Maya Kadar Kovalsky is a people strategy consultant, impact investor, and philanthropist focused on digital accessibility, the future of work, and innovative education. She is passionate about building strong company cultures and helping businesses create environments where employees thrive.

In 2016, Maya pioneered the role of Chief Culture Officer at her family’s edtech company, BrainPOP, where she emphasized employee growth, community building, and fostering an inspiring workplace. As an owner and Executive Board Member, she played a key role in shaping the company’s culture and success prior to its acquisition by KIRKBI/Lego Group.

Maya dedicated years to studying best practices and positive psychology to drive employee engagement and satisfaction. Today, she advises startups on fostering people-first cultures during periods of growth and scaling, helping leaders create workplaces where both people and businesses succeed.

Her diverse career experience—ranging from tech startups to the film and television industry and even waiting tables at a high-end NYC restaurant—exposed her to a wide variety of management styles. These experiences reinforced her belief in the importance of team dynamics in creating great workplaces.