Diana Pedroni: On Building with Purpose

DIANA PEDRONI, Ximma Boutique & Collective Showroom

Diana Pedroni is a respected humanitarian, mentor, and business advisor with more than 30 years of experience leading initiatives at the intersection of entrepreneurship, education, and social transformation.

Known for her work across Latin America and beyond, Diana has dedicated her life to empowering communities and  , nurturing emerging talent, and building bridges between the private sector and community development. Her ability to move seamlessly between boardrooms, classrooms, and government offices reflects a rare blend of empathy, strategy, and vision.

As Executive Director of the Mejora Foundation and a regional spokesperson for The Way to Happiness, she has played a central role in delivering large-scale social programs that promote human rights, drug prevention, and moral restoration—reaching over 2.2 million individuals and contributing to measurable reductions in violent crime.

In the business world, Diana is the founder of Ximma Collective, a boutique showroom and mentorship hub for creative entrepreneurs. Her work in fashion and specialty retail spans decades, where she has helped brands scale, reposition, and lead with purpose.

More than a leader, Diana is a builder—of people, platforms, and possibilities. Whether advising governments, mentoring entrepreneurs, or speaking on global stages, she is guided by one principle: true success is measured by the lives you uplift along the way Q: Diana, you’ve dedicated over three decades to social transformation across Latin America. What initially drew you to humanitarian work?

A: I was raised with a deep sense of responsibility to give back. Early in my life, I witnessed how injustice, lack of education, and violence can destroy not just individuals but entire communities. I realized that change doesn’t come from waiting—it comes from building. That realization became my fuel. Through every initiative, from human rights education to drug prevention, my goal has always been to uplift lives and create systems that allow people to thrive.

Q: You’re the Executive Director of the Mejora Foundation and a spokesperson for The Way to Happiness. What has been the most rewarding part of this work?

A: Seeing measurable results in people’s lives. With the Mejora Foundation, we’ve reached over 2.2 million people through programs that promote moral values, human rights, and non-violence. These are not abstract goals—we’ve seen real reductions in crime, increased community trust, and even policy changes. The Way to Happiness provides a moral compass for many who’ve never had one. When someone tells you, “This booklet changed my life,” it’s incredibly humbling.

Q: You’ve also made a name for yourself in business, especially in fashion and creative entrepreneurship. How did that journey begin?

A: I’ve always believed that creativity is a powerful force for change. Fashion, design, and art are more than aesthetics—they are storytelling tools. I founded Ximma Collective to be a sanctuary for emerging designers, artists, and interior decorators who want to grow with purpose. Many talented individuals have vision but lack access to guidance, retail spaces, or visibility. I wanted to change that.

Q: What sets Ximma Collective apart from other showrooms or concept stores?

A: Ximma is not just a showroom; it’s a mentorship platform. Designers who come to us don’t just rent a rack—they get business coaching, branding support, and access to a community of like-minded creatives. We are curators of talent, yes, but more importantly, we are builders of careers. And because we value authenticity, every piece in our space—from fashion to home decor—tells a story of craftsmanship, resilience, and beauty.

Q: How do you balance your work in social impact with your business ventures?

A: To me, they are deeply connected. Whether I’m working with a government agency or mentoring a young designer, the goal is the same: empowerment. I don’t see a separation between my humanitarian work and my entrepreneurial projects. In fact, business can be one of the most powerful tools for social change—when done with intention.

Q: What challenges do you see for emerging designers and creatives today?

A: Visibility and sustainability. We live in a saturated market where fast fashion and mass production dominate. Emerging designers struggle to stand out and to scale without losing their essence. That’s why mentorship is so critical. They need someone who believes in their vision but also understands how to position them strategically, ethically, and profitably.

Q: You work across multiple creative fields: fashion, interior design, art. What connects them for you?

A: The soul of the creator. Whether it’s a handcrafted dress, a ceramic vase, or a painting, I’m always drawn to the intention behind the work. These aren’t just products—they are expressions of culture, identity, and imagination. At Ximma, we bring those expressions to the public in a curated, elevated way. My job is to help the creator’s voice shine through while guiding them to grow as entrepreneurs.

Q: What advice would you give to women who want to enter the world of fashion or start a creative business?

A: Start with purpose. Know why you’re doing it and who you want to serve. Then surround yourself with people who challenge you to be better—not just in your craft but in your thinking. Don’t be afraid to invest in yourself: learn, test, pivot, and above all, lead with values. In this world, authenticity is your greatest currency.

Q: What’s next for you and Ximma Collective?

A: We’re expanding our mentorship programs and looking to launch a digital platform to reach talent beyond the physical showroom. I’m also working on a series of masterclasses for creative entrepreneurs focused on brand building, emotional marketing, and conscious leadership. And of course, our foundation work continues—because real change happens when we connect the dots between creativity, business, and community.

Q: Last question, Diana—what drives you every day?

A: The belief that success is not about what you accumulate, but about who you uplift. If I can help someone take the next step in their journey—whether it’s out of poverty, into purpose, or onto a global stage—that’s a day well spent.