How 'Life Changing Ideas' is Redefining Executive Education and What Lies Ahead

An Initiative to Transform, Inspire, and Help You #Stay_Ahead_of_the_Curve

The FastForward News Team

08 Sep 2023

A graduate in Economics and Management, Maria Ftelleha has dedicated over two decades to executive education. Today, alongside partners Globaltraining and the University of Nicosia, she drives forward her ambition of disseminating revolutionary business concepts through various "Life Changing Ideas" events – both live and online, an initiative co-founded by her.

In the following interview, Maria delves deep into the origins of Life Changing Ideas, elaborating on the upcoming Masterclass led by the esteemed Professor Nicos Savva on the impactful subjects of Data Science & AI. She sheds light on the unique elements that set their events apart and shares an insight into the rigorous selection process for their world-class speakers. Eager learners will also discover how they can benefit from these Masterclasses and what awaits in the future for Life Changing Ideas.

Mark your calendars for the upcoming Masterclass on Data Science & AI, scheduled for September 28, from 10:00 am to 13:00 pm at the University of Nicosia. Under the guidance of Professor Nicos Savva, from the London Business School, participants will be enlightened on the profound capabilities of these technologies, while also engaging in hands-on learning and discussions. This exclusive event is limited to just 50 senior executives. For registration and more details, visit here.

What inspired the creation of Life Changing Ideas, and what do you believe is the main factor that draws such a diverse audience to your events?

The idea of launching LCI came just after the 2013 financial crisis. I felt that everything died out in Cyprus. There was no inspiration, no business etiquette-everyone retreated in a mode of survival. We needed to be inspired by new and innovative business ideas. Thus, the launch of Life Changing Ideas!

Could you elaborate on why Nicos Savva was chosen to lead this upcoming masterclass on Data Science & AI? What specific insights can attendees expect from him?

Very few people have a true expertise on the topic of data science and AI. After all AI is a new topic! Prof. Savva is one of them.

Nicos Savva is geared to make executives understand how to embed data science and AI in their strategic decision making

He teaches executives from across the board, at London Business School. He is geared to make executives understand how to embed data science and AI in their strategic decision making.

What, in your view, is the real-world value of these business talks and masterclasses for business leaders and ambitious thinkers?

Our talks and events offer very high-quality business content, new ideas, the latest business trends and lots of inspiration! We can help each attendee relate these ideas to his/her own business environment.

With a number of conferences and business events taking place in Cyprus, what sets Life Changing Ideas apart from other initiatives?

It’s a unique initiative, always hosting world class speakers, best-selling authors and global minds.

You stress the quality of the faculty, describing them as "Smart, Experienced, and Inspirational." How do you go about selecting these world-class speakers and best-selling authors?

It’s based on a network we have build over the years as well as rigorous research on our part, of speakers and tutors who truly add value in the business world.

What has been your most gratifying moment or milestone since launching Life Changing Ideas, and what are the next big topics or themes that you are considering for future events?

A gratifying moment is when I see an amphitheater full of executives attending the talks, followed by very positive feedback from participants. We are now delving on the Masterclasses- which is focused learning for senior executives. These 3-hour workshops are forums for brainstorming, debate, conversation and coaching done by world class faculty.