DR. NOA
GAFNI
Who I Am 👋
My Mission
I help Fortune 500 leaders navigate the chaos of our interconnected world—where a single decision can trigger cascading global impacts.
Most executives are still using outdated strategic frameworks built for a simpler era. I've spent two decades reimagining how we understand competitive advantage in an age defined by Technology, Geopolitics, Society, Environment, and Economy—what I call The New Five Forces.
Butterfly Effect Leadership
My approach centers on Butterfly Effect Leadership: Small, intentional choices that create disproportionate outcomes across systems and geographies.
I translate complex macro forces into actionable strategy, helping leaders turn global disruption into strategic advantage while maintaining joy in the work—what I call "fun impact".
What I Bring
Teaching at Columbia and NYU with expertise in Entrepreneurship, Leadership, and Impact
Board member at USA for UNFPA, Forum for the Future, and UNA-UK
Strategic advisor to C-suite leaders globally
Worked across five continents and fluent in three languages
Track Record
Seasoned entrepreneur and intrapreneur for Hearst Magazines, United Nations, and World Economic Forum
Founded Impact Squared (acquired)
Fellowships at Cambridge University, Harvard University, and the World Economic Forum
Speaker and contributor to leading outlets, from the New York Times to Fox News
Why Follow
I share frameworks that turn global disruption into strategic advantage. No generic business advice—just practical insights for leaders navigating unprecedented complexity.
Strategic foresight in rapid change
Corporate innovation ecosystems
Leading with impact, keeping it human
Watch
Leadership Lessons from a Nobel Peace Laureate
The Future of Wellness with Dr. Deepak Chopra
Rebuilding Trust in an Era of Disillusion
Analyzing President Trump's Visit to the UK
Why Politics Is Now a CEO Problem
In an era of increasing polarization, business leaders can no longer stay silent on political issues. Exploring how CEOs must navigate the complex intersection of business and politics.
Reinventing Davos
Reflections on the World Economic Forum and how global gatherings of leaders can evolve to create more meaningful impact in addressing the world's most pressing challenges.
What Davos Taught Me About Never Feeling Good Enough
A personal reflection on imposter syndrome, belonging, and the lessons learned from years of participating in one of the world's most exclusive gatherings of global leaders.
Listen
Brave Conversations with Noa Gafni
Dr. Noa Gafni shares her experiences shaping global impact at forums like Davos and the UN. Exploring the power of bravery and presence in business and global social innovation, and how personal histories shape changemaking.
Demanding Change: When Workers Speak Up and Companies Listen
A conversation about workers rights, culture, and purpose. Exploring how employees are demanding change and how companies are responding to create better workplace environments.
How to Create a Net Positive World with Paul Polman
Former Unilever CEO Paul Polman shares his vision for creating a net positive world where businesses contribute more to society than they take. Learn how corporate leadership can drive meaningful change for people and planet.
DE&I and the Importance of Age, Class, and Lived Experience
Dr. Noa Gafni discusses why you should consider age, class, and lived experience when developing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion policies for your organization. Essential insights for creating truly inclusive workplaces.
We Are Each Other's Business with Abigail Disney
Abigail Disney discusses wealth inequality, corporate responsibility, and why we must recognize our interconnectedness. A powerful conversation about using privilege and resources to create a more equitable society.
Let's Collaborate
"Noa Gafni was a dynamic keynote speaker. Her talk was insightful and highly relevant. She struck the perfect balance between big-picture ideas and practical takeaways, leaving our audience energized and ready to create meaningful change."
— Carly Pennachia, Philadelphia Eagles
Advising
Strategic guidance for leaders and organizations navigating complex challenges. I work with executives and teams to develop actionable insights that drive meaningful transformation and sustainable growth.
Speaking
Engaging keynotes and presentations that inspire action. From leadership and innovation to global trends and social impact, I deliver talks that resonate with diverse audiences and spark meaningful conversations.
Workshops
Interactive sessions designed to build skills and foster collaboration. I facilitate workshops that empower teams to think critically, communicate effectively, and implement strategies that create lasting impact.