Welcome to Character Builders Academy!
What makes a truly fulfilling life?
Is it reaching the top of your field, a happy family, financial freedom, or social recognition? Or is it something deeper—something that goes beyond achievements and into the heart of who we are?
I’m Alma, and these questions have shaped my journey. For over 10 years, I lived and breathed academia as a researcher and lecturer. Then I took a sharp turn into the corporate world, where I spent years equipping leaders with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in business.
But here’s the thing: while I enjoy coaching leaders and seeing them grow, I’ve come to a life-changing realization. The root cause of so much misery and suffering in the world is not a lack of ability, but a lack of character—the absence of the human excellence that makes us truly great. People can be highly intelligent, but without character, they often cause more harm than good.
The Ripple Effect of a Lack of Character
I’ve seen the devastating impact a lack of character has on individuals, families, organizations, communities, and the world at large. And I’ve felt it personally too. But here’s the hopeful part: we can fix this. We can build character and become moral exemplars. I believe this transformation is within our reach, and I’m here to share my passion for making it a reality.
True fulfillment doesn’t come from academic studies, career achievements, or checking off life’s “to-do” list. It comes from knowing your purpose, having a focused mind, living by your values, and cultivating virtues that make you not just a good person—but an excellent human being who radiates positivity and elevates everyone around them.
Why Character Building Matters to Me
My passion for character development comes from both what I’ve studied and what I’ve lived. I’ve suffered deeply in my personal and professional life because of the lack of character in others—and in myself.
There were times when I lacked the resilience to face life’s hardships, letting challenges and others' wrongdoing break me instead of teach me. But I’ve learned that by examining and reflecting on our experiences—whether joyful or painful—we can uncover lessons that help us grow wiser and more virtuous.
When we keep our stories locked away, they can remain sources of pain. But when we face them with honesty and courage, they transform into tools for empowerment and evolution. This is why I created this space—not just to share my journey, but to invite you to share yours. Together, we can build each other up, creating a community where every voice matters, and every story contributes to collective growth.
Becoming “Wrongdoer-Proof”
Sometimes, people don’t realize the lasting damage their wrongdoing can create. Their actions can leave wounds that take years to heal. That’s why it’s so important to make ourselves “wrongdoer-proof” by cultivating virtues like compassion, empathy, and resilience.
These virtues not only help us withstand adversity but also allow us to emerge more resilient and at peace with ourselves and the world. By reflecting on our experiences and learning together, we can evolve into the best versions of ourselves—and inspire others to do the same.
My Inner Calling
After completing a PhD in strategy, teaching in academia, and coaching senior leaders, I feel this unstoppable need to let the message out. My inner self has been banging on the door, shouting, “It’s time to live a life of purpose! It’s time to share this with the world!” And I couldn’t ignore it any longer.
So here I am, creating this community because I believe in the power of collective intelligence, where each person’s unique perspective becomes part of a bigger, brighter, and more enlightening whole. Within each of us lies a gift waiting to be shared—a perspective, a lesson, or a story that has the power to illuminate the path for others.
Let’s Build Together
You already have within yourself what you need to become your best version. It’s just about bringing it to life—one intentional step at a time. And I’m here to share knowledge, insights and practices to help you make that happen.
Oh, and because life’s too short to be all serious, here’s a fun fact: when I was a lecturer, I once taught an entire class with my blouse inside out and didn’t notice until the end! Lesson learned: you can spend years researching how the world works and studying life’s complexities, yet still miss the simplest things! That moment reminded me to embrace life’s little humbling lessons.
Thank you for being part of this community. Together, we’re going to learn, reflect, and evolve!
On this journey with you,
Alma
