We asked Isabella Rocha, a Novi Award finalist in the Rising Star category, to share her insights on the future of leadership, what work-life balance means to her, and the mindset that is driving her to go the extra mile. Here’s what she had to say:

The Meaning of Being a Novi Award Finalist

“Being a finalist is a humbling experience, especially given the incredible talent in the Rising Star category,” Isabella shared, reflecting on her place among such remarkable peers. For her, this nomination is more than recognition; it’s a tribute to the journey she’s undertaken, the unwavering support from those around her, and the impact she aspires to make. “It’s a reminder to keep pushing boundaries and to inspire others to do the same.” For Isabella, being a finalist isn’t just an honor—it’s a call to action.

Balancing Work and Life

When asked about her approach to work-life balance, Isabella highlighted the importance of boundaries. “Set clear boundaries and respect them,” she emphasized, noting that it’s easy to get consumed by work, especially when driven by passion. However, she stresses that carving out moments to disconnect, recharge, and engage with interests outside of work is vital for staying grounded. “Don’t be afraid to say ‘no’ when necessary—it’s about maintaining long-term sustainability.”

A Life Motto to Live By

Isabella’s life motto is a saying from her Brazilian grandfather: “Conhecimento não ocupa espaço,” or “knowledge doesn’t take up space.” To her, this phrase is a beautiful reminder that learning is limitless; gaining new knowledge never weighs you down but instead empowers you. “It only empowers you to achieve more,” she said, expressing her belief in the boundless potential of a growth mindset.

The Best Advice Ever Received

Reflecting on advice that has shaped her, Isabella shared, “If you don’t give your best effort or try at all, the result will always be nothing.” This wisdom has motivated her to pursue her goals with confidence and resilience, reminding her that giving her all is always worth it. “Even if you fail, at least you’ve given yourself a chance to succeed,” she said, underscoring the importance of effort in any endeavor.

Looking Back, What Would She Change?

While Isabella has accomplished much, she admits that in hindsight, she would have been kinder to herself. “Early on, I thought everything had to be perfect,” she said. But over time, she has come to appreciate that learning often happens through mistakes. Her perspective is that imperfections and missteps are part of the journey and lead to greater growth and resilience.

Productivity Tips for Staying at the Top of Her Game

One productivity method Isabella swears by is time-blocking. By designating specific time slots for various tasks, she’s able to focus on one thing at a time, minimizing distractions. “It keeps my mind clear and ensures I’m tackling both urgent and important work effectively,” she shared, describing the practice that helps her stay organized and on track.

A Powerful Negotiation Strategy

When it comes to negotiation, Isabella’s approach is refreshingly straightforward: listen first. “Real power lies in understanding the other party’s needs and then aligning your proposal in a way that is a win for everyone.” She finds that truly listening not only strengthens relationships but also leads to better, mutually beneficial outcomes.

Taking Risks: Founding a BRG at IBM UKI

One of the boldest decisions Isabella has made was founding IBM’s first Latino/Hispanic Business Resource Group in the UKI region. “Stepping into a leadership role at a young age was daunting at first,” she admitted, but taking this leap opened doors to unprecedented opportunities and allowed her to create meaningful change within her organization.

A Memorable Leadership Lesson

Reflecting on what it means to lead, Isabella said, “Leadership isn’t about knowing everything; it’s about knowing how to uplift others.” She has learned that the best leaders empower their teams, cultivating a culture of trust and support. For Isabella, this has proven to be the foundation of both innovation and success.

An ‘Unstoppable Together’ Moment

When asked about a time when collaborating with other women leaders propelled her forward, Isabella spoke passionately about the impact of these connections. “An ‘unstoppable together’ moment for me has been connecting with women leaders who truly know how to bring people together. There’s no gatekeeping, only support and growth.” Through mentorship and shared experiences, she’s learned, expanded her perspective, and achieved new heights both personally and professionally.

Isabella’s insights remind us that her achievements aren’t just hers alone—they are a testament to the power of community and the importance of building one another up. As she looks ahead to the awards ceremony, she carries with her a commitment to continue lifting others and pushing boundaries in both design and leadership.

We can’t wait to see what she and her fellow finalists accomplish next!

Want to see Isabella and our finalists live? Join us at the awards ceremony to celebrate extraordinary leaders. Secure your tickets now and be part of an unforgettable night