Category: EIN Presswire

Combining SCCG’s Global Expertise and 130+ Client-Partners with +55’s Local Regulatory and Market Intelligence

LAS VEGAS, NV, UNITED STATES, February 18, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — SCCG Management today announced a strategic partnership with +55 Business Solutions, establishing a collaborative framework designed to support the structured growth of Brazil’s newly regulated betting and iGaming market.

As Brazil advances its federal regulatory framework for online betting and gaming, operators, suppliers, investors, and media groups are navigating one of the most significant emerging regulated markets in the world. The partnership between SCCG and +55 aligns global gaming infrastructure with Brazilian regulatory insight to help companies enter and scale within the market responsibly and strategically.

Founded by Stephen A. Crystal, SCCG Management brings more than three decades of experience advising global gaming operators, sportsbooks, iGaming platforms, payment providers, compliance companies, and technology innovators across North America, Latin America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. SCCG’s ecosystem includes over 130 client-partners spanning best-in-class solutions in payments, AML and KYC verification, geolocation, fraud prevention, CRM and loyalty systems, sports data and analytics, content aggregation, risk management, sponsorship activation, and capital markets advisory.

Through this strategic partnership, Brazilian operators and suppliers will benefit from coordinated access to global advisory expertise, international distribution channels, and proven technology relationships, combined with localized regulatory navigation and operational structuring expertise.

+55 Business Solutions, led by Founder and CEO Bellity Cruz, is based in Salvador, Bahia, and specializes in Revenue Operations (RevOps), international trade strategy, governance structuring, and digital transformation. With academic foundations in Social Communication and postgraduate specialization in Foreign Trade and International Marketing, complemented by an MBA in Business Management and in Financial Administration, Digital Innovation, and Fintechs, Cruz has built +55 around the principle of transforming ambitious expansion strategies into structured, compliant, and measurable growth systems.

The partnership is structured to collectively provide services including regulatory navigation and licensing strategy guidance, operational governance frameworks, revenue structuring, vendor acceleration, business development facilitation, capital advisory, intellectual property evaluation, bjand long-term strategic positioning within Brazil’s regulated environment.

Rather than approaching Brazil as a short-term opportunity, SCCG and +55 are focused on building disciplined foundations for sustainable growth. The collaboration emphasizes governance before scale, predictability before aggressive expansion, and structured compliance aligned with Brazil’s evolving national oversight.

“Brazil represents one of the most important emerging regulated gaming markets globally,” said Stephen A. Crystal, Founder and CEO of SCCG Management. “By combining SCCG’s global expertise and our 130+ client-partner ecosystem with +55’s deep understanding of Brazil’s regulatory and commercial landscape, we are creating a powerful alignment between international best practices and local market intelligence. Our goal is to support responsible expansion and long-term value creation in Brazil.”

“Too many international operators confuse market entry with market presence in Brazil launching localized content while lacking the regulatory infrastructure, cultural intelligence, and operational discipline required to compete sustainably,” said Bellity, Founder of +55 Business Solutions. “By partnering with SCCG Management, we’re combining their 130+ client-partner ecosystem and global regulatory expertise with +55’s on-the-ground intelligence and institutional relationships to deliver what the market actually demands: compliance architecture, process maturity, and strategic positioning before commercial acceleration. Our goal is to ensure operators build for longevity, not just launch, because in Brazil’s evolving regulatory environment, shortcuts don’t create value, they create exposure.”

The formation of this partnership also reflects SCCG’s continued investment in emerging markets and next-generation leadership within the gaming industry. By aligning with a Brazilian-founded firm led by Bellity Cruz, SCCG reinforces its commitment to empowering rising leaders and advancing women executives who are shaping the future of regulated gaming.

As Brazil’s betting and iGaming market continues to formalize under federal regulation, companies entering the jurisdiction must balance opportunity with operational discipline and compliance rigor. The strategic partnership between SCCG and +55 is positioned to serve as a trusted bridge between global gaming infrastructure and Brazil’s dynamic regulatory landscape.

About +55 Business Solutions

+55 Business Solutions is a Brazil-based advisory firm focused on Revenue Operations, international trade expansion, governance structuring, and digital innovation. The firm specializes in aligning strategic vision with compliant, scalable execution across regulated and cross-border markets.

About SCCG Management

SCCG Management is a leading advisory firm in the global gaming industry, dedicated to driving strategic growth and maximizing revenue for over 130 client-partners across diverse iGaming verticals. With offices in North America, Latin America, Africa, Asia, Europe, and Brazil, our team of seasoned industry executives leverages global relationships to enhance product distribution and seize new market opportunities. With over 30 years of experience, we specialize in navigating the complexities of tribal gaming, capitalizing on emerging markets, fostering igaming innovations, managing intellectual property, facilitating mergers and acquisitions, and advancing sports wagering and entertainment ventures. https://sccgmanagement.com/

Stephen A. Crystal
SCCG Management
+ +1 702-427-9354
email us here
Visit us on social media:
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A new 2026 shortlist names the UK’s top female motivational speakers driving leadership, resilience and high-impact corporate events.

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM, February 18, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Demand for keynote speakers continues to shift towards measurable workplace impact rather than symbolic appearances. London Keynote Speakers Agency estimates keynote speakers brought £975m in revenue to London in 2024, and cites research showing 96% of event and conference organisers believe hiring a keynote speaker adds value.

International Women’s Day remains a major driver of speaker programming, alongside year-round leadership events focused on resilience, trust and performance. The Female Motivational Speakers Agency says its latest market research highlights the results of opinion polls conducted across 452 International Women’s Day events held between 2022 and 2025.

A newly released UK shortlist highlights 15 female motivational speakers spanning aviation, elite sport, cybersecurity, entrepreneurship, workplace culture and women’s health.
“Organisers are asking for substance. They want lived experience that turns into practical habits the next morning,” said Jack Hayes, Managing Director at London Keynote Speakers Agency.
The shortlist was compiled using client feedback, event performance data and subject-matter credibility across leadership, resilience and workplace impact.
The 2026 shortlist includes:

1. Jo Salter MBE
Jo Salter MBE is Britain’s first female fast jet pilot, flying the Panavia Tornado with RAF 617 Squadron. After the RAF she moved into business, joining PwC as a director and chief of staff within People and Organisation. Her work focuses on confidence, decision-making and leadership in high-stakes environments.
Profile Link: https://londonkeynotespeakersagency.com/speakers/jo-salter/

2. Katy Leeson
Katy Leeson co-founded Blank Space Content Studios after leading growth at Social Chain, joining in 2016 as Operations Director and becoming UK Managing Director in 2017. Working alongside Steven Bartlett, she helped scale the agency’s culture and systems. Her keynotes tackle imposter syndrome, leadership, and building teams without losing values.
Profile Link: https://www.female-motivational-speakers.com/speaker/katy-leeson

3. Harriet Beveridge
Performance coach and comedian Harriet Beveridge co-wrote Will It Make The Boat Go Faster? with Olympic champion Ben Hunt-Davis, with 100,000 copies sold. She delivers keynotes that turn elite sport lessons into workplace habits, blending performance psychology and neuroscience with practical exercises for teams under pressure in high-stakes leadership settings.
Profile Link: https://speakout.uk/speaker/harrietbeveridge/

4. Jenna Meek
Jenna Meek is CEO and co-founder of REFY, the beauty brand she launched in 2020 with influencer Jess Hunt. A guest Dragon on Dragons’ Den, her expertise includes building product-led brands, executing fast, and keeping standards tight while scaling. Her talks cover confidence, leadership, and decision-making in competitive consumer markets.
Profile Link: https://champions-speakers.co.uk/speaker-agent/jenna-meek

5. Nicky Moffat CBE
Brigadier Nicky Moffat CBE served 27 years in the Army and was its highest-ranking woman from 2009 to 2012. Her career spanned command roles, alongside strategy, policy and finance work at Army Headquarters and the Ministry of Defence. Now a leadership consultant, she speaks on accountability, standards and culture.
Profile Link: https://inspirational-leadership-speakers.com/speaker/nicky-moffat

6. Kate Muir
Kate Muir is a Scottish writer and women’s health campaigner, known for The Great Menopause Scandal. She created and produced Channel 4 documentaries including Davina McCall: Sex, Myths and the Menopause, and wrote books on menopause and the pill. Her keynotes cover workplace menopause literacy, employer action, retention and performance.
Profile Link: https://diversity-inclusion-speakers.com/speaker/kate-muir/

7. Kirsty Murphy MBE
Kirsty Murphy MBE is the first and only woman to have flown with the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows. A fast jet pilot with 17 years’ RAF service, she served as Chief of Staff at the UK Space Agency. Her keynotes cover precision, resilience and decision-making.
Profile Link: https://mentalhealthspeakers.co.uk/speaker/kirsty-murphy

8. Sarah Armstrong-Smith
Sarah Armstrong-Smith is a cyber resilience and crisis leadership speaker, formerly Microsoft’s Chief Security Advisor for EMEA from 2020 to 2025. Appointed to the Government Cyber Advisory Board in 2025, she previously led business resilience and crisis management at London Stock Exchange Group. Her keynotes focus on readiness and decision-making.
Profile Link: https://cyber-security-speakers.com/speaker/sarah-armstrong-smith

9. Gail Emms MBE
Gail Emms MBE is a former England badminton international and an Olympic silver medallist from Athens 2004, winning mixed doubles with Nathan Robertson. She later became a world champion in 2006 in Madrid. Booked for performance keynotes, she links elite preparation, teamwork and resilience to consistently sustained results under pressure.
Profile Link: https://www.female-motivational-speakers.com/speaker/gail-emms

10. Moira Cameron
Moira Cameron made history in 2007 as the first woman appointed a Yeoman Warder at the Tower of London. Before joining the Warders, she had a 22-year career in the Army, reaching Warrant Officer Class 2. Her talks centre on earning trust, breaking barriers and composure under constant scrutiny.
Profile Link: https://champions-speakers.co.uk/speaker-agent/moira-cameron

11. Juliet Barratt
Juliet Barratt co-founded performance nutrition brand Grenade in 2010, scaling it from a bedroom start-up into a global protein bar business. In 2021, Cadbury owner Mondelez acquired a majority stake in a deal reported at £200m. She speaks on commercial discipline, brand focus, and grit when growth meets real pressure.
Profile Link: https://www.female-motivational-speakers.com/speaker/juliet-barratt

12. Rebecca Welch
Rebecca Welch became the first woman to referee a Premier League match on 23 December 2023, Fulham vs Burnley. The FA appointed her to the EFL in 2021 and to an FA Cup third round tie in January 2022, both firsts. She speaks on composure, authority and tough public decisions.
Profile Link: https://www.female-motivational-speakers.com/speaker/rebecca-welch

13. Victoria Gosling
Victoria Gosling OBE served 21 years in the Royal Air Force, reaching Group Captain, and later led elite sport organisations. She was CEO of the Invictus Games Orlando 2016 and is Chair of British Surfing and CEO of GB Snowsport. She speaks on purpose-led leadership and decisive resilience under pressure.
Profile Link: https://motivationalspeakersagency.co.uk/leadership/victoria-gosling

14. Emma Tolhurst
Emma Tolhurst MCIPD is a workplace culture and employee engagement specialist. She spent almost 24 years at Accenture, becoming Global People Communications Lead, and has led employer brand and internal communications roles. She advises leaders on change communication at scale, values-led culture, and keeping teams aligned through transformation during disruption.
Profile Link: https://motivationalspeakersagency.co.uk/human-resources-hr/emma-tolhurst

15. Baroness Karren Brady CBE
Baroness Karren Brady is Vice-Chairman of West Ham United and a member of the House of Lords. She previously served as Managing Director of Birmingham City FC and is known for BBC’s The Apprentice. She speaks on leadership, resilience and high-pressure decision-making.
Profile Link: https://champions-speakers.co.uk/speaker-agent/karren-brady

Tabish Ali
Champion Speakers Agency
+44 20 3958 0428
tali@championsukplc.com
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TAMPA, FL, UNITED STATES, February 18, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — In advance of the 25th Anniversary of September 11, a powerful new tribute book, Into The Inferno, honors the courage, sacrifice, and enduring legacy of the firefighters who responded to one of the most defining moments in American history. Written by Chaplain Tom McQueen, the book serves as both a memorial and a living testament to the brotherhood, resilience, and faith that continue to define the fire service decades after that tragic day.

Into The Inferno reflects deeply on the events of September 11, 2001, not only as a historical milestone but as a human story — one marked by selflessness, unwavering duty, and the profound bonds that unite firefighters and their families. Drawing from personal experiences, conversations within the fire service community, and reflections shaped by years of ministry and leadership, McQueen presents a narrative that honors those who ran toward danger when others sought safety.

“As we approach the 25th Anniversary of 9/11, it becomes increasingly important to preserve the stories that shaped an entire generation of firefighters,” said McQueen. “This book is not only about remembering loss — it is about celebrating the courage that lives on in every firehouse, every family, and every community that continues to carry the legacy forward.”

More than a historical account, Into The Inferno explores the spiritual and emotional impact of September 11 on first responders and their loved ones. Through thoughtful reflections and heartfelt storytelling, the book highlights the unseen sacrifices made long after the smoke cleared — the struggles, healing, and enduring commitment that define the firefighter’s calling. Central to the message is the idea that the fire service is more than a profession; it is a family bound by shared purpose and compassion.

The release of Into The Inferno arrives at a significant cultural moment, as fire departments and communities across the nation prepare commemorations leading up to the anniversary year. The book is intended to serve as a resource for remembrance ceremonies, leadership discussions, and personal reflection. Readers will find themes of courage, commitment, and compassion woven throughout its pages — values that continue to inspire both veteran firefighters and the next generation entering the service.

Fire service leaders and chaplains who have previewed the book describe it as both a tribute and a source of encouragement. By blending personal insight with historical reflection, McQueen offers readers a perspective that speaks to the heart of the profession while remaining accessible to families and civilians seeking to better understand the legacy of 9/11.

“Twenty-five years later, the impact of that day is still felt in firehouses across America,” McQueen added. “My hope is that this book reminds us that even in the darkest moments, the spirit of service, courage, and faith endures.”

In addition to honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice, Into The Inferno acknowledges the strength of the families who continue to support firefighters behind the scenes. The book underscores how spouses, children, and communities form an essential part of the fire service mission, reinforcing the idea that the legacy of September 11 extends far beyond a single day in history.

Into The Inferno will be available through select distribution channels leading up to anniversary events, with plans for community discussions, fire service gatherings, and tribute presentations throughout the coming year. The project stands as a reminder that remembrance is not merely about looking back — it is about carrying forward the values forged in adversity. Currently, Into The Inferno is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble.

For firefighters, families, and readers seeking inspiration rooted in real-world courage, Into The Inferno offers a moving reflection on sacrifice, faith, and the enduring bonds that unite those who serve.

About the Author

Chaplain Tom McQueen is a hospice and fire chaplain, national speaker, and award-winning author dedicated to supporting first responders and their families. Through ministry, writing, and leadership within the Tampa Bay community, he has worked extensively through his nonprofit foundation, The Matthew25 Mission to strengthen the spiritual and emotional resilience of those who serve on the front line.

Media Contact: Evelyn Dennis
The Matthew 25 Mission – www.matthew25mission.com
Tampa Bay Area
Email: thematthew25mission@gmail.com
Phone: 727-688-5121

Evelyn Dennis
The Matthew 25 Mission, Inc.
email us here
Visit us on social media:
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Into The Inferno

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The Leading Retailer of Premium, Personally-Fitted Arch Supports Expands to Peoria – Bloomington

EAST PEORIA, IL, UNITED STATES, February 17, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — The Good Feet Store, recognized nationally as the market-leading manufacturer and retailer of premium, personally-fitted arch supports, announces the opening of their newest location in East Peoria on February 14th, 2026.

“Expanding The Good Feet Store’s national footprint with the first store in Peoria – Bloomington is a great opportunity to further our mission to improve people’s quality of life. This new store not only provides additional job opportunities for the community but also enhances our ability to help individuals live healthier, more active lives,” said Heather D’Agosta, CEO of ECM-GF Venture Group, the owner of The Good Feet Store in East Peoria. “Our Good Feet Arch Support System is specifically designed to offer comprehensive relief and support, whether alleviating pain, improving performance, or aiding in recovery. Good Feet Arch Supports ensure full alignment of your kinetic chain, from your feet to your knees, hips and back.”

Situated at 362 West Washington St, the East Peoria store is one of over 300 locations open globally and part of a strategic growth initiative that stands to open approximately 35 locations in 2026. As with all the brand’s stores, the East Peoria location offers customers a free, no-obligation personalized in-store fitting with a trained Good Feet Arch Support Specialist.

“Everything is connected,” said Pamela Mehta, MD, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and Chief Medical Officer of Modern Performance + Recovery Brands. “Oftentimes people with low back pain, knee pain, or hip pain don’t even recognize that it’s actually coming from the poor support they have in their feet.

To learn more about The Good Feet Store, visit the company’s website at https://www.goodfeet.com/

###

About The Good Feet Store
Founded in 1992, The Good Feet Store is the market-leading manufacturer and retailer of premium, personally fitted arch supports, with more than 300 retail locations in the U.S. and abroad. Engineered for comfort and pain relief in more than 400 styles, flexibilities and sizes, Good Feet Arch Supports are personally fitted to the precise needs and preferences of its customers and are backed by a Manufacturer’s Lifetime Limited Warranty. The Good Feet Store operates with an end-to-end approach to maximize performance and ensure consistent quality standards. Good Feet Arch Supports are manufactured in a state-of-the-art facility in Carlsbad, California, and supplied exclusively to its retail locations. Each Good Feet Store location is staffed with well-trained Good Feet Arch Support Specialists who provide customers with a no-obligation, free, personal fitting. To learn more about The Good Feet Store and Good Feet Arch Supports, and to see Good Feet Store reviews from actual customers, visit goodfeet.com.

About Modern Performance and Recovery Brands (MPRBrands)
Modern Performance and Recovery Brands (MPRBrands) is dedicated to improving physical well-being through personalized health solutions. With a focus on performance, recovery, and long-term wellness, MPRBrands unites a complementary ecosystem of brands including The Good Feet Store, ING Source (OS1st), Stretch*d, and Compression Health. MPRBrands serves customers globally, offering products and services that address both temporary physical challenges and ongoing health needs. We believe that health and wellness should be personal, and we are committed to delivering solutions that make a real difference in people’s lives.
For more information on MPRBrands and its portfolio of health and wellness brands, visit https://mprbrands.com/

Emily Patterson
Modern Performance + Recovery Brands
+1 619-455-9033
email us here

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Stellate ganglion block alongside cognitive processing therapy leads to faster improvement from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

COLUMBUS, OH, UNITED STATES, February 17, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ —
Key Takeaways
• Researchers found that adding a stellate ganglion block (SGB) to cognitive processing therapy (CPT) helps military members and veterans feel better and recover from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms more quickly.
• SGB works best when given before therapy, but it can also be given after CPT to help people who did not feel better with CPT alone.
• This innovative approach could help military personnel return to work faster and could be especially useful when specialized PTSD care is hard to find, like in rural areas.

Military service members and veterans frequently experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which is linked to a range of psychological challenges and adverse effects.

Cognitive-behavioral therapies like cognitive processing therapy (CPT) are the main treatments for PTSD and are most effective when given daily. However, many patients continue to have PTSD symptoms after treatment, highlighting the need for more research to improve its effectiveness.

In previous studies, stellate ganglion block (SGB), a long-acting anesthetic injection into the cervical spine thought to “reset” sympathetic arousal, has shown promise as an additional treatment by reducing PTSD symptoms.

In a first-ever randomized clinical trial, researchers at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and College of Medicine evaluated the efficacy of SGB when delivered in combination with front-line PTSD psychotherapy treatment.

“Our research shows SGB enhances CPT effectiveness when administered beforehand. Military personnel and veterans not helped by initial daily CPT experienced significant PTSD symptom reduction when SGB is given after CPT,” said senior study author Jaryd Hiser, PhD, psychologist at Ohio State’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health (https://medicine.osu.edu/departments/psychiatry-and-behavioral-health). “In addition, we found that SGB before CPT may offer a faster treatment response for some patients.”

Study findings are published in the journal Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics (https://karger.com/pps/article-abstract/doi/10.1159/000550014/941525/Effectiveness-of-Combined-Cognitive-Processing?redirectedFrom=fulltext).

The study involved 86 military personnel and veterans with PTSD, who were given SGB either before or after daily CPT. PTSD symptoms were measured using the PCL-5, a standardized tool for assessing post-traumatic stress after a traumatic event.

Hiser noted that the intervention produced quick and effective results. Over an average period of just two weeks, participants’ PCL scores fell from 50 to 20—more than double the standard improvement—and this positive effect lasted for at least one year after treatment.

PTSD is the most common mental health issue among military personnel and veterans, affecting up to 23% of this population. PTSD often results from combat trauma, but can also result from non-combat trauma, such as sexual assault, domestic violence or childhood abuse.

PTSD causes psychological issues like intrusive thoughts, avoidance, mood and cognitive shifts, and increased arousal, which can lead to problems such as work or relationship dissatisfaction, aggression, substance abuse, and suicidal thoughts. These challenges hinder deployment readiness and diminish the overall quality of life for military personnel.

Though the sample included veterans and service members, many participants had non-combat trauma. The results suggest this therapy could also benefit civilians with difficult trauma cases. While veterans were the main focus, these treatments could help others as well, Hiser said.

“The combination of SGB before daily CPT may be of particular interest to the Department of Defense for treating military personnel with PTSD,” Hiser said. “Such an approach could maximize treatment response in a brief period of time and return military personnel to mission readiness sooner. This approach could also enhance clinical efficiency by reducing symptoms quickly, which is important because specialized PTSD care is not always available, especially in rural areas.”

Funding SourcesThis work was supported in part by grants from The Navy Seal Foundation, The USAA Foundation and The Bob Woodruff Foundation and charitable contributions from Honor 365, Ride To Zero and 33 Forever. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of these organizations. The funders had no role in study design, data collection, data analysis data interpretation, or writing of the article.

Conflict of Interest Disclosures
• Jaryd Hiser, PhD, declares no conflict of interest.
• Other authors declare various conflicts of interest.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Eileen Scahill
The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center
Eileen.Scahill@osumc.edu

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The International Association of Top Professionals (IAOTP) will honor Fiona Davis at their annual awards gala at the Plaza Hotel in NYC

NEW YORK, NY, UNITED STATES, March 6, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — The International Association of Top Professionals (IAOTP), a leading global professional organization known for its prestigious annual awards gala and exclusive vetting process, recently selected Fiona Davis to receive the prestigious Trailblazer Award by the International Association of Top Professionals (IAOTP). This esteemed accolade recognizes the pinnacle of dedication and innovation in education, embodying the values of excellence, leadership, and lifelong learning.

The Trailblazer Award honors individuals or organizations who have made significant contributions to their field, paving the way for others and often breaking new ground. It’s an accolade that celebrates innovation, leadership, and the courage to challenge the status quo, setting new standards of excellence and paving the way for future generations. Fiona Davis will receive The Trailblazer Award this December at IAOTP’s 2026 Annual Awards Gala at the Plaza Hotel in New York City.
www.iaotp.com/award-gala

The President of the International Association of Top Professionals (IAOTP), Stephanie Cirami, stated, “We are honored to present Fiona Davis with this distinguished award. Her exceptional leadership in military and law enforcement education, innovative approach to instructional design, and unwavering commitment to educational excellence make her a true trailblazer and an inspiration within the field.”

Ms. Davis’s passion for teaching was ignited during her decade-long tenure as a primary school teacher for children. Her dedication to serving in the Australian Army, with a focus on education and training development, spans two decades.

Fiona’s career reflects her deep involvement in military education and leadership. She taught soldier promotion courses and instructed at the Royal Military College. Her role as an instructor at the Army Aviation Training Centre led her to meet her husband, who was serving at a nearby unit. Fiona’s leadership was further demonstrated as she led the Army’s instructional design unit. In her final years of service, she played a pivotal role in shaping Army doctrine as its editor, influencing content, assisting writers, supervising graphic artists and photographers, and managing the printing process to ensure the smooth delivery of high-quality material. Her ability to guide and support these teams exemplifies her strong organizational and communication skills, further solidifying her reputation as an influential leader in military education.

Fiona Davis achieved a significant milestone by successfully leading and managing a team of military and civilian educators during a 9-month deployment to East Timor. Their mission was to teach English to soldiers of the East Timorese Army. Fiona joined Victoria Police in 2010 after serving in the Army. She analyzes, designs, and develops training programs for police recruits, detectives, crime scene officers, and prosecutors. She has collaborated with the Police Air Wing to create a comprehensive training program for their Aircrewmen.

Fiona Davis plays a pivotal role in ensuring the continuous development and operational efficiency within the police force. Her extensive responsibilities include conducting continuous improvement audits for detectives, crime scene officers, and prosecutors, and training file audits for students. She provides expert compliance advice to internal and external stakeholders within the People Development Command and is responsible for developing educational processes and standardized document templates for the Police Academy’s courses.

One of Fiona’s key achievements came in 2020 when she was part of a small team that successfully re-accredited Victoria Police as a Registered Training Organisation. This was an incredibly challenging task, given that the accreditation process took place during the COVID-19 lockdown in Melbourne. Despite the restrictions, Fiona worked primarily from home for two years, adapting to the “COVID-normal” business environment, which involved meeting via Zoom and Microsoft Teams.

In 2022, Fiona returned to the office and enjoyed reconnecting with her colleagues. In addition to her primary duties, Fiona also took on the responsibility of managing exams for police recruits and those seeking promotion. She oversees the creation, printing, and partial marking of exams, as well as reporting the results. Fiona also plays a crucial role in assisting stakeholders with the development of short- and long-term courses, including writing lesson plans and assessments.

From July to October 2024, Fiona was temporarily promoted to manage her unit, overseeing five staff members with diverse portfolios. During this time, she provided specialist strategic advice to senior leaders, ensuring compliance with various programs while also managing the auditing of two qualifications.

In 2025, Fiona led the implementation of an electronic exam system, eliminating the need for paper-based exams. Additionally, she was a member of a small team that worked to re-register Victoria Police as a Registered Training Organisation. This means that police officers will continue to receive their nationally recognised qualification at the end of their training.

Ms. Davis maintains her connection to the Army by being an Army Reserve Officer and currently serves with the Australian Army History Unit as a Museum Manager. She has been doing this role for the past fourteen years. During the last 2 years, Fiona has participated in the redevelopment of her Army Reserve unit. The building’s interior has been reconfigured, and new displays have been created in specially designed display cabinets. The reconfigured museum was part of the Royal Australian Army Corps of Signals’ 100th anniversary celebrations, which took place throughout 2025. As part of the celebrations, the museum was re-dedicated by Her Royal Highness, Princess Anne, The Princess Royal, during her visit to Melbourne in November 2025. Fiona had the privilege of meeting Princess Anne and also of hosting her husband Vice-Admiral, Sir Timothy Laurence for the time they spent at the museum.

She also worked for the Directorate of Operations and Training Area Management, writing a training package for their Range Control Officers Course (these people manage Defence’s firing ranges across Australia).

During Melbourne’s COVID-19 lockdown in 2020, Fiona volunteered for active service in the Army and was deployed to Operation COVID ASSIST. This was where the Australian Defence Force assisted the Victorian Government during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. Fiona served as the Intelligence Officer at the task force headquarters for three and a half months. Ms. Davis told TIP Radio it was a great opportunity and an honor, but it was odd to deploy to assist your state in a crisis.

Fiona is dedicated to continuing her education. She holds a Master of Professional Studies in Instructional Design, a Master of Professional Studies in Teaching ESL, a Bachelor of Education, and a diploma in management and project management. In 2017, she completed her studies for two further diplomas: Training Design and Development and Vocational Education and Training.

Ms. Davis has been a member of professional organizations throughout her career and has been recognized globally for her hard work and accomplishments. IAOTP has honoured Fiona in the Top 50 Fearless Leaders Publication Vol 1 and 2, and for the International Educational Hero Award. Last year, Fiona was named Top Global Impact Educational Consultant of the Year 2023. In 2022, she was named IAOTP’s Most Influential Educator of the Year and was featured on the famous Nasdaq billboard in Times Square. She was inducted into the exclusive IAOTP Hall of Fame, received the Educational Consultant of the Decade Award, and was named Humanitarian of the Year. Fiona was also honoured as Top Educational Consultant of the Year and received the Empowered Woman Award. She was recognized as the Top Female Professional of the Year and was named a Lifetime Achievement Awardee. In 2018, she graced the front cover of TIP (Top Industry Professionals) Magazine and was featured in Times Square, NYC, on the famous Reuters building for her IAOTP recognitions for 2019. Fiona also presented the President of IAOTP with an Army bear at the 2019 gala, honouring her experience in the Army. In 2024, Fiona Davis was honored with two prestigious accolades: The Presidential Award in Education and recognition in the 2nd Edition of the Top 25 Global Impact Leaders. These awards reflect her outstanding contributions to education and leadership on a global scale. Fiona’s remarkable achievements earned her Most Inspirational Member of the Year and the prestigious Executive Choice Award last year. This year, she will be honored with the prestigious Trailblazer Award at IAOTP’s Annual Awards gala in December 2026, at the iconic Plaza Hotel in NYC.

Additionally, Fiona is a member of the Australian Institute of Training and Development and Returned Servicemen’s League of Australia. She received the Australian Army Active Service Medal and the Australian Army Long Service Medal. She was named Top VIP Member of Worldwide Branding in 2013 & 2014, selected as Top Female Professional for 2015, and featured in Pro-Files Magazine. She was also selected for the Worldwide Lifetime Achievement Award and featured in a chapter for the Top 101 Industry Expert publication.

Furthermore, in October 2019, Fiona represented Victoria in her age group at the Australian Women’s Masters Hockey Championship, where her team earned the silver medal. She was also the runner-up for her hockey club’s Most Valuable Player award. In 2021, Fiona received her club’s Most Valuable Player award. She has been playing and umpiring summer master’s hockey to maintain her fitness in preparation for the winter season.

Also in 2021, Fiona received a 10-year service award from Victoria Police. It is a set of 3 medals – large for ceremonial occasions, small for other occasions, and a bar for everyday wear. The ceremony was held in the chapel of the Victoria Police Academy, where Fiona works, and her husband was able to attend.

When not working, Fiona enjoys physical activity for her body and mind. She plays field and masters hockey for a Melbourne club, runs regularly, and walks their dog with her husband. Fiona has also begun playing lawn bowls with a club near where she lives. Competitions are every Saturday afternoon during summer. In the 2023-24 season, she won the club’s Novice Champion trophy.

She and her husband adopted a new dog, Billy, from a pet rescue organization in late December 2019. Billy is a black and tan kelpie. He enjoys running and playing chasings, although as he’s getting older he’s starting to slow down. When Melbourne was under quarantine due to COVID-19, Billy grew fond of his family and became an excellent house pet which he still is today. His best place is on the bed where he will spend as much time as possible!

Fiona is Secretary of her Returned Services League (RSL) Ladies Sub-branch. They have monthly lunch meetings for the members at various RSL clubrooms around Melbourne. The RSL is a veteran organisation, that provides a network for veterans and their families, offer community services, and act as a political voice for veterans’ issues.

Fiona is a talented jewelry designer passionate about beading, boasting an extensive collection of beads. She has successfully launched her online business, Red Dog Beading, specializing in seed beading and chain maille jewelry, with a growing interest in polymer clay designs. Beyond her creative pursuits, Fiona enjoys reading mystery and adventure novels, with Agatha Christie, Clive Cussler, Peter Temple, Dick Francis, and lately Jane Harper among her favorite authors. Fiona plays lawn bowls with a club near where she lives

Watch her video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U2VcmIJF2Ho&t=1s

For more information on Ms. Fiona Davis, please visit: www.iaotp.com

About IAOTP

The International Association of Top Professionals (IAOTP) is an international boutique networking organization that selects the world’s most distinguished and accomplished professionals across a wide range of industries. These elite professionals are provided opportunities to collaborate, share insights, serve as keynote speakers, and inspire others within their fields. Membership is not open to the general public. Candidates must be personally invited by the President or nominated by an esteemed honorary member following a brief interview.

IAOTP’s experts have recognized and credentialed thousands of top-tier professionals worldwide, helping them strengthen their personal brands and expand their influence. The organization prides itself on being a one-of-a-kind boutique network that handpicks only the most exceptional individuals and brings them together on a premier platform designed to foster meaningful connections and professional growth. IAOTP remains one of the most elite and highly respected professional recognition organizations in the world.

For more information on IAOTP, please visit: www.iaotp.com

Annette Natoli
IAOTP
+1 212-634-4427
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Exclusive collaboration raises awareness and funds for living donation through a bold new shoe design inspired by transplant

MOUNT LAUREL, NJ, UNITED STATES, March 6, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — The American Society of Transplantation (AST) is proud to announce a unique partnership with renowned designer John Fluevog Shoes to celebrate the life-saving impact of living kidney donation and raise awareness about the critical need for donors.

The collaboration introduces a limited-edition shoe collection inspired by Fluevog founder John Fluevog’s own kidney transplant journey. In 2025, Fluevog received a kidney transplant from a living donor. In gratitude, he designed two special shoes — The Patty and The Alan — named after his donor and her husband. The collection honors the generosity, courage, and lasting ripple effect of living donation.

Fifteen percent of all U.S. shoe sales will directly support the mission of the American Society of Transplantation, while fifteen percent of Canadian shoe sales will support the Kidney Foundation of Canada. In addition, all profits from the collection’s Kidney Pin, will be donated to the AST Living Donor Circle of Excellence and the Kidney Foundation of Canada.

“This partnership is a powerful reminder that living donation changes lives — not just for recipients, but for families, communities, and the entire transplant field,” said Brooke Iarkowski, Transplant Community Program Manager at the American Society of Transplantation and a living kidney donor. “As a living donor myself, I know how meaningful it is to see the generosity of donors recognized in such a visible and creative way. These shoes are more than a design — they’re a conversation starter that can inspire more people to learn about living donation and the incredible impact it has.”

The limited-edition designs feature three distinctive straps representing the kidney’s ureter, renal artery, and renal vein — an idea that came to Fluevog shortly after his transplant.

“These kidney shoes are my response to my thankfulness and my way of giving back,” said John Fluevog. “It’s about bringing awareness to the shortage of and need for kidney donors.”

Fluevog recalls the moment that sparked the design:

“I was inspired to make the shoes two days after my operation when a doctor came to my hospital bed and gave me a ‘doctor bad’ shoe drawing and said they thought I should make them. They pointed to three straps, one each for the Ureter, Renal Artery, and Renal Vein of the kidney. She was most insistent on the blood red colour.

Even in my weakened state, I had no trouble realizing that this was a good idea. I passed it on to the team and these shoes are what came out. The women’s style first, and then the men’s, both with three straps and in a great blood red. For a ‘non-sexy’ kidney shoe, I think they are very sexy indeed.”

In addition to the Patty and Alan shoe styles, the collection includes a Kidney Pin, a striking enamel accessory designed to complete the look while supporting transplant awareness.

The partnership also highlights AST’s Living Donor Circle of Excellence, which recognizes organizations that support employees who choose to become living donors.

This collaboration celebrates:
• The courage of living kidney donors
• The resilience of transplant recipients
• The clinicians and researchers advancing transplantation
• The AST’s mission to improve lives through transplantation

Together, the AST and John Fluevog Shoes hope the collection will spark conversations, inspire support for living donation, and highlight the life-saving power of transplantation.

About the American Society of Transplantation
The American Society of Transplantation (AST) is the largest transplant organization in North America and is recognized as the premier society for transplant professionals.

Founded in 1982, the AST currently has over 5,000 members dedicated to advancing the field of transplantation and improving patient care by promoting research, education, advocacy, organ donation, and service to the community through a lens of equity and inclusion.

The AST is ‌an organizing force that advances the field through research, workforce development, knowledge sharing, and advocacy with the aim of continuously improving patient outcomes.

About John Fluevog Shoes
Founded in 1970, John Fluevog Shoes is an independent footwear brand known worldwide for its distinctive designs, craftsmanship, and creative storytelling.

Shauna O’Brien
American Society of Transplantation
sobrien@myast.org
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