Agenda

With over two decades of experience in the luxury hospitality industry Oliviero is the Chief Development Officer of The Lux Collective. An eclectic and well-versed professional, his expertise includes Development Management, Private Equity, Asset Management and Strategy Advisory across the globe. Oliviero's distinguished career showcases his exceptional business acumen and keen ability to operate in a multitude of countries. He has undertaken hospitality development projects across the Middle East, Africa, Europe and South America and contributed to some of the world’s most prestigious and ground-breaking real estate developments including AMAALA in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Lusail City in Qatar. Prior to joining The Lux Collective, Oliviero was the Director of Development at Red Sea Global, a leading real estate development company owned by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund, the Public Investment Company (PIF). He has also held senior roles in the UAE, Qatar and Europe. Through his deep understanding of the development process, strong network and awareness of the latest hospitality trends, Oliviero will spearhead and accelerate the expansion of The Lux Collective’s four distinctive brands in the EMEA region, in line with the Group’s success in the Indian Ocean and Asia. An Italian national, Oliviero is proficient in five languages and holds a British-German bachelor’s degree in European Business Administration.

Award winning Partner & Design Director Pooja Shah-Mulani has been at LW since 2012. Pooja is a true great example of being able to successfully merge ability and desire, whilst grasping every opportunity and challenge that presents itself in creating authentic and memorable destinations. Pooja’s idea of the key to success is being able to build connections with the client, operator and ultimately the end user’s needs. With a unique warmth and openness, she can dissect the aspirations and needs of others that becomes her primary source of inspiration. Her audience is taken on a journey through the space with a strong focus on guest experience in her designs. Pooja takes on the responsibility of this by immersing herself into the space to discover what triggers the senses and provokes the emotion. “Design is like theatre, all the elements and components need to perform perfectly together for a seamless experience. The experience must leave an impression by evoking an emotion, positive or negative.” This experience grows and comes to life through her design ideologies, that were created not just through her professional experiences but through her life journey as well. With Indian heritage, Pooja’s journey has taken her through Africa, UK, Italy and The Middle East. These cultural connections have been instrumental in weaving together a unique philosophy that is seen in her designs throughout the region as well as internationally. Over the past decade at LW, Pooja has developed her design talent and success with her natural leadership qualities that allow her to now lead the way for LW in the future. Pooja’s deep understanding of the Interior Design industry allows her to come up with original concepts and deliver impeccable execution at the same time. Although her personal style would be best described as contemporary and fun, ultimately, it’s a reflection of her personality that is the driving factor and overall experience it creates for others. In Pooja’s latest triumphs together with Partners Andrew Harms and Rachel Kidd, LW Design propelled to unprecedented success. Accolades of 2023 include the prestigious Hotel Design Of The Year Award for Bab Al Shams; the first in its kind Rare Finds Desert Resort, Best Lobby Design at the AHEAD MEA alongside with LW Interior Design Firm Of The Year and Hospitality Design Firm Of The Year honors, highlighting the firm's overall excellence under Pooja's leadership. 2024 has also seen some extraordinary achievements so far with Pooja winning Hospitality Designer of the year 2024, Best High End Restaurant Design for Street XO in the prestigious One Za’abeel development and LW winning Firm of the Year at the Commercial Interior Design Awards, MENA. Pooja's recent completed projects include a diverse range of design in the much awaited One Za’abeel tower, such as the critically Acclaimed first of its kind fitness and recovery hotel, SIRO One Za’abeel Tapasake Restaurant, Street XO, Andaliman & Garden Terrace. Building on these achievements, Pooja's ongoing success includes spearheading award-winning projects like City Social, 7Tales, Row On 45, The Dubai Edition, Raddison Beach Resort, Vida Marina and Bull & Bear Restaurant, all of which have garnered substantial acclaim regionally and internationally. Pooja is currently spearheading the firms 25 year anniversary celebration and the future vision for LW while looking to an exciting 2025 where LW will complete their first few hotel projects in Saudi Arabia, Kuala Lumpur and other new regions. LW Design Over the last 25 years it’s this vision exactly that equates to over 100 hotels and more than 300 restaurants worldwide, working with elite brands such as Marriot Interionational, Hilton, Accor, Ennismore, Four Seasons and that’s just to name a few. Developing key relationships with such Clients and Operators has lead to wonderful repeat collaborations, along with many industry design awards on an international platform. Looking forward, LW strive to maintain existing relationships as well as build on new ones through our global reach.

An influential hospitality industry leader with over 25 years of seasoned experience dedicated to elevating hospitality, tourism, leisure & real estate across the MENA region. • Successfully managed over 160 high-profile projects valued at approximately $206 billion. • Originating strategic comprehensive, tailored plans from concept to execution for landmark iconic initiatives and large-scale transformations. • Proven track record driving innovative and sustainable growth by inspiring stakeholders and delivering measurable results in profitability, operational efficiency and futurizing with technology. • Trusted advisor in hospitality and dynamic speaker and moderator at premier global industry forums and news media. • Excels at new business acquisition and building beneficial partnerships with influential clients including impactful government agencies. • Agile and focused business leader of rapidly growing regional division overseeing independent analysis and research, financial planning and project management of complex ventures as well as recruiting and retaining top talent Academic / Professional Qualifications • Master’s in Hospitality & Tourism – New York University, USA • Master’s in Business Administration - Arkansas State University, USA • Professional Development Program, Hotel Development & Asset Management, Cornell University, USA • Bachelor’s in Hospitality Management – IHTTI, Switzerland

Pradipto is an Architect and Project Management professional with 28 years in the industry, of which 20 years have been in the ME, with varied exposure in Architecture, Interior Design, Construction and Design/Project Management. As a member of the senior leadership and project delivery teams, Pradipto has successfully undertaken leadership roles in both management and key project delivery portfolios for large multi-national ogranisations in the region. Pradipto is a high performer and inspiring leader who honours the past, celebrates the present and looks forward to the future. Pradipto’s diversified project portfolio includes hospitality projects of various scale and nature, including resorts for the Red Sea Global in KSA, urban hotels in UAE and India, covering major hospitality brands like Jumeirah, Four Seasons, Six Senses, Edition, Hilton, Marriott, Accor Group, Address Hotels, ITC India. During his 20 years of service with top ranking multi-disciplinary design consultancy firms, he has had the privilege of working with most major Clients in the ME region, namely Aldar, Emaar, Dubai Holdings, Meraas, Nakheel, DIFC in UAE; The Red Sea Development Corporation, DGCL in KSA and many others. As Managing Director of Colliers Project Leaders UAE, given his long track record of successful team leadership and project delivery, he brings an assortment of sound technical knowledge with commercial astuteness, combined with professional temperament, leadership and mentoring skills, emotional intelligence and strong team ethics, which earns his natural acceptance as a team leader, enthusing strong team ethos.

Daniel McBrearty boasts a distinguished record in orchestrating real estate and hospitality development endeavors, adeptly steering strategy formulation and execution, fostering brand growth, and pioneering creative design initiatives. His expertise spans acquisitions, pioneering development methodologies, asset expansion, and portfolio oversight. Throughout his professional journey, Daniel has occupied pivotal leadership roles within globally renowned entities such as Vail Resorts, Walt Disney Company, Walt Disney Imagineering, and others. Before coming to Soudah, while at Under Canvas, he worked with KSL Capital Partners, his Board and Investment Committee to establish and launch a new luxury brand Ulum. Daniel earned his bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the University of California, Los Angeles, and further fortified his expertise with a master’s degree in Civil Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge.

Maximilian holds the position of Vice President at JLL’s Hotels & Hospitality Group in the Middle East. Specialising in hotel investments and strategic advisory, he brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role. Since relocating to the region in 2012, Maximilian has held roles at Marriott International, HVS Consulting and Damac Group. Throughout his career, he has gained comprehensive insights into all aspects of hotel real estate investments, development and ownership, making him a trusted advisor in the industry. Maximilian’s professional reach extends across the Middle East and Africa with a strong focus on the GCC and further experience in hotel investments across wider Europe and the Indian Ocean. Maximilian holds an undergraduate degree in Hospitality Management from the Glion Institute of Higher Education and an MBA in Strategy from HEC Paris. With his experience, network and understanding of hotel investments and strategic advisory, Maximilian is a trusted resource for clients seeking to maximise the potential of their hospitality assets.

Philip Wooller is the Senior Director for STR based in Dubai and is responsible for STR’s and CoStar’s expansion throughout Middle East & Africa. Philip is focused on continuing to improve the way STR provides the hotel industry with robust and insightful performance benchmarking that enables stakeholders to make better decisions. As well as developing the range and depth of hospitality data, Philip also works closely with Owners, Operators, Consultants, Investors, Sovereign Wealth Funds and Governments. Philip has spent many years in hospitality in Europe and the Middle East and his career combines the unique blend of senior positions in hotel operations and management, sales, marketing, and revenue management in a variety of branded and independent hotels. Travelling extensively, Philip has worked in several countries, across 3 continents and regularly speaks at major hospitality conferences around the world. He is also frequently interviewed for his insights on the hotel industry by news outlets such as Bloomberg, CNBC and the Financial Times and is a regular guest on Dubai’s Arabian Radio Network – The Business Breakfast.

Melisa leads the development of AMAALA, an exquisite, luxury tourism destination that will provide guests with extraordinary personal wellness journeys against the backdrop of stunning landscapes and pristine ecosystems. In her role, she’s overseeing multi-billion dollar projects across four major ultra-luxury sub-destinations on Saudi’s Red Sea coast. AMAALA encompasses 4 masterplans, including more than 4,000 hotel keys and over 1,200 residential units. AMAALA’s developments are currently active in various design and construction stages. As a highly experienced development executive with 20 years of experience in real estate development, Melisa has led multi-disciplinary teams for prestigious multi-billion dollar projects, primarily in the Middle East. Her portfolio includes the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, ultra-luxury hospitality destinations, and financial centers, such as DIFC 2.0, as well as commercial, retail, and residential developments. She possesses core skills in managing and controlling development feasibility, creating strategic visions for destination development, and overseeing design, construction, cost, and timelines throughout the development process, while effectively managing stakeholders. An accomplished executive, she works proactively and adds value at all stages of the development life cycle. She effectively communicates at all levels of an organization and manages all aspects of visioning, design, procurement, construction, handover, and strategic partner selection, while establishing the owner’s goals. Melisa holds an MArch from the University of Colorado Denver and a BArch from Yıldız Technical University.

One of the region’s most well-known hospitality industry professionals, David is leveraging his talent and vast experience to help drive the growth of The First Group Hospitality which has an impressive portfolio of hotels and hospitality assets. Since joining The First Group in 2018, David has celebrated several impressive milestones, he established the company’s Hotel Management Division, including overseeing the launch of the firm’s award-winning The First Collection hotel brand. The first property to open under the innovative lifestyle brand, The First Collection at Jumeirah Village Circle, opened in September 2021, and since then has gone on to forge a reputation as one of the city’s most popular upscale hotels. In 2022, the hotel was named one of the 25 ‘Hottest New Hotels for 2022’ worldwide by TripAdvisor – the world’s largest independent traveller reviews website. The only hotel in the Middle East and Africa to make the list. David was also instrumental in delivering the successful opening of the brand’s second hotel, The First Collection Business Bay, in July 2022, which was nominated in the year’s Conde Nast Middle East Readers’ Choice Awards in the ‘The Best Business Hotel’ category. This was quickly followed by the 3rd TFC hotel, The Waterfront in November 2023 and on the 1st July 2024 David oversaw the transition of the Wyndham Dubai Marina to The First Collection – Marina. David has played a key role in driving The First Group Hotels’ sustainability agenda, which has seen properties operating within the portfolio eliminate single-use plastics, reduce energy and water usage, and increase recycling. All the eight hotels in the portfolio are Green Key certified. He is actively developing the firm’s pipeline of new lifestyle hotels planned for the UAE and elsewhere across the region in the coming years. David’s professional pedigree ranks among the best in the business. Committed, industrious and passionate about the Middle East hotel industry’s growth and development, he spent almost 17 years with the Dubai-based JA Resorts & Hotels prior to his role at The First Group. JA Resorts & Hotels’ portfolio spans nine hotels and leisure venues across the emirate as well as luxury resorts in the Maldives and Seychelles. In his last 5 years at the company, he was the company’s Chief Operating Officer. David also boasts extensive experience in advertising, sales and marketing, working with some of the world’s largest agencies and world-class hotels, including Hilton and IHG and he spent six years steering his own advertising and marketing agency specializing in hospitality. In addition to his professional achievements, David is actively involved in fundraising for charities such as FFLV India, Dubai Autism, Al Noor Centre for Special Needs, Rashid Centre for the Disabled and the All As One Orphanage in Sierra Leone. David is a graduate of Scotland’s University of Stirling, where he earned a Joint Honours Degree.

Pablo Vidarte is the Chief Executive Officer, inventor and developer of Bioo, a ground-breaking company creating the first biotech buildings and cities in the world, with unique proprietary technologies including bioluminescent plants, biological batteries generating energy and water from soil, liquid trees, and bioactivators among others. He’s also led the development of geo-localization tracking hardwares, evolutionary artificial intelligence softwares, and systems for the organic generation of hydrogen in rivers for clean fuel applications. Vidarte was listed in the Forbes list at the age of 20. He’s led his company to prestigious recognitions including the Most Innovative Company of Europe by the European Parliament, and the World’s Most Disruptive Company of the Year by Google and South Summit. He’s won more than 100 internationally recognised prizes for innovation and entrepreneurship in Europe, America and Asia.

With two decades of experience in interior design, Maud's journey has taken her from the world's luxury capital, Paris, to the dynamic landscape of the UAE, where she has been shaping extraordinary spaces for the past 17 years. As an Associate Principal at the global design firm OBMI, she is passionate about crafting unforgettable hospitality experiences. Her impressive portfolio spans award-winning hotels, resorts, branded residences, and restaurants across Europe and the Middle East, collaborating with world-renowned brands like Jumeirah, Anantara, Marriott, Accor, IHG, and One&Only. Maud is deeply involved in every stage of the design process, ensuring that each project stays true to its vision while delivering both aesthetic excellence and functional brilliance. A firm believer in the power of sustainable luxury, she integrates eco-conscious strategies into her work, guiding stakeholders toward solutions that are not only responsible but also enhance long-term value. With her expertise and dedication, Maud continues to push the boundaries of design, creating spaces that are as beautiful as they are meaningful.

Rakan Jandali is a celebrated award-winning interior designer with over 17 years of experience in leading high-end luxury hospitality, residential, and public projects across the Middle East and Asia. As the Design Principal and Creative Director at KCA International, Rakan has played a key role in delivering prestigious projects, including award-winning hotels, iconic residences, and large-scale public and institutional spaces. His portfolio features some of the region’s most notable developments, Rakan is known for his ability to create spaces that inspire and elevate the human experience, blending modern aesthetics with deep cultural and environmental context. His work on the Chedi Hotel Wadi Safar recently earned the "Hotel Concept of the Year" at the CID Hospitality Awards 2024, while he was also named Interior Designer of the Year at the CID Awards MENA 2024. Rakan is deeply committed to innovation in design, integrating cutting-edge technologies to create immersive and forward-thinking environments. His design philosophy centres around regenerative design, sustainability, and attention to detail, with a strong emphasis on human connection and sensory experiences.

Saurabh Bakshi is a seasoned hospitality leader with over 25 years of experience managing luxury and upscale hotels across the Middle East, Asia, and beyond. Currently serving as the Chief Operating Officer – Hospitality at Azizi Developments, he leads the company’s ambitious hotel division, overseeing the development of a portfolio worth AED 60 billion, including an ultra-luxury all-suite hotel inside the world’s second-tallest tower in Dubai. Prior to joining Azizi, Saurabh held leadership roles in renowned global hotel brands, including Marriott, Starwood, InterContinental, RHG, and Rotana. His expertise spans hotel operations, strategic development, revenue optimization, and asset management. Notably, as the Area General Manager for Yas Plaza Hotels in Abu Dhabi, he successfully transitioned a portfolio of six branded hotels into a franchise model while driving profitability and operational excellence. His tenure as Complex General Manager of St. Regis Macau & Sheraton Grand Macau saw record-high guest satisfaction scores and innovative guest experience initiatives that were adopted as best practices across the brand. A results-driven executive with a passion for guest experience and business performance, Saurabh has been recognized with multiple industry accolades, including the General Manager of the Year awards by HOSI, HIFI, FHRAI, and BW Hotelier, FHRAI, among others. He holds a General Manager Program certification from Cornell University and has completed advanced studies in Hotel Asset Management from Ecole hôtelière de Lausanne and Revenue Management from IIM Ahmedabad. With a proven ability to build high-performing teams, transform hotel operations, and deliver exceptional financial and guest experience outcomes, Saurabh remains at the forefront of shaping the future of luxury hospitality

John is a Director of Project Management for global professional services consultancy Turner & Townsend in the Middle East, responsible for our Middle East Corporate Real Estate service offering. He hosts 14 years’ experience in delivering key corporate real estate and hospitality projects across the UK & Middle East. John’s area of expertise is in the fit-out and construction of high-end offices, restaurants, and social spaces. He has worked with both regional and global clients, delivering some of the UAE’s renowned commercial projects focused around enhancing the UAE as a global destination and creating developments that connect people, change environments, and create spaces where people can socialise, work, learn and thrive.

Since 2009, Ravi Kumar Chandran has been a driving force in international business development, shaping trade initiatives and forging strategic partnerships across continents. With a network spanning over 100 countries, he has successfully built value-driven collaborations and established enduring relationships with key organizations globally. Under his leadership, GBB has partnered with prestigious institutions such as the United Nations, Société Marocaine d’Ingénierie Touristique, PIF Saudi Arabia, African Tourism Board, Asian-African Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Saudi Business Council, Pan African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PACCI), KenInvest (Kenya Investment Authority), Egyptian Furniture Export Council, Saudi British Joint Business Council (SBJBC), and GHORFA Arab-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry. As the visionary organizer behind impactful events like the Real Estate Development Summit, Hospitality Innovation Summit, Affordable Housing Investment Summit, and Emerging Tech Summit, Ravi is committed to fostering sustainable growth and connecting global leaders. A passionate advocate for international trade and development, he continues to champion initiatives that drive long-term success and bring together businesses worldwide.

Ali Al Ghamdi is an asset to OSUS. He is a transformational and seasoned leader with over 25 years of experience driving change and operational excellence across diverse industries. His expertise spans developing innovative strategies, identifying gaps, building suitable business models, developing organization structures, building goals & operational objectives, and aligning multiple functions with corporate objectives and propelling growth. Al Ghamdi excels in restructuring strategies, implementing change management initiatives, and fostering a culture of innovation. With a proven track record in operational projects, KPI management, and people development, Al Ghamdi is a driving force for performance, value creation, and value capture. His accomplishments include notable contributions to companies such as Procter & Gamble, M. H. Alshaya Co., FedEx Saudi Arabia, Al-Faisaliah Group (Phillips), HungerStation, Abdullah Al Othaim Investment Co., and Al Majed Oud—Co, and more. Ali Al Ghamdi’s visionary leadership continues to shape and elevate organizations worldwide.

• 15 Years of Expertise in Lighting Design & Innovation • Managing Director & Principal Lighting Consultant, Illuminating Asia • CEO, HeatSig Technology • Inventor of Patented Lighting Solutions, including HAGA & HeatSig • Pioneer in Design-Patented & Smart Lighting Technologies • Developer of Lighting Consultancy Training Pedagogy Operating across Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar, China, and Japan. Award-Winning Lighting Design Consultancy • CHIJMES – “True Vines” Landscape Lighting • Haw Par Villa – Landscape Lighting • Dalvey Haus – Residential Estate • The Ritz-Carlton – Residential Penthouse • Singapore Repertory Theatre Patented Innovation & Design • HAGA – Coveless Cove Light • HeatSig – AI Smart Thermal Sensor Technology

Christian Orlandi is the Founder and CEO of Lovinfit Group , based in Italy and Dubai. Lovinfit Group was born in 2016 with the support of a Premium Advisors Group of Medical Doctors,Antiaging and Sports professionals to be the “One Stop Shop” for longevity,sports performance, wellness, antiaging and rehab innovative natural and non invasive technologies like Oxygen Hyperbaric Treatment,PEMF,Cryotherapy and red light photobiomodulation with capacity to develop full Turn Key projects WorldWide.

As Vice President Development – Conversions, EMEA, Richard Bleakley leads Marriott International’s conversion efforts across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, driving pipeline growth and enhancing the region’s portfolio through strategic conversions. He works closely with owners, franchise partners, and internal stakeholders to maximize opportunities and streamline the conversion process. With over two decades of hospitality experience, Richard has a deep background in hotel development, operations, repositioning, and sales. He has successfully opened and rebranded five flagship Marriott hotels in the UAE and played a pivotal role in the region’s record-breaking conversion results. His expertise spans across multi-property leadership, sales and marketing, and operational restructuring, having led teams to deliver exceptional financial and commercial performance. Prior to his current role, he served as Multi-Property General Manager in Dubai, overseeing six hotels across five brands, and previously held senior leadership positions at Marriott properties in the UAE and the UK. Recognized for his strategic vision and innovative approach, Richard has received multiple industry awards for sales leadership, financial performance, and operational excellence.

As Development Director for UAE & Oman, Pooja Hemrajani leads Marriott International’s expansion in these key markets, driving new hotel developments, affiliations, and conversions. She works closely with owners, investors, and internal teams to bring projects to life while ensuring they align with Marriott’s brand standards and financial goals. Since stepping into her role, she has been instrumental in signing several high-profile projects, including Marriott Marquis Dubai, Moxy Al Barsha, and W Marjan Island, further strengthening Marriott’s footprint in the region. With over a decade of experience in hospitality development, investment, and advisory, Pooja has built deep expertise in feasibility analysis, asset management, and strategic planning. She’s worked on everything from market studies and hotel valuations to negotiating operator deals. Before joining Marriott, she was a Senior Consultant at Colliers International MENA, focusing on hospitality advisory and asset management across the MEA region. Her project portfolio spans hotels, resorts, F&B concepts, mixed-use developments, and destination strategies. Pooja holds an MSc in International Management from King’s College London and a BSc in Psychology from University College London.

With over three decades of experience in architectural consultancy and hospitality sectors, I bring a wealth of expertise in project management, process improvement, and brand management. Graduating with a B.Sc. in Architectural Engineering from Ain Shams University in June 1991, my journey has been marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence. Throughout my career, I have honed my skills in back and front-of-house planning, operational flows, interior design, and intricate Technical Service Agreement negotiations. My approach is characterized by meticulous project planning and flawless execution, consistently delivering on objectives and driving Return on Investment. Having worked with reputable architectural firms such as Bechtel, Saud Consult, ECG, and BM Design Group in various capacities including Architect, Project Architect, and Senior Project Manager, I have contributed to significant projects such as King Abdul Aziz University and Cairo Airport Terminal 3. In 2005, I embarked on a transformative journey with Marriott International, serving as the Middle East and Africa Project Director and later assuming executive roles as Senior Director and Vice President of Design and Project Management. Leading a team of fourteen professionals, I oversaw the seamless execution of numerous new build, conversion, and renovation projects within the MI Global Design organization. My responsibilities included resource management, financial oversight, and establishing standard operating procedures for the department, all while providing valuable guidance and support to team members. Driven by a passion for innovation and excellence, I continue to push boundaries and shape the future of architectural and hospitality industries. In January 1, 2024, I established MR Project Management Consultancy, a firm specialized in providing project management and hospitality technical services. Since the inception of the firm, the firm was contracted by Marriott International to provide technical services and project management support for over 20 projects mainly located in Egypt, KSA and Morocco under different brands ranging from Luxury brands such as RC, SR, W, Premium brands such as MH, SH, Westin and Select Service brands

Tetyana Kovalenko, the founder and CEO of **Elite Stone Srl**, is a trailblazer in the luxury stone industry. With a deep passion for natural stone and an unwavering commitment to excellence, she has transformed Elite Stone into a global leader in high-end marble and onyx solutions. Her journey from a geology student to a renowned entrepreneur is a testament to her expertise, creativity, and dedication to the art of stone craftsmanship. --- Early Life and Education Tetyana Kovalenko’s fasciation with natural stone began during her studies at the **University of Rome**, where she earned a top-ranking degree in **Geology and Mineralogy**. Her academic journey was fueled by a part-time job at a quarry equipment manufacturer, which introduced her to the intricacies of marble and onyx. This hands-on experience, combined with her scientific training, laid the foundation for her future career. --- Founding Elite Stone In 2000, Tetyana founded Elite Stone in Rome, driven by her vision to deliver unparalleled luxury through meticulously selected and crafted natural stone. Her philosophy, “Marble is like a diamond: absolutely perfect when the color is right, flawless, and well-cut,” became the cornerstone of the company’s ethos. Elite Stone quickly gained recognition for its bespoke marble solutions, catering to prestigious clients worldwide. The company’s move to Carrara in 2007, the heart of Italy’s marble industry, further solidified its reputation. Here, Tetyana established strong relationships with renowned quarries, including family bonds with the famous Calacatta Borghini quarry. --- Expansion and Innovation In 2013, Tetyana relocated Elite Stone’s headquarters to Verona, where she expanded the company’s operations and created new marble fashion facility. This space became a hub for architects, designers, and clients to explore an extensive collection of Italian and international marbles. Under her leadership, Elite Stone introduced groundbreaking innovations such as the E-Light System, a patented backlighting technology that enhances the beauty of marble and onyx. This innovation, developed over a decade of research, has redefined the use of stone in luxury interiors. --- Global Impact and Prestigious Projects Tetyana’s expertise and Elite Stone’s craftsmanship have left an indelible mark on the global stage. The company has completed high-profile projects such as the “Mariinsky Theatre in Saint Petersburg”, the “Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem Hotel”, and the “50 St. James in London”, Vip Floors of PIF Tower in Riyadh, numerous high-end retail boutiques, VIP homes. Elite Stone’s clientele includes world leaders and luxury brands, with projects ranging from private villas to superyachts. Tetyana’s ability to blend traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology and high professionalism has made Elite Stone a preferred partner for architects and designers worldwide. --- Leadership and Vision As a multilingual CEO, Tetyana Kovalenko embodies the spirit of innovation and excellence. Her leadership style is rooted in collaboration and a deep respect for her team, as reflected in her motto: “A company does not consist of just one person”. Tetyana’s vision extends beyond business success. She is committed to sustainability, ensuring that Elite Stone’s practices respect the environment while delivering unmatched quality. --- Legacy and Future Tetyana Kovalenko’s journey is a story of passion, perseverance, and innovation. From her humble beginnings to becoming a global leader in the luxury stone industry, she has redefined the possibilities of natural stone. Looking ahead, Tetyana continues to push boundaries, exploring new technologies and expanding Elite Stone’s presence in emerging markets. Her legacy is not just in the stunning projects she has delivered but in the inspiration she provides to aspiring entrepreneurs and stone enthusiasts worldwide. --- Conclusion Tetyana Kovalenko is more than a CEO; she is a visionary who has elevated the art of stone craftsmanship to new heights. Her story is a testament to the power of passion, expertise, and innovation in creating a lasting impact on the world of luxury design.

I’m Aline, a sports science professional, master trainer, and endurance athlete with over 11 years in the fitness industry. I specialize in coaching, recovery, and performance, delivering science-backed training and workshops. Currently training for my first triathlon, I balance personal coaching, brand collaborations, and research-driven education. Passionate about growth, resilience, and adventure, I’m always pushing new limits in fitness and life.