What inspired you to focus on soft skills training for students and young professionals?

Throughout my career, I’ve seen incredibly talented individuals struggle to advance — not due to a lack of technical expertise, but because they couldn’t communicate effectively, collaborate in teams, or adapt to workplace dynamics. This gap in soft skills held them back, limiting their confidence and career progression. My passion for education, combined with my corporate experience, drove me to create solutions that empower students and young professionals with these critical skills. I want to ensure they not only excel academically but are well-equipped with resilience, confidence, and adaptability to succeed in the real world.

Was there a particular moment or experience that made you realise the transformative power of soft skills?

Absolutely. Early in my career, I worked with a highly skilled individual who had remarkable technical knowledge but struggled to communicate their ideas confidently. As a result, they often went unnoticed in meetings and were overlooked for leadership roles. Through coaching and mentorship, they developed the confidence to express their thoughts effectively, and soon after, they were leading projects and excelling in their career. That transformation was a defining moment for me — it reinforced my belief that soft skills are highly underrated and are not just an advantage but a necessity for success.

Why do you believe soft skills are just as critical as technical skills in today’s professional landscape?

In today’s rapidly evolving job market, technical skills alone are no longer enough. While technical expertise gets you in the door, it’s your ability to communicate, lead, problem solve, and adapt that determines how far you’ll go. Employers value professionals who can think critically, navigate complex interpersonal dynamics, and drive innovation through collaboration. As AI and automation continue to reshape industries, EQ & soft skills remain uniquely human and will be the key differentiator in the workforce.

Many students struggle when transitioning from university to the workforce. What are the biggest challenges they face, and how can they overcome them?

The transition from university to the workforce can be overwhelming, and students often face these key challenges:

• Bridging the expectation-reality gap – Many students expect a straightforward career path, but the workplace is dynamic, requiring adaptability and resilience.

• Building professional confidence – Transitioning from a structured academic environment to a workplace where initiative and self-advocacy are crucial can be intimidating.

• Effective communication – Writing reports, presenting ideas, and engaging in professional discussions require a different level of communication than university coursework.

• Managing time and stress – The shift from flexible university schedules to fast-paced corporate environments can be challenging.

To overcome these challenges, students should:

• Develop self-awareness and identify areas for growth.

• Seek mentorship and learn from professionals who have navigated similar transitions.

• Invest in soft skills training to build confidence, communication, and resilience.

• Embrace lifelong learning, knowing that growth doesn’t stop after graduation.

In your experience, what are the most underrated soft skills that students should focus on?

• Effective communication – Being able to articulate ideas clearly and adapt messaging to different audiences is crucial in any professional setting.  

• Resilience – The ability to bounce back from setbacks and handle feedback is critical for long-term success.  

• Stress management – Navigating high-pressure situations with composure is essential for both academic and professional success. 

• Negotiation skills – From salary discussions to project scope, being able to negotiate effectively is a game-changer.  

• Time management – Prioritising tasks, meeting deadlines, and managing workload efficiently can significantly impact productivity and success.

How do you tailor your coaching to address the unique needs of students from different academic backgrounds?

One size never fits all. Each academic discipline has its own challenges and demands, so my coaching is highly personalised.

• STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) students often need support with communication, teamwork, and leadership to complement their technical expertise.

• Business students benefit from training in negotiation, networking, and leadership.

• Arts and humanities students usually have strong communication skills but can enhance their strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.

We assess individual strengths, career aspirations, and challenges to create practical, personalised strategies that ensure students gain practical, applicable skills that align with their career goals.

What advice would you give to young women who are preparing to step into leadership roles? 

Own your space and step into leadership with confidence. Women often hesitate, thinking they need to be “100% ready” before taking on leadership roles, but the truth is, leadership is about growth, not perfection.

• Speak up and take initiative – Your voice and ideas are valuable.

• Build a strong network – Surround yourself with mentors and allies who uplift you.

• Develop resilience – Challenges will come, but your ability to navigate them defines your leadership journey.

Leadership isn’t about waiting for permission — it’s about taking charge, believing in yourself, and making an impact. 

With over a decade of experience in the corporate world, what key lessons have you learned about professional success?

• Opportunities don’t come to those who wait — they come to those who create.

• Your ability to build relationships is just as important as your ability to deliver results your network is your net worth. 

• Growth happens outside your comfort zone — say yes to challenges that scare you.

• Success is a marathon, not a sprint — sustainability matters more than speed. 

How do you stay motivated and continue evolving in your own career?

My motivation stems from the profound impact I see in my clients — students and professionals who develop confidence, resilience, and skills through my coaching. Their transformation keeps my passion alive. I also:

• Continuously learn and upskill to stay ahead of industry trends and adapt to the evolving landscape.

• Surround myself with mentors and inspiring individuals who challenge me to grow and think differently.

• Set both personal and professional goals that push me to keep evolving and stay excited about the journey ahead.

This constant drive for growth and the transformations I witness in others is what keeps me engaged and motivated.

You’ve pursued multiple certifications beyond your formal education. How important is continuous learning in personal and professional success? 

Lifelong learning is not just an option—it’s a necessity. The most successful professionals don’t stop at what they learned in university; they understand that industries are constantly evolving, and so should their knowledge. Continuous learning, whether through certifications, mentorship, or real-world experiences, allows individuals to stay ahead of the curve. In today’s fast-paced world, those who embrace this mindset are the ones who lead, innovate, and remain relevant. By committing to ongoing education, we position ourselves to navigate challenges and seize new opportunities with confidence. 

You’re a committee member for Commission on the Status of Women (United Nations Women), how do you see soft skills playing a role in women’s empowerment, especially in leadership and entrepreneurship?

For women, soft skills are the cornerstone of empowerment and leadership. These skills allow women to take control of their own stories—whether it’s having the confidence to negotiate for equal pay, the emotional intelligence to build strong, supportive networks, or the resilience to persevere in the face of adversity. In leadership and entrepreneurship, technical skills can open doors, but it’s the mastery of soft skills that enables women to break through barriers, inspire others, and lead with purpose. By honing these skills, women can navigate challenges, elevate their impact, and create opportunities for themselves and others.

What are some common barriers women face in professional settings, and how can they navigate them effectively?

• Unequal opportunities for leadership – Women are often underrepresented in senior and executive roles. To overcome this, women should actively seek mentorship, leadership development programs, and sponsorship from senior professionals who can advocate for their growth and provide guidance along their career journey.

• Unconscious bias and workplace stereotypes – Women may find themselves needing to work harder to prove their expertise. To counter this, women should assert their value with confidence, consistently build a strong professional presence, and cultivate a network of allies who can support and amplify their achievements.

• Gender pay gap and negotiation challenges – Many women hesitate to negotiate their salary or promotions. The key to overcoming this barrier is understanding market standards, preparing a well-documented case based on achievements and value, and confidently advocating for fair compensation to ensure equitable pay.

If you could give one piece of advice to students and young professionals about mastering soft skills, what would it be?

Start early and be intentional about your development. Soft skills aren’t optional—they’re essential for long-term success. Whether it’s mastering communication, honing leadership abilities, or cultivating adaptability, the earlier you invest in these skills, the more opportunities you’ll unlock in your career. Consistently developing them will set you apart and equip you to navigate challenges with confidence, opening doors to greater achievements.

What’s the most rewarding part of your work in soft skills training?

The transformation. Seeing someone go from doubting their abilities to speaking with confidence, leading teams, and achieving their goals is incredibly fulfilling. Empowering individuals with the skills to succeed and watching them step into their full potential is the greatest reward.

How can readers connect with you and benefit from your coaching programs?

I’d love to connect! Readers can:

🌍 Visit our website & Join the coaching programs: https://www.studyywellsolutionss.com

💼  Follow us on LinkedIn: 

https://www.linkedin.com/company/swsglobalcoachingservices

📸 Follow us on Instagram: @studyywellsolutionss

✉ Reach out to us on Email: [email protected]

Our mission is to equip students and professionals all over the world with the skills they need to succeed, and I’m always excited to work with those who are ready to grow!

Beyond soft skills training, what other initiatives are you involved in?

In addition to my work in soft skills training, I am the founder of Strategic Growth Solutions Consulting, a consulting firm dedicated to helping businesses—ranging from startups to established enterprises — develop and implement effective growth strategies.

At Strategic Growth Solutions Consulting, we specialise in, but are not limited to the following areas:

• Business Strategy – Helping businesses scale efficiently, optimise operations, and refine their business models for long-term success.

• Pricing Strategy – Implementing value-based pricing models and revenue optimisation techniques to maximise profitability.

• Go-To-Market Strategy – Guiding companies through product  launches, market entry, and positioning strategies to ensure successful expansion.

• Digital Strategy – Leading businesses through digital transformation, omnichannel strategies, and technological advancements.

• Digital Growth Strategy – Employing growth hacking, customer acquisition, and retention strategies to accelerate digital expansion.

• Marketing Strategy – Enhancing brand positioning, demand generation, and market differentiation to increase visibility and engagement.

I work with businesses globally, providing tailored strategic solutions that drive innovation, efficiency, and sustainable growth. Whether it’s refining a business model, launching a new product, or scaling operations, my goal is to equip organisations with the strategies they need to thrive in a competitive market.

For businesses looking to elevate their strategy and unlock new growth opportunities, Strategic Growth Solutions Consulting is here to help.

Get in touch with us:

Email us:

[email protected]

Follow us on Instagram:

@strategicgrowthsolutions