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ICF-PCC, MHR, Founder & Principal, Essence of Coaching
Certified Dare to Lead™ Facilitator

Sonja Mustiful

Sonja Mustiful is a highly respected executive coach and leadership consultant with over 15 years of experience helping organizations and leaders excel. As Founder and Principal of Essence of Coaching, Sonja partners with clients across various industries—including business services, financial services, healthcare, technology, and non-profits—to 

deliver high-impact coaching and team-building programs. She is known for her empathetic approach and dedication to fostering inclusive and effective workplace cultures.

A certified Dare to Lead™ Facilitator, Sonja brings Brené Brown’s renowned curriculum on courage, vulnerability, and empathy to organizations, guiding leaders in building resilience and moving from armored to daring leadership. Sonja’s work is grounded in the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and her extensive experience in human resources and organizational development informs her strategic approach to leadership transformation.

Professional Background
Sonja holds a Master’s in Human Resources (MHR) and is a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) with the International Coaching Federation (ICF). With certifications in Emergenetics and Crucial Conversations facilitation, she helps teams communicate openly and develop shared understanding. She is also the author of Aim High. Ask Why., a guide to purposeful career advancement and alignment with organizational goals.
Sonja’s work as a leadership coach has benefited high-profile clients, including FedEx, Medtronic, First Data Corporation, and The Kroger Company. She is recognized for her ability to inspire action through transformational speaking engagements, where she uses storytelling and actionable insights to empower her audiences. Sonja’s expertise in coaching, change management, and culture building has positioned her as a trusted advisor to leaders across sectors.
 
Areas of Expertise
  • Executive Coaching & Leadership Development: Sonja’s approach empowers leaders to reach their full potential, focusing on self-awareness, courage-building, and emotional intelligence.
  • Team Building & DEI Integration: With over a decade of experience in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Sonja helps organizations embed these values into their core practices to create authentically inclusive environments.
  • Organizational Change & Culture Transformation: Sonja guides organizations through culture shifts that promote openness, trust, and resilience, enabling sustainable performance and employee satisfaction.
  • Workshops & Facilitation: Sonja regularly conducts leadership workshops, including Dare to Lead™, Emergenetics, and Crucial Conversations, equipping teams with practical tools to enhance collaboration and effectiveness.
Publications
Sonja’s book, Aim High. Ask Why., is a roadmap for professionals seeking purposeful career progression, offering insights into goal alignment, identifying personal strengths, and building collaborative partnerships. Her writings provide a blueprint for anyone looking to rise to their potential with clarity and confidence.
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