Chedva Kleinhandler is the Founder and CEO of Emerj.
After previously starting one of Israel’s first lifestyle blogs, “Rooms and Words,” leading her own marketing agency working with publications and brands across the world – Chedva decided to take the leap into the technology world with one clear goal – start a company that makes work better.
That’s how Emerj was born.
In her spare time, Chedva reads fantasy books with her 10-year-old son, cooks and drinks way too much coffee (americano – no milk, no sugar.)
What are you working on these days?
As the CEO of Emerj, I spend my days working on fundraising, sales, and collaborations with our corporate clients.
I’m currently working on our exciting product roadmap with our team and drinking way too much coffee.
What was your first position In the Startup-Nation?
I jumped right into the deep end, founding Emerj (then called Lean On) as my first move after a career in marketing in the Lifestyle industry.
What was your first job ever?
Cashier + security guard at our family business (selling Etrogim for Sukkot)
What life event or moment affected your life the most?
When I was 7 years old, I started losing my hair.
It progressed rapidly, and by age 9 I was wearing a wig – because I was completely bald.
Having Alopecia Universalis taught me a lot. Growing up “different,” I learned to not take anything for granted.
I watched the social scene from the sidelines for a few years, and while it wasn’t fun, it was illuminating.
I learned the most interesting people aren’t always at the center.
I learned everyone has pain – and everyone has value. And when
I met my first mentor – my high school teacher Mrs. Whitman, may she rest in peace.
I learned you could create your interests, skills, and opportunities.
I also learned from my parents that it’s all in the narrative – you can look at almost anything as a disaster, or as an opportunity.
Story Tell your way to a happier, more fulfilled life.
Today I’m grateful to God for the opportunity to have learned that at a very young age.
I feel it has become a crucial part of my character and eventually led me to start Emerj.
At Emerj, we harness the experience, knowledge, and goodwill of co-workers to advise and mentor each other.
Leaving no one on the sidelines and benefitting mutually, making the workplace a hub for growth.
Best advice you received or would like to share?
Surround yourself with smarter people and be humble enough to hear what they’re saying.
It’s a piece of advice I got from a few different people, and it’s easily the best.
My greatest pride and joy is having mentors, advisors, and co-founders (Hannit and Daina, our CTO and Creative Director) who are all way smarter and more experienced than me. There’s no other way would be able to succeed.
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