Luuminate Group

Not Too Big to Fail

A major US retail company filed for bankruptcy in 2018, unable to adapt to the rapid growth of e-commerce and changing consumer preferences. Inefficient operations, poor management decisions, and insufficient investment in the company’s future played key roles in its downfall.

In 2010, a prominent video company faced financial ruin as it failed to keep pace with evolving technology and shifting consumer preferences. Despite the growing popularity of online streaming and video-on-demand services, the company clung to its traditional approach of physical rental stores, resulting in a substantial decline in its market position. The company’s resistance to adapt, coupled with fierce competition in the online realm and financial hardships, were key factors contributing to its ultimate demise.

A prominent player in the mobile phone industry declined due to its inability to adapt to the smartphone revolution and changing consumer preferences. The company struggled to match the popularity of touchscreen smartphones and the importance of a robust app ecosystem, leading to a loss of market share. Additionally, a lack of innovation, ineffective marketing, intense competition from rival manufacturers, and management missteps contributed significantly to its downfall.

Why Do Businesses Fail?

Who Is Luuminate?

Vision

To help nations across Asia achieve their economic maximum potential.

Mission

To enhance the profitability, productivity, and overall success of Asian countries through, education and training.

Values

Our values are reflected in how we conduct business and train and educate companies, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to sustainability.

About Corporate Training and Education

In any organization’s growth and development strategy, corporate training and education play a crucial role. These initiatives provide employees with valuable opportunities to enhance their skills, elevate their performance, and stay abreast of the latest trends and techniques in their respective fields.

Corporate training and education workshops encompass a broad range of topics, spanning leadership and management, sales, customer service, and human resources. These workshops can be delivered through in-person sessions, online platforms, or a combination of both, tailored to meet the specific needs of the organization and its employees.

By participating in these workshops, employees acquire knowledge and skills that contribute to their excellence in their roles, driving productivity and enabling them to achieve their career aspirations. Moreover, these initiatives foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement within the organization, leading to heightened innovation and overall success.

Simultaneously, organizations reap numerous benefits from these workshops. They cultivate a skilled and motivated workforce, improve employee retention rates, and ultimately drive greater business success. Regardless of whether an organization is small or large, investing in corporate training workshops is a wise and effective strategy to maintain competitiveness in today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving business landscape.

The Luuminate Team

Luuminate enables the East to experience the best of the West through our team of corporate facilitators based in North America. At the heart of our team lies a group of dedicated facilitators, driven by their passion for education and training. They are fully invested in empowering our clients to reach new heights of success. With their extensive knowledge, expertise, and real-world experience, they enrich our workshops and generously share their wisdom. Furthermore, our facilitators are approachable, providing valuable guidance and support whenever our clients need it.

Richard (Rick) Andrew
Rick is a highly accomplished business professional with extensive experience in tier one marketing and sales organizations. He has worked his way up from the sales ranks to National Sales Manager, Director of Marketing, and Managing Director. Rick provided services to a variety of clients including Walkers Shortbread, Guylian of Belgium, Storck Canada, Kambly of Switzerland, Advertising Standards Canada, Cadbury, Mars, Paolo Lazzaroni E Figli SPA, and Frito Lay. Today, Rick is the owner of The Andrew Co., a Marketing and Sales consulting company. In addition to his consulting work, Rick has over 25 years of experience as a professor and facilitator. He has taught a wide range of courses including Marketing, Consumer Behavior, Communication/Presentation Skills, Professional Selling Skills, and Customer Service at highly-regarded schools such as Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto Film School, and Seneca Polytechnic. With his wealth of experience in both business and education, Rick is a highly sought-after expert in the field of marketing and sales. https://luuminategroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/team-img1.png https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-andrew-7169262/ Richard (Rick) Andrew
Dino DiMarco
Dino is a highly accomplished and results-driven professional with an extensive background and over 35 years of experience in the financial services industry. He has gained comprehensive expertise in all aspects of the Canadian financial services industry, ranging from branch management, operations, client account management, customer service, staff coordination, to product sales. Currently serving as a Branch Manager at the Royal Bank of Canada, Dino manages a substantial book of business, leading and motivating a large and diversified team to consistently achieve top results. Moreover, Dino has successfully led several critical business transformations, including process improvements, system implementations, and change management initiatives. Dino is also a well-established expert in the instructional and academic field, having taught finance, marketing, negotiation, leadership, sales, and business communication at various educational institutions and nonprofits. As a sought-after coach, facilitator, and consultant in the financial industry, Dino delivers a full range of services to help businesses and professionals achieve their goals. He has a wealth of experience teaching Leadership and Management courses for over a decade. Dino holds a bachelor's degree in Banking and Financial Services from York University, and he is a Certified Financial Planner and a member of the Institute of Canadian Bankers. His extensive experience and credentials make him an excellent resource for anyone seeking to excel in the financial services industry. https://luuminategroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/team-img2.png https://www.linkedin.com/in/dino-dimarco-a-i-c-b-cfp-pfp-csi-4795b326/ Dino DiMarco
Romm Gurel
With over 15 years of experience in informal education, consulting, and leadership development, Romm is a skilled Human Resources Management professional who specializes in Project Management. He is a Certified Group Facilitator with more than 12 years of experience in experiential learning, team building, and leadership development. Throughout his career, Romm has worked with renowned consulting companies such as Tracks International and In-Courage Consulting Inc. on a wide range of projects related to strategic planning, team effectiveness, and organizational change across various sectors including private, public, and NGO. Romm has collaborated with cross-functional teams and top management in industries such as tourism, education, food, engineering, and pharmaceuticals. His primary focus in consulting is on improving performance, breaking down barriers in organizational communication, and fostering leadership development. Not only does Romm excel in his professional work, but he is also committed to giving back to his community and the professional world. He has served as a board member of the Human Resources Professional Association in York Region, Ontario, and has co-chaired the JFLT, a community-based micro-financing not-for-profit organization. Romm holds a bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem, Israel, and a master’s in Business Administration (with honours) from the Schulich School of Business, York University, where he specialized in Strategic Management and Organizational Behaviour. Additionally, Romm is a graduate of the Zippori Adult Education and Group Facilitation Program, the Bronfman Centre for Social and Cultural Encounters, and Haifa University’s School of Tourism. https://luuminategroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/team-img3.png https://www.linkedin.com/in/rommgurel/ Romm Gurel
Mark Hanson-Kahn
Mark is a highly accomplished individual with a diverse professional background. He currently serves as a pastor for a church in Silicon Valley, California, where he shares his passion for helping people achieve their spiritual goals. Prior to his current role, Mark had a successful career in sales and held sales management positions for well-known companies such as Nespresso, Trader Joes, and United Biscuits PLC. Mark's experience also includes serving as a corporate facilitator for training companies in the United States, Britain, and Southeast Asia (based in Singapore). He has also held leadership positions at the South Glamorgan Health Authority in Wales, UK, where he honed his skills in managing people and processes. Mark's academic achievements are equally impressive, having received his PhD (summa cum laude) in Education from Trinity International University. He was also listed in Who's Who in 2008 & 1990 with American Universities and Colleges, which is a testament to his expertise and contributions to the academic community. With his extensive experience in sales, leadership, training, and education, Mark brings a wealth of knowledge and skills to his current role as a pastor. He is a well-rounded individual who is highly respected by those who have worked with him. https://luuminategroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/team-img4.png https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-hk-phd-25245ba8/ Mark Hanson-Kahn
Dan McGarry
Dan is a seasoned human resources professional with over three decades of experience in various industries. In the past 20 years, Dan has led the human resources and management systems functions for a multi-site manufacturing organization. Prior to that, he co-founded a consulting and staffing organization with a diverse range of prominent clients, including corporations and government agencies. Dan has also worked with the Government of Ontario in the Ministry of Labour. Dan's passion for education began over 20 years ago when he served as an external faculty member of the Global Labour Research Centre. He was the primary co-author of their Know Your Rights booklets that focused on employment legislation and human rights. Dan still serves as a member of this organization today. Dan has also instructed and developed courses for numerous public Canadian colleges and universities, including Canadore, Conestoga, Seneca, St. Lawrence, Nipissing, and York. He has contributed to multiple textbooks used in the study of human resources management and has been a speaker at four national conferences hosted by the Human Resources Professionals Association (Ontario). Dan earned his Honours Bachelor of Arts from York University, a Bachelor of Education in Adult Education from Brock University, and a Master of Human Resources Management from York University. He also holds a Graduate Certificate in Human Resources Management from Seneca Polytechnic. Professionally, Dan holds several certifications, including the Certified Human Resources Leader (CHRL) and Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) from the Human Resources Professional Association (HRPA). He has also been awarded the Certified Personnel Consultant (CPC), Registered Assessment Specialist (RAS), Canadian Management Professional (CMC), and Professional in Materials Management (P.MM). https://luuminategroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/team-img5.jpeg https://www.linkedin.com/in/danmcgarrymhrmchrp/ Dan McGarry
R. Stephen Rayfield
Stephen is a highly experienced marketing strategy mentor, instructor, facilitator, speaker, and author, with a reputation for delivering dynamic and effective marketing training and presentations. He is the President and Founder of ESIL since 1990 and has worked with a range of clients including Fortune 500 companies, government ministries, family-run businesses, and not-for-profit organizations. Stephen has over 40 years of experience as a professor, currently teaching at the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies, Seneca Polytechnic, Durham College, and as a guest lecturer at various other colleges and universities. He has also been a facilitator for over 23 years with the American Management Association in Canada, the United States, and Europe, leading marketing seminars that he developed. With 39-plus years of product management experience, Stephen has worked with large multi-national companies such as General Mills Canada, Ralston Purina Canada, and Hiram Walker, managing accounts for brands such as Nature Valley Granola bars, Cherries Cereal, Dog Chow dog food, Canadian Club whiskey, and Astronics DME LLC LED Safety flashlight for aviation. Stephen's marketing work with Evergreen Hospice helped grow it from a small two-room site to a large 10-room facility and a center for family support for those dealing with life-threatening illness and grief in the community. As a professional speaker, Stephen has been a member of the Canadian Association of Professional Speakers since 1995, serving as a Director on their Board as the Marketing Chair for several years. His research study developed persona that effectively changed their marketing direction, increasing membership, event attendance, and income. Stephen is also the author of "Accelerate Marketing Growth!“ and believes passionately in the enormous power of marketing planning and strategy to increase revenues, volumes, and profits. https://luuminategroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/team-img6.png https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-rayfield-1133921/ R. Stephen Rayfield
Daphne Shih
Daphne serves as an adjunct lecturer at Ming Chuan University International College in Taipei, Taiwan, within the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication. She holds a bachelor's degree in Telecommunication, specializing in Radio and Television Broadcasting, and a master's degree in Media Communication from Webster University in St. Louis, Missouri. Her areas of expertise encompass PR, Marketing, Social Media Management, and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance). With a wealth of professional experience spanning Canada, the United States, and the APEC region, Daphne has worked with notable organizations such as the Ontario Government, City of Markham, Canadian Liver Foundation, Canadian Aboriginal and Minority Supplier Council, Questrade Inc., Canadian Baptist Ministry, St. Louis Chinese American Newspaper, Ming Pao Daily News, TVB HK, Unique TV Network (UTV), OMNI Television Production Co., and Taiwan Television Enterprise, Ltd. (TTV). https://luuminategroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/team-img7.png https://www.linkedin.com/in/daphneshih/ Daphne Shih
David Tsai
David holds the position of assistant professor within the Department of International Business and Trade at Ming Chuan University International College in Taipei, Taiwan. He completed his bachelor's degrees in political science and environmental studies at York University in Toronto, Ontario, and obtained a master's degree in Human Resources Management from Webster University in St. Louis, Missouri. He furthered his education by earning a Doctoral degree in Business Administration from the University of Liverpool in the United Kingdom. David's areas of expertise encompass franchising, entrepreneurship, sustainability, Human Resources Management/Development, and leadership development. Prior to joining academia, David amassed over 20 years of professional experience as a management practitioner in Canada and the United States. He has worked with notable organizations such as the Kumon Institute of Education, Bell Canada Inc., and the Toronto Catholic District School Board. https://luuminategroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/team-img8.png https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdavidtsai/ David Tsai
John C. Wong
John has accumulated over 9 years of experience in the higher education field. In his tenure as Academic Program Manager (Business Studies) at Seneca Polytechnic, one of Canada’s largest post secondary institutions, John managed over 80 Business programs and a team of business professors. He was also a professor in the Bachelor of Accounting and Finance Degree Program. John is a professional speaker in Leadership and Management, and Ethics and Corporate Social Responsibility. Prior to entering the education industry, John worked for more than 20 years in the banking sector. He held positions at the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC) as Associate Vice-President, Real Estate Finance Division, and Director of Retail and Corporate Treasury. Prior to his tenure at CIBC, John worked at the Bank of Montreal (BMO) in the Corporate Treasury Division. CIBC and BMO are members of the “Big Five” Canadian banks. John is very committed to social justice causes. He has volunteered with non-profit organizations for almost 20 years, advising organizations that focus on empowering women, equipping people suffering from mental illness and drug addictions, mentoring young adults, and alleviating poverty. John attained his Bachelor of Commerce (B. Com) degree at the University of Toronto, his Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree at Dalhousie University, and his Fellow of the Canadian Securities Institute (FCSI) Designation from the Canadian Securities Institute. John is a member of the Academy of Fellows (Canadian Securities Institute) and the Institute of Canadian Bankers. https://luuminategroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/team-img9.png https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-c-wong-mba-fcsi-19b2832/ John C. Wong
John C. Wong

John C. Wong

Global Organizations

Our facilitators have successfully trained numerous well-known global organizations, some of which are listed below:

About The Training

We offer a variety of workshop topics that are designed to meet the needs public and private sector organizations.