From an early life shaped by cultural complexity to leading a global platform for inclusive leadership, Leila McKenzie is a changemaker in every sense. As founder of Dial Global, she is redefining what it means to lead with integrity, resilience, and heart. In this candid conversation, Leila reflects on her upbringing, her entrepreneurial journey, and how identity, adversity, and purpose continue to shape her life and work.
Kaniz: Tell us a little about your background.
Leila:: I was born in Hong Kong in 1986 and adopted at ten months old by my incredible white British parents. My younger brother Michael was also adopted, completing our loving family. My mum was a radiographer who moved to Hong Kong for work, and my dad followed her out of love. They ended up staying nearly two decades and returned home with two Chinese children—something they hadn’t anticipated but wouldn’t trade for the world.
We moved back to the UK when I was six. It was a big transition, especially landing in Yorkshire after the
vibrant life of Hong Kong. It was the first time I truly felt different—one of very few children of color in my school. I remember wishing I looked like everyone else. It took time to appreciate my cultural identity, but that journey helped shape who I am today.
At school, I was shy and academically focused. I was diagnosed with dyslexia during my final year of university but still graduated with first-class honors and the highest mark in my year. That moment meant everything to me and my parents.
Kaniz: What inspired your entrepreneurial path?
Leila:: I fell into entrepreneurship after being unsuccessful in several corporate job interviews. I tried everything— running tea rooms, recruitment businesses, and eventually an executive search firm. That’s what led me to create Dial Global, which stands for Diverse, Inclusive, Aspirational Leaders. I wanted to build something that created meaningful change for people from all backgrounds.
Kaniz: What are your greatest strengths and weaknesses as an entrepreneur?
Leila:: My resilience and integrity. I’ve failed many times, but each failure taught me something valuable. I always try to turn setbacks into opportunities. That said, being heart-led can sometimes cloud difficult decisions. It’s a balancing act, but I wouldn’t change it.
Kaniz: What has been your most difficult experience?
Leila:: Losing my father. Nothing prepares you for the grief. It gave me perspective— reminding me how short and precious life really is. The roles we play in our families matter more than anything else.
Kaniz: How do you look after your physical and emotional well-being?
Leila:: It’s not easy, but I try to stick to
the basics—exercise, healthy food, good sleep. I also see a therapist weekly. Mental health should be treated with the same importance as physical health. It’s how I stay grounded.
Kaniz: How do you balance family and work?
Leila:: With difficulty and a lot of prioritization. You can’t do it all. I’m lucky to have a supportive partner and my mum nearby. We’re a team—at home and at work. And right now, I’m 28 weeks pregnant with baby number two, so I’ll be learning to juggle even more very soon!
Kaniz: If you weren’t an entrepreneur, what would you be?
Leila: Something involving animals—a vet, zoologist, or conservationist. I adore animals. We have three dogs—Maude, Blanche, and Daphne—and they bring so much joy.
Kaniz: What’s your advice to aspiring entrepreneurs?
Leila: The harder you work, the luckier you get. Back yourself. Be open to learning and say yes to new opportunities. That’s how you build experience, grow confidence, and move forward.
Kaniz: Your top three beauty products? Leila:
• Charlotte Tilbury Wonderglow Primer – It gives a radiant, dewy finish
and works beautifully under makeup.
• Bare Minerals Eyeshadow Palettes – I love the brown tones for a soft, smoky look.
• Korean Collagen Face Masks – Perfect after a long day to refresh and de-puff.
Kaniz: What do you love doing in your spare time?
Leila: Spending time with my family, especially my son Peter, who brings so much laughter
into my life. I love cooking and entertaining. Food is at the heart of how we come together.
Kaniz: If you could disappear to any country, where would it be? Leila: India. I travelled solo there once and fell in love with its richness and depth. Fatehpur Sikri left a lasting impression on me.
I’d love to return with my family and experience even more of its beauty. My brother’s wife is from Kerala, so I’m hopeful we’ll make it happen soon.
Kaniz: What’s your advice to mothers returning to work after a break?
Leila: Take your time. Those early months and years are sacred. Enjoy the moments—they go by fast. Work will always be there.
Kaniz: Your favorite moments of motherhood?
Leila: So many. Holding Peter for the first time in the hospital was indescribable. Hearing his giggle. Feeling the unspoken bond we share. There’s nothing like the love between a parent and child.
Kaniz: And what’s your life motto?
Leila: Professionally: “The harder you work, the luckier you get.” But personally, the words that have always stuck with me are from my late father:
“As long as you try your very best, darling, that’s all that matters.”
CEO : Zahra Saifullah
Managing Editor: Nashmia Amir Butt
Creative Director: Kaniz Ali
Photography: Danny Singh
Hair & Make Up: Kaniz Ali
Assisted by Iman Chana
Location: Kanisha Mayfair, UK
Interview: Kaniz Ali
Editorial Associate: Sibgha Batool
