy I want to leave. Ultimately, it’s about creating a ripple effect of positive change—small actions that lead to bigger transformations.

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