founders & friends
We're Naela & Wardah! We met in 2014 as cube neighbors in Corporate America, and quickly became friends! With a shared passion for developing others, making a difference in the world, and having fun while doing it, we decided it was time to bring that energy to a new adventure. After months (or should we say, years?!) of brainstorming, we're thrilled to bring e4 Pathways to the world!
Naela Liesman
I'm a wife and a mom of two kids, with over 15 years of experience in Corporate Finance. I graduated from UT Austin (Hook'em Horns!) in 2009 with a BBA in Finance, and then from UT Arlington with an MBA in 2014. While I enjoy my career in finance, I've found that what I love the most is helping others develop in their careers. I struggled with confidence and fear of public speaking early in my career, but thanks to help from other great leaders, I was able to not only overcome those challenges and thrive in my career but was also able to coach others with similar struggles. I'm passionate that no matter what career someone chooses, its important to learn how to effectively communicate, connect with others, and live their core values.
Wardah Iqbal
I graduated from TCU with my BBA in Finance in 2010 and with my MBA in 2017 (Go Frogs!); and in between there, I married my best friend! Throughout the years, I have worked both in large Fortune 500 companies and smaller private firms in multiple finance roles; I've continuously learned and grown my financial and leadership acumen at every step. The finance leader role will always be a part of me; but I really, really love the people part of my career. Having been a people-leader for many years, it's become the part of my job I find most rewarding. I love coaching; I love seeing people conquer a fear, learn a new skill, accomplish a goal, and grow in every part of their lives.
our mission
We empower young adults with leadership, professional, and life skills as they transition into adulthood, college, and careers.
our vision
We aim to give every participant the confidence and skills to take on life in any path that they choose.
why we're doing this.
At our core, we are nerds. And we LOVE it.
We love to COACH. Developing and coaching others is what we’re good at and find fulfillment in. We love to connect and help others problem solve.
We love to LEARN about leadership. There’s so much to discover, discuss, and debate.
We love to HELP.
Tackling the world is quite a feat for a young adult. We want to make it a bit easier.
If you can't tell by now, we're
passionate
about helping others in their careers! We were both lucky to have great resources early in our careers that helped us develop all of the critical soft-skills needed for life, but we know that not everyone is so lucky. We see the struggles that high school and college students face in transitioning from a school environment straight into their careers, and we want to help fill-in those gaps. If we can help one person feel more empowered and ready to conquer their career, then we will consider this a success! After all, we're counting on the young adults of today to lead us all into a
bright tomorrow!
Interested in our services? We’re here to help!
We want to know your needs exactly so that we can provide the perfect solution. The intro session is always at no cost and no obligations!