Dr. Jennifer Lacroix

I attribute my success to authenticity and a deep belief in continuous growth. Throughout my career, I’ve focused on building genuine relationships, listening across cultures, and learning from every interaction. When challenges arise, I approach them with curiosity rather than fear. That mindset—combined with integrity and empathy—has shaped my work as an educator and founder. Ultimately, my success is rooted in staying true to who I am while constantly evolving.

The best career advice I ever received was to trust my voice—even when it feels easier to blend in. A mentor once told me that authenticity isn’t just a personal value, it’s a leadership strategy. When you show up as your true self, you attract the right opportunities, the right collaborators, and the right impact. That advice has shaped how I teach, how I lead, and how I built my company.

My advice to young women stepping into this field is to embrace authenticity as your superpower. In cross‑cultural environments, people connect with what’s real—your values, your curiosity, your ability to listen deeply. Don’t shrink yourself to fit an industry norm. Take up space, trust your perspective, and allow yourself to grow through experience, not perfection. This work is about connection, empathy, and courage—and those strengths already live in you.

One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is the rise of artificial intelligence—and the assumption that it can replace human connection. AI is an incredible tool, and when used responsibly, it can enhance learning, improve access, and support global collaboration. But it can’t replace the soft skills that truly matter in cross‑cultural communication: empathy, active listening, emotional intelligence, and genuine human presence.

Another challenge is ensuring that AI is used ethically and transparently. We need to teach people not just how to use these tools, but how to question them, challenge them, and integrate them in ways that respect privacy, cultural nuance, and human dignity.

At the same time, this is also the greatest opportunity in our field. As technology accelerates, the value of authentic human connection becomes even more essential. The future belongs to those who can blend the efficiency of AI with the irreplaceable soft skills that build trust across cultures.

The values that guide both my work and personal life are authenticity, empathy, integrity, and curiosity.

Authenticity is the center of everything I do—it’s how I teach, lead, and connect with others. When you show up as your true self, it invites others to do the same.

Empathy allows me to understand people across cultures, perspectives, and lived experiences. It’s the foundation of meaningful communication and the heart of my work.

Integrity guides my decisions, especially in moments that require courage or clarity. It ensures that my actions align with my values, not just my goals.

And curiosity keeps me learning, evolving, and engaging with the world with an open mind. In cross‑cultural communication, curiosity is what turns differences into opportunities to connect.

These values shape how I teach, how I lead my company, and how I navigate my life. They remind me that real influence comes from being genuine, grounded, and human.