Although Helena Emami has only been in PEI for a few years, that hasn’t stopped her from making an impression on the community. Arriving in January 2015, it didn’t take long for PEI’s affability and charm to convince Helena that this was the place to be. “In PEI, you can enjoy a high quality of life and have more time to be creative, surrounded by peace and beauty,” says Helena. “There are so many wonderful people willing to help you.” With a master’s degree in international law, an MBA, and a bachelor’s in accounting, Helena wants to apply her skills in an impactful way. She has been on the board of Women’s Network PEI, is a member of the PEI Business Women’s Association, and devotes her time to the community as a passionate volunteer. Originally from Iran, Helena gives presentations about her home country’s culture and her immigration journey. “It doesn’t matter where you come from. Any person can succeed in this province and this country if they work hard and develop their gifts. We all have something to offer, and we just need to find that passion in ourselves.” Helena currently works with Island Investment Development, in the Office of Immigration as a business landing officer. She assists newcomer entrepreneurs with opening and operating their businesses in PEI. She recently started her own business, Gazelle Coaching, where she works with executives, managers and staff members to create high-performance and conscious workplaces and cultures that allow people to be the best versions of themselves. Helena’s advice to others considering starting a business in PEI is this: “Stay true to your values, and in moments of frustration, remember why you started this journey. You need to keep the fire in your belly. Embrace your emotions, and stay committed to your values. Passion is not enough; you need discipline and hard work. Success has different definitions for different people.”
Making an Impression
Since arriving in 2015 from Iran, Helena Emami has inspired and mentored new entreprenuers.
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“It doesn’t matter where you come from. Any person can succeed in this province and this country if they work hard and develop their gifts. We all have something to offer, and we just need to find that passion in ourselves.”
HELENA EMAMI Gazelle Coaching www.gazellecoaching.com helena@gazellecoaching.com
WORDS BY: Annika Borg PHOTO BY: Buffie Boily Photography
SPRING 2019 www.pei-living.ca
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