Entrepreneur Explorer Mentor Mother Daughter Coach
Change is hard, necessary and, in the end, unavoidable.
Even longed-for changes can be challenging. Standing on a threshold, it’s tempting to freeze or flee. How can we face our fears, gather our courage, and confidently step forward?
I spent my teens in Transylvania training to be a ballerina. I loved the artistry, expression and storytelling. The National School of Classical Ballet visited me twice. But the dream was not to be.
Fast forward ten years. I was shaping minds as a teacher in a prestigious college in medieval Sibiu, then the first Clare Hall East European studying at Cambridge Judge Business School and an emerging tech entrepreneur with a business on the Cambridge Science Park. I found myself catching the midnight train in a country still emerging from the legacy of central control, a young woman arriving at dawn to sell the latest digital thinking to deeply cautious officials who’d barely used a computer.
But an understanding that began in ballet had matured in business. Throughout my different life experiences, I learnt the secret alchemy of image – its power to influence how you feel about yourself and how others see you. That morning, as I paired burgundy pumps with a navy dress and sharp-collared jacket, I felt my confidence rise.
Elegance became my armour.
Disruption was my name.
My determination paid off, and the business flourished. I always loved my charismatic business wardrobe, and I still do, but I was mainly dressed for the airport or the boardroom. Passionate about connecting people, data and technology, I was driving change fast. All this while, I was also a wife and mother of two. In challenging times and through a few recessions, it was my drive for relentless innovation and care for those around me which kept me going.
What remained constant throughout was my presence: my curiosity and belief in ‘learning by doing’ with a strong sense of aesthetics, which nourishes the heart and mind. I always had an eye on quality, playing my role in the environment and respect all around.
I am now helping others embrace change – and digital transformation is only part of the story!
I’ve always understood that carefully positioning my image has been an active ingredient in my success and well-being. And so, as I hit my stride as an enabler, mentor and coach in the new ‘Industry 4.0’, I have added world-class training from reputed leaders in the areas of Image, Style and Cultural Intelligence. This has refreshed and added to what I’d practised for 30 years in cross-cultural leadership, change, image management and behavioural science.
Today, I draw on all my experience – the struggles and achievements, the changes I chose and those I did not – to help women recognise their stage in life and confidently use their image and presence to write their next chapter . . . mindfully, stylishly, and digitally.
Daniela, founder of Image Ability
My mission – Feel good, look great, do well
I work with executives, emerging leaders and corporate partners to align their image and brand with their leadership goals.
Our character and ability aren’t fixed. We create the conditions for success when we learn to see the opportunity in every situation. The essence of my executive coaching, consulting and mentoring programs is supporting you to lead change and growth.
Whatever your starting point, my signature approach is straightforward, eye-opening and rewarding.
Lead with presence and purpose
Whether you're navigating change, stepping into a new role, or building influence, I help you project clarity, confidence, and credibility—visually and behaviourally.
Your image is a leadership asset
How you present yourself communicates your values, mindset, and readiness to lead. In high-stakes environments, your appearance is not superficial—it’s strategic. Dress for the leader you are becoming.
Sustainable choices reflect responsible leadership
Fast fashion is at odds with thoughtful leadership. I advocate for slow fashion—intentional, values-driven choices that support both your personal brand and the planet. The most sustainable garment is the one already in your wardrobe.
Colour is a tool for influence
Colour affects perception, mood, and impact. I help leaders learn how to use colour strategically—to energise teams, command attention, and express authenticity. Lead with intention, not convention.
Digital tools for modern leadership
Our programmes and the Image Mirror app help busy professionals manage their wardrobe, streamline decision-making, and build habits that support executive presence—anytime, anywhere.
Your wardrobe tells your leadership story
Clothing is more than utility- it’s narrative. With tailored support, I help leaders reframe their relationship with style, rediscover the joy in dressing, and show up aligned with their vision and values.