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Elegance Unleashed: Kayrouz Bridal and Berta Take Sydney Streets by Storm

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Sydney’s vibrant streets recently turned into a glamorous runway, as Kayrouz Bridal, in collaboration with Berta Bridal, Royalle Modelling, and the visionary photographer Aries Tao, staged an unforgettable photoshoot. This event was a stunning fusion of artistry, fashion, and urban charm, showcasing the breathtaking designs of Berta Bridal dresses and the talents of all involved.

Kayrouz Bridal has long been synonymous with sophistication and style, and this photoshoot served as yet another testament to their position as Sydney’s go-to bridal boutique. Housing an exquisite collection of Berta Bridal gowns, Kayrouz Bridal offers something truly special for every bride-to-be. From romantic lace to contemporary silhouettes, their curated selection caters to modern brides looking for timeless elegance.

The Berta Bridal dresses featured in this shoot were nothing short of spectacular. Known for their intricate detailing, luxurious fabrics, and dramatic designs, Berta gowns encapsulate the glamour every bride dreams of. Whether it was a shimmering beaded number or a sleek satin masterpiece, each dress highlighted Kayrouz Bridal’s commitment to bringing only the finest bridal couture to Sydney.

No fashion story is complete without the eye of a master photographer, and Aries Tao delivered in spades. Known for his ability to blend artistry with narrative, Aries transformed Sydney’s streets into a dynamic backdrop that perfectly complemented the grandeur of the Berta gowns.

This photoshoot was a true showcase of what happens when creative forces unite. Kayrouz Bridal’s impeccable taste, Berta Bridal’s unparalleled designs, Royalle Modelling’s striking models, and Aries Tao’s artistic vision came together to create a visual feast. Each contributor brought their unique expertise, but it was the synergy between them that made the project extraordinary.

For brides-to-be, this shoot is a reminder of the magic that awaits at Kayrouz Bridal. With a collection of Berta Bridal gowns that exude luxury and elegance, paired with a dedication to creating unforgettable moments, Kayrouz Bridal is where bridal dreams come true.

Credits
Royalle Models:
Heather Varcoe, James Morris, Erin Ford, Alex Deutch
Photography: Aries Tao
HMU: Angela Feng Makeup
Dresses: Kayrouz Bridal & Berta Bridal

Introducing The Brand Behind The Cover Of The October 2024 Issue Of MoneyCentral Magazine: CROSSGEAR

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For over a century, CROSSGEAR has stood as a testament to the enduring legacy of Swiss craftsmanship, shaping the evolution of travel gear from its roots in Brig, Switzerland, to its recognition as a global leader in business luggage. With a deep commitment to excellence, innovation, and practicality, CROSSGEAR has continually redefined what it means to travel in style and comfort. The brand’s story is one of heritage, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of perfection.

The CROSSGEAR journey began in 1908 in Brig, a town nestled in the picturesque Valais canton of Switzerland. Here, Giles Picard, a visionary craftsman, worked alongside his father in a cutlery factory. Inspired by his country’s tradition of precision and durability, Picard designed the concept for the now-iconic Swiss Army Knife. By 1910, his creation had become a reality, delivered successfully to the Swiss military—a milestone that would set the foundation for Picard’s future ventures.

The 1920s marked a transformative period for global travel. With the world becoming more connected, the need for durable and functional travel accessories surged. Recognizing this shift, Picard channeled his craftsmanship into developing high-quality leather goods and luggage for travelers passing through Brig. To honor his Swiss roots and the exceptional quality that characterized Swiss manufacturing, he named the brand “CrossGear,” merging the iconic cross of the Swiss flag with his own name. Thus, the CROSSGEAR brand was born, setting a new standard for excellence in travel gear.

A Tradition of Excellence: CROSSGEAR’s Unwavering Commitment to Craftsmanship

CROSSGEAR’s legacy is built upon a foundation of meticulous craftsmanship and a dedication to innovation that has remained steadfast over the decades. The brand’s mission has always been clear: to enhance the travel experience through products that marry functionality with timeless style. With a design philosophy rooted in Swiss precision, CROSSGEAR’s offerings are crafted to provide the highest level of durability, convenience, and comfort.

Throughout its history, CROSSGEAR consistently pushes the boundaries of what is possible in travel gear. The company’s products embody the brand’s ethos of enhancing the practicality of travel while ensuring that each piece carries the signature excellence of Swiss craftsmanship. From business trips to everyday commuting, CROSSGEAR has made it its mission to anticipate and meet the needs of modern travelers.

Pioneering Innovation: The Light Weight Master Backpack

In 2018, CROSSGEAR launched the Light Weight Master Backpack, a revolutionary product that became a benchmark in the industry. Billed as “the one backpack that ticks all the boxes, be it for commuting or business trips,” the Light Weight Master Backpack combined Swiss craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology to create a versatile and stylish solution for the modern traveler.

Award-Winning Design: CROSSGEAR’s Global Recognition

CROSSGEAR’s dedication to innovation and excellence has not gone unnoticed. The brand has earned a series of prestigious awards, affirming its status as one of the leaders in the industry. In 2023, the CROSSGEAR Smart Backpack won the Berlin Design Award Gold for its ingenious design, combining style with unmatched functionality. The same year, the brand was honored with the Red Dot Design Award, one of the world’s most sought-after design accolades. The CROSSGEAR Smart Backpack’s recognition further validated CROSSGEAR’s approach to fusing practicality and aesthetics in travel gear.

In addition to winning the Red Dot Design Award, CROSSGEAR’s products were showcased at the Red Dot Award Winners Exhibition and featured in the 2023-24 Red Dot Design Yearbook, solidifying the brand’s reputation on the global stage. These accolades are a testament to the brand’s ability to not only meet but exceed international standards of design and functionality.

CROSSGEAR’s commitment to innovation continued in 2024 with the launch of the SwisBaby Backpack, an award-winning product that received the IF Design Award in Germany. With its innovative design and uncompromising quality, the SwisBaby Backpack has become a favorite among consumers, demonstrating CROSSGEAR’s ability to cater to diverse needs while maintaining its Swiss heritage.

Pioneering the Future of Travel: Suspended Weight-Reducing Shoulder Straps

As the global travel industry continues to expand, CROSSGEAR has remained at the forefront of innovation with its Suspended Weight-Reducing Shoulder Straps technology. This groundbreaking development is aimed at enhancing comfort for travelers around the world. Designed to alleviate pressure and distribute weight evenly, this technology has set a new standard in the backpack industry.

After extensive research and development, CROSSGEAR’s weight-reducing technology received the German IGR Ergonomics Certification, showcasing the brand’s commitment to both design and functionality. This certification further positions CROSSGEAR as a leader in world-class backpack design, demonstrating the brand’s ability to blend innovation with practicality.

A Testament to Quality: CROSSGEAR’s Design Excellence

CROSSGEAR’s reputation for quality is validated by its numerous international accolades. As a world-renowned Swiss luggage brand, CROSSGEAR has won six major international design awards, including the Red Dot Award, the Italian A’ Design Award, and the IF Design Award. These recognitions are not merely accolades but a testament to the brand’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of craftsmanship and quality.

These awards represent more than just industry accolades; they serve as a global affirmation of CROSSGEAR’s dedication to excellence. The brand’s success in the international design landscape highlights its ability to create products that resonate with consumers worldwide, emphasizing the universal appeal of Swiss craftsmanship.

A Century-Old Legacy of Craftsmanship and Innovation

Founded in 1921, CROSSGEAR has become synonymous with Swiss excellence. From its origins in the small town of Brig, CROSSGEAR has grown into a global brand with a loyal customer base that values quality, practicality, and timeless design. For over a century, the brand has remained true to its roots, consistently optimizing its products to enhance the travel experience.

CROSSGEAR’s products are a seamless blend of tradition and innovation. The brand’s commitment to craftsmanship, inspired by the precision of the Swiss Army Knife, ensures that each product is built to last while offering modern features that cater to contemporary needs. This combination of heritage and forward-thinking design has allowed CROSSGEAR to maintain its iconic status, winning the trust of consumers around the world.

Looking Ahead: CROSSGEAR’s Vision for the Future

CROSSGEAR is not just a brand; it’s a legacy that embodies the spirit of Swiss craftsmanship and the passion for travel. As the brand continues to innovate, it remains committed to its mission of enhancing the travel experience for business professionals, commuters, and adventurers alike. With a focus on developing products that merge style, comfort, and practicality, CROSSGEAR aims to lead the global market in business luggage and travel gear.

The future of CROSSGEAR lies in its unwavering dedication to excellence and its ability to evolve with the demands of a rapidly changing world. As the brand looks ahead, it remains focused on expanding its global reach, introducing new and innovative products, and upholding the century-old tradition of Swiss craftsmanship that has defined its legacy.

With its eye on the future and its roots firmly grounded in Swiss excellence, CROSSGEAR is set to remain a symbol of quality, innovation, and style in the world of travel gear for decades to come.

Recruiting Global Distributor Partners， Business Consulting： sales@crossgear.ch

Meet The Entrepreneur Behind The Cover Of The Latest Issue Of MoneyCentral Magazine: Kyle Hanslovan

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As the cover star of the July issue of MoneyCentral magazine, Kyle Hanslovan is no stranger to success. The co-founder and CEO of HUNTRESS, a sleek cybersecurity operation recently valued at $1.5 billion, Kyle is at the forefront of a revolution in cybersecurity. His journey from an ambitious hacker to a respected industry leader is nothing short of remarkable.

Kyle’s accolades are numerous: he was listed among CRN’s “Top 100 Executives of 2023,” the “Top 25 Technology Disruptors,” and Ernst & Young’s “2024 Entrepreneur of the Year.” He has also earned titles such as “award-winning cyberwarfare expert” and “elite NSA operative.” These achievements underscore his pivotal role in shaping the cybersecurity landscape.

Kyle’s career reads like an epic movie script. As a teenager, he wasn’t just another kid watching cable TV; he was a budding hacker eager to prove himself in a world full of challenges. His early years were marked by personal struggles, including an absent father and a tumultuous life with a single mother. However, these adversities only fueled his drive for success.

Finding solace and purpose in the Junior ROTC, Kyle embraced the discipline, accountability, and camaraderie it offered. The corps instilled in him values of justice, integrity, honor, and moral character, which he carried into his career. After graduating high school early, he joined the Air Force, where he managed over $10 million worth of government resources by the age of 19.

During his award-winning military career, Kyle thrived on the adrenaline of hacking global communication systems, rising through the ranks of the NSA to become one of the finest cyber warfare operators. His tech skills and knack for foiling cyber-attacks made him a formidable force. However, his contributions remained largely unseen. Seeking a more visible impact, Kyle transitioned to the private sector.

A pivotal moment came in 2014 when Kyle won DEF CON’s Capture the Flag, the nation’s premier hacking competition. Courted by Fortune 500 companies, he turned them down, focusing instead on addressing a critical gap in the cybersecurity market: the needs of small businesses. Traditional cybersecurity providers overlooked these businesses, but Kyle saw their potential and necessity.

Determined to make a difference, Kyle founded HUNTRESS, a venture dedicated to providing elite, affordable cyber protection to small and mid-sized businesses. His remote team of ethical hackers has since raised over $300 million in capital, securing hundreds of jobs and livelihoods. Today, HUNTRESS stands as a beacon of cybersecurity for the backbone of the American economy.

Now at a crossroads, Kyle reflects on his journey. Having built a successful company, he has ensured a better life for his three children and set an example of leadership. With HUNTRESS running smoothly without his constant oversight, he is ready to take on new challenges. At 38, Kyle is poised to invest in the future. Grateful for the support he received, he aims to amplify the voices of passionate creatives who seek to overhaul unjust systems. With expertise in mission strategy, culture building, and venture funding, Kyle is on the hunt for his next worthy adversaries, ready to leave an even greater legacy.

Kyle Hanslovan’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and unwavering determination. As he continues to push boundaries and challenge the status quo, the world watches eagerly to see what this cybersecurity maverick will conquer next. MoneyCentral Magazine recently caught up with Kyle to discuss his journey as an entrepreneur, and here’s what went down:

Can you tell us about the journey that led you to co-found HUNTRESS and what motivated you to focus on cybersecurity for small and mid-sized businesses?

We only have one life to live, so we’d better use it to solve problems worth solving. This thought was a major part of what inspired me to become a hacker for the US Intelligence Community. It also pushed me to leave my career supporting national security to protect the backbone of the global economy—small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs)—and square off against the cybercriminals that threatened them.

As someone who started hacking at a young age, how did your early experiences shape your approach to cybersecurity and your career in this field?

As a teen hacker in the early days of dial-up internet, most of my obsession came from the challenge and thrill of bending normal functionality to do something completely unexpected. However, I also craved what others had that I didn’t, so it’s not surprising that I spent my time bypassing licensing restrictions to play the hottest video games or use the latest software. Growing up with the mindset that hacking can be a means to get ahead helps you appreciate why some cyber adversaries often look at their illicit gains as merely a job rather than a crime. It’s also a massive reminder of how innovative my teammates and I need to be in order to stay ahead of folks with equal creativity and little to lose.

Photography by Toni Smailagic of Cre8Jax in Jacksonville, Florida

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced while building HUNTRESS from the ground up, and how did you overcome them?

When we founded HUNTRESS in 2015, two dozen multi-billion dollar cybersecurity companies already served the largest banks, healthcare firms, and government institutions across the globe. There wasn’t an obvious niche for us to claim in this enterprise market, but the businesses below the Fortune 2000 were dangerously under-protected. Despite all the clear signs that cybercriminals favored targeting these mid-market and small businesses, Silicon Valley’s venture capitalists were less than convinced. It took us years of consistent revenue growth, endless positive feedback, and the help of local angel investors to finally catch the attention of major investors and analysts in 2020.

Your background includes significant military experience and work with the NSA. How did these experiences influence your leadership style and strategic thinking in the private sector?

Cyber operations within the Air Force, and especially at the NSA, leverage small distributed teams to deliver specific valuable outcomes. The most important leadership trait I embody from this experience is my daily focus on delivering clarity by challenging our fully remote teammates when they may be prioritizing less valuable “outputs” over the unmistakably critical “outcomes” that make the greatest difference to our partners and customers. Put another way, it’s very easy to overlook that “gathering intelligence on a terrorist threat” isn’t quite the same as “thwarting a terrorist attack.” When you make this mistake in cybersecurity, companies get held for ransom, operations tend to halt, and employees might not get paid.

In 2023, you were listed among CRN’s “Top 100 Executives,” “Top 25 Technology Disruptors,” and Ernst & Young’s “2024 Entrepreneur of the Year.” What do these accolades mean to you, and how do they reflect HUNTRESS’ impact on the cybersecurity industry?

I genuinely appreciate these types of awards as they validate that all our hard work and tough times have been recognized and appreciated. However, I also have to remind myself that these accolades are lagging indicators detailing past successes and aren’t indicative of our future success. I firmly believe that challenging malicious humans requires more perspiration than inspiration (though both help), so my focus is squarely on the future and predicting where shady hackers will go next. That’s how you make a real impact on any industry.

HUNTRESS has been valued at over $1.56 billion. What do you believe has been the key to your company’s rapid growth and success?

Weak leadership would give you a strictly “by-the-numbers” answer, which might sound something like this: building a product that customers love, maintaining sound gross margins and retention, and constantly expanding our total addressable market is what has launched HUNTRESS beyond unicorn company valuation after raising $150 million in our latest funding round. Although that’s not incorrect, financial milestones alone lack the heart and soul that have quickly propelled HUNTRESS to this level. Instead, we internally rally ourselves around one annual thematic goal: How many companies can we help protect, and how much of their environment can we secure? The end result is a north star that partners and customers can get behind just as strongly as our engineers, sellers, marketers, supporting teammates, and investors. This is the real magic behind our rapid growth and success.

Given your commitment to helping small businesses, what do you think are the most pressing cybersecurity threats they face today, and how does HUNTRESS address them?

Cybercriminals are heavily investing in massive amounts of automation to target the same millions of mid-market and small businesses that HUNTRESS is trying to protect. This means that any organization, regardless of size or revenue, can become a target of opportunity. The automation used by these malicious hackers focuses on technical debt and misconfigurations in yesteryear’s technologies, as well as abusing nuances in newly adopted cloud applications and other work-from-anywhere innovations. HUNTRESS products and ethical hackers augment IT departments to educate, prevent, detect, and respond to threats against work laptops, servers, email accounts, and employees. However, we’re very direct that this isn’t a silver bullet—we’re dramatically reducing your risk but not eliminating it entirely. Similar to how a self-care routine keeps you fit, YET complex issues like cancer still pose a threat. Cybersecurity is very similar, and together, we help even the smallest teams find, treat, and overcome the “inevitable” incident before this malicious automation creates a terminal situation.

You’ve raised over $300 million in capital for HUNTRESS. What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs looking to secure funding for their ventures?

Despite all the promises from Venture Capitalists and Private Equity, I’ve rarely seen investment partners provide more value than financing. I’ve had to spend an overwhelming amount of my time forging long-standing personal relationships with potential investors well before I ever needed their help. This strategy takes a lot of proactive and predictive thought and has been a cornerstone of my strategy to build an iconic company of consequence. Before you sign a term sheet, I highly encourage you to ask yourself, “Do I truly know whether this person and firm will ride through hell with me when times get rough?” If your answer is not an overwhelming “YES,” I’d argue that you’re not truly ready to close your round.

Looking back on your career, what are some of the pivotal moments that defined your path and led you to where you are today?

Having a clearly defined, ambitious mission played a pivotal role in our journey and helped us every time our confidence wavered. Each major stumble acted as an inflection point where we could have thrown in the towel, but we’ve always risen up and protected those who needed our cybersecurity expertise. The mission to defend SMBs has also empowered dozens of the world’s greatest ethical hackers and an entire community of IT professionals and Managed Service Providers to join the Huntress team and rally behind our mission. If it’s not obvious, I firmly believe you’ll wander lost without a “north star” to guide you—in business and in life.

With HUNTRESS now a well-oiled machine, what future goals and projects do you have in mind, and how do you plan to continue making an impact in the cybersecurity industry and beyond?

As previously mentioned, cybercriminals are closely examining weaknesses in SMBs’ existing environments while also hungry to take advantage of the new digital innovations coming at the speed of AI. This presents a massive attack surface across the globe’s economic backbone, and HUNTRESS can’t protect it all despite releasing two new products in less than 12 months. As a result, we’re rapidly accelerating our research and development alongside our acquisition strategy to build and buy several new products. Expect to see innovations in Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) in the next few quarters, alongside plans to enter the Security Posture Management (SPM) markets to help our partners and customers harden their endpoints, identities, and SaaS applications. Cybercriminals don’t sleep. Neither do we.

Introducing The Brand Behind The Cover Of The Latest Issue Of MoneyCentral Magazine: Mr. Gino-o

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Cover Photography by: Bilgaer Photography

Mr. Gino-o, the visionary fashion brand known for its innovative approach to traditional Filipino attire, proudly announces the unveiling of its latest collection during The Miss Mardi Gras International Queen 2024 Pageant. The brainchild of Albert Prias, Mr. Gino-o has once again captivated the fashion world with its reinterpretation of the iconic Barong Tagalog, blending cultural heritage with modern style.

Mr. Gino-o’s latest collection, aptly named “Made For Men,” showcases a contemporary twist on the classic Barong Tagalog, seamlessly blending traditional Filipino craftsmanship with a trendy, globally relevant aesthetic. Crafted using Philippine-sourced materials such as abaca, jusi, pinya, banana fiber, inaul, inabel, and tinalak hand-woven cloths, each garment embodies the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines while catering to the international market.

“At Mr. Gino-o, we are committed to promoting Philippine products and materials while providing employment opportunities for Filipino artisans,” said Albert Prias, the creative force behind the brand. “With ‘Made For Men,’ we aim to showcase the artistic abilities of Filipinos and celebrate our cultural heritage on a global stage.”

The grand reveal of Mr. Gino-o’s latest collection took place at the Orion Function Center in Campsie, NSW, during The Miss Mardi Gras International Queen 2024 Pageant. The event, curated by Flagcom & Friends, not only celebrated beauty and talent but also served as a platform for raising awareness about issues facing the LGBTQI+ community.

“Mr. Gino-o’s collection was the highlight of the evening, showcasing the perfect fusion of tradition and modernity,” said a representative from Flagcom & Friends. “Albert Prias’s innovative vision has not only revitalized the Barong Tagalog but also promoted Philippine products and materials on a global scale.”

As the glittering lights faded and the echoes of the event lingered, Mr. Gino-o’s collection served as a reminder of the transformative power of fashion and advocacy. Through its groundbreaking designs and commitment to cultural pride, Mr. Gino-o continues to redefine the fashion landscape, one garment at a time.

Meet The Entrepreneur Behind The Cover Of The January 2024 Issue Of MoneyCentral Magazine: Elton A. Hollis III

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Elton A. Hollis III, the dynamic entrepreneur and owner of Hol-Tech Resources, LLC, is making waves in the business world as a sought-after consultant and influential figure in the Safety, Quality, and Compliance realms. With a career spanning over 25 years in the Oil and Gas Construction field, Elton has consistently demonstrated his commitment to excellence, leadership, and small business development.

As the owner of Hol-Tech Resources, LLC, Elton oversees a full-service consulting firm that specializes in providing comprehensive guidance and training in Safety, Quality, and Compliance. His expertise extends to the industrial, commercial, and small business industries, where he has earned a reputation for delivering top-notch consulting, training, executive coaching, and safety management services.

In addition to his role at Hol-Tech Resources, Elton serves as the General Manager of RT Technical Solutions LLC, where he plays a pivotal role in leading their team to the forefront of the Industrial Electrical and Instrumentation fields.

A dedicated advocate for entrepreneurs, Elton is a co-founder of the Golden Triangle Industrial Group and serves as the Vice-Chairperson for the Contractors Business Development Group. His passion for fostering small business success is evident in his involvement with marketing meetings, events, and mentor speaking engagements aimed at helping entrepreneurs flourish.

Elton’s impact goes beyond the boardroom, as he enjoys spending time outdoors exploring the Texas Hill Country on hiking trails. His commitment to empowering entrepreneurs led him to publish two insightful books, “Creative Problem Solving” and “Buy Into Yourself First.” The latter serves as a detailed guide on successful business development tactics, offering invaluable insights on making businesses more successful.

Recognized for his Small Business training grant work in collaboration with the Lamar Institute of Technology, Elton is well-regarded in the Safety and Training field. His dedication to small business success has garnered him features on the cover of international magazines such as Global Millionaire Magazine, InLife International, StarCentral Magazine, and Global Elite Entrepreneur Magazine. Additionally, he has contributed articles to Elitepedia, The Los Angeles Refine Post, and The Global Celebrity. VT Post has honored him by naming him one of the Top 100 Entrepreneurs in Texas.

Elton A. Hollis III stands as a true inspiration in the business world, using his experience, expertise, and voice to motivate and empower entrepreneurs on their path to sustainable life satisfaction and inherent success.

Through his leadership, advocacy, and commitment to holistic success, he exemplifies the qualities that can propel individuals towards not just business triumphs but also a deeply satisfying and fulfilling life journey.

MoneyCentral Magazine recently interviewed Elton to discuss his journey as an entrepreneur and here’s what went down:

Could you share some insights into your 25 years of experience in the Oil and Gas Construction field and how it has shaped your approach to business consulting?

Having 25 years of experience in the oil and gas industry can bring immense value to any business. The oil and gas industry is known for its complex operations, rigorous safety standards, and demanding logistical requirements. I have developed exceptional project management, risk assessment, and problem-solving skills through years of working in this industry. These skills are transferable to any business, as they foster a strategic mindset and an ability to navigate challenges effectively. Moreover, the oil and gas industry operates in a highly regulated environment, requiring professionals to understand compliance and legal frameworks. This knowledge can be invaluable in ensuring a business operates ethically and within the boundaries of the law. Additionally, the oil and gas industry is at the forefront of technological advancements, such as digitalization and automation. With 25 years of experience in this industry, I have witnessed and adapted to these technological changes, making me well-equipped to drive innovation and optimize processes in any business. Overall, the extensive experience gained in the oil and gas industry has brought me a wealth of knowledge, expertise, and a unique perspective. The most important part of my experience has been learning that nothing trumps hard work, kindness, and doing whatever you can to help another person.

As the co-founder of Small Business Friday! Video podcast, could you elaborate on how this platform supports small businesses and what motivated you to initiate this venture?

Small Business Friday started as a way for radio listeners to hear some good news about local businesses in Southeast Texas. With guidance and wisdom from the late Fernando Ramirez, we were able to expand on this to include many other platforms. Joe Tant, I, and our Producer Matthew Chance have been truly blessed to meet so many wonderful people and listen to their stories of struggle, triumph, and everything in between! Our video podcast highlights local businesses, events, and stories in hopes of expanding their footprint and giving them a helping hand to grow their business. We are very fortunate to have show sponsors that allow us to do this for these folks free of charge! Our fearless leader, Joe Tant, is fond of saying, “Once upon a time, someone helped me; now it is my turn to help someone else.”

In your role at Hol-Tech Resources, LLC, you provide Safety, Quality, and Compliance guidance. How do you ensure that these critical aspects are effectively integrated into your consulting services?

I feel the best way I’ve been able to incorporate these aspects into my services is by truly taking the time in the beginning and listening to what my customer needs. Properly identifying the need is paramount to an effective solution. Secondly, finding a way to help incorporate this solution into the unique culture of their business is also very important. One of the most rewarding parts of this process for me is watching the ideas and suggestions take shape and mold into the best solution for the company. Lastly, keeping up with all the latest regulations, laws, and industry best practices is essential for me to be able to provide my customers with the best possible safety training, consulting, and advice.

As the General Manager of RT Technical Solutions LLC, how do you contribute to positioning the company at the forefront of the Industrial Electrical and Instrumentation fields?

A key element of being at the top of any field is to have a great team. I know this sounds like the same old song and dance, but it’s absolutely key here at RT! Most of our clients are end users, such as Kinder Morgan and TC Energy, which means they are on tight deadlines, and their bids are highly competitive. The team we have here has really embraced the concept of “value-added services.” Our Projects Team hits the ground running to ensure components are ordered, delivered, and processed as quickly as possible, while our Field Services Team puts it together to finalize a safe, on-time product. None of this could happen without having great ownership. Our owner, Kasey Taylor, is one of the best in the business at setting goals and allowing her team to get things done without micromanaging. We are also a proud, certified woman-owned business.

Being actively involved in Golden Triangle Industrial Group, could you share the group’s mission and the impact it has on the industrial sector?

Travis Woods and I founded the Golden Triangle Industrial Group. Our common goal was to form a group that would bring a unique and energetic business development event to Southeast Texas.

What challenges do you perceive in the industrial, commercial, and small business industries today, and how do you address these challenges in your consulting role?

I have identified three challenges that I deal with in my realm very frequently these days.

Difficulty in marketing and advertising, and competition from industry leaders.

I have two good friends at First State Bank of Texas in Beaumont. They have taught me the importance of sincere marketing. They have done this not by baiting me with rate discounts, but by showing up to support me, giving back to the community and being available. This not only fosters a belief in sincerity but also creates a deeper connection with customers who share those values. If you follow these basics, you can’t go wrong! Sometimes fighting the complacency of a comfortable business is tough, but if you want to grow, you need to be on the go!

Finding and retaining customers and avoiding reliance on one customer.

The best way I’ve found to combat this problem is to offer personalized solutions, provide excellent customer service, and diversify your customer base. These items allow you to spread the footing on your business to account for any ups and downs in financial or service-based issues.

Recruiting, motivating, and training staff.

This is such an important yet overlooked piece of business. Some great ways to help with this is by focusing on hard and soft skills, not just technical training. Next is to personalize the training to the employee skillset.
Utilizing multiple platforms helps break up the boredom that can come with training. Something else I’ve had great success with is actually having employees train one another when they are qualified. This grows comradery and fosters teamwork while also building a great foundation of excellence for your company.

Could you highlight a particularly challenging project you’ve encountered in your career, and how your expertise helped navigate and overcome those challenges?

One of the most challenging projects I have ever dealt with involved helping a client through an OSHA audit on an industrial site. This client had never been through an audit before and was rightfully stressed. We were able to navigate this challenge by essentially using the Golden Rule. We were very upfront and honest with the inspector. This allowed an open and direct line of communication for both parties. Fortunately, I have built a very impressive group of friends and colleagues in several different fields who helped us with advice to help in this situation.

Ultimately we were able to navigate this audit with no fines and learned some very valuable learning points for daily work procedures. This was another example of how relationships, hard work, and honesty help in all aspects of business.

With your extensive experience, what advice would you offer to aspiring entrepreneurs looking to succeed in the Oil and Gas Construction field or related industries?

To aspiring entrepreneurs looking to succeed in the oil and gas industry, here is some insightful and inspiring advice:

1. Develop a Deep Understanding: Take the time to thoroughly understand the industry, its dynamics, and the challenges it presents. This includes staying updated with market trends, technological advancements, and regulatory changes. The more knowledge you have, the better positioned you’ll be to identify opportunities and make informed decisions.

2. Build a Strong Network: Networking is crucial in the oil and gas industry. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with experts and influencers. Building a strong network can open doors to partnerships, collaborations, and valuable insights. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who can support and inspire you. Importantly, ALWAYS be looking for a way to help other people!

3. Embrace Innovation: The oil and gas industry is constantly evolving, driven by technological advancements and sustainability goals. Embrace innovation and be open to adopting new technologies and practices. Seek opportunities to leverage digitalization, automation, and renewable energy solutions. You can differentiate yourself and create a competitive advantage by staying ahead of the curve.

4. Focus on Safety and Sustainability: Safety and sustainability are non-negotiable priorities in the oil and gas industry. Make them integral parts of your business strategy from the start. Implement robust safety measures, prioritize environmental responsibility, and invest in sustainable practices. Demonstrating a commitment to safety and sustainability will not only protect your business but also enhance its reputation and credibility.

5. Be Resilient: The oil and gas industry can be volatile, with fluctuating prices and geopolitical factors impacting operations. As an entrepreneur, it’s important to be resilient and adaptable. Prepare for uncertainties, diversify your business, and have contingency plans in place. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and learn from setbacks.

6. Foster Strong Partnerships: Collaboration is key in the oil and gas industry. Seek out partnerships with suppliers, contractors, and other stakeholders. Establishing strong relationships based on trust and mutual benefit can lead to cost efficiencies, shared expertise, and access to new markets. Remember, success is often a collective effort.

7. Maintain a Long-Term Perspective: The oil and gas industry operates on long-term investment cycles. It’s essential to have a patient and long-term perspective. Avoid short-term thinking and focus on building sustainable growth. Invest in research and development, talent development, and strategic planning. Success in this industry requires perseverance and a commitment to the future.

Remember, entrepreneurship in the oil and gas industry requires a combination of industry knowledge, innovation, resilience, and strong relationships. Work hard, stay passionate, stay adaptable, and always strive for excellence. With dedication and a willingness to learn, you can carve your path to success in this dynamic industry.

As a multifaceted professional, how do you balance your various roles and responsibilities to ensure maximum impact and success in each area?

As a multifaceted professional, balancing various roles and responsibilities is crucial to ensuring maximum impact and success in each area. One strategy I employ is effective time management. By prioritizing tasks and setting clear goals, I am able to allocate sufficient time and attention to each role. This involves creating a schedule, identifying essential tasks, and delegating when necessary. Additionally, I believe in the power of delegation and collaboration. By leveraging the strengths and expertise of others, I am able to distribute responsibilities and work more efficiently. This not only helps me manage multiple roles effectively but also fosters a sense of teamwork and collective achievement. Lastly, I maintain a growth mindset and constantly seek opportunities for learning and development. By staying updated with industry trends and acquiring new skills, I am able to enhance my performance in each role and adapt to evolving demands. By employing these strategies, I am able to balance my various roles and responsibilities effectively, ensuring maximum impact and success in each area.

Meet The Man Behind The Cover Of The December 2023 Issue Of MoneyCentral Magazine: Mark Coronel

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Mark Coronel, Sales Director at Cubecorp Projects Pty Ltd, is a distinguished figure in the real estate industry, boasting 17 years of expertise, strategic thinking, and a genuine commitment to client needs. His journey reflects enduring passion and dedication, covering various aspects of real estate, including residential and commercial sales, project management, project marketing, and investment properties.

As a visionary leader and solution provider, Mark prioritises understanding clients’ unique needs and tailoring services accordingly. His philosophy empowers clients in making informed decisions, whether in finding dream homes, securing investment opportunities, or navigating complex transactions. Mark’s track record speaks volumes, having assisted over 1,000 clients across Australia in the past five years, showcasing his professionalism, efficiency, and client-centric approach.

Beyond real estate, Mark is a mentor and guide, sharing the wisdom and insights acquired throughout his journey. His commitment to excellence and client-centricity defines his legacy in the industry, transforming real estate sales and impacting lives over his 17-year career.

MoneyCentral Magazine recently caught up with Mark to discuss his journey in the industry, and here’s what went down:

What sets Cubecorp apart from other businesses in your industry?

We are not like traditional real estate companies, whereby we don’t just sell houses and apartments. We also specialise in off-the-plan and offer many complimentary services through our different companies and networks.

Finance, Migration, Property Management, Sale and Re-sale of Residential and Commercial Properties, Development, Project Management, Architect and Design Services, Business Development and Accounting, and much more.

We are not limited to Sydney but have offerings all over Australia and in countries like Vietnam, Indonesia, China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and the Philippines.

How do you envision the future of Cubecorp in the ever-evolving business landscape?

We are a platform for engagement. As the world and markets evolve, so do the demands of our clients. We have a mantra to never say no to opportunities straight away because it is fun to explore and create solutions we do not already have to people’s problems.

Businesses that do not innovate and continue to move forward and grow may be successful in the short term but will not survive to meet unforeseen challenges.

A big example was during the COVID-19 pandemic when many of our friends within the industry struggled to adapt and innovate and, unfortunately, had to close shop.

We envision evolving and positively impacting as many lives along the way as possible, with a target to provide jobs for 300,000 people one day!

What has been your most significant achievement or milestone with Cubecorp so far?

As an agent, I had the opportunity to win a listing for a whole apartment block, with 65 serviced apartments and parking. This was extremely challenging and rewarding, with many important lessons I have reminded myself of in recent deals!

How do you foster a positive and inclusive work culture within your organization?

It’s all about energy, in my opinion!

So, we try to put the right people in the right place and encourage personal development throughout our agents’ careers.

Everyone is different, and we encourage that. We are flexible with our work hours and opportunities but clear about our standards.

When we see there is potential in our staff, we nurture that. It’s how I was given the opportunity to become the Sales Director in a relatively short period of time.

We work hard, we play harder, and we reward excellence.

How did your entrepreneurial journey begin, and what inspired you to join Cubecorp?

For as long as I knew, I was different. I grew up in a traditional Filipino family where my values to work hard and stay honest were instilled early. But I’ve always had an appetite for more, with little side hustles through my schooling and university life that were constantly judged. But I’ve always liked to keep myself busy, and since I couldn’t find satisfaction as an engineer, I was presented with an opportunity to change my life.

Through miraculous circumstances, I was reintroduced to my university mate at Town Hall, the only place where you can get KFC Hot & Spicy, and we had a chat at his office. Don Liang is the CEO of Cubecorp, and he gave me the opportunity to sell properties on weekends. After three weekends, I resigned from my previous job and began my career in Real Estate.

Can you share any exciting upcoming projects or initiatives that Cubecorp is working on?

Absolutely, I’ll share two things if I can.

A big part of our sales offerings are in-house and land, and we all know the challenges of house and land in Sydney.

Scarcity, increased building, increasing labour costs, and a tighter finance market are driving affordability down for buyers and limiting their choices.

So, to offer more options for our clients, we are diversifying our range of investment options to Regional NSW, proudly partnering with TORO HOMES, who have exclusive investor house and land packages in over six estates, including in the Hunter Region! This is regional.

The other upcoming hot investment option is in our nation’s Capital!

This is arguably the dark horse of the property market in Australia for so many reasons, but what people want to know is how good is it? Prices under $400,000, rental guarantees of 7% for five years, AND we are working with only the BEST in the territory, GEOCON, the largest builder-developer in Canberra and the 3rd largest in Australia. I do love these guys, and I love their properties even more!

How do you balance work and personal life to ensure overall well-being?

I do get asked this a lot.

If you follow my Facebook and Instagram stories and our CEO, too, you will see the 4 a.m. wake-up, the everyday hustle, the late checkouts from the office, and the fun times with my kids.

I have a family of 4; my daughter Zaza is 6, Henry is 4, and my wife works with me… yes! It can be done… mind you, we do work in different services.

This is not just work for me; it’s a lifestyle. Sometimes, Henry joins me for meetings and inspections, even handing out flyers.

How do I juggle it all? If it’s not on the calendar, it’s likely not a priority.

Meet The Entrepreneur Behind The Cover Of The November 2023 Issue Of MoneyCentral Magazine: Dr. DL Wallace

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In the ever-evolving landscape of the modern workforce, the importance of soft skills cannot be overstated. Dr. DL Wallace, a seasoned expert in the field of Soft Skills Training and Development, has been spearheading a paradigm shift in employee development, entrepreneurial growth, organizational efficiency, and business strategy for over two decades. His journey as the CEO and Founder of Success Training Institute (STI) has not only transformed individuals and organizations but has also earned him global recognition in the education technology sector.

Dr. Wallace’s brainchild, Success Training Institute, has emerged as the world leader in superior soft skills training. Established in 2012, this award-winning education technology company, headquartered just north of Dallas, Texas, has been the driving force behind a transformative learning experience. STI’s clientele spans colleges, universities, workforce commissions, school districts, and corporations across diverse industries.

What sets STI apart is its commitment to personalized learning. Their tailored platforms offer pre and post-assessments, individualized learning plans, and access to data and analytics, enabling learners to chart their growth path comprehensively. The institute’s range of services caters to both individuals and corporations, providing essential training in compliance, leadership, problem-solving, team building, customer service, and more.

Success Training Institute offers a variety of plans tailored for entrepreneurs, college students, sales professionals, HR experts, and many more. Their programs are designed to accommodate nearly any budget, offering rapid certification programs that yield tangible results within weeks, with immediate improvements in productivity, positivity, and efficiency. The cornerstone of their training approach is a series of power-packed, 8-minute video segments that can be consumed on-demand, making it accessible for employees at all levels.

Moreover, STI is not only bridging the gap for current employees but also laying the foundation for future professionals. Their Virtual Internship Programs offer college students the chance to enhance their post-graduation employability. These students earn valuable soft skills certifications, strengthening their resumes and gaining opportunities to work remotely while supplementing their college expenses.

The impact of Success Training Institute extends far beyond traditional learning. As a Top Innovator in Education Technology, STI’s commitment to original content, unique instructional methods, and an evergreen library is fundamentally changing the professional development landscape for students and companies alike. Dr. DL Wallace’s vision has given rise to a transformative force that is equipping individuals and organizations to thrive in the fast-paced, ever-changing world of work.

MoneyCentral Magazine recently had the privilege of engaging in a candid conversation with Dr. DL Wallace, delving into his remarkable journey and the profound impact of Success Training Institute. Here’s what transpired in this exclusive interview:

What inspired you to focus on soft skills training, and how did you embark on this journey?

Several years ago, when I owned another company, I noticed our new hires’ challenges with many of the soft skills basics. Keep in mind that these new hires were all college grads, and yet they had difficulty maintaining focus, collaborating with others, managing time, and resolving conflict. We had two options: Develop a viable training system or keep replacing people. Of course, replacing people may be more convenient, but training them is a much better investment. We chose to train them. I began developing a soft skills curriculum, and we started with early morning training calls that were only 8 minutes per day. Why 8 minutes? It fits the hectic schedules of our team. Soon, we noticed remarkable improvements just by elevating the soft skills of our employees. Other companies started asking if we could do the same for them, and the rest is history.

Can you share some success stories or testimonials from individuals or organizations that have benefited significantly from Success Training Institute’s programs?

My favorite part of this business is hearing the powerful testimonials from our clients. We even post quite a few of them online. One story that sticks out to me most is from a single mother from South Carolina. Her daughter was enrolled in college and was off to a bad start. Not making friends, poor grades, and losing confidence. She begins taking our soft skills courses, just a few daily lessons from her phone. She started with Adaptability and Work Ethic. According to her mom, she went from dropping out and returning home to making the Dean’s List her freshman year! We hear these stories all the time because college and career success are based on well-developed soft skills. All the research proves this, and it’s great to see it happening. Most students don’t fail or drop out of college because they have a low IQ. It is because they have unaddressed emotional deficiencies, and our company solves that problem for college students and professionals in the workplace.

As a leader in soft skills training, what do you believe are the most crucial soft skills for individuals and organizations in today’s professional landscape?

There are so many necessary soft skills that it’s hard to rank them because everyone is different. It’s like asking, “What are the three best foods for your body?” or “What is the best book to read?”. It all depends on the individual. That’s why we offer pre-assessments to all our clients because it helps craft an individualized learning plan specific to the person’s needs. Some new employees need to focus on Time Management, while others need Self-Regulation or Managing Stress. The best part about the platforms we develop is they are NOT one size fits all. We all have different needs and are at different stages of emotional development, which is why our platforms are designed to accommodate the soft skills needs of each participant.

Success Training Institute (www.simplysuccess.com) provides customized learning platforms. How do you ensure that these platforms cater to the diverse needs of your clients, including colleges, corporations, and individuals?

It all starts with communicating with our clients and understanding what they want to accomplish. For some, it’s student or employee retention. For the colleges that have access to resell our training programs under its brand, fundraising may be the focus. Once we have an initial consultation, our team of experts customizes video commercials, organizes lesson material, and adds analytics to track and monitor the key data points. We are the only company that offers our clients a tailor-made soft skills training experience, and it’s one of the features that makes us unique in this industry.

In your view, how does soft skills training contribute to organizational efficiency, and what tangible improvements have you observed in companies that have implemented your programs?

First, soft skills are going to make organizations more productive. Remember, when we master our emotions, we become better people, which makes us better at everything we do. Organizations don’t have to hire new people because the Success Training Institute helps the people they have become even better. For college students, increased productivity means better grades. For the sales professional, it means more closed deals. Better people are always more productive. Next, we see strong gains in retention. The biggest challenge in the workplace is turnover. Our soft skills programs boost confidence, competencies, and individual satisfaction, all contributing to employees staying on jobs longer. Last but certainly not least, we see the gains in revenue. Turnover is expensive for every organization. Our programs have been proven to reduce by as much as fifty percent! That’s literally putting money back into the pockets of our clients.

What challenges do you perceive in the current landscape of employee development, and how does Success Training Institute address these challenges?

The remote workforce is growing rapidly and is changing the way we see a typical workday. It can also have adverse emotional impacts. When people don’t connect interpersonally, they lose a valuable skillset our company helps restore. Remote work is also changing the way people want to learn. Most are turned off by live training sessions that confine them to crowded conference rooms for several hours daily. They want training to adjust to their lifestyles. Our programs are mobile-friendly, video-based, and self-paced because that is the future of learning. Each lesson is 8 minutes or less because the adult attention spans are shrinking. Companies that don’t recognize these trends will lose employees in droves. Back in the day, employees adjusted to the workforce. Today, the workforce has to adjust to the employee, including training and development.

Could you elaborate on the Virtual Internship Programs offered to college students? How do these programs bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world professional skills?

Our virtual internship programs are second to none because they offer the best of all worlds. First, college students get to work remotely. Next, they gain soft skills and hard skills. Last but certainly not least, they get paid! They apply online, interview online, and are assigned a virtual supervisor. They can work in our Marketing, Content Creation, IT, Sales, or Administrative departments, which gives them real-world experience that accommodates the demands of their collegiate schedules. Many colleges are located in small towns where internship opportunities are limited. Our programs allow them to complete project-based assignments from anywhere in the world without the hassle of long commutes or the cost of new wardrobes.

The success of STI’s training is often highlighted by its quick impact on productivity and positivity. Can you share some insights into the unique instructional methods or strategies that contribute to this rapid improvement?

Two terms are important when answering this question. Pedagogy and Heutagogy. The first is the one we are most familiar with in traditional education. This is highly structured learning where students enter a classroom and are taught by one or more instructors. Everyone must learn the same thing at the same time. No exceptions. On the contrary, heutagogy is self-directed learning, which allows participants to learn based on need, interest, and other learning preferences. Most online training programs are pedagogical and shouldn’t be because that methodology is most effective in organized classroom settings. We developed heutagogical learning model called the SIPS Instructional Method. It is proven, practical, and powerful. Those who engage in our online courses see measurable gains in crucial soft skills in less than 8 minutes per lesson per day. The content is relevant and appeals to various types of learning preferences. There is a short quiz after each lesson to gauge retention, and our model has the highest user engagement rates in the industry.

As a Top Innovator in Education Technology, how do you envision the future of online training, especially in the context of soft skills development? What advice would you give entrepreneurs, HR professionals, and individuals looking to enhance their soft skills and stay competitive in today’s dynamic business environment?

I recently met one of the most accomplished and respected business leaders in the United States at a reception. During our conversation, he quickly said that Soft Skills ARE the new Hard Skills. He pointed out what he had observed over his many years in business and added that small, private colleges and universities need viable soft skills partnerships to remain relevant in the years to come. Of course, I wholeheartedly agree. For entrepreneurs, HR professionals, and business leaders across all industries would be well served to place soft skills in their rightful place: the most important skillset any professional can acquire. In a time where emotional health and wellness are more prominent than ever, we cannot overlook the importance of soft skills any longer. We are fortunate to be in the right place at the right time.

Meet The Entrepreneur Behind The Cover Of The August 2023 Issue Of MoneyCentral Magazine: Jenna Chan

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In the ever-evolving world of hair loss and skincare, one name stands out as a beacon of innovation and affordability: Jenna Chan. With over two decades of experience in the industry, 59-year-old Jenna Chan has become a trailblazer, providing accessible PRP & PRF hair loss treatments, Neo Graft Hair Transplants, injectables, and fillers across Australia. But her journey is not just about business success; it’s a tale of determination, resilience, and a mother’s unwavering commitment to her children’s future.

Jenna Chan’s story is not that of an overnight sensation but rather a lifelong dedication to her craft. With a career spanning more than 20 years, she has not only honed her skills but also refined her mission to make top-tier treatments affordable for everyone. As a single mother facing challenges head-on, Jenna has embodied the spirit of entrepreneurship, determined to reshape the skincare world.

In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, Jenna Chan’s Hair and Skin Science clinics experienced a surge in demand, igniting an exponential growth phase. With her finger on the industry’s pulse, she seized the opportunity and expanded her vision. Today, her clinics have become a symbol of excellence. It’s not just about numbers; it’s about giving clients the confidence to face the world with rejuvenated skin and hair.

Jenna’s journey is intrinsically tied to her aspiration to provide her children with more than she had growing up. At 59, she took the courageous step to launch her own anti-aging skincare clinic, a move that wasn’t without its challenges. As she navigated the highs and lows of business ownership and single-handedly raised her family, Jenna’s story became an embodiment of strength, determination, and unyielding love.

Hair and Skin Science’s commitment from day one has been to offer affordable, effective hair loss and skin treatments performed by medical experts. The clinics have not only fulfilled this promise but exceeded it.

With treatments carried out by medical doctors and nurses, they’ve conducted over 100,000 PRP hair loss treatments and 30,000 PRP skin treatments. These figures aren’t just statistics; they’re testaments to lives transformed and confidence restored.

In the world of skincare, Hair and Skin Science has emerged as the go-to destination for the famous ‘vampire facial.’ By harnessing the body’s own resources, the procedure rejuvenates the skin, leaving clients with a fresh and youthful appearance. This innovative technique, beloved by celebrities like Kim Kardashian, has solidified Hair and Skin Science’s reputation as an industry pioneer.

Jenna Chan’s journey has evolved into a family affair as she partnered with her son, Royce. Together, they have not only embraced success but multiplied it. With the recent launch of eight additional clinics, their collaborative efforts have brought the total number of Hair and Skin Science clinics to an impressive 25.

Jenna Chan’s story is one of passion, innovation, and family values. From her early struggles to the heights of success, she continues to leave an indelible mark on the hair loss and skincare landscape. Through affordable treatments, unwavering dedication, and love for her children, Jenna Chan is transforming not just faces but lives throughout Australia.

MoneyCentral magazine recently had the opportunity to connect with Jenna Chan to delve into her entrepreneurial journey, and here’s a glimpse into the insightful conversation.

Can you tell us about your journey in the beauty industry and how it led you to launch your own anti-ageing skincare clinic, Hair and Skin Science?

I have worked for several small cosmetic clinics for many years. Many loyal clients and friends encouraged me to open my own clinic, and they said they would support me….so I did. I opened my first clinic at 59 years old. Better late than never.

What inspired you to focus on affordable hair loss and skin treatments, performed by medical doctors or nurses, as your mission for Hair and Skin Science clinics?

Many cosmetic clinics had only focused on injectables, so I saw a gap in the market for medical cosmetic clinics offering both hair loss and skin rejuvenation treatments. Affordability is important to me as I’ve always struggled throughout my life with financial hardship, so I made it my mission to make our services accessible to the majority of people living in Australia. Everyone deserves to feel happy and confident!

With the exponential growth of Hair and Skin Science after the Covid-19 pandemic, can you share some insights into the strategies that contributed to your success during challenging times?

Thankfully, in Australia, the government was helpful in providing some financial support to pay staff wages and clinic rents. We did our best to pivot during the pandemic. However, our core service is in-clinic. We were able to provide hair regrowth & skin products to patients during the lockdowns.

My son and I had strategised to expand rapidly during the reopening post-pandemic. We saw this as an opportunity to sign leases at great prices and push ahead while other businesses were being very conservative.

How did you manage to navigate the financial hardships and highs and lows of doing business while being a single mother raising two young children?

It was tough being a single mother throughout the years. Truthfully, before Hair and Skin Science launched in April 2017, I didn’t have much to my name at all. I’m now almost 65 years old, and my life is completely different from what it was only seven years ago. It’s never too late to go after your dreams!

The ‘vampire facial’ has become a popular treatment at Hair and Skin Science. Could you explain how this procedure works and what makes it stand out from other skincare treatments?

One of our most popular skin treatments is the vampire facial, which became famous because of Kim Kardashian.

The procedure is performed in four simple steps:

1. A registered nurse takes a small sample of your blood.

2. This blood is spun in a centrifuge, separating the platelets (growth factors) from the red blood cells.

PRP solution is applied using tiny injections combined with microneedling.

Vampire facials combine the powers of micro needling and PRP. During a traditional micro needling treatment, needles create tiny incisions in the skin, stimulating the skin to repair itself with new collagen and elastin. However, in a vampire facial, this is coupled with platelet-rich plasma, which contains growth factors to help stimulate repair.

Opening 25 clinics in Australia in such a short period of time is a remarkable achievement. What were the key factors that enabled you to expand your business to this scale?

There are three key factors that I never lose sight of while building Hair and Skin Science. One is customer satisfaction, affordability, and employee satisfaction. I do my best to address these three core factors while continuing to expand continually.

Can you elaborate on your partnership with your son, Royce, in running the business? How has this collaboration contributed to the success of Hair and Skin Science?

Royce and I are like Ying and Yang! I’m so lucky that we work well together and have complementary skills. Royce is very good at brand building, marketing, and finance. I’m really good at being hands-on and internally operating clinics and empowering key staff. It’s important to find a business partner with a different skill set to grow the business to its full potential. In my opinion, if you’re about to start a business with a friend or relative, I’d make sure that your skills are complementary and not overlapping too much.

Hair and Skin Science clinics have performed an impressive number of PRP hair loss and skin treatments. What sets your clinics apart in terms of customer satisfaction and results?

We have built a culture at Hair and Skin Science of putting the customer first and always doing the best we can to provide an affordable service that provides excellent hair and skin rejuvenation results.

We also have unique treatment protocols exclusive to Hair and Skin Science. These strict protocols are used by all our medical doctors and registered nurses.

What has been the most rewarding part of your journey as a business owner in the beauty industry, and how do you measure the impact of your work on your clients?

Being able to develop and nurture our registered nurses into leadership positions and give them opportunities to further their careers and aspirations. It is so satisfying to watch it unfold! Happy registered nurses mean happy patients! We measure the impact of our work through online reviews and word of mouth. If you’re doing a great job, patients will refer their friends and relatives.

Your story is truly inspiring, showcasing that it’s never too late to chase your dreams and achieve success. What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those who face challenges like financial constraints or age-related concerns?

Never, ever give up. You cannot fail if you never give up. There are many people who became successful entrepreneurs much later in life. Age is not a reason not to go for your dreams. You have the experience and wisdom that many young people do not. I also see having financial constraints as an advantage! It forces you to get creative and really squeeze as much as you can out of every dollar. These skills that you develop will set you up for continued success.

Meet The Entrepreneur Behind The Cover Of The April 2023 Issue Of MoneyCentral Magazine: Julius Abraham

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Julius Abraham holds the position of Managing Director at Direct Mortgages South Coast and is also an accredited Mortgage Broker.

Julius has a comprehensive corporate background in finance and compliance and personal experience in purchasing, selling, and renovating properties. Although he had been interested in real estate for some time, it was not until his first renovation project proved successful that he realized the significant rewards that property investment could bring.

Julius developed a passion for research and problem-solving during his corporate tenure, which he now applies as a Mortgage Broker. The role demands extensive analysis and interpretation of data to ensure each home loan application is written in an attractive manner for the lender. While each application is unique and can pose challenges, Julius finds it immensely rewarding when clients express joy and satisfaction, knowing that he has provided a financial solution for them. His regular community work also fuels his passion for serving others.

Julius prioritizes establishing an honest and transparent relationship with his clients as a Mortgage Broker. His primary objective is to assist, educate, and motivate individuals seeking to initiate or expand their property portfolio to achieve their objectives expeditiously. Julius firmly believes that property investment is a means to attain financial freedom.

MoneyCentral magazine recently caught up with Julius to discuss his journey in the industry, and here’s what went down:

What are you currently doing to maintain/grow your business?

My primary focus was to partner up with as many reputable key professionals in the Finance and Real Estate Industry and to maintain consistency through networking. This has allowed me to partner with local Buyers Agents, Real Estate Agents, Accountants, Conveyancers, and Financial Planners. Doing so has allowed my business to present at various events and has increased exposure to a wider audience.

What social media platforms do you usually use to increase your brand’s awareness?

Facebook and Instagram have been the main social media platforms to promote my business. My brand focuses on providing education and general advice about property and finance. This ranges from helpful tips and strategies for achieving goals and raising awareness.

What is your experience with paid advertising, like PPC or sponsored content campaigns? Does it work?

Paid advertising can be helpful; however, “word of mouth” has created the most leads for my business. A stranger will likely engage with you after an introduction or referral from a mutual contact. We are drawn to connection.

What is the toughest decision you had to make in the last few months?

The toughest decision was taking that “leap” of starting my own business and becoming my own boss. Not knowing where a journey can lead is very scary. Uncertainty is a scary mindset. I had to accept that this journey was going to be challenging, not just emotionally but also financially. However, knowing I had the support of family, friends, and members of the finance and property industry ie mentor, other mortgage brokers, business owners, and other key professionals, their guidance and advice has helped ease a lot of the stress that one would succumb starting a new business.

What money mistakes have you made along the way that others can learn from (or something you’d do differently)?

Marketing your brand doesn’t have to come at a cost. Free social media and graphic design platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Canva have been very effective for my business. Fortunately for me, through educational articles and advice from others, I have not made any significant money mistakes.

What new business would you love to start?

From here, I would like to expand my knowledge and experience within property and finance and progress into property development. What I am learning from this experience and the people I continuously meet throughout this journey as a Mortgage Broker I know will help me transition into this field.

If you could go back in a time machine to the time when you were just getting started, what would you do differently?

I had big aspirations and goals to dive into this field at 110% and give up my day job. Initially, I took unpaid leave from my day job to primarily focus on Mortgage Broking. It wasn’t long until I realized that not having a consistent income was detrimental to starting a new business. Receiving consistent income alleviated the stress of the cost of living and other financial commitments and allowed me to focus on the day-to-day running of the business. I admit it is challenging to juggle a day job and manage a business, however, I have learned to handle my time effectively to avoid burnout.

What is the best advice you have ever been given?

“Your rewards in life will always be in direct proportion to your contribution or service” – Earl Nightingale.
“Any person who contributes to prosperity must prosper in turn.” ― Earl Nightingale.

What advice would you give someone who wants to enter your field?

Focus on helping others and being of ‘value’ to others. Mortgage Broking is rewarding as the role allows you to provide a service, to not only write up home loans but also improve the quality of life for an individual. Maintaining this mindset will enable you to overcome challenges and have that edge to propel you further in your Broking journey.

5 Tips for a Safer Online Shopping Experience In 2023

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For many shoppers, the online marketplace has been one of the best features of the technological age – you get what you want without travelling to the shops and negotiating the long queues and the arduous effort of getting there. For business owners, it’s a cost-cutting strategy to get their products out without costly overheads.

However, how sure are you that you are not paying more than you think you’ve bargained for? Horror stories of buying fakes and low-standard materials have been seen on posts and other online platforms. So how do we protect ourselves from these possible threats?

It would be very hard to figure out if what you’re buying is the real thing or a triple-A imitation. So we sought out brand maven Barbs Aguirre-Miravalles, the Division General Manager for Fragrances of LUXASIA – the leading omnichannel partner for luxury beauty and lifestyle brands to reach Asia Pacific consumers for some tips to help consumers figure out what they are buying.

Find a reliable source

Most e-commerce platforms have a marketplace where in it is open to all resellers. It is difficult to spot authentic resellers from counterfeit resellers as most would put 100% authentic on their product pages. When in doubt, I recommend shopping at the retailer.com sites or brand.com sites so you can be guaranteed that the products come from the original sources.

Compare and review

It would help to read reviews, but it would still help to compare prices and product details/ specifications from the original brand websites to know what you are buying. Check the source of the products.

Beware of cheap items

Counterfeit items are sold at cheaper prices precisely because the ingredients/materials used to create this is not comparable to the authentic item. We suggest watching Netflix’s ‘Broken’ to understand the danger of counterfeit items. This is dangerous to one’s health, especially for cosmetics and ingestible. If the price is too good to be true, it probably is. You get what you pay for, so the lower money you spend equates to the quality you will receive in return.

To further help our readers, we dug deeper into precautions necessary for doing online purchases courtesy of the Australian Filipina:

Always make your purchases from a secure connection.

After clicking the link to the site, check out the prompt in the address field. It would usually read https://www, but if you read “Not Secure,” then it’s not worth your while.

Create a unique password.

If you keep on forgetting your password, get a secured password keeper like dashlane which keeps all your unique passwords that can be generated by the system or from a story of your life that no one knows about.

Be mindful of the information that you provide the sites

Identity theft is one of the most rampant crimes going around, and giving more information than you have to may just be the biggest mistake you can ever make. Standard information would be information on the payment method, shipping address, telephone number and/or email address. If the merchant asks for more, walk away.

Check the shipping details.

Some merchants charge exorbitant shipping fees that can turn a shopping bargain into an expensive mistake. Look to see if they provide tracking and insurance. Understand what carriers they use, and be particularly cautious if the item won’t be shipped within ten days.

Always remember, before you CLICK & SHOP, STOP & THINK.

Source: The Australian Filipina