Laila Leonida is a visionary entrepreneur and advocate for authentic living, deeply committed to guiding individuals toward a life rich with purpose and meaningful connections. With a foundation rooted in emotional intimacy and authentic communication, Laila has dedicated herself to empowering others through her transformative work at Soul Space Journeys and beyond. Her journey is a testament to resilience, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of personal and professional growth.
Laila Leonida's journey began in Alver, Vestland, Norway, a serene coastal region that gave her a profound connection to nature. However, the pristine surroundings could not protect her from a shadow lurking: Bullies in school left her with deep scars on her soul that she became expert at covering up. Presenting a confident facade, Laila moved on in life with a keen interest in technology and innovation.
Her educational path took her to the University of Bergen, where she pursued a Master's degree in Information Science. This foundational education provided Laila with the theoretical underpinnings of technology integration and innovation management. A transformative study abroad experience at Griffith University in Multimedia further enriched her perspectives, exposing her to diverse global viewpoints and enhancing her interdisciplinary approach to problem-solving.
Laila's professional journey unfolded with pivotal roles at MindLab AS and TV 2, where she immersed herself in the fields of software development and system architecture. As VP of Product in Vimond, she traveled the world and learned how to create solid professional relationships through radical honesty. She continued to find inspiration on all the complex challenges that were involved in the management of a broadcast grade technology platform.
Outwardly she was successful, but her practice of hiding and avoiding her childhood wounds were starting to create internal dissonance, and, slowly, taking its toll on her personal relationships.
Reflecting on her early career, Laila shares, "My path of mindfulness, yoga, and purpose started while I was working for Vimond in San Francisco. However, it was after I left Vimond that I fully immersed myself in this work." During her early years, she admits being caught in the "hamster wheel" like many, not prioritizing purpose and authenticity.
Practices of yoga, meditation, and authentic communication became increasingly important, and she started to realize just how disconnected she had been from herself.
The deeper she connected with herself, the deeper she was able to connect with others, and with the world around her. She started to see a significant change appear on her horizon - a completely new way of living.
Laila draws inspiration from her journey, stating, "Much of my inspiration now comes from seeing others still in the 'hamster wheel'. Having navigated that path myself, I know how to break free. I am here to guide and support others in discovering their authentic path." Her commitment to helping others find purpose and embrace authentic living underscores her dedication to personal growth and societal impact.
Laila's career trajectory expanded with strategic leadership roles at Vimond Media Solutions and Instrument of Creation, culminating in her current position as Founder of Soul Space Journeys. As VP of Product Management and VP of Customer Solutions in the San Francisco Bay Area, Laila demonstrated a unique ability to bridge technology with human-centered solutions, championing authenticity and purpose in every endeavor. Her journey is marked by a commitment to transformative leadership, where she seamlessly integrates her expertise in technology with her passion for fostering genuine connections and personal growth.
Throughout her career, Laila Leonida has distilled invaluable leadership insights, emphasizing the transformative power of authentic communication and emotional intelligence. As a YPO Retreat Facilitator and advocate for AI Empowerment, she has empowered countless individuals to embrace vulnerability, authenticity, and purpose-driven leadership. Her ultimate goal in this work is to help others connect with their own soul - to find that place of deep fulfillment in their life.
Laila's leadership philosophy is rooted in the belief that true innovation and growth stem from cultivating a culture of authenticity, purpose, and deep connections. Her advocacy for health and mindfulness underscores her commitment to nurturing holistic leadership qualities in others.
“This is your life. Are you going to spend your days in stress and anxiety?” she asks. She challenges the idea that this way of life is inevitable in a competitive world. Peace of mind, genuine inspiration, and fulfillment is for everyone.
In concluding Laila's diary entry, her journey stands as a testament to the transformative power and supreme importance of authenticity and purpose. From her early days as a developer to her current role guiding individuals toward a life of meaning and connection, Laila Leonida exemplifies resilience, compassion, and visionary leadership.
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