First of all, welcome to the BASA Awards! What made you say yes to being a judge this year?

Thank you! I said yes because I truly believe small businesses are some of the most innovative players in any industry. They have the power to bring fresh perspectives and create fundamental shifts. Being part of a platform that celebrates that spirit is both exciting and meaningful for me.

"Small businesses are some of the most innovative out there. They bring fresh ideas and new perspectives that can create a fundamental shift in the industry"

You're currently at Google and based in Silicon Valley. What was the turning point in your journey that brought you there?

One major tipping point was moving to the San Francisco Bay Area. It’s called Silicon Valley for a reason. I met mentors who didn’t just give advice, they gave me skills to execute. Every conversation here is intellectually stimulating. I also realized that my own skills were the only real limit to my progress, and that changed everything for me

"We need to stop thinking just in terms of ideas, and start thinking in terms of problems and solutions—that’s how innovation really happens."

What do you think is the biggest challenge for tech startups today?

A lot of startups have great ideas, but execution is where many struggle. It’s not just about having the idea; it’s about solving a real problem in a way that gets to market quickly. If you don’t move fast enough, your ideas risk becoming obsolete before they land.

Many small businesses are overwhelmed by AI. What's your take?

AI should be viewed as a tool, not a threat. It’s here to enhance productivity and help you do more with less. AI won’t replace good entrepreneurs, but it can save you time and help you focus on what matters. My advice is: don’t fear it—figure out how to use it to advance your business.

You’ve spoken a lot about leadership. What does great leadership mean to you today?

Great leadership is about valuing time—both your own and your team’s. It’s knowing when to say yes, and more importantly, when to say no to things that don’t meaningfully move your goals forward. It’s about making smart investments with your energy.