Redefining Executive Career

How can HR leaders adapt across cultures while creating meaningful employee experiences?

In this episode of Uplifting Leaders, “Beyond Borders: Insights from a Global HR Leader in Japan,” we’re joined by Başak Başar Beleli, an experienced international HR executive, for a powerful conversation on cross-cultural leadership and talent strategy.

Hosted by Serap Zel, Founder & CEO of Uplift, this episode explores:

• Key cultural lessons from working across Europe and Asia
• The unique dynamics of Japan’s talent market
• How loyalty, harmony, and hierarchy shape HR in Japan
• Tips for foreign companies entering Japan
• What defines a great employee experience across cultures

👉 Tune in for practical insights on leading people across borders and cultures.

#upliftingleaders #globalHR #japanworkculture #employeeexperience #peopleandculture #hrstrategy #upliftpeople

What does it take to lead with exponential thinking in a world defined by disruption, decentralization, and accelerating technologies?

In this episode of Uplifting Leaders, “Exponential Organizations: The New Playbook for 10X Growth & Impact,” we’re joined by Salim Ismail, bestselling author, futurist, and founding executive director of Singularity University. A global thought leader on exponential innovation, Salim shares how organizations—from startups to Fortune 500s—can unlock unprecedented growth by shifting mindsets, structures, and leadership styles.

From why most companies are built for predictability in an unpredictable world to how the ExO model has helped transform businesses across industries, Salim offers powerful, real-life insights that challenge the traditional playbook.

He also explores how leaders can build cultures of continuous transformation, why AI and decentralization are reshaping talent strategy, and what skills will truly matter in the age of exponential change.

🎙 Host: Serap Zel, Founder/CEO – Uplift

🎙 Guest: Salim Ismail, Author – Exponential Organizations, Co-founder – OpenExO

👉 Join Salim'sWorkshop to build your ExO: https://openexo.com/10x-shift?video=Uplift

Tune in for a bold and future-focused conversation on growth, leadership, and thriving in times of radical change.

#upliftingleaders #exponentialorganizations #futureofwork #leadershipstrategy #10xgrowth #executivethinking #disruption #ai #exoleadership #salimismail #globalleaders

What does it take to speak with power, clarity, and confidence across cultures, in high-stakes moments, and as a global leader?

In this episode of Uplifting Leaders, “Voice: The Hidden Superpower of Great Leaders”, we’re joined by David Pope, Executive Voice Coach at All Voice Talent, with 30+ years of experience, including a career that began at the BBC and now spans coaching senior leaders across Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.

From decoding the difference between a ‘loud’ voice and a powerful one to helping leaders navigate communication challenges in multicultural teams, David shares fascinating insights drawn from his global coaching work—and thousands of recorded voice sessions.

He also dives into how CEOs and founders can use their voice intentionally in moments of pressure or inspiration, what to focus on before a big pitch or town hall, and how leaders can protect and strengthen their voice to show up more powerfully every day.

🎙 Host: Serap Zel, Founder/CEO – Uplift🎙 Guest: David Pope, Executive Voice Coach – All Voice Talent

Tune in for a fresh perspective on voice, leadership, and the often overlooked art of speaking with intention in today’s global business world.

#upliftingleaders #executivepresence #voicecoaching #leadershipcommunication #globalleaders #publicspeaking

What does it take to build a thriving venture capital ecosystem in one of the world’s most dynamic and rapidly transforming regions?

In this episode of Uplifting Leaders, “Is MENA the Next Global Venture Capital Hotspot?”, we’re joined by Ivo Detelinov, General Partner at Oryx Fund. With deep experience across global markets and a strategic focus on early-stage investing, Ivo offers an inside look at why the MENA region is drawing increased attention from VCs around the world.

From Saudi Arabia’s record-breaking growth in deal flow to the evolving founder landscape and standout sectors like eCommerce and emerging tech, Ivo shares powerful insights on the future of investment in the region.

He also explores what makes a startup truly fundable, how founder ambition in MENA compares to other global regions, and what both investors and entrepreneurs should keep top of mind heading into 2025 and beyond.

🎙 Host: Serap Zel, Founder/CEO – Uplift

🎙 Guest: Ivo Detelinov, General Partner – Oryx Fund

Tune in for a timely conversation on startup ecosystems, VC trends, and the rising potential of the MENA region on the global venture capital stage.

#upliftingleaders #venturecapital #startupecosystem #menaregion #oryxfund #earlystageVC #globalinvesting #founderspotlight

What does it take to lead with impact across industries,regions, and cultural borders, while staying ahead in one of the world’s most rapidly evolving sectors?

In this episode of Uplifting Leaders, “An Inspiring Leadership Journey in the Renewables Industry,” we’re joined by Dr. Frank P. Possmeier, Chief Business Development Officer, Generation at TAQA Group. With an impressive global track record across Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East, Frank brings a unique perspective on leading through complexity, transformation, and innovation in the energy sector.

From shifting leadership styles across cultures to future-proofing organizations in the age of AI and automation, Frank shares powerful lessons learned through decades of executive experience in renewables, utilities, and international business development.

He also explores what truly matters when selecting top leadership talent—and the key qualities that define effective, adaptable leaders in today’s uncertain world.

🎙 Host: Serap Zel,Founder/CEO – Uplift🎙 Guest: Dr. Frank P. Possmeier, Chief Business Development Officer – Generation at TAQA Group

Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on globalleadership, energy transition, and the skills that will shape the future of work.

#upliftingleaders #renewables #leadershipacrossborders #globalbusiness #energytransition #taqagroup

How does Emiratisation drive national talent development while fostering diverse, inclusive workplaces?

In this episode of Uplifting Leaders, "Bridging Talent and Opportunity: The Future of Emiratisation," we’re joined by Fatima Alloghani, a trailblazer in Emiratisation and national talent development. With over 20 years of experience across industries including Energy, Aviation, Banking, and Mega Events, Fatima has spearheaded groundbreaking initiatives, from leading the hiring of 3,000 Emiratis at Majid Al Futtaim Group to shaping transformative workforce programs at Expo 2020 Dubai.

Fatima shares key insights on balancing Emiratisation with diversity, the challenges and opportunities of national talent strategies, and the innovative approaches that drive meaningful workforce integration. As the Founder of Born2Localize and a LinkedIn Top Voice, she brings a wealth of expertise on creating sustainable employment ecosystems that benefit both businesses and local professionals.

🎙 Host: Serap Zel, Founder/CEO – Uplift
🎙 Guest: Fatima Alloghani, Founder/CEO – Born2Localize

Tune in for a dynamic discussion on the evolving landscape of Emiratisation, leadership lessons for executives, and how organizations can align nationalization efforts with long-term business success. #upliftingleaders

How is healthcare leadership evolving in a world driven by innovation and technology?

In this episode of Uplifting Leaders, "Leading Healthcare Innovation: Lessons from Global Experience," we’re joined by Dr. Fatih Mehmet Gül, CEO of The View Hospital and a visionary healthcare leader with a track record of pioneering transformative projects across Turkey, Saudi Arabia, the UK, and the Middle East.

Dr. Gül shares invaluable insights on the power of connected care, the role of technology in patient engagement, and what it takes to lead large-scale healthcare initiatives, including launching NEOM’s first hospital and Saudi Arabia’s first civilian helicopter ambulance service. From managing under pressure during pivotal moments like the COVID-19 pandemic to navigating the complexities of healthcare across diverse regions, his leadership journey offers key lessons for executives striving to shape the future of healthcare.

Host: Serap Zel, Founder/CEO – Uplift

Guest: Dr. Fatih Mehmet Gül, CEO – The View Hospital

Tune in for a compelling conversation on the intersection of leadership, innovation, and global healthcare transformation. 🎙

What role does storytelling play in shaping great leaders?

How can leaders craft authentic narratives that inspire action and drive impact?

In this episode of Uplifting Leaders, "The Power of Storytelling in Leadership," we’re joined by Mimi Kalinda, Group CEO and Co-Founder of Africa Communications Media Group. As a multi-award-winning storyteller and strategic communications expert with over 26 years of experience, Mimi shares her profound insights on how leaders can leverage storytelling to build trust, foster connection, and lead with purpose.

From understanding the key elements of impactful storytelling to addressing the evolving "African narrative" and navigating leadership challenges, Mimi’s wisdom highlights the transformative power of stories in today’s complex, digitized world.

Host: Serap Zel, Founder/CEO – Uplift
Guest: Mimi Kalinda, Group CEO and Co-Founder – Africa Communications Media Group

Tune in for an inspiring conversation that explores how storytelling can shape not just leaders but also the world around them.

How can leaders thrive in the rapidly evolving tech industry?

What strategies are essential for navigating the challenges of digital transformation and driving sustainable growth?

In this episode of Uplifting Leaders, Navigating Tech Leadership: Strategies for Success, we collaborate with Gozde Akar Cevikel, Business Unit General Manager at a leading global tech company. With over 16 years of leadership experience at P&G and a transformative journey in the tech industry, Gozde offers invaluable insights into tech leadership, innovation, and strategic growth in a competitive landscape.

From adapting to emerging trends like AI and IoT to building high-performing teams and balancing speed with sustainability, Gözde shares her expertise and practical advice for leaders looking to scale their businesses while embracing digital innovation.

Host: Serap Zel, Founder/CEO – Uplift

Guest: Gözde Akar Cevikel, Business Unit General Manager – A global tech company

Join us for an engaging discussion filled with actionable strategies and inspiring perspectives to navigate the future of tech leadership.

What unique strengths does ADHD bring to leading roles?

How can companies foster inclusive environments that empower neurodiverse professionals?

In this insightful episode of Uplifting Leaders, Inclusive Leadership: Empowering ADHD Professionals in the Workplace, we collaborate with Leanne Maskell, an ADHD coach, author, and advocate for neurodiversity in the workplace.

With experience training teams at Disney, Google, and Bank of America, Leanne shares her journey and expertise on empowering ADHD professionals.

We also cover best practices that help unlock the full potential of ADHD individuals in executive roles.

Host: Serap Zel, Founder/CEO - Uplift
Guest: Leanne Maskell, ADHD Coach | Author | Speaker

Join us for practical strategies and eye-opening perspectives on fostering ADHD inclusivity in the workplace and maximizing leadership potential at the executive level.