In an era marked by the urgent global climate crisis, a growing chorus of advocates, policymakers, and leaders have been pushing for substantive, eco-friendly reforms. Yet, in the midst of these demands for change, there remains a persistent belief that straying from the established status quo might derail the very economic engine that has propelled human progress to remarkable heights. Moreover, challenging the deeply ingrained notion that prosperity and environmental sustainability are mutually exclusive pursuits is no small feat, especially for a woman navigating a world traditionally dominated by men. Despite these formidable challenges, a cohort of audacious pioneers have refused to be deterred, and Dr Yana Leonova stands proudly among them.
Dr Leonova is a firm believer that sustainability isn’t just an optional consideration; it’s the very foundation upon which future investments must be built. Armed with a doctorate in Economics of Agriculture, a law degree from Russia, and a Master’s in Business Administration from the United Kingdom, Dr Leonova’s academic journey reflects her unwavering dedication to unravelling the intricate interplay between economic growth and environmental stewardship.
Her journey traversed continents and industries until, eight years ago, she found herself captivated by the world of blockchain and technology during her participation in the Oxford Blockchain Strategy course in London. This turning point ignited her passion for merging technology with sustainability.
Dr Yana Leonova is a strategic advisor with extensive experience in various domains. She currently holds the position of Strategic Advisor at BANTgo, a role she has been in since February 2023. She is also a Lecturer at GBS Dubai, where she has been teaching part-time since September 2022, covering topics such as Financial Forecasting, How to Start Your Business, Emerging Tech, and ESG. Dr. Leonova is the Regional Head for EcoWatt, a blockchain-powered renewable energy company, where she has been working full-time since September 2022. She plays a key role in promoting climate action and innovative solutions using blockchain technology.
In addition, she serves as an Advisory Board member for Future Innovation Summit since August 2021 and is a Co-Founder of the London Blockchain Foundation (LBCF) since September 2018, where she contributes to the advancement of blockchain technology across industries. She is also an Ambassador for the UHNWI Swiss Business Club and holds the position of Business Communications Director for Moralmoda Magazine, focusing on promoting sustainable luxury and art.
Dr Leonova is the Director of Nova Strategy Ltd, offering a wide range of services for digital, tech, AI, crypto, and blockchain startups. Furthermore, she has a background as Deputy General Manager and Head of Innovation at The Private Office of Sheikh Saqer Bin Mohamed Al Qasimi. Her expertise spans roles such as Business Advisor at Thrupny, Guest Lecturer at the American University in Dubai, and Head of the UAE at DISPRUPTIVE. Her experience also includes serving as the Business Development Manager for the G20 Foundation, Business Development Analyst at Gamesys, and Account Manager at Suryah Limited. With her diverse skill set and wide-ranging contributions, Dr Yana Leonova has left a significant impact in the fields of blockchain, innovation, and sustainability.
With a linguistic prowess spanning English, German, Russian, Italian, and conversational French, Dr Leonova has emerged as a sought-after keynote speaker and co-organiser of high-profile events. She has graced stages at prestigious gatherings such as the Lordyfield Expo, the Elite Global Leaders Conference, and the revered Davos World Economic Forum. In academia, Dr Leonova shares her insights into the potential of blockchain technology with audiences at respected institutions like the American University of Dubai and the Global Banking School’s Dubai Campus.
While the private sector has historically hesitated to prioritize sustainability, citing concerns over immediate profitability, Dr Leonova remains undaunted in her pursuit of change. Her collaborations with forward-thinking entities like BANTgo exemplify her commitment to reshaping the narrative. By introducing innovative incentive mechanisms, BANTgo encourages the transfer of electronic recyclables through existing transportation networks, thus transforming sustainability into an active driver of positive impact. Another notable collaboration is with iFarm, a technology company that pioneers IT-driven farming in controlled environments, thereby revolutionizing responsible agricultural practices through cutting-edge automation.
Dr Leonova recognizes the paramount role of education in shaping the future of sustainability. Her own son’s natural inclination to prioritize environmentally responsible actions, learned through both formal education and media exposure, highlights the transformative power of early education in nurturing responsible global citizens.
Yana has lived and worked worldwide, dabbling in various industries until she fell head over heels for the blockchain/tech world 8 years ago while taking the Oxford Blockchain Strategy course and helping startups get funded in London. As a founding member of the London Blockchain Foundation and an advocate for disruptive technology, Dr Leonova spearheads digital transformation by drawing in startups and R&D teams from all corners of the world to the UAE, and vice versa, to implement their solutions and expand their expertise. She also lends her knowledge-based consultancy expertise to transform science into business and raises awareness for sustainable solutions as a philanthropist who supports education, the environment, and science.
Looking ahead, Dr Leonova’s calendar is brimming with events that underscore her commitment to advancing sustainability through technology and innovation. She is slated to participate in AIMHigher Romania, an event that encourages individuals to aim for the stars, where she will explore the intersection of sustainability, space, and aviation. Furthermore, her involvement in “Girls in Tech,” an initiative empowering women in the tech industry, reflects her dedication to promoting gender diversity and inclusivity. Her role in COP 28 in Dubai positions her at the forefront of discussions surrounding critical sustainability and climate change issues.
In sum, Dr. Yana Leonova’s journey is a testament to the fusion of intellectual prowess and transformative action, fueled by an unyielding belief in the symbiotic relationship between sustainability and technology. Her dynamic efforts transcend conventional boundaries, emphasizing the pivotal role that visionary individuals like her play in steering humanity towards a harmonious and sustainable future. With an impact that spans academia, entrepreneurship, and advocacy, Dr Leonova’s legacy promises to leave an indelible mark on the trajectory of global sustainability.
