Terry Cullen is a changemaker and the visionary force behind IAm4U.World, a global initiative nurturing ethical, purpose-driven leaders. With decades of experience in community planning and civic engagement, Terry transitioned into a mission-driven path aimed at empowering younger generations—especially women—to unlock their inner potential and become leaders who shape a more inclusive, just, and empathetic future. At Humans of Fuzia, we are proud to feature his story as a beacon of allyship and global leadership. With our community of 5 million strong, we believe in spotlighting those who embody the mission of “He for She” and “She for She,” and Terry’s story is one of transformative vision, compassion, and meaningful action.
How would you describe yourself to our readers?
I am a deeply community-minded individual. From a young age, I’ve always felt the need to be of service to others. That led me to a career as a city planner, where I worked with officials, organizations, and educators across all levels. My true purpose, however, lies in helping people unlock their full potential and engage meaningfully with society. Empowerment and connection are central to everything I do.
Tell us about your venture, IAm4U.World. How did it begin?
The vision behind IAm4U.World started around 15 years ago. After losing my job during the 2009 recession, I began searching for where I truly belonged. The recurring message I kept receiving was to connect globally and empower others. In 2021, I finally launched the organization. Initially, our mission was to grow and network changemakers around the world. Now, we’ve pivoted to focus specifically on nurturing principled leaders, especially from Gen Z—young women in particular—because we believe they are the keystone to a better future.
Why focus on young women as your primary audience?
Women make up at least half of humanity, yet in most cultures, they aren’t allowed to fully participate. That’s a loss not only for them but for society as a whole. We’re facing global stressors—climate change, food insecurity, migration—and we need a new kind of leadership. Women must rise up and lead us into a more balanced and hopeful future. Our programs are designed to help them do just that.
Who else do you serve through your leadership programs?
We primarily serve aspiring young leaders aged 18 to 30, focusing particularly on Africa and now also seeing interest from India. One group we’ve launched is Youth Leadership for Africa, representing 11 countries. While we initially expected our largest audience to be in the U.S., the need and motivation from African youth stood out. We go where the energy and demand naturally arise.
What makes your leadership development model unique?
We believe real leadership starts from within. Our courses focus on emotional intelligence, empathy, humility, resilience, and self-awareness. Our upcoming program—Ethical Self-Awareness and Foundational Principles of Leadership—kicks off this September and runs through November. We call it “splitting the atom” within you. Once you understand yourself deeply, you unlock an immense energy that becomes your greatest leadership strength.
Where can people find and connect with you online?
LinkedIn has been the most effective platform for us, especially because we’re trying to build a professional, impact-driven network. We also use Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and our website. But LinkedIn and our site remain the strongest hubs for engagement and outreach.
What’s one major challenge you face in your work?
Finding and connecting with young people who are genuinely motivated to become ethical leaders. Gen Z is unique—they are driven by fairness, equity, and social justice. If they don’t find those values in the workplace, they’re quick to move on or create their own spaces. That mindset is refreshing and gives me hope that positive change is possible.
What’s your vision for the rest of 2025?
Our biggest milestone is the launch of our apprentice-level leadership course this September. It will be the first of 10 levels, laying the groundwork for a full-fledged program that emphasizes ethical leadership from the inside out. It’s about self-discovery, not just skill-building.
What message would you like to share with women professionals, entrepreneurs, and especially mompreneurs?
Please, never discount who you are. You have the power, the capacity, and the right to shape your own path. Fear often governs our choices, but don’t let it hold you back. Lead from your heart—not from fear—and trust that love, support, and opportunity are out there waiting for you. Connect, discover, change, and grow.
“Leadership starts when we understand ourselves and choose to lead with love over fear. That’s when transformation begins—not just in us, but in the world.”
Connect with Terry Cullen:
You can connect with Terry on LinkedIn or visit im4u.world.
Want to be featured?
If you’d like to be featured in the Humans of Fuzia series, email us at fuziatalent@fuzia.com.
