The Happiness Disruptors: Where Innovation Meets Fulfillment

A Guide for the Next Generation of Career Coaches: Crafting Purpose-Driven Futures and Meaningful Lives

Co-Authored by Hassan Akmal and Yasir Kurt

“Hi, I’m Hassan.” “And I’m Yasir!” “Together, we’re what we like to call ‘Happiness Disruptors.’“

Wait, disrupting happiness? Doesn’t that sound counterintuitive? Stick with us for a moment. We’re here to challenge the norm—not by taking happiness away, but by redefining it. What if the secret to joy wasn’t about avoiding failure but embracing it? What if fulfillment came from designing a life where each stepping stone is an experience, not a setback? What if fulfillment came from creating a meaningful integration between career and life—a harmony that fuels growth, purpose, and well-being?

This article isn’t just a guide—it’s a manifesto for the future.

A call to action for everyone ready to embrace a new era of life design, what Hassan Akmal refers to as “Career—and Life Design,” where transformation starts with intentionality and imagination.

Let’s dive in!

Imagine Your Life As a Canvas: Masterpieces in Career and Life Design

What is the new definition of success in career services? It depends on who you ask!

The landscape of career services is undergoing a profound transformation, shifting from a focus on transactions like job placements and resume critiques to a more visionary model. Career services now empower individuals to explore and express their unique gifts, painting careers and lives that reflect their deepest values and aspirations.

“This evolution in Career Services embraces the new artistry of Career and Life Design, where growth is viewed as an intricate mosaic of experiences that contribute to a larger masterpiece.” — Hassan Akmal

In a world that is increasingly fluid and complex, the future of career services lies in nurturing a new kind of professional—adaptive, empathetic, and innovative. Today’s career coaches are no longer just advisors; they are artists and educators, guiding individuals to rediscover their strengths, master the art of reinvention, and learn how to design lives filled with purpose and fulfillment.

A Deloitte survey underscores this urgency, revealing that 73% of Millennials and 62% of Gen Z workers believe that having a sense of purpose in their careers is key to their performance.

As Pablo Picasso once said, “The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.”

Career coaches of the future will embody this philosophy, helping individuals uncover their unique talents and channel them into meaningful contributions that benefit both themselves and the world.

As we enter the era of AI and the future of work, the next generation of career coaches will empower individuals to create clarity amidst complexity. They will inspire imaginative thinking, well-being, and purpose-driven action, equipping individuals to design not just careers, but entire lives as vibrant and evolving masterpieces.

This article explores twenty facets of the future coach, offering a guide to how these leaders will redefine the profession and empower individuals to design lives of purpose, meaning, and impact.

The Wealth-Happiness Paradox: Why Purpose Matters More Than Money

One of the greatest illusions about happiness is the belief that “the more money you make, the happier you will be.” While financial stability is important, research reveals a startling truth: after a certain point, money has diminishing returns on happiness. A 2010 Princeton University study found that while emotional well-being increases with income, it plateaus at around $75,000 annually. Beyond this threshold, additional income has little impact on day-to-day happiness, suggesting that meaning, purpose, and fulfillment play far greater roles in achieving long-term satisfaction.

Recent studies, including one by Daniel Kahneman and Matthew Killingsworth in 2021, challenge even this, finding that happiness might increase slightly beyond $75,000 but only when individuals are already predisposed to higher levels of satisfaction due to factors like meaningful work and strong personal relationships.

This reinforces the idea that purpose—not wealth—is the key to unlocking enduring happiness.

The Happiness Disruptors Framework: Turning Failures into Foundations

Winston Churchill said, “Success consists of going from failure to failure without loss of enthusiasm.”

Life’s journey is filled with unexpected twists—failures, setbacks, and moments where things simply don’t go as planned. In these moments, it’s easy to feel defeated, to let sadness or disappointment overshadow growth. But what if these problems were a blessing with a dressing? What if we could disrupt failure itself and transform it into a source of happiness and growth? Enter the Happiness Disruptors Framework—a mindset and approach founded by Hassan Akmal and Yasir Kurt designed to reframe setbacks, not as endpoints, but as catalysts for reinvention.

At its core, the Happiness Disruptors Framework embodies the belief that every challenge carries the seed of a positive transformation. This is a practice of reframing—a deliberate process of viewing obstacles through a lens of learning, innovation, and growth. By disrupting the cycle of negativity, individuals can move forward with clarity and purpose, reshaping failure into a stepping stone for success.

Figures 1 and 2 present a two-part Happiness Disruptors Framework, offering a practical and transformative approach to navigating setbacks and crafting a fulfilling career and life. 

Figure 1: Turning Failures into Foundations [CLICK TO DOWNLOAD PDF]

1. Setback: Acknowledges career and life challenges, providing a starting point for growth.
2. Reflection: Encourages understanding the “why” behind setbacks to uncover hidden insights.
3. Reframing: Shifts perspectives, transforming obstacles into opportunities for innovation.
4. Learning: Extracts actionable lessons, aligning experiences with personal growth.
5. Growth: Applies these insights to build resilience and unlock new opportunities.
6. Happiness: Focuses on intentional joy and creating purpose-driven fulfillment from adversity.

This framework emphasizes turning failures into growth opportunities and aligning change with purpose. Through six key stages, individuals are guided to harness resilience, find meaning, and achieve intentional happiness. The framework combines reflective practices, actionable strategies, and future-focused insights, supporting individuals to transform adversity into innovation and fulfillment.

The Happiness Disruptors Framework is much like the petals of a flower—delicate yet interconnected, each representing a stage that contributes to the beauty and integrity of the whole. These petals are also like pearls of the flower, unique in their shape and purpose, yet collectively forming something far greater than the sum of their parts. Over time, petals may fall, shrivel, or be damaged by external forces—whether harsh weather, environmental conditions, or the touch of others. Yet, even as the outer layers weaken, the core must remain strong. The core of a flower sustains its life, ensuring its ability to regrow, bloom, and thrive despite barriers.

Similarly, happiness is not found in a fleeting external perfection but in the strength and resilience of one’s core—the inner alignment of purpose, adaptability, and intentionality.

In the context of the Happiness Disruptors Framework, peeling back the layers reveals the foundational strength at the center of our being. Each stage—Setback, Reflection, Reframing, Learning, Growth, and Happiness—represents a petal that shapes our response to adversity. When setbacks damage the surface, the core provides the resilience to endure and regrow. Setbacks remind us of life’s fragility and push us to confront obstacles head-on. Reflection gives us the space to pause and understand the deeper meaning of those hurdles. Reframing allows us to see opportunity where once there was only difficulty. Learning transforms those insights into action, helping us grow stronger and more capable. Growth empowers us to take those lessons and build a life of resilience and alignment. And finally,

Happiness is not an endpoint but a practice—one that turns adversity into joy and meaning through intentionality.

Figure 2: Career and Life Crafting — Transforming Change into Purpose [CLICK TO DOWNLOAD PDF]

Stages: The six stages mirror Part 1 but deepen their focus through structured tools and sub-layers.

But the journey does not end there. The Happiness Disruptors Framework invites us to embrace the beauty of imperfection and the inevitability of change. Each petal, though delicate and fleeting, plays its role in creating something extraordinary.

When we nurture the core of who we are—our values, purpose, and resilience—we discover that happiness is not something to chase or wait for. It is something we craft with intention, even in the face of loss or uncertainty.

Reframing: The Key to Disruption

The Happiness Disruptors Framework is grounded in the science of reframing, a psychological strategy where individuals reinterpret negative situations in a way that inspires growth and optimism. Instead of seeing failure as a reflection of inadequacy, it becomes an invitation to explore new possibilities.

Here’s how the Happiness Disruptors Framework operates in the most simplest terms:

1. Pause and Acknowledge: Recognize the failure or setback without judgment.
2. Reframe the Narrative: Ask, “What can I learn from this? How can this challenge serve me?”
3. Extract the Lesson: Identify actionable insights that can inform your next steps.
4. Transform the Outcome: Use these insights to pivot, innovate, and move forward with purpose.

Why Disruption Leads to Happiness

The Happiness Disruptors Framework challenges the natural inclination to dwell on setbacks by reframing them as opportunities for growth and transformation. It’s a practice that builds resilience, one of the Five Secrets to Career and Life Mastery. It also encourages adaptability, and nurtures the belief that setbacks are not the end of the story—they are merely chapters in a larger narrative of growth.

For future career coaches, integrating this mindset into their practice means equipping clients not only to navigate adversity but to transform it into a catalyst for reinvention. By helping individuals see failures as stepping stones toward creativity and achievement, coaches inspire a perspective that turns imperfection into progress.

In the next section, we will explore how Yasir Kurt’s father transformed tailoring missteps into extraordinary accomplishments. His journey demonstrates how the next generation of leaders can turn failures into milestones of growth, creating legacies that inspire and endure.

The call to action is clear: dare to peel back the layers, confront what is fragile, and protect what is eternal within.

Let each setback refine your character, each reflection deepen your understanding, and each reframing shift your outlook. Every moment of learning enriches your path, and every act of growth draws you closer to a life designed with intention. In doing so, you don’t just rebuild—you transform. Like a flower that thrives despite the wind, you become a living testament to the strength, beauty, and resilience of a life lived with purpose—one petal, one choice, and one moment at a time.

From Tailor’s Son to Trailblazer: Yasir Kurt’s Journey of “Failing Forward”

Yasir Kurt’s inspiring story exemplifies the essence of the Happiness Disruptors Framework. Growing up as the son of Saadet Kurt, a third-generation tailor and farmer, Yasir was deeply influenced by his father’s ability to seamlessly balance two distinct careers. His father passed away this same month, just two years ago. This section is a tribute to Saadet Kurt.

Yasir’s father was not only a master at his craft—refining the art of tailoring passed down through generations—but he also owned a banana farm. His commitment to both professions showed Yasir the importance of integrating work and life in a way that maintained harmony and excellence in everything he did.

This philosophy of “failing forward” became a cornerstone of Yasir’s journey. He learned from his father that failure wasn’t a final destination but a part of the process toward growth and mastery. As Yasir pursued his own dreams, he too faced problems that could have easily derailed him. But in moments of doubt, he recalled his father’s resilience and ability to balance two demanding careers without sacrificing quality or integrity. Yasir embraced his setbacks, knowing they were an inevitable part of the learning curve.

Today, as a “Fail Furious Expert,” Yasir channels this mindset into his work, guiding others to disrupt their failures and turn them into triumphs. Drawing inspiration from his father, who moved from crafting tailor-made suits to crafting a life of resilience and ingenuity, Yasir now applies the same principles to careers—helping individuals design “tailor-made” paths that align with their passions and goals.

Yasir’s story demonstrates that resilience and adaptability are not innate traits but cultivated skills—skills anyone can develop by reframing failure as an opportunity for growth and innovation.

“Fail Furiously—let your failures light the path to your innovations.” — Yasir Kurt

The Power of Identity Alignment: From Working Titles to Living Titles

The journey toward a fulfilling career is not just about roles or achievements; it is about the identities we craft along the way.

Careers are no longer static titles or checklists—they are dynamic narratives that intertwine with our values, aspirations, and contributions to society.

This shift calls for a deeper exploration of how professional identities align with personal purpose, reshaping traditional perceptions of work into meaningful and evolving stories.

Professor Amy Wrzesniewski of Yale University has conducted seminal research on how individuals perceive their work—whether as a job, career, or calling—and the profound impact this perception has on fulfillment and resilience. In her studies, Wrzesniewski highlights the practice of job crafting, where individuals reshape their roles to align with their values and sense of purpose, creating deeper meaning in their work. This concept encourages a shift from static job titles to living titles—dynamic, evolving identities that reflect personal growth, professional aspirations, and societal impact.

For instance, Wrzesniewski’s research shows how hospital janitors who viewed their work as “healing facilitators” rather than “cleaners” found greater meaning and engagement in their roles. In the same way, the future coach will guide clients to reframe their professional identities, not as rigid labels but as narratives aligned with their personal and societal contributions. A teacher, for example, might redefine their identity as a “Curiosity Cultivator,” turning their daily tasks into an expression of purpose and calling.

Wrzesniewski’s insights underscore a transformative approach to traditional career services—one that empowers individuals to reimagine their roles as new ways to create meaningful impact.

By integrating this research into the evolution of career coaching and our own roles, as we have done in this article, the future coach enables clients to craft identities that align with their values and aspirations, manifesting greater resilience, clarity, and fulfillment. It begins with career professionals alike and ourselves. 

As we navigate this transformation, the concept of identity alignment emerges as a cornerstone of modern career and life design, bridging the gap between what we do and who we are.

The Diamond Standard: Building Tomorrow’s Coaches, One Facet at a Time

The science of happiness, as championed by thought leaders like Arthur C. Brooks, co-author of Build the Life You Want, underscores the profound connection between personal fulfillment and professional success. The future career coach, a career and life strategist, recognizes that happiness is not merely a byproduct of external achievements but a result of alignment with one’s intrinsic values and purpose. They help individuals navigate tests not just with resilience but with the insight that true satisfaction comes from building lives that matter—to themselves and to others.

Drawing from research on happiness and fulfillment, these future career and life design architects will enable individuals to:

1. Build resilience and adaptability in uncertain environments and times.
2. Align professional goals with personal values and meaning.
3. Cultivate mastery, creativity, and emotional well-being.

This model highlights the integration of human-centered guidance with emerging technological, societal, and global trends, emphasizing adaptability, inclusivity, and purpose-driven impact. The 20 facets are organized into distinct roles and attributes, each reflecting critical competencies and perspectives for holistic career coaching in the future.

Figure 3 presents the “20 Facets for the Future Holistic Career Coach,” showcasing the essential roles and attributes that will define the next generation of career coaching professionals. [CLICK TO DOWNLOAD PDF]

“The next generation is crafting multifaceted, fluid, “quantum careers.” As a career and life designer, you’re not just guiding them—you’re becoming as diverse and dynamic as the futures they’re building to guide and inspire them.” –Hassan Akmal

By stepping into the roles described below, career coaches become catalysts for transformation, guiding individuals toward lives that are not only successful but deeply fulfilling.

1. The Visionary Architect: Designing Holistic Futures

Gone are the days of career counselors merely matching skills to job titles. The future coach will be a Visionary Architect, helping individuals design not just careers but fulfilling lives. To do this, they must guide individuals in crafting one of the most pivotal career development steps: a Career and Life Vision. This architect crafts a multidimensional blueprint, addressing personal aspirations, professional goals, and societal impact. This role reimagines careers as integral components of a larger life canvas—one that reflects personal identity, community connection, and contributions to the greater good.

Building on Hassan Akmal’s philosophy of career and life vision, these visionary architects empower individuals to see the bigger picture—where health, wellness, and a sense of purpose converge to create a meaningful and dynamic future.

Progress is the linchpin of this role. Visionary Architects begin by cultivating individuals’ self-awareness, helping them develop a conscious mindset, metacognition, and the foresight to anticipate future possibilities.

One of the goals is to guide clients in achieving clarity of purpose, refining their aspirations into actionable goals, and ensuring their journey remains adaptable, resilient, and aligned with their evolving vision.

The Visionary Architects don’t just help clients dream; they help them build.

Through innovative approaches, they utilize tools such as systems thinking to identify connections between personal strengths and global trends, while incorporating human-centered design principles to ensure goals are authentic and actionable. By helping clients prioritize clarity over certainty, they create pathways that allow for growth, exploration, and lifelong fulfillment.

This role also challenges outdated paradigms of career success, encouraging a shift from static planning to dynamic self-leadership. Visionary Architects teach individuals how to embrace complexity, align with their core values, and navigate life’s inevitable shifts. It’s not just about arriving at a destination—it’s about thriving through the journey, with a vision that grows as they do.

2. The Inner Compass Navigator: Aligning Identity, Core Values, and Presence

In a noisy and fast-paced world driven by external expectations, individuals often lose touch with their inner voice. One must turn inward, exploring their spiritual and emotional core to align their careers with their personal values and unique purpose. This helps individuals reconnect with their authentic identity, clarify their core values, and cultivate presence in their lives and careers.

Brené Brown, leadership researcher and author, states: “Authenticity and connection in work create legacies far greater than profits. They create human impact.”

This introspection focuses on aligning who individuals are with what they do. It focuses on helping individuals cultivate self-awareness and clarity through mindfulness practices, visualization, and introspection.

Inner Compass Navigators guide clients through a reflective journey, encouraging them to explore themselves by “inner-viewing” to better understand themselves. 

Future coaches will help clients ask profound and core questions like:

• What truly fulfills me?
• What values guide my decisions?
• How can I make meaningful contributions that resonate with my calling?

By nurturing this inner alignment, the navigators empower individuals to create authentic career and life visions. This approach goes beyond the transactional, grounding decisions in purpose and emotional resilience, ensuring that clients navigate their paths with presence, confidence, and a sense of calm amid chaos.

Using tools like mindfulness practices, values assessments, and identity exploration exercises, this new position empower clients to understand and embrace their full selves. By anchoring decisions in identity and purpose, individuals gain the confidence and clarity needed to navigate complexities in both their personal and professional lives.

This facet also emphasizes presence—the ability to remain grounded, focused, and intentional amid life’s uncertainties. When identity, purpose, and presence are in harmony, individuals unlock their potential to design meaningful careers and lives that are deeply aligned with their true selves.

3. The Narrative Shaper: Transforming Stories

Everyone has a story, but not everyone knows how to tell it. The future coach will be a Narrative Shaper, guiding individuals to articulate their journeys in compelling ways. By teaching the art of storytelling, these coaches empower individuals to connect their past experiences, current ambitions, and future goals into a cohesive and inspiring narrative that resonates with employers, colleagues, and communities.

“The story you tell yourself, about yourself — matters.” — Hassan Akmal

Storytelling is more than an interview strategy—it’s a transformative skill that shapes career trajectories and fosters confidence. First destination surveys consistently reveal that graduates who can effectively articulate their skills, experiences, and values are more likely to secure meaningful employment or pursue advanced education successfully. By helping students craft their unique stories, Narrative Shapers help connect what individuals have accomplished to what employers are looking for, creating alignment and positive career outcomes.

This skill is integral to building a culture of career success. As individuals learn to embrace and articulate their stories, they also begin to see their journeys in a new light—one of purpose, growth, and direction. A student who once struggled to define their professional identity may, with guidance, reframe their experiences as a progression of leadership development, innovation, or adaptability.

The impact of storytelling extends beyond individual career paths—it shapes institutional success.

This reframing not only boosts confidence but also creates a ripple effect in higher education—improving retention rates. The power of stories inspires peers, faculty, and even employers—it creates a magnetic career success culture.

Additionally, first destination survey data often serves as a cornerstone for showcasing the impact of career readiness initiatives. When students effectively communicate their stories, they enhance survey outcomes, which in turn attract prospective students, employers, and funding opportunities. Institutions that embed storytelling into their career development programs demonstrate a strong commitment to building a celebratory culture of diverse perspectives and achievements. This integration also presents an excellent opportunity for collaboration with admissions, aligning efforts to highlight institutional success and student impact.

By transforming storytelling into a career success strategy, Narrative Shapers invite a shared culture of growth and achievement. They help students see struggles as new pathways for narrative growth, reframing obstacles as stepping stones to their ultimate goals. For example, a student who worked multiple part-time jobs to fund their education can be guided to articulate this experience as evidence of resilience, time management, and work ethic—qualities that employers highly value. Similarly, a graduate pursuing a non-linear career path can position their journey as one of adaptability and curiosity, aligning their story with the dynamic needs of today’s workforce.

In a world where professional identity is as much about the journey as the destination, Narrative Shapers play an essential role in guiding individuals to craft authentic, impactful stories that not only open doors but also inspire confidence and connection. By embedding storytelling into career development practices, they contribute to a lasting culture of career success—one where every individual’s story is a catalyst for opportunity and growth.

“Much like a glassblower shaping their glass and art, we are the artisans of our careers and lives, actively shaping perspectives and crafting our own clarity. A glassblower carefully molds molten glass into a work of art, we too, mold our careers through a series of deliberate choices, intentionality, and life experiences.” — Hassan Akmal

4. The AI-Infused Pocket Mentor: Leveraging Technology with Empathy

AI is transforming how we work, learn, and connect. The future coach must not only embrace this evolution but thrive within it. Far from replacing human connection, AI offers the tools to amplify empathy, streamline guidance, and enhance the coaching experience. Predictive analytics can identify career trends and individual strengths, personalized career pathways ensure tailored strategies, and AI-driven mock interviews prepare clients with precision and realism. These innovations empower career coaches to provide guidance that is both highly informed and deeply impactful.

Imagine having an expert in your pocket as smart as Albert Einstein? The role of the AI-Infused Pocket Mentor goes beyond merely adopting technology—it’s about bridging the gap between the digital and human realms. By integrating tools like AI-driven learning platforms with the wisdom of human experience, coaches ensure that every individual’s journey remains personal and authentic, not automated or impersonal.

This delicate balance between technology and humanity defines the coaching of tomorrow.

AI-Infused Pocket Mentors are not humans, they are agents, but programmed by a human. The humans that program the agents will take on the critical responsibility of teaching clients how to collaborate effectively with AI tools and bots in their workplaces. This involves developing complementary skills that machines cannot replicate, such as creativity, ethical judgment, and strategic thinking. By equipping clients with these skills, coaches enable them to thrive in environments where humans and machines work side by side, maximizing productivity while maintaining the human touch.

A prime example of this forward-thinking approach is the Career and Life Design Lab, a virtual ecosystem powered by Aiya, your AI career and life design guru. By leveraging advanced AI capabilities, this lab empowers future coaches to master the tools they need to thrive in the evolving landscape of work. From data-driven insights to interactive simulations, the lab equips coaches to navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing job market while maintaining a deeply empathetic and personal touch.

In this “behind-the-scenes” tech-savvy role, the future career coach takes on the mantle of innovator, designing and deploying AI agents or bots that serve as compassionate guides, precision-driven strategists, and connectors of human stories. While the AI interacts on the front lines, the coach remains behind the scenes, ensuring that the technology is infused with empathy and purpose.

This synthesis of technology and empathy ensures that coaching remains not just relevant but indispensable in crafting purposeful, impactful lives.

5. The Purpose Pathfinder: Aligning Passions with Impact

Purpose is the North Star that illuminates the path through life’s uncertainties, and the future coach becomes its dedicated guide. As a Purpose Pathfinder, the coach empowers individuals to uncover their intrinsic motivations and align them with professional pursuits, crafting careers that are not just successful but deeply meaningful.

“By tapping into what truly drives them and channeling their passions into meaningful contributions, the coach fosters a deeper connection between work and purpose, turning vague aspirations into tangible pathways.” — Hassan Akmal

Using frameworks like Ikigai—a Japanese concept where what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can be rewarded for intersect—Purpose Pathfinders help clients navigate the intersection of passion and impact. They shift the focus from the transactional “job” bucket to the “calling” bucket, which inspires long-term fulfillment and life alignment. By helping individuals see careers as extensions of their values and aspirations, these coaches close the gap between what is and what could be.

Purpose Pathfinders take a holistic approach, recognizing the essential link between purpose and well-being. Physical, emotional, and mental health are the foundation of a fulfilling life. Coaches encourage clients to incorporate mindfulness practices, regular exercise, and intentional self-reflection to maintain balance. They understand that stress, burnout, and neglect can cloud one’s sense of purpose. By fostering practices that support clarity and resilience, they help individuals sustain the energy to pursue their goals.

Actionable purpose is the hallmark of this role.

Purpose Pathfinders guide clients in breaking down lofty aspirations into intentional daily practices. By helping clients see how their purpose manifests in measurable outcomes, they build confidence, momentum, and a sense of achievement.

The evolving nature of purpose is another core focus of Purpose Pathfinders. Life is dynamic, and motivations shift as individuals grow. Coaches encourage clients to embrace reflective practices that enable them to revisit and realign their purpose over time, ensuring their vision remains adaptable to new experiences and challenges. One may have more than one purpose over a lifetime, and sometimes purpose changes with life events and experiences.

Purpose-driven work is not only transformative for the individual but also for the world around them. When careers align with personal values, this extends itself to communities and industries. Purpose-driven professionals innovate in sustainability, advance equitable practices, and drive inclusive leadership, creating a lasting legacy.

In a world defined by rapid change and uncertainty, the Purpose Pathfinder becomes a steadfast guide, helping individuals re-center and harness their internal compass to navigate life’s complexities with clarity and confidence. By aligning passions with intentional action, these coaches empower individuals to craft lives rich in purpose, creating a lasting legacy and ongoing meaningful contributions to society.

6. The Equity Innovator: Building Inclusive Ecosystems

The real ROI in career services is equity. Justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) are no longer optional—they are essential to fostering innovation, growth, and societal progress. As Equity Innovators, future career coaches take on the transformative role of designing career ecosystems that provide access and opportunity for all. They work to dismantle systemic barriers, foster belonging, and create pathways for historically underserved populations, ensuring that every individual can thrive in a workforce that values diversity.

Equity Innovators recognize that inclusivity goes beyond representation; it’s about building systems and cultures where individuals from all backgrounds feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. Data highlights the urgency of this work: A Pew Research Center survey found that 56% of employed U.S. adults view diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts positively. However, the survey also revealed that opinions vary significantly across demographic and political lines, showcasing the complexity of implementing effective DEI strategies. Similarly, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that individuals in low- and moderate-income communities face unique barriers to employment, including limited access to quality education, transportation issues, and fewer networking chances, contributing to lower employment-to-population ratios in these areas.

Equity Innovators recognize that achieving true JEDI requires addressing the unique and often overlooked constraints faced by international students. As universities focus on internationalization and globalization, career coaches must advocate for this vital population by addressing barriers such as visa restrictions, cultural adjustment, and limited access to professional networks. International students bring diverse perspectives and invaluable skills to the global workforce, yet they often struggle with navigating legal and systemic obstacles. Equity Innovators play a critical role in connecting these students with tailored resources, including immigration pathways, cultural competency training, and mentorship options, ensuring they can fully participate in and contribute to the workforce.

Equity Innovators use these insights to implement targeted solutions. This may involve conducting equity audits within career services to assess access gaps, analyzing employer hiring data to ensure fair practices, or tracking career outcomes to identify and address inequities. By using data to inform their strategies, these coaches not only highlight areas for improvement but also provide actionable recommendations that drive measurable change.

The importance of inclusive ecosystems extends to inspiring innovation.

Research indicates that inclusive companies are 1.7 times more likely to be innovation leaders in their market.

Equity Innovators help organizations leverage this potential by building diverse and inclusive work environments where individuals feel a sense of belonging. They guide clients to develop cultural competency, empathy, and allyship, skills that are crucial for navigating and thriving in global, multicultural workforces.

Learning and awareness are central to the Equity Innovator’s mission. They lead workshops and develop resources that help individuals and organizations understand the value of equity and inclusion, combat unconscious bias, and implement inclusive practices. For example, an Equity Innovator might facilitate training sessions on cultural competency, helping employers and employees navigate and celebrate differences in a global workforce.

By addressing systemic barriers, creating a sense belonging, and promoting inclusive practices, Equity Innovators redefine what career success looks like in the 21st century. They transform career services into engines of opportunity, ensuring that diverse communities are not just included but empowered to thrive. In doing so, they create ecosystems of equity that extend beyond individual success, driving societal progress and shaping a future where opportunity is truly for all.

7. The Resilience Partner: Empowering Agile Learners

In a world of perpetual change, where uncertainty and complexity define the landscape, the future coach becomes a Resilience Partner—a guide and sounding board dedicated to equipping individuals with the mindset and tools to navigate life and career with confidence. This role focuses not on education, but on learning—a distinction that highlights adaptability, growth, and lifelong curiosity over static instruction.

Education often delivers structured, formal knowledge within predefined boundaries, but learning is a dynamic, self-directed journey. Resilience Partners empower individuals to embrace learning as a lifelong strategy, enabling them to unlearn outdated concepts, adapt to emerging challenges, and cultivate the agility needed to thrive.

Cultivating a Growth Mindset

A cornerstone of the Resilience Partner’s role is to instill a growth mindset—the belief that abilities can be developed through dedication and effort. By teaching individuals to pivot strategically and recover from setbacks, Resilience Partners help them view obstacles as opportunities for innovation and growth. This mindset shifts the narrative from one of failure to one of transformation, preparing clients to excel in careers that demand constant evolution.

As a sounding board, the Resilience Partner provides a safe space for individuals to articulate doubts, explore possibilities, and test ideas. This collaborative dialogue builds clarity, confidence, and action, turning challenges into stepping stones for growth.

Embracing Emotional Intelligence

Resilience is not only about professional adaptability but also about managing emotional well-being. Resilience Partners emphasize emotional intelligence, guiding individuals to build strong interpersonal relationships, manage stress effectively, and maintain clarity under pressure. These skills are essential in navigating the emotional complexities of career transitions and life’s challenges, ensuring that individuals remain composed and grounded.

Learning vs. Education: The Path to Agility

Unlike education, which is finite and structured, learning is perpetual and evolves with the individual. Resilience Partners prioritize learning by:

• Anticipating Change: Helping individuals identify trends and proactively acquire relevant skills.
• Personalizing Growth: Tailoring learning strategies to align with unique goals and the shifting demands of life and work.
• Igniting Curiosity: Encouraging exploration and adaptability in every experience.

Resilience Partners facilitate deeper reflection, enabling individuals to internalize lessons and transform experiences into actionable insights. This focus on learning ensures individuals stay agile, not by having all the answers, but by developing the ability to ask the right questions and pivot when necessary.

Preparing for Dynamic Careers

As the workplace becomes increasingly fluid, Resilience Partners equip individuals with the tools for continuous upskilling and self-reinvention. They teach clients how to:

• Recognize transferable skills and adapt them to new contexts.
• Integrate emerging technologies and methodologies.
• Maintain a mindset of curiosity and openness to growth.

By anchoring individuals in learning and resilience, these coaches ensure they are not just prepared for the present but also positioned to thrive in the future.

Guiding Transformation

In this role, the Resilience Partner becomes both a guide and a sounding board, teaching individuals to harness their inner strength and adaptability. Through a focus on emotional intelligence, a growth mindset, and a learning-centric approach, they empower clients to lead lives defined by resilience, agility, clarity, and enduring purpose.

8. The Experience Curator: Creating Transformative Journeys

Experiential learning isn’t just an educational tool—it’s the foundation of meaningful personal and professional growth. The future coach steps into the role of Experience Curator, crafting transformative journeys that bridge ambition with action. Through internships, apprenticeships, real-world projects, and shadowing opportunities, these coaches ensure that individuals not only develop hands-on skills but also build dynamic professional networks that prepare them for an evolving world.

They will emphasize the importance of “learning by doing,” ensuring that every experience, on purpose, contributes to personal and professional mastery.

Learning by Doing

As champions of learning by doing, Experience Curators emphasize that every opportunity is an intentional step toward personal and professional mastery. They curate experiences aligned with individuals’ career and life visions, ensuring that every project, job, or internship becomes an integral part of their story—a building block in their portfolio of skills and accomplishments.

This approach transforms career and life development into a deliberate, purpose-driven process, starting from the moment a student steps onto campus.

Transforming Experiences into Growth

An Experience Curator’s work doesn’t end when the opportunity begins. They guide individuals through reflective practices that extract key insights from every experience. By helping clients analyze challenges, celebrate achievements, and identify transferable skills, they turn internships and projects into milestones of growth rather than mere bullet points on a resume.

For instance, a marketing student interning at a nonprofit might reflect on how they managed a limited budget creatively, turning a constraint into an opportunity for innovation. These reflections deepen the learning process, making each experience a springboard for future success.

Holistic Design of Experiences

Experience Curators take a holistic approach, helping clients:

• Identify opportunities that align with their evolving career and life visions.
• Integrate diverse experiences to create a multifaceted portfolio of skills.
• Position each experience as a pathway to new possibilities and expanded horizons.

They also advocate for creating transformative campus ecosystems that embed experiential learning into the student journey from day one. Imagine a world where career and life development is not an afterthought but a continuous and transformative journey, designed to empower individuals at every stage.

Beyond the Resume

Experience Curators understand that true transformation happens when individuals see themselves growing through each endeavor. They help clients articulate how these experiences have shaped their identities, contributed to their purpose, and positioned them for future success. By connecting every opportunity to a broader career and life narrative, these coaches inspire confidence, competence, and clarity.

What if every experience wasn’t just a line on a resume but a turning point in a life well-lived?

The Transformative Vision

Experience Curators redefine what it means to “prepare for the workforce.” They create a mosaic of intentional experiences that not only build skills but also instill a sense of purpose, creativity, and adaptability. In doing so, they ensure that every experience contributes to a life of fulfillment, impact, and meaning.

By positioning every experience as an intentional part of a client’s personal and professional journey, coaches create pathways that inspire confidence and competence.

9. The Connection Enabler: Forging Networks, Communities, and Entrepreneurial Architectures of Influence

In a hyperconnected world, relationships are currency, and the future coach will be a master bridge builder and connector. These professionals will facilitate meaningful interactions between academics (faculty, staff, and students), alumni, employers, parents, and mentors, helping individuals navigate the dynamic interplay of work and life. Platforms like LinkedIn, alumni networking systems, and AI-driven tools will serve as catalysts for building robust professional networks that open doors, spark collaborations, and accelerate growth.

But building a network isn’t just about connecting with others—it’s about joining and contributing to thriving communities that amplify purpose and drive. By participating, individuals gain access to a network of visionaries, changemakers, and like-minded professionals committed to designing lives of meaning and impact. Similarly, these groups and masterminds emphasize collective growth through innovation and shared knowledge, empowering individuals not only to connect but also thrive as part of a larger movement.

These communities represent the future of career and life design: supercharged career and life ecosystems of influence where individuals collaborate, grow, and inspire one another.

Empowering Connections Beyond Networking

The role of a Connection Enabler goes far beyond facilitating introductions—it is about creating supercharged career and life ecosystems where individuals collaborate, grow, and inspire one another. By helping individuals cultivate entrepreneurial and intrapreneurial mindsets, these coaches empower their clients to thrive in an increasingly freelance-driven and entrepreneurial economy. They offer tailored guidance to aspiring entrepreneurs, from building personal brands as influencers and content creators to scaling startups and diversifying income streams.

For international students, the Connection Enabler’s role becomes even more critical. By connecting them with the right resources, coaches provide invaluable guidance on visa pathways, from O-1 visas for extraordinary ability to EB-5 investor visas, enabling them to launch and sustain entrepreneurial ventures globally. These connections contribute not only to personal success but also to global innovation.

Inclusive Networks That Break Barriers

Connection Enablers prioritize building equitable and inclusive communities, ensuring that systemic barriers, like limited social capital or access to resources, are minimized. These professionals create platforms where underrepresented groups can access resources, take risks, and drive change. By linking clients with mentors, collaborators, and investors, they unlock new pathways for fulfillment and success, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate in and benefit from thriving networks.

This role is not just about connecting individuals; it’s about creating intentional and sustainable ecosystems that foster innovation, collaboration, and purpose-driven growth. Connection Enablers understand that relationships are more than transactional—they are transformative. Every connection becomes part of a larger fabric of shared success, shaping a future where collaboration leads to limitless possibilities.

A thriving community is more than a network—it’s an ecosystem where relationships inspire innovation, fuel growth, and create lasting impact.

10. The Well-Being Champion: Prioritizing “YOU Matter”

As argued extensively in Hassan Akmal’s first book, How to be a Career Mastermind™: Discover 7 “YOU Matter” Lenses for a Life of Purpose, Impact, and Meaningful Work, the term “Work-life Balance” is outdated; the notion of work-life balance is giving way to career and life integration, where personal and professional spheres complement rather than compete with each other. The future career coach will champion well-being as a core pillar of success, ensuring that individuals prioritize not only professional achievements but also mental health, fulfillment, and a sense of purpose.

The role of a Well-Being Champion is to equip clients with the tools and strategies to thrive holistically. By addressing challenges like burnout, stress, and emotional fatigue, these coaches offer actionable guidance on setting boundaries, practicing mindfulness, and cultivating habits that sustain energy and focus over time. They move beyond surface-level advice, empowering individuals to create sustainable routines that enhance both productivity and personal joy.

Self-Alignment

Well-Being Champions encourage clients to redefine success on their own terms, aligning their goals with their intrinsic values and aspirations. Through deep reflection and meaningful dialogue, individuals uncover what truly matters to them—be it time with loved ones, creative expression, or advancing impactful work. Coaches help clients craft a vision of success that integrates all aspects of life, demonstrating that true achievement is not measured by professional accolades alone, but by a sense of harmony and alignment.

The Harvard Study of Adult Development, an 80-year longitudinal research project, underscores this philosophy: individuals who prioritize relationships, personal fulfillment, and self-defined success are happier, healthier, and more resilient over the long term. By integrating these findings into career coaching, Well-Being Champions help clients shift from chasing external markers of success to building lives that feel authentically rewarding.

The Intersection of Purpose and Well-Being

Well-Being Champions advocate for a purpose-driven approach to career and life design, where work becomes an extension of personal values rather than a source of conflict. This includes supporting clients in adopting practices like mindfulness, regular physical activity, and intentional rest to nurture their mental, emotional, and physical health. By addressing the human side of professional growth, these coaches ensure that their clients remain energized and engaged in pursuing their goals.

Their work emphasizes that career and life integration is not just about balance—it’s about harmony, where each facet of life enhances the other. Whether helping a professional set boundaries to protect family time or guiding a client to align their career with their passion for social impact, Well-Being Champions inspire individuals to design lives that are both fulfilling and sustainable.

Well-Being Champions lead the charge in creating a culture that prioritizes the whole person.

“True success isn’t about climbing higher; it’s about living deeper. The well-being coach reminds us that when we care for ourselves, we empower every area of our lives to flourish.”

11. The Mastery Advocate: Transforming Skills Into Solutions

Mastery is more than proficiency—it is the transformation of knowledge into an exceptional skill that creates value and solves problems. The future coach, as a Mastery Mentor, guides individuals through this transformative journey, encouraging them to pursue deliberate practice and intentional learning to evolve their talents into impactful solutions.

To master something is to approach it with depth and purpose. Future coaches will inspire clients to move beyond competence and embrace deliberate mastery—an iterative process of refining their abilities through challenges, feedback, and application. This mindset shifts the focus from merely acquiring skills to aligning them with real-world needs, allowing individuals to contribute meaningfully to their organizations and industries.

Mastery Mentors emphasize two key principles: first, that mastery is an ongoing journey requiring curiosity, adaptability, and persistence; second, that mastery achieves its highest purpose when it addresses pressing challenges or fills critical gaps. They encourage clients to connect their efforts to larger goals—whether advancing organizational success, driving innovation, or addressing societal issues.

In this role, the coach also becomes a strategist for showcasing mastery. They guide clients to articulate the value of their expertise through portfolios, thought leadership, or project-based accomplishments. This not only demonstrates their impact but positions them as solution-oriented professionals who bring tangible value to the table.

12. The Content Creator: Amplifying Insights and Inspiring Action

The future of career coaching extends beyond individual conversations—it thrives in digital spaces where ideas can scale and inspire action. As Content Creators, career coaches will harness platforms like podcasts, blogs, webinars, and social media to amplify their reach, illuminate emerging career opportunities, and foster communities of knowledge and collaboration. This role transforms career professionals into ecosystem builders, creating dynamic spaces where insights meet action and diverse audiences feel empowered to engage.

Amplifying Insights and Innovation

Content Creators use their platforms to surface untapped opportunities, such as hidden industries, future-focused skills, and actionable strategies for career advancement. A podcast episode featuring a groundbreaking career framework or a blog post unpacking trends in remote work has the power to reach and inspire thousands of individuals at once. These digital tools don’t just disseminate information—they make career coaching accessible and scalable, breaking down barriers of geography and exclusivity.

Building Collaborative Communities

The role of the Content Creator extends far beyond the delivery of insights. By fostering creative and collaborative digital communities, coaches can inspire connection among professionals, students, and thought leaders. Interactive webinars, comment threads, and social platforms become places of exchange, where participants can share experiences, network, and grow collectively. These digital ecosystems empower individuals not only to consume knowledge but also to contribute to it, building a culture of shared growth.

Catalysts for Institutional and Individual Success

Content Creators also play a vital role in advancing institutional goals. By showcasing the success of career initiatives, they elevate their institutions’ visibility and attract partnerships, funding, and employer connections. At the same time, their creative content helps individuals craft their own paths by providing the tools, resources, and frameworks needed to navigate the rapidly evolving workforce.

In a world where attention is a scarce resource, the ability to create content that resonates, informs, and inspires is a transformative force. Future coaches who step into this role will not only build their own influence but also reshape the broader narrative of career development, ensuring that impactful insights are accessible to all.

13. The Pivot Expert: Navigating the Future of Work

In a world where change is the only constant, pivoting has become a critical skill for navigating the future of work. As Jenny Blake, author of Pivot, aptly notes, “If change is the only constant, let’s get better at it.” Today’s workforce no longer adheres to the traditional model of linear career progression. Instead, professionals are shifting roles, industries, and directions with increasing frequency. According to the (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024), the average worker now changes careers 5–7 times in their lifetime, with approximately 30% of the workforce switching jobs every 12 months—a sharp contrast to the single-employer norm of past generations.

This accelerated pace of career change has created an urgent need for career coaches specializing in navigating transitions. Pivot Experts will be at the forefront, guiding individuals through moments of uncertainty and opportunity with strategic, actionable insights. These architects of reinvention will help clients approach career changes not as reactive decisions but as intentional experiments, encouraging them to test new roles or industries through short-term projects, part-time roles, and portfolio careers.

Career Disruption and Adaptation

Layoffs have emerged as a significant driver of career pivots in recent years. In 2024 alone, U.S. companies laid off over 1.6 million employees (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024). Such sudden disruptions force individuals to reassess their skills, adapt to new industries, and reimagine their professional identities. Pivot Experts will play a vital role in helping individuals understand their transferable skills, craft compelling personal narratives, and address the emotional and logistical challenges of rebuilding after setbacks.

Beyond addressing immediate transitions, Pivot Experts will focus on positioning their clients for long-term success. In an increasingly competitive market, standing out to employers requires enhanced visibility, credibility, and a polished professional reputation. These coaches will guide individuals in leveraging online platforms, building personal brands, and optimizing networking strategies. From refining resumes to revamping LinkedIn profiles, Pivot Experts will ensure their clients present themselves as confident, versatile candidates ready to succeed in new roles.

Harnessing Transferable Skills for Versatility

A recent LinkedIn report found that nearly half of job transitions involve a significant shift in industry or job function, highlighting the critical need for coaches to help individuals bridge these gaps. Pivot Experts will emphasize adaptability as the cornerstone of career resilience, equipping clients with the tools to navigate emerging industries and build narratives that underscore their unique versatility. They will coach clients to view their past experiences as assets, weaving them into compelling stories that resonate with decision-makers in new fields.

The New Frontier of Remote and Hybrid Work

With remote and hybrid work models now a dominant feature of the professional landscape, Pivot Experts will also act as Remote Work Specialists, helping clients optimize productivity and communication in decentralized environments. From mastering virtual collaboration tools to maintaining work-life integration, these coaches will enable professionals to thrive in remote settings while leveraging geographic flexibility to explore broader career opportunities.

Redefining Career Trajectories with Confidence and Clarity

As the future of work evolves, Pivot Experts will serve as invaluable allies for individuals seeking to redefine their career paths. By combining personalized coaching with a deep understanding of market trends, these specialists will transform uncertainty into opportunity, empowering clients to navigate career shifts with confidence and resilience. Whether addressing the unique challenges of layoffs, honing transferable skills, or adapting to remote work dynamics, Pivot Experts will help professionals craft careers that are both fulfilling and future-proof, ensuring they remain competitive in an ever-changing world.

14. The Motivational Mindset Enthusiast: Igniting Progress On Purpose

Everyone needs a mindset coach. While wellness builds resilience, motivation ignites action. The Motivational Mindset Enthusiast provides the intentional spark that turns purpose into progress, helping bridge the gap between aspiration and achievement. Their role extends beyond identifying goals—it’s about building sustainable strategies that drive meaningful, lasting change.

Motivational Mindset Enthusiasts embody the Happiness Disruptors Framework in action. They use proven techniques such as SMART goal-setting, visualization, and micro-habit creation to transform overwhelming aspirations into achievable milestones. By breaking goals into manageable steps, they help clients overcome barriers such as imposter syndrome, limiting beliefs, procrastination, inertia, and self-doubt. Systems of accountability—through regular check-ins, milestone tracking, or peer support—ensure clients stay on track and maintain momentum.

A central focus of this role is helping individuals identify their intrinsic motivators—the passions and values that fuel their drive. Whether motivated by personal growth, a desire to make an impact, or the satisfaction of mastering a skill, Motivational Mindset Enthusiasts tap into these core drivers to inspire commitment and persistence.

Grit is the cornerstone of motivation. These coaches help clients cultivate perseverance by highlighting the importance of effort and persistence, especially in overcoming setbacks. They teach clients recalibrate their efforts as needed to stay aligned with their vision. Celebrating progress—no matter how small—is key, reinforcing confidence and building the momentum needed to reach larger goals.

The Motivational Mindset Enthusiast ensures that every action ties back to a client’s broader vision, transforming potential into performance. They help clients see the journey itself as fulfilling and deeply aligned with their values and purpose. By fostering intentionality, grit, and intrinsic motivation, these coaches guide individuals to live with purpose and achieve meaningful progress every step of the way.

15. The Imagination Catalyst: Expanding the Realm of Possibilities

Imagination is the foundation of innovation, and the Imagination Catalyst empowers individuals to unlock their creative potential and envision futures beyond conventional boundaries. This role challenges clients to ask “What if?”—inviting them to explore ideas, dismantle self-imposed limitations, and design possibilities that are expansive, inspiring, and uniquely their own.

Imagination Catalysts help individuals map out paths they may have never considered. Whether it’s pursuing unconventional career trajectories, transitioning into entirely new industries, or launching entrepreneurial ventures, these coaches guide clients to embrace their potential as boundless.

Through curiosity-driven exploration, this role encourages clients to transcend traditional thinking and see their careers as quantum pathways—fluid, multidimensional journeys that evolve with their own imagination.

16. The Career and Life Design Consultant

From Advisor to Consultant: The traditional career coach is becoming obsolete. The Career and Life Design Consultant represents the evolution of the career coach, broadening its scope. Today’s job search is not just a task; it’s a strategic journey.

Career and life design consultants go beyond offering advice—they create ecosystems of influence, bridging meaningful connections between students, employers, alumni, families, and communities. These professionals are architects of innovation that empower individuals and institutions alike.

These consultants are thought leaders, shaping environments based on current and future trends. They align individual visions with emerging market trends, ensuring that career development is no longer transactional but transformational—focused on building futures that are as impactful as they are fulfilling.

17. The Design Thinker: Bridging Stakeholders and Creating Radical Synergy

The future coach will evolve beyond being solely a coach and guide for individuals; they will also act as strategic thinkers, resourceful collaborators who connect stakeholders within the broader career and life ecosystem. This role emphasizes working not just with students but also with employers, alumni, parents, and the local community to create a holistic network of informed connectors and impact.

As design thinkers, they will approach problems with creativity and empathy, radical collaboration, and a human-centered approach into client mosaics of career and life design.

As a design thinker focused on failure and resilience, the role involves guiding individuals to embrace setbacks as new creative solutions for growth through the design thinking process. This begins with self-empathizing with their experiences, creating a safe space to understand the emotional impact of failure. By defining the problem, individuals can separate failure from personal identity and identify areas for improvement. In the ideation phase, they brainstorm alternative solutions and approaches, followed by prototyping low-risk experiments to learn from smaller failures. Finally, through testing and feedback, individuals refine their ideas, fostering resilience by viewing failure as an essential, iterative step in the innovation process.

This new role emphasizes resourcefulness, systems thinking, and the ability to unite diverse stakeholders into a cohesive ecosystem. Through collaborative ideation, iterative problem-solving, and alignment of goals, these design thinkers will create purpose-driven, future-ready solutions that transform the career services profession. By cultivating relationships with employers to align talent pipelines with workforce needs, they will ensure students and graduates are prepared for emerging roles in dynamic industries. They will partner with alumni to serve as mentors, industry connectors, and thought leaders, amplifying the reach and value of the alumni network.

Parents, often key influencers in students’ decision-making, will also be engaged as collaborators in this ecosystem, guided to support their children’s career and life decisions with empathy and insight. Moreover, by engaging with the community at large, coaches will foster partnerships that open doors to internships, volunteer opportunities, and real-world experiences that enrich the career journey.

Coaches-turned-consultants will help design one’s thinking and thought process. They will leverage data-driven insights and AI tools to identify trends, predict future careers, and create tailored solutions for diverse stakeholders.

They will act as the connective tissue that unites these groups into a cohesive network, ensuring that everyone—students, employers, alumni, parents, and community partners—contributes to and benefits from a thriving career and life design ecosystem.

By bridging these groups, they not only enhance the value of career services but also redefine their role as indispensable architects of an interconnected, future-ready workforce.

18. The Sustainability Agent: Green Careers Strategist

As sustainability becomes a global imperative, career services are uniquely positioned to guide individuals at the nexus of personal values and professional aspirations. Future career coaches as Sustainability Agents act as strategists, helping individuals and organizations navigate the transformative shift toward environmentally conscious and socially equitable practices. For instance, a teacher passionate about environmental sustainability might develop eco-conscious curricula or pursue leadership roles in green education initiatives.

Preparing for the Green Economy

The demand for green jobs is rising exponentially. According to Deloitte, over 300 million additional green jobs are expected by 2050 to support the global shift toward net-zero emissions. These roles, often requiring higher skill levels than their non-green counterparts, present unprecedented opportunities for graduates and professionals alike. Career coaches will equip individuals with critical competencies like systems thinking, strategic planning, and interdisciplinary problem-solving to prepare them for leadership in the green economy.

Universities as Catalysts for Sustainability

UNESCO’s Greening Curriculum Guidance calls on universities to integrate sustainability into education, equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and values to thrive in a resource-efficient society. Career services professionals will play a pivotal role in bridging academia and the workforce by fostering sustainability-focused internships, apprenticeships, and experiential learning opportunities. These experiences will enable individuals to transition seamlessly into roles in renewable energy, environmental policy, climate science, and sustainable development.

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals as a Roadmap

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a vital framework for aligning professional paths with global sustainability priorities. Future career coaches will use these goals as guiding principles, helping clients identify opportunities to contribute to environmental protection, economic growth, and social equity. By integrating the SDGs into career development practices, coaches empower individuals to pursue meaningful careers that address pressing global challenges.

Empowering Change Through Career Alignment

The Sustainability Agent’s role extends beyond preparing individuals for green jobs—it involves fostering a mindset of responsibility and innovation. These coaches will guide clients to align their personal values with professional opportunities, creating a ripple effect of positive change. Whether helping a recent graduate enter the renewable energy sector or guiding a mid-career professional into sustainable business practices, Sustainability Agents will redefine what it means to build a purpose-driven career.

By connecting individuals with the growing green economy, future career coaches will drive progress not only for their clients but for society as a whole.

Through their expertise, they will inspire individuals to become agents of change, crafting careers that contribute to a more sustainable and equitable world.

19. The Career and Life Readiness Expert: From Perception to Perspective

The transition from student to professional is as much about expanding perspectives as it is about acquiring skills. The role of the Career and Life Readiness Expert is to guide individuals from a narrow focus on their own perceptions to a broader understanding of diverse, global perspectives. This shift is essential not only for bridging the gap between how students perceive their readiness and how employers evaluate it but also for preparing individuals to thrive in an interconnected, multicultural world.

Research from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) underscores the critical need for this role. Employers often report significant gaps in areas like communication, teamwork, and professionalism, while students frequently overrate their own abilities in these areas. This perception gap highlights the importance of a coach who can offer an objective lens, providing students with a clearer understanding of their strengths and areas for growth. However, readiness is about more than aligning personal perceptions with external expectations—it’s about developing the ability to view challenges as new possibilities through multiple lenses.

The Career and Life Readiness Expert emphasizes the cultivation of perspective as a core competency. This means helping students not only understand their own abilities and values but also appreciate the diverse viewpoints of others. In today’s globalized and increasingly remote workplaces, the ability to navigate and integrate diverse perspectives is critical. By fostering cultural intelligence and empathy, these experts prepare students to collaborate effectively across boundaries, whether they are geographical, cultural, or generational.

Moreover, perspective-building extends beyond the workplace. It is equally important in life readiness—an area often overlooked in traditional career coaching.

For example, understanding how individual decisions contribute to broader societal impacts, such as sustainability or equity, requires a shift from personal perception to a global perspective. Career and Life Readiness Experts use tools like reflective exercises and values-based assessments to help students connect their personal aspirations with global issues, fostering a sense of purpose and interconnectedness.

Life readiness skills go beyond traditional career preparation, addressing the personal and interpersonal competencies necessary for thriving in both professional and personal contexts. These skills ensure individuals can navigate challenges, build meaningful relationships, and adapt to an ever-changing world.

Key Life Readiness Skills

• Confidence – The ability to believe in oneself and one’s abilities, motivating individuals to take initiative, speak up, and make decisions without self-doubt. Example: A student confidently presenting their ideas during a team meeting or proactively seeking mentorship experiences.
• Resilience – The capacity to recover quickly from setbacks and adapt to adversity with a positive mindset. Example: Maintaining focus and optimism after receiving critical feedback on a project.
• Courage and Emotional Agility – The bravery to face uncomfortable truths, accept them, engage in honest conversations, and act on one’s values, even when it’s challenging. As Susan David puts it, “Courage is not an absence of fear; courage is fear walking.” Example: Navigating a disagreement with a peer by addressing concerns openly and finding a solution collaboratively.
• Adaptability – The willingness and ability to adjust to new situations (especially when under pressure or outside of one’s comfort zone), and environments. Example: Thriving in a remote internship by learning to use virtual collaboration tools.
• Self-Awareness – Recognizing personal strengths, weaknesses, values, and motivations. Example: Identifying a preference for creative problem-solving and pursuing a career in design thinking.
• Growth Mindset – Embracing new possibilities for learning and improvement. Example: Pursuing professional development after recognizing a skill gap in public speaking.
• Responsible AI – Understanding and advocating for ethical practices in the development and deployment of artificial intelligence technologies. Example: Ensuring that an AI-powered hiring tool is free of bias and promotes fair decision-making processes.

This expanded role from the traditional “career readiness” positioning only, also acknowledges that perspective is not static—it evolves with experience and exposure. Coaches encourage students to adopt a mindset of lifelong learning, viewing every interaction and challenge as an opportunity to expand their worldview.

By integrating principles of career and life design, these experts help students build a “portfolio of perspectives,” leveraging their personal lens while valuing and incorporating the insights of others. This approach not only bridges gaps in readiness but also cultivates adaptability and innovation, essential for success in an ever-changing world.

The Career and Life Readiness Expert thus serves as a transformative guide, helping individuals to move beyond their own perceptions and embrace a broader, more inclusive perspective. By helping students see through diverse lenses, they ensure that readiness is not just about meeting today’s demands but also about contributing meaningfully to a global future.

Confidence, in particular, is foundational to many of these skills. Without confidence, even highly skilled individuals may hesitate to take initiative, advocate for themselves, or embrace who they are. Career and Life Readiness Experts play a critical role in cultivating these skills by blending guidance, practical strategies, and real-world applications. This comprehensive approach prepares individuals to thrive not only in their careers but also in life’s broader horizons.

Life’s beauty is inseparable from its fragility,” a quote by psychologist Susan David, champions the idea of emotional agility. Emotional agility is the ability to experience and accept both positive and negative emotions, and to use that to reveal the best of yourself. This life readiness skill is central to the Happiness Disruptors Framework.

20. The Global Talent Alchemist: Spearheading Perpetual Talent Exchange Beyond Borders

In an increasingly interconnected workforce, the Global Talent Alchemist navigates the complexities of global careers by leveraging cultural intelligence, adaptability, and international business acumen. They will partner with global organizations to build dynamic talent pipelines that fuel innovation and cultural exchange, enabling both professionals and employers to thrive across borders.

According to the Decoding Global Talent 2024 study by The Stepstone Group, BCG, and The Network, 1 in 4 professionals is actively seeking jobs abroad, and 63% are open to global employment. This unprecedented global mobility presents a transformative opportunity for career coaches to guide clients in navigating international opportunities, managing cultural transitions, and embracing inclusivity in diverse environments.

Enabling Brain Circulation and Cultural Exchange

At the heart of global talent development lies brain circulation—the dynamic flow of talent across borders. Remote work, nomad visas, and government initiatives are opening doors to international mobility. Countries like Canada, Germany, Singapore, and the UAE are actively recruiting global talent in industries such as IT, healthcare, and technology, simultaneously addressing labor shortages and fostering cultural exchange. By equipping clients with key competencies—multilingual communication, cultural competency, adaptability, and international business practices—Global Talent Alchemists empower individuals to navigate this global talent economy successfully.

These coaches also play a pivotal role in reversing brain drain by facilitating the return of globally trained professionals to their home countries. By doing so, they help spark local innovation and economic growth while maintaining the flow of ideas and skills across borders.

Adapting to Emerging Trends

As emerging technologies and automation continue to reshape global employment, Global Talent Alchemists guide clients in building essential tech skills and exploring entrepreneurial and freelancing opportunities. They help individuals remain competitive by connecting them to international networks, employers, and consultants, creating dynamic talent pipelines that bridge cultural divides and fuel global mobility.

Aligning Careers with Sustainable Development

Beyond professional growth, these coaches empower individuals to align their career aspirations with sustainable development initiatives, driving meaningful contributions to both their local communities and the global economy. By championing cross-border talent exchange, fostering cultural intelligence, and connecting professionals with impactful opportunities, Global Talent Alchemists play a critical role in shaping a workforce that thrives in an interconnected world.

Don’t Follow Your Passion, Master It

Many people often warn against “following your passion,” deeming it impractical or unattainable. However, Hassan Akmal’s innovative theoretical framework for Career and Life Design challenges this notion by encouraging individuals to lean into their passions, not just as fleeting interests but as pathways to mastery. This approach emphasizes the critical distinction between interests—things we do in our spare time—and passions—things we intentionally make time for.

The framework provides the “missing link” by guiding individuals to transform their passions into actionable skills that solve real-world problems.

By mastering their passions, individuals not only create unique value but also align their personal growth with professional impact. Coaches help students map their passions onto their career and life visions, encouraging progress through intentional practice, problem-solving, and continuous learning. In this model, passion is not a luxury but a compass that directs individuals toward meaningful contributions to society.

The Evolution of Career Services

During our research, we traced the dynamic shifts in the career services landscape, illustrating how each era reflects the changing needs of society, advancements in technology, and the evolution of career design philosophies.

This framework builds off historical developments and industry insights into the evolution of career services, drawing inspiration from Farouk Dey and Christine Y. Cruzvergara‘s ‘Five Future Directions for University Career Services’ (2019) and Manny Contomanolis, PhD and Trudy Steinfeld‘s Thriving in the Brave New World of Career Services’ (2014).

While these works provide valuable context, our timeline introduces a distinct, innovative, and original framework that integrates the concept of Happiness Disruptors alongside theoretical evolution, technological integration, and forward-looking strategies tailored to the future of holistic career and life design.

This Evolution of Career Services Framework begins with the Vocational Guidance Era (1920s–1940s), a reactive approach grounded in Trait and Factor Theory, which matched individual aptitudes with immediate industrial demands. During this time, career services focused primarily on functional placement in an expanding workforce, providing foundational tools for career entry but little else.

The Traditional Career Services Era (1950s–1990) marked a shift toward proactive support, emphasizing career decision-making and equipping individuals with tools like resume writing, workshops, and interview preparation. However, these services often remained transactional and one-size-fits-all, with limited integration of broader life goals or personalized guidance. This era laid the groundwork for more customized approaches but still primarily addressed career outcomes in isolation.

The Networking Era (1991–2010) introduced an interactive dimension to career services, leveraging early digital tools like email and internet job boards to expand professional connections. Career fairs, mentorship programs, and alumni networks became key components, encouraging individuals to actively participate in their career journeys. For the first time, career success relied on relationship-building and personal agency, signaling a significant cultural shift in career development.

The Connections & Community Era (2011–2019) accelerated this shift, by the introduction of hyperactive systems. Social media platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook created hyper-connected ecosystems, democratizing access to professional networks and jobs. This era emphasized the value of building communities and relationships to explore and advance careers, leveraging technology to exponentially expand access. Career services began to shift from individual guidance to facilitating broader community engagement, signaling the importance of collective connection.

The Social Mobility Era (2020–2024) is distinct yet intentionally brief in this framework. Defined by a focus on inclusion and equity, this inclusive era centered on dismantling systemic barriers and ensuring access to career mobility for underserved groups. Guided by the principles of Life Design, this period prioritized creating pathways for social mobility by integrating equity-focused strategies into career services. However, rapid technological innovation during this era, particularly in artificial intelligence, accelerated the transition to the next paradigm.

The AI Empowered Era (2025 onward) represents a groundbreaking transformation—an adaptive era where AI systems seamlessly integrate career and life design into a unified, hyper-personalized experience. Unlike previous eras, which relied on static frameworks, the AI Empowered Era embraces real-time adaptability. AI augmentation enables predictive insights, personalized career mapping, and dynamic decision-making. For example, AI-powered platforms analyze individual skills, values, and industry trends to offer proactive guidance tailored to evolving circumstances.

Figure 4 highlights the transformative journey of career services, from its early focus on vocational guidance to its current integration of AI and holistic approaches. Each phase reflects a distinct paradigm shift driven by evolving societal needs, technological advancements, and theoretical innovations. 

[CLICK TO DOWNLOAD PDF]

This legend below explains the visual structure and terminology used in the infographic, providing clarity on how each era is represented:

Focus

• Highlights the central objectives or guiding priorities of career services during each time period.
• Example: From early vocational guidance emphasizing job placement to modern AI-driven holistic integration.

Key Features

• Outlines the tools, methods, and innovations that defined career services in the given era.
• Example: The “Networking Era” focuses on leveraging connections and mentorship, while the “AI Empowered” phase integrates real-time adaptability.

Theoretical Framework

• Lists the foundational theories and frameworks that influenced practices and strategies during the era.
• Example: “Trait and Factor Theory” in early vocational guidance and “Design Thinking” in modern approaches.

Impact

• Describes the outcomes, societal shifts, or long-term effects of career services during that time.
• Example: Enhanced equity and inclusion during the “Social Mobility” phase or lifelong career alignment in the “AI Empowered” era.

Imagination Engineered: The Role of AI Agents in Career and Life Design

At the heart of the AI Empowered Era are AI agents—autonomous systems that consolidate decades of paradigm shifts in career and life design into a unified, adaptive framework. These agents bridge the interactive networking of the 1990s, the hyper-connected ecosystems of the 2010s, and the equity-driven priorities of the 2020s, elevating them into a seamless system of real-time guidance and support. They do not merely provide recommendations; they exemplify adaptability, offering hyper-personalized solutions that reflect the complexities of individual goals and values.

AI agents act as proactive collaborators in crafting intentional futures. They predict industry shifts, identify skill gaps, and guide individuals through transitions with unprecedented precision. Unlike previous paradigms that offered static tools or generalized advice, these intelligent systems align career strategies with personal aspirations in ways that were once unimaginable.

For instance:

• During the Networking Era, professionals depended on in-person career fairs or mentor programs. Today, AI agents curate personalized networks, recommending connections that align directly with one’s unique goals.
• In the Connections & Community Era, platforms like LinkedIn expanded access to opportunities. Now, AI agents refine these ecosystems, transforming them into actionable, tailored career pathways.
• Extending the goals of the Social Mobility Era, AI agents democratize access further by creating equity-focused tools that remove systemic barriers and ensure inclusivity in career and life design.

The adaptability of AI agents lies in their ability to integrate real-time career insights, predictive analytics, and strategies for holistic well-being. Imagine an AI agent that not only identifies a strategic career pivot but also aligns it with your personal values, provides curated resources to build necessary skills, and offers wellness strategies to maintain balance during the transition. This is more than career planning—it is life design, continuously refined by intelligent systems in collaboration with human intention.

Each era in this framework reflects a distinct behavioral descriptor:

• Vocational Guidance: Reactive
• Traditional Career Services: Proactive
• Networking Era: Interactive
• Connections & Community Era: Hyperactive
• Social Mobility Era: Inclusive
• AI Empowered Era: Adaptive

By examining these shifts, Figure 4 offers a comprehensive lens to understand the evolution of career services. The AI Empowered Era is not merely a continuation of past paradigms but a bold leap forward, transitioning from reactive support systems to anticipatory, well-being-integrated frameworks. It is no longer about responding to career stoplights; it is about designing systems that anticipate needs, foster resilience, and empower individuals to thrive in an ever-changing world.

The AI Continuum: A Journey Through Intelligence and Innovation

The evolution of artificial intelligence is not a singular leap—it is a continuum. This unfolding journey reshapes how humanity interacts with intelligence, progressing through distinct phases that build upon one another to craft intentional and innovative futures. Each phase reflects critical milestones, blending human ingenuity with technological advancements to redefine potential and purpose.

To fully grasp the transformative power of the AI Empowered Era and its implications, we must trace the trajectory that brought us here. This journey reveals the interplay between past developments and the emerging paradigms that shape the future of AI.

1. Pre-AI Era (Before 1950s): Foundations of Automation and Intelligence

This foundational era focused on human ingenuity and mechanical computation, laying the groundwork for artificial intelligence.

• Alan Turing’s Turing Machine (1936) pioneered theoretical computer science.
• Early mechanical calculators and computing devices symbolized humanity’s initial steps toward replicating intelligence.

The emphasis was on theoretical frameworks and mechanical systems rather than true artificial intelligence.

2. Birth of AI (1950s–1970s): Emergence of Artificial Intelligence

AI officially emerged as a field at the Dartmouth Conference (1956), where John McCarthy coined the term “Artificial Intelligence.”

• Early programs like Logic Theorist and ELIZA simulated reasoning and interaction.
• Research focused on symbolic AI, exploring problem-solving and decision-making models.

These developments sparked enthusiasm and set the stage for future breakthroughs.

3. Narrow AI (ANI): Specialization and Efficiency (1980s–Present)

Narrow AI represents systems designed to excel at specific tasks with exceptional precision.

• Expert systems replicated human expertise in fields like diagnostics.
• Machine learning algorithms advanced capabilities in speech recognition and personalization.

While transformative, Narrow AI remains confined to its programming, unable to generalize across domains.

4. AI Winters (1970s and 1980s): Periods of Reduced Funding and Interest

Progress slowed during the First AI Winter (1974–1980) and the Second AI Winter (1987–1993) as unmet expectations and market collapses curtailed funding.

• These downturns highlighted the challenges of delivering on AI’s early promises.
• They also spurred the rethinking of research priorities, setting the stage for revival.

5. Resurgence and Deep Learning Era (1990s–2025): Revival and Growth

The resurgence of AI research in the 1990s led to exponential growth in the 2000s.

• Neural networks and breakthroughs in algorithms like Support Vector Machines (SVM) revitalized interest.
• The rise of deep learning revolutionized image and speech recognition.

By the 2010s, AI achieved widespread adoption, with innovations like OpenAI’s GPT series and DeepMind’s AlphaGo transforming industries. This momentum culminates in the hyper-personalization and adaptability defining today’s AI systems.

6. Artificial General Intelligence (AGI): The Quest for Human-Like Intelligence (2025–2035)

AGI represents the next frontier: machines capable of reasoning, learning, and problem-solving across multiple domains.

• Progress in unsupervised learning accelerates research into AGI.
• Ethical standards and collaborative frameworks emerge to guide its safe development.

This phase promises transformative potential but requires vigilance to align with human values.

7. Artificial Superintelligence (ASI): Beyond Human Intelligence (2050+)

ASI envisions AI surpassing all human cognitive capabilities, fundamentally altering industries and ethics.

• Theoretical models raise existential questions about control, coexistence, and purpose.
• Philosophical and ethical debates focus on managing risks and harnessing ASI for collective benefit.

8. Ethical AI: Building a Foundation Across All Eras (Ongoing)

Ethical AI underscores fairness, transparency, and accountability throughout AI’s evolution.

• Standards evolve to mitigate bias, enhance algorithmic accountability, and protect privacy.
• Ethical considerations remain central to ensuring AI empowers humanity responsibly.

9. Adaptive AI Ecosystems: The Age of Real-Time Personalization (2025–2045)

Adaptive AI integrates real-time data, predictive analytics, and user feedback to create dynamic systems.

• These ecosystems deliver hyper-personalized solutions tailored to individual needs.
• Career, life, and well-being align seamlessly, marking a shift toward human-centered AI.

10. The Post-AI Era: Co-Creation and Co-Existence (2060+)

The Post-AI Era imagines a future of human-AI collaboration.

• AI systems and humans work as partners, addressing complex global challenges.
• Coexistence fosters mutual innovation, strengthening societal and planetary well-being.

Figure 5: The AI Continuum [Click TO DOWNLOAD PDF]

Shaping Futures with AI

The AI Empowered Era breathes life into the Career and Life Design Framework by making career and life design hyper-personalized, continuous, and responsive to change. AI tools enable individuals to align professional ambitions with personal growth and societal impact, offering real-time guidance at scale.

This transformative shift equips us not only to adapt but to innovate. By weaving AI into the fabric of our personal and professional lives, we unlock a future of clarity, purpose, and possibility. As Simon Sinek reminds us, “People don’t buy what you do; they buy why you do it.” Purpose-driven AI systems make this “why” tangible and actionable for every individual.

This is not just evolution—it is revolution, reshaping how we design not only careers and lives but the very essence of our collective future.

Redefining the Profession 

The future of career services transcends the transactional goal of finding jobs—it’s about transforming lives. By embodying these twenty facets, future career coaches will redefine their profession, evolving from service providers to transformative leaders. They will inspire students and professionals to dream bigger, think bolder, and design lives they love.

The future career coach is not merely an advisor; they are a disruptor in the most impactful sense of the word.

These coaches challenge outdated norms and revolutionize traditional paradigms, forging new pathways for success. Each of the twenty facets—from visionary, innovator, strategist, connector, and more—represents a transformative component of this evolving role. Together, they form a cohesive and dynamic identity that empowers individuals to navigate the complexities of career and life design with clarity, confidence, and purpose.

By adopting a disruptor mindset, future career coaches ensure nobody is left behind, fundamentally redefining the potential of career services.

Expanding the Qualifications of Future Career Coaches

The qualifications of future career coaches will evolve far beyond traditional degrees in education, counseling, or psychology. They will draw on diverse experiences and interdisciplinary perspectives—from artists and scientists to technologists and social innovators. These varied backgrounds will bring fresh insights and creative approaches to the multifaceted task of guiding individuals through their career journeys. This shift will expand the definition of expertise, ushering in new careers that haven’t been invented yet, for how we support and mentor the workforce of tomorrow.

Leaders Reinventing Themselves

As the paradigm shifts from traditional career services to holistic career and life design, institutions must identify visionary leaders who can catalyze transformative change. These leaders must be fluent in the language of innovation, leveraging AI tools, data analytics, and emerging technologies to craft personalized, future-proof career strategies. The ideal leader will adopt a bias to action mindset, reframing setbacks as something positive to reshape the future with groundbreaking solutions that challenge the status quo. 

By harnessing data to disrupt outdated models, these leaders will create inclusive programs that bridge gaps for diverse populations in an age of automation. They will champion equity, foster innovation, and develop human-centered solutions, ensuring that career services are not just relevant but revolutionary

Building the Future Dream Team

To redefine career and life design, visionary leaders must prioritize empathy and emotional intelligence as core traits when building their teams of career coaches. Behind every career path lies a human story, filled with uncertainty, aspirations, and untapped potential. Future coaches must connect with these stories, recognizing the unique needs of every individual they serve.

By cultivating cross-industry collaboration and championing lifelong learning, leaders can equip their teams with the agility and skills required to guide others through an ever-evolving landscape. These teams will not simply deliver services; they will serve as transformative agents.

They will equip individuals—and themselves, to navigate uncertainty, build resilience, and pursue purpose-driven futures with confidence and conviction.

The Scalability Revolution: Reaching Every Student, Everywhere

The Scalability Revolution is reshaping career services by expanding access and amplifying impact. This transformation ensures that every student, regardless of background or circumstance, receives the tailored support necessary to thrive.

Through strategies like Design Thinking (DT), career services are crafting programs that are adaptive, scalable, and sustainable—designed to reach a broader audience without compromising quality. Technology sits at the heart of this transformation enabling scalable networking, mentorship, and informed connectors that serve diverse student populations more effectively.

Scaling should focus on being more inclusive and reaching a wider audience, not just increasing numbers.

AI has emerged as a pivotal tool in scaling access, revolutionizing how career coaching reaches students by placing personalized guidance directly at their fingertips.

These tools, often available at minimal or no cost, democratize career guidance, offering features such as real-time resume feedback, tailored job recommendations, and skill-building resources. By breaking down barriers of geography and affordability, they make robust career support universally accessible, empowering students to design their futures with confidence. The pandemic highlighted the value of virtual platforms for networking and mentoring, demonstrating that “any event you can run in person can also be run virtually” to eliminate logistical barriers and reach more students.

Collaborations and Inclusive Outreach

Multi-institutional collaborations amplify scalability by uniting resources, expertise, and networks to create inclusive initiatives that extend support to underrepresented groups. These partnerships ensure that services are accessible to underrepresented students, including first-generation students, international students, and those from low socioeconomic backgrounds. As emphasized in the white paper Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in Career Services, “Inclusion is non-negotiable,” and many career services must develop the courage to critically evaluate themselves and challenge long-standing norms. Programs like diverse alumni mentoring dinners or online mentorship pairings are examples of inclusive, scalable efforts that provide meaningful organic opportunities for connection and empowerment.

A Transformative Vision

By scaling access and impact, career services are transforming pilot programs into sustainable, large-scale initiatives that foster inclusivity, innovation, and continuous improvement. Scaling isn’t just about increasing numbers; it’s about ensuring equitable access for all students. As Riley Jones, President of the Black Alumni Council of Columbia University, explains, “A lot of schools aren’t collecting the data and can’t actually answer questions about which students are being helped and who is missing out. This needs to change.” Leveraging technology and data-driven solutions allows institutions to identify gaps, reach underserved populations, and deliver targeted support that creates meaningful outcomes.

This revolution is redefining what it means to empower students everywhere, ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of success. Through scalable innovation, inclusive collaborations, and transformative technology, career services are not just adapting to the future—they are building it.

Designing Futures with Purpose and Innovation

The future of career services is not a static blueprint; it’s an ever-evolving canvas shaped by the dreams and potential of those it serves. We are reimagining what it means to have a career and life vision – to guide, inspire, and empower individuals in a world that calls for boldness, empathy, and agility.

#CareerandLifeDesign is more than a framework—it’s a movement. It transforms aspirations into actionable realities and reframes challenges as new doorways for growth. 

To paraphrase Susan David: “Courage is not the absence of fear but the ability to act in its presence.” The courage to disrupt outdated systems, challenge traditional paradigms, and empower diverse voices is what defines this profession’s future. Career coaches are not just helping individuals find their way—they are designing pathways where clarity, confidence, and purpose converge.

This is a call to lead with conviction, to create systems of opportunity that uplift every individual, and to redefine the essence of career and life coaching as a force for equity, innovation, and fulfillment. Together, we have the opportunity to transform career services into a guiding light—an enduring source of inspiration that equips individuals to thrive in an ever-changing world.

The essence of career and life design lies not in following a predefined map but in creating new possibilities with every step. This is a profession that demands courage: the courage to question norms, to empower diverse voices, and to chart pathways that others have yet to envision. It’s about moving beyond the transactional, embracing the transformative, and recognizing that behind every career journey is a story waiting to be shaped into a masterpiece. As we step into this evolving landscape, let this moment be a declaration: We are not merely responding to change; we are shaping it. 

An Inflection Point — Elevating Learning and Development in Career Services

The COVID-19 pandemic was a transformative moment for career services, requiring us to not only rethink how we support others but also prioritize our own growth and adaptability. In November 2024, Matt Berndt , Head of Indeed’s Job Search Academy, described career professionals as “first responders” at the Midwest ACE Conference. He used a compelling analogy to illustrate our role:

“When someone is underemployed or misemployed, they are in crisis.”

Just as medical first responders provide life-saving care during physical emergencies, career professionals serve as critical guides for individuals facing career crises. Whether it’s the uncertainty of job loss, the misalignment of a mismatched career, or the risks of reentry into the workforce, we are often the first to intervene, offering tools, empathy, and direction. This analogy resonates deeply, especially in light of the pandemic, which amplified the need for career and life design frameworks that not only help individuals navigate crises but also empower them to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

In December 2022, during the delivery of the opening keynote speech at UC San Diego’s Professional Development Day on “Career and Life Design,” Hassan Akmal urged the necessity of these holistic frameworks, not just for students and alumni but for career services professionals themselves. 

The pandemic made it abundantly clear that we need to embrace our own development and align careers with purpose, well-being, and adaptability—principles we encourage in those we serve.

Johns Hopkins University has since set an exemplary standard by institutionalizing these principles through their Center for Staff Life Design, which officially opened in 2024. This initiative underscores the importance of Learning and Development (L&D) for staff, providing resources and pathways to help employees craft meaningful career pathways:

• Workshops and Resources: Supporting staff to align their career paths with personal aspirations through reflective practices.
• Life Design Coaching: Offering personalized support to navigate transitions, build resilience, and uncover new possibilities.
• Integrated Learning: Equipping staff with skills for long-term growth, fostering well-being, and aligning careers with purpose.

The Center for Staff Life Design exemplifies how L&D can be both proactive and transformative, creating a culture of resilience and innovation. As career services professionals, we must internalize the lesson of the pandemic: supporting our own learning and life design is essential to effectively guiding others.

Matt Berndt’s analogy of career professionals as first responders reminds us of the profound responsibility we bear in times of career crises. By embracing this role and fostering initiatives like Johns Hopkins’ Center for Staff Life Design, we can leverage the lessons of the pandemic to drive meaningful growth and transformation and lead the way toward a future where career and life design is foundational—not just for those we serve, but for ourselves as well.

The Happiness Disruptors Framework guides career coaches to reimagine their role, transitioning beyond traditional services to become architects of clarity, innovation, and meaningful growth.

Matt Berndt’s analogy of career professionals as first responders highlights the immense responsibility we carry during moments of career crisis. This role calls for empathy, agility, and the ability to ignite hope in the face of the unknown. By championing initiatives like Johns Hopkins’ Center for Staff Life Design, we can transform the lessons of the pandemic into a powerful force for meaningful growth—both for those we serve and for ourselves. Together, we can lead the charge toward a future where career and life design is not just a service but a cornerstone of holistic well-being.

The Happiness Disruptors Framework is novel and invites you to step boldly into a transformative space, transcending traditional boundaries.

Every connection made, every challenge overcome, and every reimagined future is a chance to leave a memorable legacy. The time to act boldly is now—let us seize it together.

From Career and Life Balance to Career and Life Integration

The current evolution in the field of career services represents a profound transformation. Careers are no longer linear paths but intricate ecosystems shaped by AI, global trends, and the growing demand for adaptability.

At the heart of this shift is the concept of career and life integration, which replaces the traditional notion of work-life balance. Instead of treating personal and professional spheres as separate entities to be “balanced,” integration offers a panoramic view that unifies them together into a cohesive and fulfilling whole. This approach recognizes that success is not just about excelling in one domain but thriving across interconnected areas of life.

The concept of work-life balance has long dominated discussions about professional and personal fulfillment. However, as noted in the hour glass illustration above, career and life go hand and hand and it assumes an inherent conflict between career and life visions—a notion that is increasingly outdated. As Harvard professor Ranjay Gulati points out:

“My primary issue with the term ‘work-life balance’ is that it puts work in opposition to life … it assumes that work is bad and life is good. Work shouldn’t consume you, but when you treat work and life completely separate, by implication, you’re saying, ‘I’m dead when I’m at work.’” (Gulati, 2023).

Work and life are not opposing forces; they are intertwined elements of a greater whole. As Sir Ken Robinson observed, creativity and originality often emerge from embracing challenges and reconciling our personal and professional lives:

“If you’re not prepared to be wrong, you’ll never come up with anything original.”

This integration also emphasizes the importance of aligning calling and identity—the sense of purpose and self-expression that drives meaningful work. Research highlights that individuals who view their work as meaningful are 93% more engaged and 88% more productive (Harvard Business Review, 2018). Furthermore, generativity theory underscores that those focused on leaving a legacy experience greater life satisfaction and psychological well-being (McAdams & de St. Aubin, 1992). Career and Life Design, as championed by Hassan Akmal, goes beyond achieving external success; it ensures that personal values, aspirations, and unique strengths are fully integrated into career paths, leading to a profound sense of alignment, purpose, and fulfillment.

As Parker Palmer aptly states, “Vocation is not a goal to be achieved but a gift to be received.”

The current paradigm shift invites individuals to find their element — the truth and talent within you — and embrace this gift, aligning who they are with what they do. This alignment brings not only a sense of purpose but also the confidence to navigate the complexities of modern life while building a meaningful legacy.

“You wander from room to room, hunting for the diamond necklace that is already around your neck!” — Rumi

The Science of Happiness: A Foundation for Career and Life Design

At the heart of the Career and Life Design framework lies an essential truth: happiness is not a fleeting emotion but a skill that can be cultivated through intentional actions and meaningful alignment between personal and professional aspirations. Research by Sonja Lyubomirsky in The How of Happiness reveals that up to 40% of our happiness is influenced by intentional activities—actions we take to create purpose, foster relationships, and practice #gratitude. These findings emphasize that happiness is within our control and can be actively nurtured through deliberate choices.

This evidence underscores the transformative power of pursuing intrinsic goals, such as personal growth and connection, over external markers like wealth or status. As career and life designers, coaches have an unparalleled opportunity to guide individuals toward aligning their aspirations with intrinsic values, fostering a sense of meaning, fulfillment, and lasting happiness. By blending evidence-based strategies with human-centered approaches, the Career and Life Design Framework empowers individuals to redefine success, integrate their personal and professional lives, and embrace a future where happiness and purpose are seamlessly interconnected into every aspect of life.

At the heart of every transformative journey lies a subtle yet profound shift—the reshaping of the internal paradigm.

True leadership begins with self-awareness, the quiet courage to look inward and uncover the truths that shape our choices, values, and aspirations. It is in this intimate dialogue with ourselves that mindfulness emerges as a powerful guide, grounding us in the present and illuminating the path forward.

Through mindfulness, we develop the clarity to lead not only our careers but our lives with purpose and authenticity. Self-awareness, strengthened by mindful reflection, becomes the cornerstone of personal and professional development.

“Teach not to mold minds, but to cultivate the fertile soil of imagination, where the seeds of knowledge bloom into forests of wisdom.” — Hassan Akmal

How can we inspire others or navigate complexity without first understanding the map of our own hearts?

To lead one’s self is to step boldly into the unknown, guided by an inner compass of presence and growth, unlocking the boundless potential to design lives that are both meaningful and extraordinary.

The Internal Paradigm: The #NorthStar Within

Amid these external shifts, it is the internal paradigm that matters most. In an interview with Hassan Akmal for the UC San Diego Designing Your Career and Life Podcast, Jiaying Wu describes this beautifully through her concept of two North Stars: the external North Star, which represents societal and technological influences, and the internal North Star, which reflects our personal values and purpose.

“The external North Star may guide us, but it is the internal North Star that truly defines us.” (Wu, 2023).

When we focus inward and align with our internal North Star, we navigate external changes with resilience and intentionality. Recognizing that we are the architects of our own paradigms empowers us to pursue our unique paths with clarity and purpose.

The sooner we realize this, the sooner we will reach our purpose, legacy, and truth.

The journey toward our “better self” is not linear, nor does it end at one fixed point. There is no singular best self; there are many best selves, each evolving with us as we progress in our journey.

Great work is not just about achievement—it’s about aligning our inner journey with our external actions. Passion, as John Maxwell wrote, is the source of courage:

“A great leader’s courage to fulfill his vision comes from passion, not position.”

By aligning with our internal North Star, we take ownership of our journey and unlock the potential to not just adapt to external changes but actively shape our futures. True transformation begins when we embrace the internal journey, guided by resilience, passion, and an unshakable belief in our ability to design a life that reflects our purpose and truth.

True career and life integration begins when we stop framing work as a burden and instead view it as a platform for meaning, purpose, and creativity. Or, as Viktor Frankl wrote,

“When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.”

This isn’t just a conversation; it’s a movement. This transformative journey is both deeply personal and universally empowering. It calls on us to align our inner values with outward action, to view challenges as moments for growth, and to design futures that reflect the unique imprint of our internal North Star.

From Self-Doubt to Self-Trust: The Path to Radical Confidence

The movement begins with each of us—our own consciousness—not just in how we adapt, but in how we innovate and lead with intention, shaping lives that are as purposeful as they are impactful. This is not merely about navigating change and uncertainty; it’s about mastering the art of designing a life well-lived through the pursuit of self-mastery.

As Sir Ken Robinson says, “Happiness is not a material state, it’s a spiritual state.”

For those ready to reimagine what’s possible, consider exploring your own space, The Interior Design of Your Career and Life, as a guide to crafting the next chapter with intention and purpose.

The word confidence comes from the Latin “fidere,” meaning “to have full trust.” This etymology holds a profound truth: true confidence isn’t about seeking external validation; it’s about cultivating an unshakable trust in yourself. To trust yourself fully, you must first know yourself—your strengths, your values, and your aspirations. Only then can you step into the world with clarity, courage, and purpose.

In a world that often challenges our sense of self, the journey to confidence is not about perfection but about radical acceptance. It’s about recognizing that every doubt, every misstep, is an opportunity to realign with the person you’re meant to become.

“Trust is the foundation of everything—of dreams, of purpose, of the life you’re designing. Trust yourself. Know yourself. And from that place of grounded confidence, create a future that reflects who you truly are.” — Hassan Akmal

As you align with your internal North Star, remember that confidence is not something to find—it’s something to trust. Trust in your ability to adapt, to grow, and to design a life that feels authentically yours.

You see, every door that closes carries the potential to create space for what truly matters.

The moments of release—though difficult—are where growth begins, where clarity emerges, and where purpose finds its way to us.

“Everything I lose creates space for everything I need.”

Let this be a mantra for your gratitude journals, your meditation rituals, and your daily reflections. It’s a reminder that life isn’t about holding onto everything, but about letting go to make room for something greater. As you design your future ahead, may you find the courage to release what no longer serves you and the grace to welcome what’s meant for you.

Reflection Questions

The question is not whether we need to evolve but how quickly we can adapt. The world is changing, and the future of career services must lead the way. Are you ready to become the architect of a new era?

How will you use design thinking and creativity to craft solutions that bridge the gap between ambition and impact?

• What specific challenges in career services do you feel are most urgent to address, and why? How can you apply design thinking principles—such as empathy, ideation, and prototyping—to create scalable, impactful solutions?
• In what ways can your creativity inspire those you serve to think beyond traditional boundaries and envision transformative possibilities?
• Why is it important for career services to bridge ambition and impact, and how do you define success in achieving this alignment?

In a world of constant change, how will you create clarity, courage, and conviction in your work and those you guide?

• What strategies will you use to help others define their goals amid uncertainty, and why is clarity essential for progress?
• How will you instill courage in yourself and others to take bold steps toward growth, even when the path is unclear?
• What role does conviction play in sustaining resilience and focus during challenging transitions, and how can you model this for those you guide?
• Why is it important for career professionals to cultivate these qualities, and how can they impact not only individual success but also broader societal progress?

What legacy do you want to leave as a career and life design architect?

• How do you hope your work will shape the lives of those you serve, both personally and professionally?
• In what ways can your contributions redefine what it means to design meaningful careers and lives in a rapidly evolving world?
• Why is it important to align your purpose with the needs of the next generation, and how will this guide your approach to innovation and leadership?
• What steps can you take today to ensure your legacy reflects your values, vision, and the impact you aspire to create?

How will you align technology and human connection to empower those you serve?

• How can you leverage emerging technologies like AI to provide hyper-personalized support while maintaining empathy and connection?
• What balance will you strike between automation and human touch, and why is this balance critical for meaningful impact?
• Why is creating genuine human connection more important than ever in an age dominated by digital communication?

How will you ensure inclusivity, equity, and sustainability in your career services approach?

• What steps can you take to dismantle systemic barriers and create opportunities for historically underserved populations?
• How will you incorporate principles of sustainability into career development practices, and why does this matter for the future?
• Why is it essential to champion equity and inclusivity, not as buzzwords but as foundational values in your work?

References

1. Akmal, H. (2023). Designing the Future of Career Services. NACEWeb.org. Retrieved from https://www.naceweb.org/career-development/trends-and-predictions/designing-the-future-of-career-services
2. Altbach, P. G., & Knight, J. (2007). The Internationalization of Higher Education: Motivations and Realities. Journal of Studies in International Education, 11(3–4), 290–305. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1177/1028315307303542
3. Ardacious. (n.d.). From classroom to career: The impact of storytelling skills. Retrieved from https://ardacious.com/from-classroom-to-career-the-impact-of-storytelling-skills/
4. Boston Consulting Group (BCG), The Network, & The Stepstone Group. (2024). Decoding global talent 2024: Key insights into global labor mobility. Retrieved from https://web-assets.bcg.com/1b/8e/71e0d6f4405f876e7ff2c3d0689b/bcg-decoding-global-talent-2024-r2.pdf
5. Bostrom, N. (2014). Superintelligence: Paths, Dangers, Strategies. Oxford University Press. (For theoretical frameworks around ASI and speculative AI futures.)
6. Brooks, A. C., & Winfrey, O. (2023). Build the Life You Want: The Art and Science of Getting Happier. Portfolio.
7. Brown, B. (2015). Daring Greatly.
8. Career Bridges. (n.d.). Failing Forward: Lessons in Resilience. Retrieved from https://career-bridges.org
9. Chicago Booth. (n.d.). The impact of effective storytelling. Retrieved from https://www.chicagobooth.edu/why-booth/stories/impact-effective-storytelling
10. Cognitive reframing. (n.d.). Wikipedia. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cognitive_reframing
11. Contomanolis, M., & Steinfeld, T. S. (2014, May 6). Thriving in the Brave New World of Career Services: 10 Essential Strategies. LinkedIn. Retrieved from https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/20140506212412-2872947-thriving-in-the-brave-new-world-of-career-services-10-essential-strategies?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_ios&utm_campaign=share_via
12. Deloitte. (2022). A blueprint for green workforce transformation. Retrieved from https://s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/iema.net/documents/A-blueprint-for-green-workforce-transformation-April-2022.pdf
13. Deloitte. Global Millennial Survey (2020)
14. Dey, F., & Cruzvergara, C. Y. (n.d.). Five Future Directions for University Career Services. LinkedIn. Retrieved from https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/five-future-directions-university-career-services-farouk-dey/
15. Edume. (2024). Workplace diversity statistics: The business case for inclusivity. Retrieved from https://www.edume.com/blog/workplace-diversity-statistics
16. Forbes Coaches Council. (2024, August 20). The power of storytelling in career advancement. Forbes. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbescoachescouncil/2024/08/20/the-power-of-storytelling-in-career-advancement/
17. Gallup. (2022). State of the Global Workplace Report. Retrieved from https://www.gallup.com/workplace
18. Gravyty. (2022). 8 Steps to Support Diversity and Inclusion in Career Services and Alumni Relations. Retrieved from https://gravyty.com/blog/8-steps-to-support-diversity-and-inclusion-in-career-services-alumni-relations/
19. Harvard Business Publishing. (2017, April 11). What makes storytelling so effective for learning?. Retrieved from https://www.harvardbusiness.org/what-makes-storytelling-so-effective-for-learning/
20. Harvard Business Review. Meaningful Work and How to Find It (2018).
21. Johns Hopkins University. (2024, December 3). The Center for Staff Life Design is Officially Open. Imagine Center Blog. Retrieved from https://imagine.jhu.edu/blog/2024/12/03/the-center-for-staff-life-design-is-officially-open/
22. Kahneman, D., & Deaton, A. (2010). High income improves evaluation of life but not emotional well-being. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Retrieved fromhttps://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1011492107
23. Killingsworth, M. A., & Kahneman, D. (2021). Experienced well-being rises with income, even above $75,000 per year. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2016976118
24. Kurt, Y. (n.d.). Fail Forward – Lessons from My Father. [YouTube video]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_n8dLI1Osho
25. LinkedIn. Workforce Purpose Report (2020)
26. Lyubomirsky, S. (2008). The How of Happiness: A New Approach to Getting the Life You Want. Penguin Books.
27. NACE. (n.d.). Recruiters and students have differing perceptions of new grads’ proficiency in competencies. National Association of Colleges and Employers. Retrieved from https://www.naceweb.org/career-readiness/competencies/recruiters-and-students-have-differing-perceptions-of-new-grads-proficiency-in-competencies
28. NACE. (n.d.). First-destination survey standards and protocols. Retrieved from https://www.naceweb.org/job-market/graduate-outcomes/first-destination/standards-and-protocols/
29. Open Universities Australia. (2018, September 12). How great storytelling can change your career. Retrieved from https://www.open.edu.au/advice/insights/how-great-storytelling-can-change-your-career
30. Palmer, P. J. (1999). Let Your Life Speak: Listening for the Voice of Vocation. Jossey-Bass.
31. Pathway2Careers Foundation. (2024, August). Understanding the impact of career storytelling in career-connected learning. Retrieved from https://p2cfoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Research-of-Career-Stories.pdf
32. Pew Research Center. (2023, May 17). Diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. Retrieved from https://www.pewresearch.org/social-trends/2023/05/17/diversity-equity-and-inclusion-in-the-workplace/
33. Sanghvi, P., & Kubu, E. (n.d.). Reimagining career services. National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE). Retrieved from https://www.naceweb.org/career-development/organizational-structure/reimagining-career-services/
34. University of California, San Diego. (n.d.). Experience on purpose. Retrieved December 28, 2024, from https://today.ucsd.edu/story/experience-on-purpose
35. United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). (2023). Greening curriculum guidance: Integrating sustainability into education systems. https://doi.org/10.54675/AOOZ1758 
36. United Nations. (2024). Sustainable development goals. Retrieved from https://sdgs.un.org/goals 
37. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2020). Employment barriers within low- and moderate-income communities. Retrieved December 25, 2024, from https://www.bls.gov/opub/mlr/2020/beyond-bls/employment-barriers-within-low-and-moderate-income-communities.htm
38. University Affairs. (2024, August 15). Why storytelling should be your next transformative skill. Retrieved from https://universityaffairs.ca/career-advice/why-storytelling-should-be-your-next-transformative-skill/
39. University of Pennsylvania Career Services. (2019, February 5). The benefits of career storytelling – Penn & beyond. Retrieved from https://ulife.vpul.upenn.edu/careerservices/blog/2019/02/05/the-benefits-of-career-storytelling/
40. Vaillant, G. E., & Waldinger, R. J. (2017). The Harvard Study of Adult Development: Lessons Learned from 80 Years of Research on Happiness and Well-Being. Harvard University Press.
41. World Economic Forum. (2024). Value Alignment in AI: Ensuring AI Reflects Human Values. (For Ethical AI considerations across all eras.)
42. Wu, J. (2023). Designing Your Career and Life Podcast. Interviewed by Hassan Akmal. UC San Diego.
43. Wrzesniewski, A. (2021). Yale Talk: Crafting Your Job as a Calling. Yale University. https://salovey.yale.edu/sites/default/files/yale_talk_episode_25_amy_wrzesniewski_transcript.pdf

About the Authors

Hassan Akmal is an American Career and Life Mastery consultant, futurist, author, professor, thought leader, philanthropist, and former professional tennis player who served as an athlete ambassador to the United States. He is best known for his Amazon best-selling book, How to Be a Career Mastermind™: Discover 7 “YOU Matter” Lenses for a Life of Purpose, Impact, and Meaningful Work.

With over 30 years in higher education and 17 years of senior leadership in career services, Akmal is a pioneer in career and life design. He was the inaugural executive director of industry relations and career strategies at Columbia University, where he founded the award-winning Career Design Lab. In 2018, he served on the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) “Future of We” Advisory Committee and as a senior advisor to Graduway (now Gravyty), a top 10 global EdTech startup. Akmal also penned the foreword for Career Revolution: A Design Thinking Approach to Career Development in a Post-Pandemic World.

As a recognized thought leader, Akmal has delivered impactful keynote addresses on transformative topics, including:

• “The Future of Career Services” at UCLA’s Global Leaders’ Summit in 2019, exploring the intersection of innovation, equity, and career readiness.
• “Transformative Career Services in the New World of Work: The Mosaic of Career and Life Design” at the Midwest ACE Conference in 2024, highlighting the role of creativity, resilience, and integration in navigating the evolving workplace.

His 2021 TEDx Talk, “The Power to Design a Life You Love,” released by Columbia University, has garnered millions of views, further popularizing his role as an innovator in Career and Life Mastery.

Before his current role, Akmal served as the inaugural executive director of the UCLA Career Center, where he led a large-scale reimagination of career services. An alumnus and former Division I athlete, Akmal’s work transformed the career landscape for the UCLA community. In 2021, he became the Executive Director of Career and Professional Development at UC San Diego, spearheading a multiyear initiative to reimagine the career center. He also serves as the lead on the steering committee for the University of California Television Career Channel, which has over a million subscribers.

Akmal’s recent publications reflect his dedication to bridging the future of work with personal growth. His 2023 book, The Interior Design of Your Career and Life™, and its children’s companion, You Are the Artist of Your Life: The Interior Design of Your Future, inspire individuals to approach life as a canvas of purpose and creativity. He is also the visionary behind Ai-ya, an AI-powered virtual Career and Life Design Lab, accelerator, and learning system, providing solutions for groundbreaking career and life design simulation and realization.

In addition to publishing globally recognized articles for NACE, including Reimagining Student Employment, and Designing the Future of Career Services, Akmal continues to serve on several prominent international boards. His passion for innovation, impact, and the art of career and life design makes him a sought-after speaker, consultant, and leader, inspiring individuals and institutions worldwide.

Yasir Kurt is a forward-thinking serial entrepreneur, a design thinking expert, a passionate advocate for international students, and a champion of transformative education with over a decade of impactful experience. Holding a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision, Yasir has contributed to institutions such as Texas A&M University-San Antonio and Purdue University. His career is marked by a steadfast commitment to empowering diverse populations—refugees, international students, and first-generation students—through life-changing career journeys.

In his current role as the Director of Life Design Graduate Programming at Johns Hopkins University (JHU), Yasir leads a team of Life Design Educators to create innovative, scalable programs tailored to the unique needs of graduate students. His initiatives are rooted in creativity, inclusivity, and equity, setting new standards in graduate education. Among his many achievements, the International Career Collective (ICC) stands out—a groundbreaking initiative that expanded to 25 institutions within a year, redefining career services for global and underrepresented populations.

As the visionary behind Fail Furious, a personal brand that encourages individuals to embrace failure as a pathway to growth, Yasir inspires action and resilience. He regularly shares his expertise in life design, mentoring, and global job search strategies at national and international conferences, and his insights have been featured in podcasts and panels.

 As a serial entrepreneur, Yasir has founded and co-founded multiple ventures across diverse industries, including EdTech and career consultation and professional services. His entrepreneurial spirit is fueled by a desire to create scalable solutions that empower individuals and communities globally.

Yasir’s intrapreneurial mindset has been instrumental in launching transformative initiatives that empower students to thrive in the global workforce. His work not only advances global employability but also reimagines the future of career development. Through his visionary leadership, entrepreneurial ventures, and advocacy, Yasir is shaping the next generation of leaders and fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and strategic growth—both at Johns Hopkins and beyond.

DISCLAIMER: Hassan Akmal is the Executive Director of Career & Professional Development at the University of California, San Diego (UC San Diego). Yasir Kurt is the Director of Life Design Graduate Programming at Johns Hopkins University (JHU). The thoughts and opinions in this article are their own and the University is not endorsing or supporting them — and related products.