As a thought leader in global human development, social impact, and women’s empowerment, Darcee D. McJannet’s journey is a blueprint for meaningful change. With a career spanning over 30 years, Darcee is not just a leader but a revolutionary in her approach to business and personal growth. She took the time to share insights on her purpose-driven journey, her vision for the future, and the values that underpin her work.
Interviewer: Darcee, thank you so much for speaking with us. You’ve had an extraordinary career with a focus on empowering individuals and communities. Could you share the driving force behind your work?
Darcee D. McJannet: Thank you for having me. My mission has always been centered around people and purpose. Since founding Stratego Consulting International Inc., I wanted to build a company grounded in the principle that people and the planet come before profit. This philosophy guides everything I do—whether it’s coaching a CEO or working on a humanitarian project. My focus has always been on creating a legacy that doesn’t just change industries but genuinely improves lives.
Interviewer: That’s inspiring. Stratego Consulting stands out for its socially conscious foundation. What are some ways you’ve implemented this mission?
Darcee: One of the ways we embody our mission is by ensuring that each project has a meaningful impact, not just on the client but on the community at large. Our approach integrates behavioral analytics and holistic principles, which means we’re looking at the whole person—mind, body, and soul. In our leadership coaching and corporate strategy work, we’re always asking, “How can we create harmony between professional success and personal well-being?” It’s a transformative approach that goes beyond standard business metrics to look at human-centered growth.
Interviewer: You’ve had a varied career, from consulting to leadership roles across different industries. How has this diversity shaped your perspective?
Darcee: Working across industries like oil & gas, real estate, IT, finance, and telecom has shown me that the principles of effective leadership are universal, though the challenges vary. I’ve learnt to adapt my strategies to diverse environments, which has deepened my understanding of human capital and corporate wellness. My time as a Regional Director at IBM, where I managed cross-functional teams, was pivotal—it taught me the importance of building resilient teams and gave me insights into strategic partnerships that are still relevant today.
Interviewer: You’re often described as the “leadership diva” in the media. How did this come about, and what does it mean to you?
Darcee: (laughs) It’s a nickname that seems to have stuck! People sometimes associate “diva” with someone who’s difficult, but in my case, it’s about being uncompromising in my values and dedicated to excellence. I blend analytical thinking with intuition, something I think sets me apart. I believe that good leadership involves both a strong mind and an empathetic heart, and my clients see this approach as unique, which I take as a huge compliment.
Interviewer: Your work has empowered countless men and women in leadership. How do you view the role of women in transforming the future of business?
Darcee: Men and Women bring such a valuable perspective to leadership—one that often emphasizes collaboration, empathy, and long-term vision. I’ve always believed that empowering men and women isn’t just beneficial for them but essential for building healthier, more inclusive economies. Through my work, I aim to support men and women who are already strong and capable, helping them amplify their voices and step into their power. My dream is a future where women in leadership are the norm, not the exception.
Interviewer: You’ve also been a vocal advocate for global peace and human rights. How does this align with your entrepreneurial goals?
Darcee: My work is deeply rooted in the belief that businesses have the power to create social change. Entrepreneurship isn’t just about profit—it’s about responsibility. We have a unique opportunity to solve societal challenges through innovation and ethical practices. Whether it’s promoting corporate wellness or advocating for human rights, I view these efforts as interconnected. A healthier, fairer society is the foundation for sustainable business.
Interviewer: With such a vast career, you’ve likely faced numerous challenges. Can you tell us about a pivotal moment and what you learnt from it?
Darcee: One defining moment was early on in my career, dealing with the intense demands of a leadership role while balancing family. I realized that to sustain a long-term career, I needed a work-life rebalance. It became clear that success shouldn’t come at the expense of well-being. That’s why work-life integration is now at the core of my teachings. True leadership isn’t just about professional accomplishments but about thriving in all aspects of life.
Interviewer: Your educational background in business administration and political science, plus your research in corporate wellness, also speaks volumes. How has your academic journey influenced your approach?
Darcee: My studies gave me a foundation to explore the human side of business. My MBA thesis on human capital and motivational factors really cemented my approach to leadership—seeing people as the heart of an organization. Corporate wellness isn’t just a trend; it’s a necessity. I wanted to find out how we could design workplaces that support, not drain, individuals. And that’s become a cornerstone of my work.
Interviewer: Finally, looking ahead, what legacy do you hope to leave behind?
Darcee: My legacy is really about healing humanity and empowering future generations. I want to continue creating a world where people feel seen, valued, and empowered. Leadership is all about collective responsibility. I hope that my work inspires people to lead with integrity, to prioritize purpose, and to always remember that real success is measured by the positive impact we leave behind.
Interviewer: Darcee, Thank you for your time and for sharing such inspiring insights.
Darcee: Thank you—it’s been a pleasure!
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