Name: Priya S. Gopalrai

Title: CEO

Organisation: Global TechImpact Group- Quan Techno Support BV- QTechS- Thrive Coaching Partners ForU2Thrive

A highly accomplished Healthcare, Business, and Technology Expert with extensive experience as a Clinical Informatician, Scientific Researcher, Global Consultant, Neuroscience & Life Coach, and Motivational Speaker. A lifelong learner with an optimistic perspective on life, dedicated to continuous professional and personal growth.

Proficient in data analysis, big data analytics, communication, project management, process improvement, strategic planning, marketing, quality management, financial analysis, prognosis, and reporting, with extensive experience in healthcare complemented by a multidisciplinary background in business, technology, and education. Earned a PhD with a focus on Artificial Intelligence and Business Intelligence in Healthcare and related areas, Business Administration and Management.

Holds a Master of Philosophy in Business Administration & Management and an international MSc in Clinical Informatics, alongside advanced degrees and certifications in eHealth and Advanced Health Informatics, Health Economics, and an Executive Master in Evidence-Based Practice (Epidemiology). Additional academic qualifications include studies in Software Engineering, Programming, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and a Master’s in Business and Healthcare Management and Leadership. Has further enhanced expertise through specialized training and courses in medical, paramedical (with a background in medicine basics, medical and chemical laboratory technology), and management domains.

As a postgraduate researcher, I specialized in outcomes of organ transplantation and graft survival, leveraging a strong foundation in healthcare and scientific analysis. A forward-thinking executive with proven expertise in operations management, business strategy, and organizational transformation. Experienced in business development and strategic planning, consistently achieving sustainable growth and profitability. Recognized for exceptional client relationship building, effective communication, and achieving sales goals, with a demonstrated ability to lead organizations through change and development.

Known for strengths in relationship building, planning, and operational problem-solving, bringing a visionary approach to leadership, and fostering innovation while driving team success. A dedicated part-time educator with a history of imparting knowledge in healthcare and other sectors, leveraging a broad skill set to contribute meaningfully across various disciplines.

Thank you to the 2,000 leaders who’ve generously done the 7 Questions on Leadership!

I hope Priya's answers will encourage you in your leadership journey. Enjoy!

Cheers,

Jonno White

1. What have you found most challenging as a leader?

According to me, the most challenging factors were: 1. Maintaining unwavering confidence during uncertainty. Navigating through ambiguity while ensuring my team felt secure and inspired. This requires immense inner strength and adaptability.

As a leader, uncertainty is inevitable, whether it’s during organizational shifts, industry disruptions, or unforeseen crises. There were moments when I didn’t have all the answers, yet my team looked to me for clarity and reassurance.

It was challenging to project confidence while navigating my own doubts. However, I learned that leadership isn’t about always knowing the way but about believing in the journey, being transparent about challenges, and showing my team that uncertainty can be a catalyst for creativity and innovation.

2. Balancing the needs of individuals with the goals of the organization, ensuring every voice was heard while driving toward a unified vision, often felt like walking a tightrope. Leadership often felt like walking a fine line between fostering individual growth and driving collective outcomes.

Every team member brought unique strengths, perspectives, and challenges, and I had to ensure each person felt valued and supported without compromising the larger vision.

There were times when decisions felt deeply personal, yet I had to prioritize the organization’s success. I found that open communication, empathy, and a focus on shared purpose helped bridge the gap, ensuring that both the individual and the team could thrive.

3. Leading through change and resistance and embracing innovation while addressing fears and doubts among the team tested my patience and communication skills. Change is essential for growth, but it’s rarely welcomed with open arms.

One of my greatest challenges was guiding my team through transitions, whether introducing new processes, adopting emerging technologies, or shifting strategic goals.

Resistance often stemmed from fear of the unknown, and I had to become not just a leader but a coach, helping my team see the opportunities hidden within change. Through consistent communication, patience, and celebrating small wins, I turned resistance into momentum.

4. Staying emotionally resilient as a leader, I often carried not only my own burdens but also the weight of my team’s challenges, which required constant self-reflection and growth. Leadership is a deeply human experience, and it often required me to shoulder not just my own stresses but also the emotions, conflicts, and challenges faced by my team.

There were times when the weight of expectations felt overwhelming, especially when outcomes didn’t align with our efforts. However, I realized that my emotional resilience set the tone for the team. I cultivated this resilience by prioritizing self-care, seeking mentorship, and staying anchored in my purpose. Over time, I learned that vulnerability and strength are not opposites. They are complementary forces that make a leader authentic and inspiring.

2. How did you become a leader? Can you please briefly tell the story?

To me, becoming a leader wasn’t a single moment, it was a journey that began long before I even understood what leadership meant. From a young age, I instinctively gravitated toward positions of influence, not out of a desire for authority but because I saw opportunities to create change, inspire others, and shape outcomes. Even as a little girl, I had a knack for organizing, planning, and taking the reins in group projects or family activities. Whether it was deciding how we would spend the afternoon or rallying friends around a shared goal, leadership was a natural part of me.

Making impactful decisions was something that came naturally. I always sought to understand every angle of a situation, weighing multiple perspectives before acting. I found joy in solving problems, taking into account not just the immediate needs but the bigger picture. This ability to think critically and decisively became one of the cornerstones of my leadership style. What set me apart, even at a young age, was my ability to communicate and persuade.

I remember passionately trying to convince others of my ideas, whether it was a theory about how we should approach a school project or a creative solution to a challenge we faced. I didn’t just want to lead, I wanted to inspire. I wanted others to see the possibilities I saw and feel the excitement I felt for what we could achieve together. As I grew, these innate abilities became more refined. My managing skills were evident, but I quickly realized leadership was about more than managing tasks; it was about connecting with people.

I began to shape my leadership style by interacting with others, sharing my ideological views, and building trust. My communication skills allowed me to articulate not only my ideas but also a vision that resonated with others. I learned to listen deeply, to understand what motivated people, and to bring out the best in them.

Over time, I honed my ability to lead by embracing challenges and opportunities. Each experience, whether it was organizing events, taking on responsibilities in academic settings, or leading professional teams, added another layer to my understanding of what it means to be a leader. It’s not just about standing at the forefront but also about standing with people, guiding them, and empowering them to excel.

My journey to leadership has been one of constant growth, shaped by my passion for making an impact, my commitment to understanding others, and my relentless pursuit of excellence. It started with the spark of natural ability, but it has been nurtured by a deep sense of purpose and a desire to make a difference in every space I inhabit. This journey is ongoing, and every step has only strengthened my resolve to lead with integrity, vision, and heart.

3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?

My day is structured with purpose, balance, and intentionality, ensuring that every moment aligns with my values and goals. From the moment I wake up to the time I finally rest, I create a rhythm that fuels my productivity, nurtures my relationships, and allows me to grow. Morning: Setting the Tone with Care and Preparation I begin my day with responsibility and care by tending to my pets, feeding them, ensuring their comfort, and giving them the attention they deserve.

This routine not only fulfills their needs but also grounds me in gratitude and responsibility. Afterward, I indulge in a refreshing shower and a nourishing breakfast, setting a positive tone for the day ahead. As I prepare for work, I focus on aligning my mindset with the tasks and challenges ahead, ready to approach them with clarity and determination. Midday: Balancing Work, Connection, and Growth Once I dive into my work, I am fully present, channeling my energy and focus into achieving meaningful outcomes.

I built in intentional breaks to cook for my mom, check on my pets, and ensure their well-being. These moments remind me of the importance of care and connection, even amidst a busy schedule. If time permits, I enjoy a wholesome lunch that fuels my body and mind, preparing me to continue tackling my goals. Throughout the day, I carve out moments for learning and self-improvement, whether it's exploring a new skill, gaining insights from books, or reflecting on ways to improve my leadership.

Staying connected with loved ones is also a priority. I take time to check in on those close to me, ensuring that my relationships remain strong and vibrant. Evening: A Blend of Productivity and Restoration As the evening approaches, my work, learning, and coaching continue, often blending seamlessly as I help others achieve their goals while pursuing my own. When my responsibilities wind down, I return to caring for my pets, feeding them, ensuring they are happy, and creating a peaceful environment for them.

Cooking dinner is both a creative outlet and an opportunity to unwind before enjoying a satisfying meal. After dinner, I prioritize cleanliness and organization, tidying my space to create an environment that fosters peace and productivity. Then, I claim some well-deserved me time, whether that’s reflecting on the day, journaling, or simply indulging in something that brings me joy.

Before finally heading to bed, I wrap up any lingering tasks or work that demands my attention, ensuring I end the day on a note of completion and readiness for tomorrow. Night: Resting with Purpose By the time I see my bed, often around 1-2 AM, I know I’ve given the day my all. My structured yet flexible routine allows me to balance work, personal growth, relationships, and self-care. Every day is an opportunity to make an impact, nurture my passions, and move closer to the life I envision for myself and those I care about.

4. What's a recent leadership lesson you've learned for the first time or been reminded of?

A recent lesson I’ve been powerfully reminded of as a leader is that your success is deeply tied to the clarity of your mind and the precision of your direction. Leadership is not just about action, it's about intention. I’ve realized that no matter how much talent, effort, or resources you bring to the table, if your mind is cluttered or your direction is uncertain, progress will always falter. Clarity is the foundation upon which all great leadership is built.

It’s about knowing not only what you’re striving for but why it matters and how you’ll get there. This lesson hit me recently when faced with a complex decision involving multiple stakeholders and outcomes. I found myself momentarily overwhelmed by competing priorities. But instead of rushing into action or being paralyzed by overthinking, I took a step back. I paused, reflected, and focused on simplifying the chaos in my mind. By breaking down the situation, re-centering on the core goal, and realigning my energy with that purpose, I was able to cut through the noise and move forward with conviction.

As leaders, we often feel the pressure to act quickly, but speed without clarity leads to missteps. When you have a clear mind and a clear direction, you can inspire confidence, foster trust, and navigate challenges with precision. You’re no longer just reacting, you’re proactively steering your team and vision toward meaningful results.

This experience reminded me that clarity isn’t just a leadership tool but a leadership power. It’s the compass that transforms ambition into achievement, chaos into focus, and challenges into opportunities. True leadership begins when you master your mind and chart your course with purpose and precision. This is where success begins and grows.

5. What's one book that has had a profound impact on your leadership so far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted your leadership?

"One of the books that had a profound impact on my journey as a leader is Vladimir Putin: Life Coach by Rob Sears. While unconventional in its approach, the book challenges you to think critically about power, influence, and the strategies that drive leadership at a global level. It reminds leaders of the importance of calculated decision-making, resilience, and the ability to adapt swiftly to changing circumstances. It taught me to understand leadership as both an art and a science, balancing bold actions with careful planning. But that’s just one perspective. Let me share three other books that deeply shaped my leadership philosophy:

1. Start with Why by Simon Sinek This book introduced me to the concept of leading with purpose. Sinek’s message is simple but transformative: Great leaders and organizations don’t just focus on what they do or how they do it; they start with why. Reading this book helped me crystallize my vision and communicate it in a way that resonates deeply with others. It pushed me to reflect on my own “why”, the core purpose driving my actions, and helped me inspire others to rally behind a shared mission. Leadership is not about authority, it’s about creating belief and momentum around a powerful purpose.

2. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey: This timeless classic reshaped how I approach productivity and relationships. Covey’s emphasis on proactivity, prioritization, and synergistic collaboration taught me that leadership is about mastering yourself first. The habits of sharpening the saw (continuous self-improvement) and seeking first to understand before being understood revolutionized the way I listen to and engage with others. This book made me realize that leadership is not about control; it’s about cultivating trust, empowering others, and achieving results through mutual respect.

3. Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek This book profoundly shifted my understanding of servant leadership. Sinek highlights that great leaders prioritize their people above all else, creating environments where trust, safety, and collaboration flourish. It challenged me to rethink how I lead my teams, focusing less on outcomes and more on the well-being and growth of the individuals I serve. The concept of “building a circle of safety” resonated deeply with me; leadership is about fostering an atmosphere where people feel supported, valued, and inspired to excel.

How These Books Impacted My Leadership  Each of these books offered me unique lessons, but together, they provided a holistic framework for leadership: - From Putin: Life Coach"", I learned the power of strategy and decisiveness. - From "Start with Why"", I embraced the importance of purpose-driven leadership. - From "The 7 Habits"", I internalized the necessity of self-mastery and building trust. - From "Leaders Eat Last"", I realized that true leadership is about serving others and cultivating a thriving culture. These books didn’t just shape me, but they empowered me.

They reminded me that leadership is not static, instead, it’s a lifelong journey of growth, learning, and transformation. Each page turned became a step forward on that path, equipping me to lead with clarity, purpose, and impact. "

6. If you could only give one piece of advice to a young leader, what would you say to them?

If I could give one piece of advice to a young person who aspires to be a leader, it would be this: Be unapologetically yourself, and lead from your core. Don’t fear failure; embrace it as your greatest teacher. Believe in yourself with unshakable confidence, stay positive even in the face of adversity, and never stop learning from the journey.

Be You The most powerful leaders are those who lead authentically. The world doesn’t need another copy, it needs you in your truest, most unique form. Embrace your quirks, passions, and individuality because they are what will set you apart. Authenticity inspires trust, and trust is the foundation of any great leader. Never compromise who you are for approval; instead, let your authenticity become your greatest strength.

Don’t Be Afraid to Fail Failure is not the end; it’s the beginning of growth. Every great leader has stumbled, made mistakes, and faced setbacks. What sets them apart is their ability to rise, learn, and move forward stronger. Each failure is a stepping stone, not a roadblock. Don’t let fear paralyze you; instead, let it fuel your courage. Remember, the most meaningful achievements are often born out of the toughest failures.

Learn From Your Mistakes Mistakes are not signs of weakness, they are opportunities to grow. Reflect on them, own them, and use them as tools to sharpen your skills and perspective. A leader who learns from their mistakes becomes resilient, wise, and unstoppable. The only true failure is refusing to learn and evolve.

Stay Positive and Optimistic Your mindset is your superpower. Positivity isn’t about ignoring challenges. It’s about facing them with hope and a belief in better outcomes. As a leader, your optimism will be contagious, inspiring those around you to push through obstacles and keep striving. When you lead with light, you help others find their way, even in the darkest moments.

Believe in Yourself Leadership starts with self-belief. If you don’t believe in your vision, your abilities, and your purpose, no one else will. Trust that you have what it takes to make an impact, even when doubt creeps in. Confidence isn’t arrogance, it’s a quiet, steady belief in your potential. When you believe in yourself, you give others permission to do the same. The Ultimate Advice Leadership is not about being perfect; it’s about being real, being brave, and being relentlessly committed to growth.

Embrace every challenge as a chance to become better. Stand tall in who you are, lead with purpose, and never stop dreaming big. The journey won’t always be easy, but it will always be worth it. The world is waiting for leaders like you. Step up, take the reins, and shine.

7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as a leader, so far?

In my leadership journey, one story stands out as a testament to the transformative power of belief, empathy, and inspiration. It’s a story of hope rekindled, dreams reignited, and lives forever changed, a story that reminds me why I lead. It began with two individuals, both at the edge of giving up, though their struggles were vastly different. One was a student lost in a sea of self-doubt. Life had dealt them blow after blow, and they had come to believe that finishing their education was impossible.

They had given up, not just on their studies but on themselves. When I met this student, I saw the spark that they no longer believed existed. I saw potential, resilience, and a dream waiting to be rediscovered. The other was a young woman, burdened by despair so deep that she had decided life was no longer worth living. She confided in me at her lowest moment, her voice heavy with hopelessness. She saw no way forward, no reason to continue. But even in her darkness, I saw strength, a strength she couldn’t yet recognize. With the student, I began by listening. I didn’t rush to fix or judge. I simply heard their story.

Then, I shared my belief in them, strong and unwavering. I encouraged them to take small steps and to focus on progress rather than perfection. Slowly, they began to rebuild. Every assignment completed and every class attended was a victory. And then came the day they stood in their cap and gowns, walking across the stage to claim the degree they thought they’d never achieve.

Watching their transformation, I felt a profound sense of purpose. This was not just their success, it was a testament to what happens when someone believes in you, even when you can’t believe in yourself. With the young woman, the journey was far more fragile. Her pain was deep, her hope extinguished. But I met her where she was, offering not solutions but a steady presence. I reminded her, again and again, of her worth, her strength, and the beauty of what could lie ahead. I challenged her to take one breath at a time, one step at a time. Slowly, she began to rise.

She started to rebuild her life, not just to survive but to thrive. Today, she stands as a beacon of resilience, inspiring others who face the same darkness she once did. These two lives, seemingly unconnected, are woven together in my heart as one powerful reminder of what leadership truly means. It’s not about authority or accolades. It’s about seeing people for who they are, believing in them when they can’t believe in themselves, and walking beside them as they find their strength.

This story has become the cornerstone of my leadership philosophy. It reminds me every day that the most profound impact we can have is not measured in achievements or titles but in lives touched, hearts uplifted, and futures transformed. Leadership is about standing in the gap for others, lighting their path until they can walk confidently on their own. This is why I lead, and this is why I will never stop.