Who is the founder?

There came a time when I needed a place where I could share my thoughts and receive objective feedback and guidance from peers I could trust, who could relate to my level of experience and who understood the importance of the female perspective and the female conversation. This was important because in many cases I found the way in which my male colleagues thought and approached business was very different from mine. I had no need to change them but to find a way to bring balance to how we worked as a team. Gaining access to women’s wisdom proved challenging. As I spoke to other women, I realized that many were looking for the same safe place and for a variety of reasons. That’s why I developed Pearls.

Surjeet Rai-Lewis, founder and Chief Creative Officer of Pearls, has over 25 years of experience in several sectors including corporate, public, and not-for-profit as a senior leader, coach/mentor and facilitator. She has experienced first hand the need for a “safe place” to discuss real issues with those who understand and who can offer pragmatic insights.

Working with companies in diverse industries she has supported leaders in articulating their vision and in finding their unique voice. As a result, Surjeet has seen both men and women achieve success in and for their organizations in a way that is true for them.

Surjeet's insights on leadership have been recognized by the business media including the Globe and Mail, ROBTV and CBC. Surjeet is an accredited coach with over 25 years experience in leadership, facilitation and coaching.