Anna Smith is an entrepreneur, artist, and public health scientist with an extraordinary story of transition, service, and self-discovery. After dedicating 15 years to global public health—working across the U.S., Peru, and underserved communities—Anna followed her inner calling to reinvent herself as an entrepreneur. Her mission? To help ambitious individuals slow down, find clarity, and reconnect with their most authentic paths. At Humans of Fuzia, we believe stories like Anna’s are powerful reminders that success isn’t just about rushing ahead—it’s about pausing, reflecting, and honoring the journey. With over 5 million women and allies working towards empowerment, equality, and community, we proudly share Anna’s story to inspire our global audience. Because at Fuzia, we believe in He for She and She for She—uplifting each other, always.
Tell us a little about yourself and your journey so far.
I like to say I’m many things—an entrepreneur, artist, public health scientist, and someone deeply enthusiastic about technology and AI. My path has been multifaceted. I spent 15 years in public health, focusing on HIV prevention, women’s health, high-risk pregnancies, and community healthcare, working in both the U.S. and Peru. But over time, I realized I needed to explore beyond the traditional path, leading me to start my entrepreneurial journey.
What inspired you to take the leap into entrepreneurship?
After working for years in public health, especially with marginalized communities in Peru, I recognized how deeply I value human connection and service. But I also knew I wanted to integrate those values into my own venture—to blend business with real impact. So, I experimented with different ideas, from collaborating with artisans to community projects in the Amazon. But clarity didn’t come instantly—it took pausing, reflecting, and realizing that one of my greatest strengths has always been helping others find clarity. That became my calling.
Can you share some challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Absolutely. One of the biggest challenges for me—and many entrepreneurs—is believing we have to do everything alone. That we should know all the answers, have the perfect plan, and solve every problem solo. It took me time to understand the power of community and the importance of asking for help. No one can—or should—navigate this journey alone.
What does your current venture focus on?
My work now revolves around clarity. I help driven individuals slow down, reflect, and uncover their natural strengths—the parts of themselves that aren’t “work,” but who they truly are. It’s hard for ambitious people to pause, but I believe that slowing down is often the most courageous and productive thing we can do. I guide others through that process, drawing from my own experience of finding clarity after years of feeling lost in possibilities.
As a woman leader, what are your thoughts on women’s leadership?
Women have been leading since the beginning of time—it’s just not always been recognized. I believe the real work is not about creating women leaders; it’s about acknowledging the leadership that’s already happening—in families, communities, businesses—and ensuring it’s valued and visible. Motherhood, caregiving, community building—all these are forms of leadership that keep the world functioning.
What advice would you give to aspiring women entrepreneurs?
Don’t do it alone. Find people around you—mentors, peers, communities—who can walk the journey with you. The truth is, so many have been down similar roads, and their insights can make your path easier. Lean on others, ask for help, and stay connected.
“I believe the most courageous thing an entrepreneur can do is slow down. Clarity doesn’t come from rushing—it comes from reconnecting with who we really are.”
Connect with Anna Smith:
You can connect with Anna on https://www.linkedin.com/in/annakohlersmith/
Want to be featured?
If you’d like to be featured in the Humans of Fuzia series, email us at fuziatalent@fuzia.com.
