Europe's 10 Most Successful Businesswomen to Watch in 2023.pdf

INSPIRING THE BUSINESS WORLD
Transforma ve
Insights
Women Driving
Economic Growth
and Innova on
Pg.No: 22
Pg.No: 34
MAY | ISSUE : 04 | 2023
France
Dequilbec
Enabling Women to Reach the Upper
Echelons of Corporate Leadership
France Dequilbec
Interna onal Talent
Acquisi on Director and
Managing Director
CEO Worldwide and
Female Execu ve Search
10 Most
Successful
Businesswomen
to Watch in
Europe's
2023
Trailblazers of
European Business
Women Making
Waves in the
Corporate World

Power
should be
reserved for
weightlifting
andboats,cause
Leadership
really involves
responsibility.

Editor’s
Note
urope has long been home to excep onal
Ebusiness leaders who have made their mark
on the global stage. Among these
accomplished individuals, women have been
playing an increasingly influen al role, driving
innova on and success across a wide range of industries.
These pioneering businesswomen are not only achieving
remarkable personal success but also advancing the mul -
industrial pla orm, shaping the future of Europe’s business
landscape.
One of the key factors contribu ng to the success of these
businesswomen is their ability to navigate mul ple
industries. They seize a unique skill set that allows them to
adapt to diverse business environments, leverage their
exper se, and iden fy opportuni es across different
sectors. This mul -industrial approach enables them to
bring fresh perspec ves, innova ve ideas, and cross-
industry collabora ons that fuel growth and resilience.
These successful businesswomen are ac vely championing
gender equality and promo ng inclusive prac ces within
their organiza ons. They understand the value of diverse
perspec ves and the importance of crea ng an
environment that embraces different backgrounds,
experiences, and ideas.
Initiations and
Transformations by
Women Leaders

By fostering a culture of inclusion, they encourage
collabora on, enhance crea vity, and drive innova on.
This commitment to diversity not only benefits their own
companies but also sets an example for the broader
business community.
In addi on to their remarkable achievements within their
respec ve industries, The CIO World takes pride in
providing a pla orm for such personali es through the
latest edi on – Europe’s 10 Most Successful
Businesswomen to Watch in 2023, highligh ng
businesswomen that are making significant contribu ons
to societal and environmental challenges. Recognizing the
interconnectedness of business success and sustainability,
they strive to create a posi ve impact beyond financial
gains. By integra ng social responsibility into their business
strategies, they demonstrate that profitability and
sustainability can go hand in hand.
-Prh D. Bombarde
CIO

IG L G S
C O V E R
S T O R Y
France
Dequilbec
Enabling Women to Reach
the Upper Echelons of
Corporate Leadership
08

18
26
30
38
RAISSA
DeHaas
JAYCEDe
Haas
Redeﬁning Mixers for a
Premium Drinking Experience
ALLEGRO
DINKWANYANE
Inspiring Entrepreneurship
within Young Minds
ADESIGNSYSTEMS
THINKINGLEADER
CXO
ANGELA’S
SWIMSCHOOL
Guiding Aspiring Swimmers
towards Zeniths
Transforma ve Insights
Women Driving Economic
Growth and Innova on
Trailblazers of European Business
Women Making Waves in the
Corporate World
Articles
34
22

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RNI No.: MAHENG/2018/75953
ISSUE 04 | MAY | 2023
Renuka Kulkarni

Orgella Group
orgellagroup.com
Allegro Dinkwanyane
Founder and CEO
Allegro is a passionate,
experienced, results-
oriented communica ons
professional with a solid
background in stakeholder
rela ons and social media.
Octopus Ventures
octopusventures.com
Emma Davies
Co-CEO
Emma joined Octopus
Ventures as joint CEO in
2021, bringing with her a
wealth of experience,
exper se, and networks
from a range of world-
class investment houses.
CEO Worldwide
ceo-worldwide.com
France Dequilbec
Managing Director
France from an early age
was fascinated and
inspired by the women
that pioneered the fight
for women’s rights, and
remain so for those that
con nue our fight to this
day.
Frostkrone Food Group
frostkrone.de
Frederic Dervieux
President and CEO
Frederic has successfully
built several businesses
interna onally and drove
focused teams towards
high growth/high profit
results.
Angela’s Swim School
angelasswimschool.co.uk
Angela Wilson
Founder and CEO
Angela's passion is to
ensure everyone has the
chance to lean a life-
saving and life enhancing
skill and to be given the
chance to reach their full
poten al in their chosen
field.
Featuring
Company
Brief
Featuring
Company
Brief
Featuring
Company
Brief
EXPOSASIA
exposasia.com
Bjorn Kempe
CEO/Founder
Bjorn is a seasoned
business leader, investor,
cultural facilitator, lecturer,
successful business owner
and strategist in Asia for 25
years.
Kärcher
de.kaercher.com
Hartmut Jenner
CEO
Hartmut Jenner is Chief
Execu ve Officer &
Chairman of the Board of
Management of Alfred
Kärcher SE & Co. KG., he
joined the company in
1991.
MAHLE
mahle.com
Jumana Al-Sibai
Chairman
Jumana has been working
in the automo ve industry
for nearly 18 years in
various leading roles, and
had the privilege to guide
several global
organiza ons through
major industry changes.
Double Dutch Drinks
doubledutch.smugmug.com
Raissa de Haas
& Joyce de Haas
Founders
Raissa and Joyce started
Double Dutch early 2015,
to create premium so
drink mixers that enhance
quality gins, vodkas and
tequilas but are just as
delicious on their own.
Duravit AG
duravit.de
Stephan Tahy
CEO
Stephan is an Execu ve
Officer with excep onal,
interna onal success in
the corporate
management of a global
market-leader in the
FMCG/branded goods.

France
Dequilbec
Enabling Women to Reach the Upper
Echelons of Corporate Leadership
It is becoming
increasingly obvious
that women are not only
capable of taking on
senior roles but are
thriving in them. It’s
me for us to take the
necessary steps to
bridge the gender gap
and create a more
equitable and successful
business landscape.
Europe's 10 Most Successful Businesswomen to Watch in 2023

France Dequilbec
Interna onal Talent
Acquisi on Director and
Managing Director
CEO Worldwide
and Female
Execu ve Search

“No longer will the same stale faces dominate the
Boardroom.”
How often have you felt the drive within yourself to
take the next big step, to push yourself to reach
greater heights of success, only to be stalled in
your tracks by the fear of what other people would think?
But here’s the notion: Women are a powerhouse of talent
and multitasking, capable of taking on the world and
completing tasks with speed and efficiency that often leave
their male counterparts in the dust. It’s a shame that the idea
of women taking on senior roles or starting their own
businesses is still seen as taboo in society, but with a
sprinkle of courage and a helping hand or two, you can
shatter those preconceived notions and soar to the heights
you know you’re capable of.
France Dequilbec had a vision of a world where men and
women were equally represented in leading executive
positions. When this concept seemed like nothing more than
a distant fantasy, France took a leap of faith and kicked off
her entrepreneurial journey by defying the status quo. Now,
France is the International Talent Acquisition Director/
Managing Director at CEO Worldwide and Female
Executive Search and is dedicated to helping women
achieve the highest levels of corporate success.
From a young age, she was utterly captivated by the
pioneering females who fought for women’s rights. She is
still in awe of those who persist in this fight today. As she
embarked on her career, she encountered workplaces where
there were zero women in leadership roles—a common
occurrence at the time. To allow herself the opportunity to
realize her professional aspirations without having to
outshine her male counterparts, she established Les 100
Ciel—a multi-disciplinary communication agency
specializing in the High-tech industry, based in Paris.
Back in 2008, the company had more than 200 clients over
a 13-year period, including some of the biggest names in
the industry, such as HP, Motorola, Infineon, Colt, and
VistaPrint. This was a major achievement for the company
and a testament to the dedication and perseverance of its
founder, who set out to break the taboo and promote the
talent of women in business. While building an impressive
client list, she also created an international independent PR
agency network, which has been instrumental in her
success. With 65 employees, a revenue exceeding 5 million
euros, and a double-digit bottom line, Les 100 ciels had a
sky-high track record!
This is a remarkable story of one woman’s ambition and
determination in the face of adversity, and it is a true
inspiration for anyone looking to follow in her footsteps.
Let’s dig deeper and examine her successful path to
assisting companies in improving their leadership teams
around the world.
A Woman of Many Talents who Soars to Success
France Dequilbec has taken the reins as Managing
Director of Female Executive Search, one year after it set
off on its journey in 2018. She previously held the title of
Head of International Talent Acquisition for CEO
Worldwide. Before that, she had the opportunity to gain
multi-continental experience while working in the mobile
phone business at Motorola and Siemens, where she held
the position of Communication Director for an impressive
seven years. Finally, France decided to take the plunge and
launch her very own venture.
France has a Ph.D. in German and a Post-master’s degree in
Information and Communication Technologies from the
Sorbonne-Celsa Higher Education Establishment.
In 1995, when the concept of having an equal number of
male and female executives was still a far-fetched dream,
she took a leap of faith and ventured into the world of
entrepreneurship. Despite having worked in two big
corporations that lacked female representation in higher-
level management positions and subsidiaries, she
established her own company, thus becoming a trailblazer
in the women’s movement.
She was determined to reach her full potential and seize
control of her future by creating her own company. Despite
the opposition she faced from men who doubted her ability
to be a successful managing director and business owner,
she pushed forward, refusing to give into the pressure of
needing to constantly outperform her male counterparts.
She knew it wouldn’t be easy, but nothing worth having
ever is - and she was ready to prove them wrong.
The yin and yang of men and women offer a unique
dynamic when it comes to business, as a woman’s approach
may differ from a man’s, but the ultimate goal remains the
same. In a nutshell: the execution of the plan may vary, but
the end goal is always the same. Women are often just as
passionate, if not more so, than their male counterparts
when it comes to achieving success. This is because women
rarely let their egos get in the way, making them an
invaluable asset to the success of a business!

The yin and yang
of men and
women oﬀer a
unique dynamic
when it comes to
business, as a
woman’s approach
may diﬀer from a
man, but the
ul mate goal
remains the same

Still, fortunately, there are courageous men who are
convinced of the huge potential of women’s contributions to
business, and Patrick Mataix is one of them, having
surrounded himself with women in key positions long
before regulations and the media took on the subject.
It was, therefore, a natural and obvious step to launch this
service, dedicated to promoting and placing female
executives: Female Executive Search.
Unmatched Services with Innovative Approaches
CEO Worldwide is leaving its mark on the executive
recruitment industry with its revolutionary approach to
international hiring. With their fixed recruitment fees,
flexible contract terms, and 100% success rate with a 12-
month replacement guarantee, they are a force to be
reckoned with. Not only that, but they prove their
commitment to excellence by striving to deliver the best
possible service to their clients, and that means providing a
selection of suitable candidates within just ten days. For
those looking to make the search for the perfect executive a
bit easier and more cost-effective, CEO Worldwide is the
obvious choice. And with their commitment to excellence
and top-notch customer service, you can rest assured that
you’re in good hands.
Part of the well-respected and distinguished CEO
Worldwide family, Female Executive Search is the perfect
bridge between progressive organizations that recognize the
value of gender diversity and the world’s top female
leaders. Their mission is twofold: To provide a platform for
female candidates to showcase their skills and to give
organizations access to premier talent while fostering an
environment of idea and experience sharing. Their team of
experienced recruiters is passionate about helping
businesses achieve their goals. They are on a mission to
make sure that female leaders across the globe are
represented in the top echelons of the corporate world. By
partnering with organizations, they will ensure that female
voices are heard and that their skills and expertise are
celebrated.
CEO Worldwide: Go-to for Female Leadership Success
From its early days, CEO Worldwide has skyrocketed to
success, becoming renowned for its ability to swiftly meet
the needs of executives and its vast international experience
with over 2,000 placements in 70 countries. In recognition
of its excellence, Forbes listed CEO Worldwide as one of
the top 250 U.S. executive recruitment firms. A staggering
21,000 vetted executives are stored in the company’s
international iCEO database, including a noteworthy
number of female leaders, making CEO Worldwide the go-
to for hiring the most qualified candidates for executive
roles. Additionally, the company’s Investors on Demand
service is also able to connect businesses with investments
when it is most needed.
Female Executive Search is an innovative, specialized
recruitment platform determined to level the playing field in
the boardroom. They recognize the undeniable value of
female leadership and want to provide opportunities to
qualified female executives who are ready to make a
powerful impact. Through their platform, they bridge the
gap between recruiters and female executives, thereby
empowering women and businesses that understand the
importance of diversity. Ultimately, this is about creating
positive change for business and the global economy as a
whole. Female Executive Search is here to champion
female executives and make their potential visible.
Call-to-action to Empower Women in the Workplace
There is immense power in female leadership, and it’s time
to break the taboo and shine a light on the amazing talent of
women in business. This is why it was a no-brainer for
them to launch their new female executive search service,
which seeks to promote and place female executives in
positions of power.
This new service is a call to action to empower women in
the workplace and to put their ideas and expertise to use in
high-level positions. It is an invitation for women to
become part of the decision-making process and to create a
stronger and more inclusive business environment.
This service is an opportunity for female executives to
envision and execute their own success and to break
boundaries in the corporate world.
France is a passionate advocate for female leaders and
dedicates large portions of her day to helping them. She
understands the transformative power of words and works
to challenge the way they introduce themselves and
articulate their professional capabilities. Her aim is to help
them leverage their unique talents and build their personal
brands. To achieve this, she has created a dedicated
platform on which female leaders can showcase their
professional track record and demonstrate the value they
can bring to any organization. Through her tireless efforts,
she is empowering these female professionals to make their
voices heard and prove that actions really do speak louder
than words.

CEO Worldwide –
We prove our
commitment to
excellence by striving
to deliver the best
possible service to
our clients, and that
means providing a
selec on of suitable
candidates within
just ten days.

At its core, its platform gives women executives the
confidence to showcase their professional skills and helps
their female candidates reach new heights of success.
Through their suite of tools, including video, they are
working to create a more vibrant and inclusive environment
for women in leadership positions across the globe. With a
five-year plan in place, they can’t wait to see what the
future holds for them! They are committed to using every
available resource to give women the tools and support they
need to achieve their career goals and make a real impact
on the landscape of leadership. Whether it’s helping more
women find their voice or providing a platform for women
to advance their own professional development, they are
working hard to ensure that the future of leadership is more
balanced.
They’re excited to see the regulations and initiatives that
develop that will lead them into a future that is equal,
diverse, and inclusive! Respect and trust are the key drivers
of the relationships she establishes with their candidates and
clients.
Female Leaders at the Helm
Although the evidence is clear that greater gender equality
at the top leads to better business results, the reality is that
women remain vastly underrepresented in the C-suite.
However, attitudes are shifting, and companies are hiring
more women into senior roles, recognizing their immense
capabilities and value.
France states, “We’ve also seen a surge in regulations
around the world aiming to increase the representation of
women in board and management-level positions. Female
leaders now have dedicated platforms and initiatives to
showcase their impressive professional backgrounds and
accomplishments. It is becoming increasingly obvious that
women are not only capable of taking on senior roles but
are thriving in them. It’s time for us to take the necessary
steps to bridge the gender gap and create a more equitable
and successful business landscape.”
Female leaders have stepped up and shown the world that
diversity in business is an invaluable asset. Having a gender
balance at the top executive level can not only provide a
company with a competitive edge, but it can also bring a
new level of synergy to the workplace. By challenging
traditional decision-making processes and embracing
different perspectives, female leaders have the potential to
drive greater success and value to a business. Just as
biodiversity creates a stronger and more sustainable
ecosystem, a diverse executive team can create a stronger,
more resilient, and more profitable company. With female
leaders at the helm, there’s no telling how far a business can
go.
In June 2018, Female Executive Search was founded at a
time when just 7% of their pool of vetted international
candidates were women. Now, after just five years, it’s
pleasing to report on the positive changes in those numbers
and in the landscape. As of today:
Ÿ 25% of their internationally vetted candidates across 40
countries are female executives.
Ÿ Where competencies fit, they systematically present one
female and one male for every position.
Ÿ 20% of their placements are female, a figure that has
grown by 50% in the past six months.
Ÿ She personally interviewed over 425 female C-level
candidates from across the Globe.
Ÿ They have placed women in CXO positions globally.
Revolutionary and Record-breaking High-tech Platform
They have created a revolutionary and Record-breaking
High-tech Platform that is catered to both clients and
candidates alike. This ASP platform has the capability to
match a pool of 21,000 international executive candidates
with their client’s needs around the world in a professional
and speedy manner with full flexibility and success-based
hiring fees.
This innovative platform provides a few key features such
as sourcing, vetting, and selecting the right talent from a
pool of over 21,000 top executives worldwide, presenting a
shortlist of candidates in less than ten days, and an in-house
video platform that enables both clients and candidates to
conduct interviews remotely and showcase their
professional skills and build their digital and personal
brands.
Word for Budding Entrepreneurs
For those yearning to set foot in the business world, she
offers some sage advice: be an innovative leader!
Entrepreneurship is all about thinking outside the box and
creating something new; don’t be afraid to take those leaps
of faith. As a leader, you should always strive to think big
and never settle for mediocrity. Take risks, embrace failure,
and always keep pushing for success. As the saying goes,
“If there’s a will, there’s a way!”

Freedom: She wholeheartedly believes in living life with
no boundaries. She recognizes the power of freedom of
thought, expression, and change, understanding that without
it, there can be no growth or progress.
Courage: Courage is something she highly values. It takes
bravery to face a group of people holding different beliefs,
to march on despite being told that success is impossible,
and to be honest and candid about your thoughts and ideas.
Ethical: Making ethical decisions is a priority for her. She
strives to make sure that her business practices are moral
and just and that she is able to gain the trust and respect of
those around her in order to work together towards a shared
goal.
Progressive Augmentation
Their ambitious expansion plan for 2023 and beyond is
focused on global growth, digital transformation, and
driving diversity. To achieve this, they are investing in three
key areas:
1. Growing their vetted executive pool, ambassadors
network, and corporate partnerships around the globe.
This will enable them to attract the best talent and
expand their reach to key markets.
2. Extending their online services, such as their video
platform, to help candidates and clients get the most out
of their recruitment experience.
3. Introducing new services for boardrooms and
launching a range of #DEI initiatives to ensure every
individual is given the opportunity to reach their career
aspirations.
Power of Hardwork and its Rewards
Naresh Patel, Managing Director, FM PBW Bearings
Pvt. Ltd.
We hired CEO Worldwide to find our CEOs both for our
corporate business and Trust. Over the course of a few
weeks, they managed to identify and present an exceptional
shortlist of candidates, out of which we recruited the
outstanding ones that fit perfectly what we were looking for.
There is no way we could have done that on our own.
CEO Worldwide provides continuous follow-up of the
process and nice and friendly attention, all of that with
serious commitment, flexibility, a sense of urgency,
efficiency, and professionalism. It is a pleasure to partner
with them, and we highly recommend their services for any
critical C-Level executive hires.
FM PBW Bearings Pvt. Ltd.:We manufacture bimetal & tri-
metal bearings, bushings, and thrust washers for locomotives,
engines, pumps, compressors, turbochargers, earthmovers,
and a range of other reciprocating and rotating machinery.
M. Fillon, General Director of Novo Nordisk’s French
Branch
Reactivity, Efficiency, and Excellent Service
When our HR team approached CEO Worldwide regarding
the recruitment of an aseptic production director for our
French branch based in Chartres (700 staff), we were fully
aware of the difficulties in finding such a specific profile, in
particular, as it was extremely urgent!
The searched criteria were:
Ÿ Aseptic production experience in the pharmaceutical
industry
Ÿ Degree in pharmaceutical studies or medicine
Ÿ Management of more than 300 staff and experience as
Co-Director
Ÿ International coordination of several production sites
Ÿ Bilingual French-English
We appreciated CEO Worldwide’s operational, business-
oriented, and pragmatic approach right from the first
telephone briefing. They presented us with four candidates
within eight days; thus, we could go ahead with face-to-face
interviews very quickly.
CEO Worldwide guided us through the whole process with
operational advice, business oriented but at the same time
with the necessary distance to challenge the candidates and
to push the requirements of the Novo Nordisk team. We
finally chose Eric Kummer due to his professional track
record in the pharmaceutical sector and in production. He
was able to start within an extremely tight schedule, and up
to now, we are absolutely satisfied.
Thanks to the professional service of CEO Worldwide, their
reactivity, and pertinence, we could recruit such a specific
profile in 35 days only, which is remarkable in this
international context in which the time factor plays a crucial
role.

Michelle, Execu ve Consultant, Canada
France Dequilbec is passionate about globally eleva ng women to execu ve posi ons. She
believes there is power in female leadership and ac vely promotes, connects, and drives
engagement for female leaders. It is a pleasure to work with this inspiring, authen c,
results-oriented, and high-impact Director Female Execu ve Search.
Giselle, Human Resources Director, France
Female Execu ve Search is commi ed to doing what they say and saying what they do. I
had the chance to be supported by France Dequilbec at a me of struggle in my professional
path. She brought the light into the context I was going through, and thanks to her, I’ve
been able to transform an issue into a great opportunity. France has a huge knowledge of
the corporate world, especially concerning Execu ve Women, and I see her as a strong
inspira on to improve the posi on of Women in the business world. I wish we were all as
commi ed as France is to build a be er corporate world for women.
Teﬆimonis

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Allegro
Dinkwanyane,
Founder and CEO
Orgella Group
www.thecioworld.com MAY, 2023
18

eter Drucker, an Austrian consultant, once said,
P“The best way to predict the future is to create it.”
This sounds apt for the entrepreneurs who follow
their passion and pave the path of crafting dreams into
reality. And in their journey, they inspire others on the same
path.
Allegro Dinkwanyane, Founder and CEO of Orgella
Group started young and launched her first company
Orgella Entertainment under Orgella Group in 2011 when
she was studying journalism. Orgella Entertainment is a
South Africa-based entertainment and lifestyle website with
the core objective of entertaining readers as well as
informing them of the current celebrity/entertainment/world
news in the most factual way possible. Allegro also started
to use Orgella Entertainment as a platform to promote
African celebrity talent.
Soon the success of Orgella Entertainment inspired Allegro
to launch her next company, a PR and Marketing agency
Orgella Communications and that’s how the CEO took
Orgella Group to new heights which will be celebrating its
th
10 year in business this October.
The following interview exhibits Allegro’s journey of
entrepreneurship, how the company survived the global
pandemic with team efforts, and Allegro’s views on gender
inequality in the business world.
Being an experienced leader, share with us your opinion
on how the adoption of novel technologies has
transformed various industries and what more could be
expected in the near future?
Most of my businesses rely on the digital age to grow.
Orgella Group has always made use of social media
platforms to reach new audiences as well as engage with
our followers and clients. The digital age comes with great
perks and resources for a group company such as Orgella
Group that also seeks to grow beyond the South African
borders.
I think many business owners realized the power of
technology for example social media platforms especially
during the global pandemic when we all had to work from
home and do business differently. The lockdown forced
many businesses and individuals to accept the reality that
our world is controlled and connected by technology and
it’s either you join the digital age and stay afloat or sink in
the previous age.
Taking into consideration, the current pandemic, and its
impact on global economies, how are you driving your
organization to sustain operations and ensuring the
safety of your employees at the same time?
The global pandemic has come with a lot of setbacks for the
company. Many of our growth plans were delayed by the
Inspiring Entrepreneurship within Young Minds
Allegro
Dinkwanyane
www.thecioworld.com
MAY, 2023 19

pandemic but on the positive side, the time spent
working from home has allowed me as the founder to
analyze the company from a different perspective.
I’ve had to slow down a bit in order to see what we
were doing right and come up with solutions on how
we can move forward and become stronger post the
pandemic.
I have had to go back to the drawing board to re-
organize the company, think about the company’s
future, our objectives, and the team at large moving
forward.
Speaking of my team, surprisingly enough, I found
that many of them preferred working from home to
the office. They are more productive and in turn, have
more time to explore other work opportunities and/or
hobbies and spend time with their loved ones. This
has made me realize that one can have a successful
business whilst still working from home and that
most meetings can be done over a call or video call.
I am also grateful for the time I now have to spend
with my family and juggle the business and
motherhood, especially now that I have a toddler in
the house. I think that there’s a lot of good we can
take out of the global pandemic. I choose to believe
that it is teaching us something great and shaping our
future in a way we had not imagined but still for our
good. It is of course unfortunate that so many lives
are being lost and so many people finding themselves
displaced and alone and as a business owner I’m
doing my best to help where I can through my charity
organization, Orgella Helping Hands, and hopefully,
I can also keep as many people as possible employed
during these tough times.
What is your opinion on adopting gender
egalitarianism from a leadership perspective?
I think gender inequality is a huge problem and
hindrance for many women trying to find their feet
and grow in the business world and even as corporate
professionals. Although I agree that men and women
are made differently and should in some social
settings not be treated the same way, I do believe that
if we want to achieve non-bias leadership positions,
especially in business, women should be treated as
equally as their male counterparts.
20

Women deserve to be seated in the same rooms with men
where executive decisions are being made. They need to be
listened to when they speak up in the room and their
opinions and suggestions need to be respected and taken into
consideration. Women should also receive equal pay and this
should not be determined based on gender but by the
position, which they hold, their qualifications, performance,
and results.
I believe that when we get to this equal position one day,
more women will succeed in business than they do now.
More women will be supported and respected in leadership
positions and turn, more opportunities will be available for
aspiring female entrepreneurs.
Enlighten us on how you have made an impact on other
aspiring female entrepreneurs through your journey?
I think having started my business so young, working hard,
and being consistent, leading up to the success of the
business has inspired a lot of women, especially young
women who didn’t think that it was possible to be a
successful entrepreneur in South Africa. Many hear about
opportunities from afar but very few get to the point of
experiencing that journey, so I think me actually ‘making it’,
made other women believe that their dreams are valid too.
Seeing how so many are inspired by my journey, I launched
a women empowerment platform call Boss Chiq South
Africa which serves to inspire and empower women to
become better leaders in all aspects of their lives. I host
annual events, where we all get to meet and be inspired by
different speakers. Moreover, the platform also offers
mentorship opportunities to help women step into their
power.
What would be your advice to budding entrepreneurs
who aspire to venture into the security and investigations
niche market and the related industry?
I am not an expert in that industry, but I would advise them
to do their research. In any industry you want to enter, you
need to go into it knowing how that industry is performing,
what has been done so far, and what you can contribute. You
also have to have a different and/or better service offering to
attract customers. Hard work, a great team, and consistency
will take you far. I always say that “hard work and prayer
have never failed me” and to this day, I stand by that word.
Where do you envision yourself to be in the long run and
what are your future goals for your group of companies?
I am taking each day as it comes and I’m always open to
restructuring and growth. I grow in every phase of my
business and the day I stop growing is the day I’ll stop
doing that business. I hope that we continue to service our
clients to their satisfaction. I also hope that the work we do
in all the companies will continue to have an impact not
only on the team I work with but on society as well.
I’d like to create more within the company, partner and
collaborate with other companies in order to grow beyond
South Africa. I’d like to continue building a company that
will continue to inspire young people to reach for the stars
and work hard for what they truly want to achieve.
If we want to
achieve non-bias
leadership posi ons,
especially in
business, women
should be treated as
equally as their
male counterparts.
,,
,
,
www.thecioworld.com
MAY, 2023 21

WOMEN
Driving ECONOMIC
and
GROWTH
INNOV
ATION
n recent years, the role of women in driving economic
growth and innovation has gained recognition and
importance. Women's contributions to various
industries, their entrepreneurial spirit, and their ability to
bring unique perspectives to the table have proven to be
transformative.
This article will examine the contributions that women are
making to promoting innovation and accelerating economic
growth, as well as the lessons learned from their experiences.
Breaking Barriers and Challenging Norms
One of the key ways in which women are driving economic
growth and innovation is by breaking through barriers and
challenging societal norms. Historically, women have faced
systemic biases and limitations in accessing education, funding,
and leadership positions. However, with increased awareness and
efforts toward gender equality, women are defying these odds
and making their mark in various fields. By overcoming these
challenges, they are paving the way for other women and
reshaping the landscape of business and innovation.
Entrepreneurial Drive and Start-up Success
Women entrepreneurs are making significant contributions to
economic growth and innovation. Their entrepreneurial drive,
creativity, and ability to identify untapped market opportunities
have led to the establishment of successful start-ups across
diverse industries.
22

Transformative
Insights
www.thecioworld.com
MAY, 2023 23

Women-owned businesses are not only generating
employment opportunities but also bringing fresh
perspectives and innovative solutions to the market. The
rise of women-led start-ups is fueling economic growth and
fostering a culture of innovation.
Diverse Perspectives and Collaboration
Women bring diverse perspectives to the table, which is
crucial for driving innovation. Their unique experiences,
insights, and problem-solving approaches can challenge
conventional thinking and lead to breakthrough ideas. By
promoting gender diversity and inclusion in decision-
making processes, organizations can tap into a wider range
of viewpoints, fostering creativity and innovation.
Collaboration between men and women, with their distinct
perspectives and strengths, can lead to more comprehensive
and successful outcomes.
Empowering Future Generations
Future generations are being empowered as women
continue to drive economic development and innovation.
Young girls are inspired to pursue careers in traditionally
male-dominated fields like science, technology,
engineering, and mathematics (STEM) by role models who
hold leadership positions. We can unleash girls' full
potential and raise a new generation of female leaders who
will accelerate economic growth and innovation by
empowering girls to embrace their talents and aspirations.
Addressing Unmet Needs and Market Opportunities
Women have a unique understanding of unmet needs and
market opportunities, as they often experience challenges
and gaps firsthand. By addressing these needs and seizing
opportunities, women entrepreneurs are not only driving
economic growth but also addressing social issues and
creating positive change. Their innovative solutions can
range from healthcare advancements to sustainable
technologies, catering to underserved markets and making a
significant impact on society.
Access to Finance and Resources
Women entrepreneurs have historically had difficulty
getting access to resources and financing. To close this gap,
however, efforts are being made. Women now have access
to the resources and support they need to turn their business
ideas into profitable enterprises thanks to programs like
mentorship programs, venture capital funds, and
networking platforms. We can fully realize the
potential of women as engines of economic
development and innovation by addressing the
financial barriers and leveling the playing field.
Collaboration with Policy and Business Leaders
Collaboration between women, policy leaders,
and business executives is essential to drive
economic growth and innovation.
Policymakers can create an enabling
environment by implementing gender-
inclusive policies, promoting equal
opportunities, and addressing systemic
biases. Business leaders can play a crucial
role by fostering a culture of diversity and
inclusion, providing mentorship and support,
and promoting gender-balanced leadership
teams. Together, these stakeholders can
create an ecosystem that allows women to
thrive and maximize their contributions
to economic growth and innovation.
Conclusion
The role of women in driving
economic growth and
innovation cannot be overstated.
Women are breaking barriers, bringing
diverse perspectives, and addressing
unmet needs in various industries. Their
entrepreneurial drive, collaboration, and
access to resources are propelling economic
growth and fostering a culture of innovation.
By empowering future generations and
collaborating with policymakers and business
leaders, women are driving transformative
change. However, it is crucial to continue
dismantling gender biases, ensuring equal
access to opportunities, and creating an
inclusive environment for women to thrive.
Only by harnessing the full potential of women
as drivers of economic growth and innovation can
we truly unlock the benefits of a gender-balanced and
prosperous future.
-P.D.Bombarde
24

Let's explore what design systems thinking as a
leadership skill means and how to equip leaders
with top skills.
"Design thinking is a human-centered approach to
innovation that draws from the designer's toolkit to
integrate the needs of people, the possibilities of
technology, and the requirements for business success." –
Tim Brown, Executive Chair of Ideo
According to design thinking is the number one
Gartner,
emerging soft skill (cognitive and social skills) for C-Suite
executives. As organizations become increasingly flat and
agile, leaders need to understand how to cultivate a
psychologically safe environment, lead with empathy, and
think in a user-centered way. Design thinking allows us to
view leadership in new ways. It offers a good range of
practical tools as well as an ideology that links up well with
other leadership development approaches.
Systems thinking is a disciplined approach to examining
problems more completely and accurately before acting. It
allows us to ask better questions before jumping to
conclusions.
According to the , 'Systems
World Economic Forum
thinking' does not have one set toolkit but can vary across
different disciplines; for example, in service design, some
may consider a 'blueprint' a high-level way to investigate
one's 'systems of interest.' Crucially, this school of thought
is even more powerful when combined with more common
approaches, such as human-centered design (HCD)
I believe that Systems Thinking and Design Thinking
complement one another. Systems Thinking aims at being
holistic by following a method whereby the understanding
of a system starts from the apparent issue and widens the
system's boundary by expanding the circle to include those
other factors that may not be so apparent but have an
influence on and are connected to it emphasizing the
connections and synergy. Design Thinking, on the other
hand, is more empathetic and human-centered and requires
the modeler to be inside the problem and design the
solution after having walked in the shoes of the affected.
This empathetic angle in Design Thinking will improve on
the thought that Systems Thinking emphasizes and seeks. It
will give stakeholders a chance to walk in the shoes of
others and increases their understanding of the problem
from various angles, and potentially increases the
'innovativeness' of the solutions reached.
Combining Systems Thinking and Design Thinking has the
potential to improve on the holistic understanding of the
current system, as stakeholders can view the system from
different angles. This has the potential to generate more
informed ideas to transform the system with a more holistic
view. The abductive reasoning-based Design Thinking
emphasizes the need to be empathetic and creative to
produce an outcome that meets the need (solution-based
approach). An approach that combines the two should
therefore be more holistic, empathetic, and innovative.
A Design Systems
ThinkingLeader
26

About the
Author
Joyce Hunter is the
Execu ve Director at
the Ins tute for Cri cal
Infrastructure Technology
(ICIT), a nonproﬁt think
tank providing educa on,
outreach, and research at
the nexus of cybersecurity,
na onal security, and cri cal
infrastructure. Prior to her
engagement with ICIT, she was
the Deputy CIO for Policy and
Planning and the Ac ng CIO at
the U.S. Department of
Agriculture (USDA). Joyce is also
the creator and President of Data
Science Camp Inc. (DSCI) and Science
Technology Engineering Agriculture
and Math (STEAM), an intensive,
design thinking, project-based eﬀort
teaching underserved and
underrepresented youth 14 to 18 years
old how to use data to address important
issues of public policy related to
agriculture.
www.thecioworld.com
MAY, 2023 27

The foregoing account of how leadership has developed and
some of the desirable qualities of successful leaders show
that the field stands to benefit from the developments taking
place elsewhere. It has been suggested that the requirements
of the industrial revolution era called for and were best
served by a transactional type of management as it required
efficiency in the mass production of industrialization. The
interconnected nature of the Systems Thinking age and
beyond, however, renders this linear approach too simplistic
for the new environment. Having a transactional-oriented
type of leader leading in the new environment will fulfill
Bennis' (2003) quote that 'Failing organizations are usually
over-managed and 'underled.'
It should be noted, however, that while both transactional
and transformational leadership roles have their place in an
organization, the danger is when the transactional-
orientated people are placed in the wrong positions at the
wrong time. Within one organization, different styles may
be most suited for different stages of innovation. At the
exploratory stage, when new ideas and or products are
being sought and experimented upon, the risk-taking
requires a transformational type of leadership. However,
after new innovations are implemented, and value addition
to the existing innovations is required, transactional
leadership may be more suitable.
A design attitude and creative confidence have become
imperative for today's organization, especially in the ever-
changing world of cybersecurity, national security, and
critical infrastructure. This is not limited to product design
but even the design of management and operational systems
to enable the organization to be relevant and viable. Hence,
in addition to a systemic understanding of the organization
with clarity on interconnections within the organization and
its connection to its environment and the emergence that
arises, there is a need for a design attitude and creative
confidence to enable organizations to come up with
innovative products, working systems, and services that are
holistic but also empathetic to and meet the needs of the
stakeholders in the systems of which their organization is
part.
A leadership that combines systemic and design qualities
would be well equipped to operate in today's environments
that require the adoption of a holistic stance and takes all
stakeholders and their interests into account, avoiding
unintended consequences as well as the creative confidence
to enable them to continuously conceive creative ideas and
act upon those ideas.
A continuous ability to innovate and come up with new
ideas and ways of working has become imperative to
remain competitive and viable. This goes beyond mere
adaptation to change but shaping that change while meeting
and exceeding the needs and expectations of stakeholders
and taking advantage of the lessons learned from the
previous paradigms. It is in this context that the notion of
managerial leadership comes to the fore. There is increasing
evidence that transactional leadership traits are becoming
less appropriate for 21st-century organizations.
There is room to further develop and better equip leaders of
today by taking advantage of developments taking place in
all the disciplines; Systems Thinking, Design Thinking, and
Leadership. A leadership that makes use of all three will be
better equipped to develop organizations that are robust,
more able to cope with continuous change, and, above all
are easily adaptable to changing socio-political and rapid
technological changes.
28

S
wimming is known to be the fourth most popular
physical activity and one of the best cardio exercises
for all age groups. Whether you are a pro or a novice,
a professional or someone who simply loves the activity,
you will need an experienced coach to help you perfect the
sport.
Angela’s Swim School is one such training institute that
offers lessons to children and adults of all ages with
effective techniques. We delved deeper into the training
institute and here is what we learnt.
Following are the excerpts from the interview:
Give us a brief overview of your company, its vision, and
its journey since inception.
We are now a franchised limited company created by a
former Team GB international swimmer, Angela Wilson,
Founder and CEO. What begun with one instructor in one
pool has become a major provider of swimming lessons,
that has taught thousands of children to swim. We offer
classes to children from four months old, with some
provision for adults. Under normal business conditions
currently around 3,500 swimmers join us each week for
term-time lessons in 20 locations.
ngela’s
Swim School
Guiding Aspiring Swimmers towards Zeniths
No amount of
bath-tub
splashing can
make up for the
feeling of being
fully stretched
out and supported
by water.
““
30

Angela Wilson
Founder and CEO
www.thecioworld.com
MAY, 2023 31

Opportunities for further franchise expansion will allow us
to extend our reach beyond our current locations in London
and the South East of England.
Please list the popular solutions that make your
franchise standout from the competition.
We’re the swim school that gets results. Our own unique
swim teaching syllabus and badge reward scheme,
Swimstylers, reflects the training and experience of
Angela’s own professional career. The syllabus helps
beginners of all ages, even babies, to master our four pillars
of learning to swim:
• relaxation
• body position
• breathing
• technique
Turning away from unrelatable animal characters, the
Swimstylers are inspirational child role models who
demonstrate how young swimmers get from absolute
beginners to ultimately achieving 1500m, equivalent of a
mile. Our syllabus is achievement led, with distance
rewards at each level. For the best learning experience, we
only ever offer small class sizes.
What competitive advantage does a prospective
franchisee receive when they become a part of your
company’s franchise chain?
We offer a complete and tested package of franchisee
features and support, as well as full use of our long-
established brand. The franchise will be backed by our in-
depth knowledge of the sport and the best guidance in how
to run a successful franchise within it. With access to US-
based management expertise we ensure that our standard
compliance, development and marketing methods continue
to fully comply. Also, 2021 will see the launch of our brand
new online, interactive booking and e-commerce platform.
As the Founder-CEO, what is your opinion on the
impact of the current pandemic on the fitness industry
and its franchising market?
Even before the disruptions of the current pandemic struck,
figures showed that about half of the UK’s under-12s can’t
swim. We hear that the US finds itself in a very similar
situation. Now that our pools are reopening after having
been closed for much of the past year the interest in having
swimming lessons hasn’t reduced. In fact, it’s looking like it
might have actually increased. Parents really value the
opportunity to get their children exercising – especially as
we’re all so well aware how interconnected positive
physical and mental health can be. As a swim school, we
genuinely believe that franchises are a great first step to
improving health at a national level, as learning to swim not
only saves lives but it’s a fantastic sport to build and
maintain fitness.
In your opinion, what could be the future of the fitness
industry post the COVID-19 pandemic?
The general mood seems very positive – in our business it
really does sound and feel that people want to put the recent
past of lockdowns and restrictions behind them. Instead,
there’s a keen interest in getting life back on track and
doing exercise for real. Online classes just aren’t just the
same. No amount of bath-tub splashing can make up for the
feeling of being fully stretched out and supported by water.
Also, as we get used to living with COVID-19 and future
pandemics there will be wider understanding of how to
safely conduct lessons with minimal disruptions.
32

“My daughter had her first swimming
lesson today and absolutely loved it.
This is after having been with a
previous swim school for nearly three
years, where she spent half her time at
the side of pool losing concentration.
We thought today’s teacher was
amazing: always kept them going so no
time was wasted and always corrected
her when something wasn’t quite right.
Most of all she was so happy at the end
of the class. Can’t wait for the rest of
term.”
“This swim school is amazing. My son
has always been nervous in the water
and the encouragement from these
instructors is amazing. They go above
and beyond to ensure his confidence
grows and he gets the best out of
lessons. The transformation in him is
amazing!!”
“My two have just completed a holiday
crash course with Angela’s Swim
School and I am extremely proud of
them both. They love water but we’re
not confident if they couldn’t touch the
floor. They are two different children at
the end of the week and both super
excited to be coming back in
September for term lessons. Thank u
so much and see u soon. Great
teachers and such an important life skill
to learn.”
Exhibiting
Excellence
If given a chance, what is the one thing that you would
change about the franchising ecosystem in the fitness
industry?
It would be a huge benefit to the industry if there was a
quality standard (a kitemark) that franchisees could achieve
– in the same way that hotels have their star ratings. It’s a
fact - not all swim schools are based on the same levels of
sport knowledge and teaching experience. If this could be
more easily reflected to clients, it would clearly identify
premium products and help potential customers appreciate
what sets the businesses apart from one another. This would
greatly assist marketing within the fitness industry. Plus, it
would give clients greater confidence, so they do not have
to choose on location, price and word of mouth alone.
As an established busines leader, what would be your
advice to the budding entrepreneurs aspiring to venture
into the fitness services or franchising industry?
Having real passion in business is so important. The very
best fitness franchises thrive when behind them is a leading
force who want to help others achieve their goals and get
the best results. Make sure that you feel true passion for
what you’re doing, and it is infectious. It will definitely help
you find staff and new business opportunities.
How do you envision on sustaining your company’s
competency in this ever cutthroat and volatile business
ecosystem? Where do you see your company in the next
five years?
We survive, and will continue to do so, because we always
fall back to working with two main strategies. The first is
sticking to what we do best. That is, offering quality
swimming lessons that get results and produce strong,
independent swimmers. After that, we look to the future and
the opportunities that will allow us to grow. It’s that attitude
that’s taken me from being a single instructor in my own
school to a franchised business across numerous venues.
It’s that attitude that will see me being a growing presence
in the US franchise market in the next five years.
www.thecioworld.com
MAY, 2023 33

WOMEN
MAKING
WA
VES IN E
CORPO TE
WORLD
Trailblazers
of
European
Business
34

n recent years, women have been making significant
strides in the corporate world, breaking barriers and
shattering glass ceilings. Their remarkable
achievements and trailblazing efforts have
transformed the landscape of European business.
Further, we will highlight the accomplishments of women
who are making waves in the corporate world, their
contributions to various industries, and the positive impact
they have on gender equality and business innovation.
Leading with Vision and Determination
Women leaders in the corporate world have shown
remarkable vision and determination in achieving their
goals. They have defied societal expectations and overcome
gender biases to reach top executive positions in companies
across Europe. Through their exceptional leadership skills,
strategic thinking, and ability to inspire others, they have
demonstrated that gender is not a barrier to success.
Driving Diversity and Inclusion
One of the significant contributions of women leaders in the
corporate world is their commitment to driving diversity and
inclusion. They recognize the importance of creating
inclusive workplaces that value diverse perspectives and
experiences. By championing diversity initiatives,
implementing policies that support equal opportunities, and
promoting gender balance in leadership roles, they are
fostering a culture of inclusivity that benefits both
individuals and organizations.
Transforming Company Cultures
Women leaders are playing a pivotal role in transforming
company cultures to be more inclusive and progressive.
They are challenging traditional hierarchical structures and
encouraging collaboration, transparency, and employee
empowerment. By promoting a culture of trust, innovation,
and work-life balance, they are creating environments
where individuals can thrive, contribute their best, and drive
business growth.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Women leaders serve as powerful role models, inspiring the
next generation of aspiring business professionals. Through
their achievements, they demonstrate that gender should not
limit career aspirations. By sharing their stories, mentoring
young professionals, and participating in initiatives that
promote girls' education and empowerment, they are paving
the way for future generations of women leaders.
Breaking Gender Stereotypes
Women leaders are breaking gender stereotypes in the
corporate world, challenging the notion that certain
industries or positions are reserved for men. They are
excelling in fields traditionally dominated by men,
including technology, finance, engineering, and
manufacturing. By proving their capabilities and expertise,
they are dismantling gender biases and reshaping industry
norms.
Fostering Innovation and Creativity
The contributions of women leaders go beyond breaking
gender barriers; they are also fostering innovation and
creativity in the corporate world. Their diverse perspectives,
problem-solving abilities, and collaborative leadership
styles bring fresh ideas and approaches to the table. By
creating environments that encourage experimentation, risk-
taking, and learning from failure, they are driving
innovation and enabling businesses to stay competitive in
rapidly evolving markets.
Advocating for Work-Life Balance
Women leaders are strong advocates for work-life balance,
recognizing the importance of well-being and flexibility in
www.thecioworld.com
MAY, 2023 35
I

achieving professional success. They are championing
policies such as flexible working hours, parental leave, and
supportive work environments. By prioritizing work-life
balance, they are creating conditions that enable employees
to thrive, resulting in increased productivity, engagement,
and retention.
Influencing Corporate Social Responsibility
Women leaders are leveraging their positions of influence to
shape corporate social responsibility (CSR) agendas. They
prioritize sustainable practices, ethical decision-making,
and community engagement. By incorporating CSR into
business strategies, they are driving positive social and
environmental impact while also enhancing corporate
reputation and stakeholder trust.
Overcoming Challenges and Paving the Way
Women leaders in the corporate world have faced numerous
challenges on their journey to success. They have navigated
biases, confronted gender-based discrimination, and
managed work-life integration. However, their
perseverance, resilience, and determination have paved the
way for future generations of women leaders, making the
path a little easier for those who aspire to follow in their
footsteps.
Collaborating for Change
Women leaders understand the power of collaboration and
are actively fostering partnerships to drive change. They are
joining forces with other influential individuals,
organizations, and networks to advocate for gender equality,
support women's empowerment initiatives, and promote
inclusive business practices. By working together, they
amplify their impact and create a united front for driving
positive change in the corporate world.
Embracing Digital Transformation
Women leaders are at the forefront of embracing digital
transformation in the corporate world. They recognize the
potential of technology to revolutionize business processes,
enhance customer experiences, and drive innovation. By
embracing digital tools, data analytics, and artificial
intelligence, they are leading their organizations toward a
more agile and digitally-driven future.
Gaining Recognition and Awards
The achievements of women leaders in the corporate world
are gaining recognition and accolades. Various industry
awards and honors celebrate their contributions,
showcasing their excellence and inspiring others. These
accolades not only acknowledge their individual success
but also bring visibility to the importance of gender
diversity and women's leadership in driving business
success.
Empowering Women-Owned Businesses
Women leaders are actively empowering women-owned
businesses by providing mentorship, access to networks,
and financial support. They understand the importance of
nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit and fostering a
supportive ecosystem for women entrepreneurs to thrive.
By investing in women-owned ventures, they contribute to
economic growth, job creation, and innovation.
Promoting Gender Diversity in Boardrooms
Women leaders are advocating for increased gender
diversity in boardrooms. They recognize the value of
diverse perspectives and the positive impact it has on
decision-making and organizational performance. By
actively promoting the appointment of women to corporate
boards, they are challenging the status quo and pushing for
more inclusive governance structures.
Driving Economic Growth and Resilience
The contributions of women leaders to the corporate world
extend beyond individual organizations. They are driving
economic growth and resilience by creating jobs,
stimulating innovation, and fostering a culture of
entrepreneurship. Their leadership not only benefits their
own companies but also contributes to the overall
prosperity of the European business landscape.
Conclusion
Women leaders are making waves in the corporate world,
breaking barriers, and driving significant change. Their
visionary leadership, commitment to diversity and
inclusion, and transformative approaches are reshaping the
European business landscape. By inspiring the next
generation, challenging gender stereotypes, and advocating
for inclusive practices, they are paving the way for a more
equitable and prosperous future. It is essential to continue
supporting and empowering women leaders, as their
contributions are vital for driving economic growth,
fostering innovation, and creating a more inclusive and
gender-balanced corporate world.
-P.D.Bombarde
36

RAISSA
DeHaas
JAYCE
De Haas
Redefining Mixers
for a Premium Drinking
Experience
How Double Dutch Drinks Revolu onized the Mixer Market with their
Passion for Premium Spirits and Innova on!
s humans, we have always had a fascination with
Ataste. It’s an experience that can transport us to
another time and place, awaken our senses, and
bring us joy. From the foods we eat to the drinks we savor,
taste has become an art form in its own right. In today’s
world, taste has taken on even greater importance as we
seek out new and exciting flavors to satisfy our cravings.
In a world where taste reigns supreme, two entrepreneurial
sisters from the Netherlands, Raissa de Haas, and Joyce de
Haas, embarked on a remarkable journey fueled by a belief
that drinking could be taken to new heights to enhance the
drinking experience with more flavorful options and to
provide premium spirits with the mixers they truly deserve.
Their odyssey to revolutionize the mixer terrain
commenced during their academic years when they
resolved to take control of the situation. Equipped
with an unwavering resolve to explore uncharted
territories, they both began dabbling in crafting
their own carbonated beverages. This
imaginative quest ignited a flame in their souls,
and they apprehended that they had chanced
upon something authentically remarkable.
With an insatiable appetite for success, they
devoted their ultimate academic year to
meticulously exploring the realm of the
mixer market. Diligently scrutinizing
the nuances of the industry, they
conducted an in-depth analysis of
the emerging trends and
scrutinized the preferences
of consumers.
38

We’ve cra ed a
collec on that is
quick to get the party
started but low in
sugar and contains no
ar ﬁcial ﬂavors or
preserva ves.
www.thecioworld.com
MAY, 2023 39

Their steadfast dedication bore fruit when they emerged
victorious and were crowned the most promising startup by
UCL during their convocation ceremony. This accolade not
only indicated their tireless endeavors but also afforded
them the seed capital to actualize their aspirations.
With a clear vision in mind, Raissa de Haas and Joyce de
Haas founded their company, creating a brand that would
forever change the way we think about mixers. Thus,
Double Dutch Drinks was born.
Join us as we dive into the inspiring story of these visionary
founders and their company’s rise to success!
Brief our audience about your journey as the founders
of Double Dutch Drinks.
Our journey began with the belief that drinking could be
enhanced with more flavorful options and that premium
spirits deserved better mixers to elevate every drink. As
natives of the Netherlands, the birthplace of Gin, my sister
and I have always shared a natural affinity for premium
drinks. However, we were disheartened by the limited
selection of high-end mixers available to accompany the
wide array of premium spirits. To address this issue, we
started experimenting with making our sodas during our
university years and dedicated our final master’s year to
researching the mixer market. Our efforts were rewarded
when we were awarded the prize for the most promising
startup from UCL at graduation, along with our initial
investment.
Double Dutch is not only focused on creating flavorful
drinking experiences but also on conducting business in an
ethical and responsible manner. We have implemented a
clear policy to support diversity and are continuously
seeking new ways to promote sustainability throughout our
supply chain.
Brief us about the product range that has helped you
ascertain your brand’s value.
The flavors of Double Dutch are a result of applying
molecular gastronomy and flavor pairing techniques to
create unique and harmonious flavor combinations that
enhance the spirits they are mixed with. Our mixers are an
ideal match for Gin, but they are also versatile, blending
impeccably with Rum, Tequila, Vodka, Whiskey, and most
other spirits. Moreover, they can be savored as a refreshing
standalone soft drink.
Double Dutch pioneered the creation of mixers
without quinine and placed great emphasis on
combining complementary flavors for their
mixers. Their recipe development process utilizes
molecular gastronomy, resulting in drinks made
with all-natural flavors that are delectable when
consumed alone or paired with high-end spirits.
Taking into consideration the current
pandemic and its impact on global economies,
how are you driving your company to sustain
operations and ensure the safety of your
employees at the same time?
We launched our webshop during the pandemic
to connect directly with our consumers. As well
as, we focus our resources and time on retailing
nationally and internally and growing our e-
commerce platforms.
Safety for employees: we have been working
from home for more than a year now and are
slowly coming back to the office one day a
week, and will slowly build to three days a
week, if the team feels safe, of course.
Enlighten us on how you have made an
impact on the community through your
entrepreneurial journey.
A scholarship and mentoring initiative has
been introduced to aid female bartenders in
their pursuit of a career in the industry.
Unfortunately, the launch was delayed by
a year due to the pandemic, despite being
planned for May. The program will
include one-on-one sessions and
financial support, as well as events that
are open to the public. It will partner
with multiple bartenders to provide
practical training and share industry
insights with successful female
applicants.
What would be your advice to
budding entrepreneurs who
aspire to venture into the niche
beverage market?
As you begin your company or
introduce a new product, it’s
vital to swiftly enter the market
40

and obtain real market validation.
Don’t get caught up in striving for
perfection and delay launching.
Remember, the customer is always
correct, so gathering direct feedback
from them will be more advantageous.
Based on this genuine market
feedback, you can potentially make
adjustments and tweaks to enhance
your product’s success.
Where do you envision yourselves
and your company being in the long
run?
Becoming a household name known for
ﬂavor innovation in the mixer category.
What are your views on the impact that
will be made when more entrepreneurial
opportunities are created for women?
Especially with the current crisis, increasing
gender equality will contribute to the global
economy and economic growth, resulting in a
faster recovery.
Women have diﬀerent skills than men. (more
problem-solving-driven and better at teamwork, I
think) Increase innovation.
www.thecioworld.com
MAY, 2023 41

We need to accept that we won’t
always make the right decisions,
that we’ll screw up royally
sometimes – Understanding that
failure is not the opposite of
success, it’s part of success.
- Arianna Huﬃngton

www.thecioworld.com
THE
CI

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