Welcome to the Leader’s Insights, a place where The Future asks the simplest, yet, the most interesting questions to the executives of well-known companies, startups and innovators.
This time we talk with Elizabeth Friedrich Sargsyan, a visionary leader and creator who is making waves in the international business community. As the founder of The Red Diamond International Business Women Awards, held with the support of the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the author and producer of CrossRoads with Elizabeth Friedrich, she is dedicated to uniting and empowering women on a global scale.
Elizabeth’s talk show, CrossRoads with Elizabeth Friedrich, is committed to sharing inspiring stories and addressing important topics that support and empower people. Her initiatives, including the prestigious Red Diamond Awards and the dynamic Red Diamond Business Club, are fostering connections, inspiring change, and driving success among influential businesswomen worldwide.
Join us as we explore Elizabeth’s mission to champion unity and empowerment, and learn how she’s creating meaningful impact through her innovative projects in business, art, and culture.
Let’s see what Elizabeth has to say…
1. Do you remember your first day on the job?
Yes, I remember my first day vividly. It was the day I realized something profound about myself—I wanted to chart my own path. Working for someone else gave me valuable insights, but it also fueled my determination to create something uniquely my own. That moment set the foundation for my journey toward independence, creativity, and building projects that truly inspire and empower others.” This approach conveys your story while emphasizing personal growth and ambition.
2. What is more difficult: being interviewed to join a team or doing the interviews yourself?
I prefer to conduct interviews myself. For me, building a team is about finding people who are truly passionate about what they do—those who wake up each morning excited to contribute. I strive to give them the sense that they’re creating something meaningful, something that matters. Everyone is unique, and I want my team to feel empowered to share their talents and make a difference in the world.
3. What do you value most in your employees?
I value my employees’ personalities and uniqueness above all. Their passion, positivity, and zest for life are what make them stand out. I truly appreciate those who communicate well with others and bring their individuality and energy to everything they do. It’s their unique qualities that drive the success of any team.
4. Which is a motto/quote you use in your work?
A motto I live by in my work is: “What you do today will become your tomorrow.” It’s a reminder that every action, decision, and effort we put in now shapes the future we want to create. It inspires me to stay focused, give my best, and encourage those around me to do the same.
5. If you were back to the start, what would you advise yourself for a great career?
If I could go back to the start, I would advise myself to spend my time wisely and always trust my intuition. In the fast-paced journey of building a career, being mindful of how I use my time and listening to my gut instincts would have guided me in making better decisions and staying true to my path.
6. How do you pump up your creativity?
To pump up my creativity, I draw inspiration from my personal experiences, especially the challenges I’ve faced. Many of my creations come from a desire to help women avoid similar struggles and empower them. Another powerful source of creativity for me is music—it has a unique way of fueling my energy and unlocking new ideas.
7. What is a talent you would like to have?
I would love to have a strong voice for singing. Through song, you can express so many emotions and, at the same time, bring happiness to others, even if just for a moment. The ability to touch people’s hearts with music is something truly special.
8. How do you balance work and personal life?
I’m not married, so my focus is on creating and building the projects I’m passionate about. Because I love what I do so much, it doesn’t feel like work—it’s more like being all in, fully dedicated to the process and the impact I want to make. I find balance in the joy and fulfilment that comes from pursuing my passions.
9. What are the top five foods you like in Cyprus?
- I love seafood,
- Tarhana soup,
- Kleftiko,
- Tzatziki,
- Tahini,
- and Tarama dip—simple, delicious, and truly Cyprus!
10. Can you name your top five favourite places in Cyprus?
It’s hard to choose, but my top favourites are
- Omodos Village,
- Lefkara,
- Pafos,
- Protaras,
- Polis,
- Kakopetria,
- Kalopanayiotis,
- Pervolia,
- and of course, our beautiful Limassol!
11. Which personality, throughout history, do you admire most?
Of course, there are many I admire, but the first two that come to mind are Rosa Parks and Marie Curie.
12. Who is your favourite author/book that helped your career?
Osho is one of my favourites because his teachings help you let go of your ego and become one with the universe.
13. Where would you advise our readers to go this winter?
I would advise readers to listen to their inner voice and go where they feel drawn to be. I love Asia and Cuba, and I’m always excited to explore new cultures, nature, and diverse traditions.
