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Q: You've built something incredible—what personal experiences led you to entrepreneurship? A: I owe my entrepreneurial spirit to my family and closest friends. Growing up, I was surrounded by people building businesses, and I deeply admired them. Aer spending 10 years in the real estate industry as a broker in New York City and NJ, I launched my first business, a technology-driven real estate brokerage. Aer my first son was born, I realized that being an entrepreneur meant that I could control my own time and lifestyle. I paused the client-facing part of my real estate career and decided to partner with Dana and open e Village at a time when I was so passionate about early education and finding community as a new mother. Building e Village has been an adventure and deeply gratifying; there is a world of opportunity & I love every aspect of the business. Q: What's your leadership philosophy, and how has it evolved through this journey? A: In today's turbulent economic climate, leadership is multifaceted, and not a privilege I take lightly. Beyond leading our team, we're guiding an entire industry into uncharted territory. With AI reshaping the landscape and the educational roadmap evolving, my leadership philosophy centers on planning, execution, systems, and automation. Staying adaptable while maintaining a clear vision is key. Q: If you could give advice to women balancing career and family, what would it be? A: Balancing career and family isn't easy, but it's an immense privilege. My advice is to cultivate a positive environment, both in the people you surround yourself with and the energy you allow into your life. Your surroundings shape you, so seek out those who upli and support you. When I changed my mindset from " I have to" to "I get to" something incredible happened and a world of opportunities opened up. N E H A C H AW L A VUENJ.COM 79

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