Amy DeTavis, CEO and CO-Founder, Dream Local

Experiencing the healing power of nature amidst the greeneries of Plänterwald or soaking in the creative spirit of the Autumn hues at Treptower Park, you may be transported to the world where you sense the profound interconnectedness that binds us to our roots, heals us from within and soothes our soul for a more fulfilling and enriching life ahead. 

In 2021, enthralled with this idea of integrating nature’s world with urban living, Amy DeTavis, the CEO and Co-Founder of Dream Local, begins the journey to create a revolutionary online marketplace dedicated to reconnecting city dwellers with the natural world. 

An advocate for a harmonious blend of technology and nature, Amy’s journey stands as a testament to resilience, empathy, and the transformative power of genuine connections.

The Genesis of Dream Local

Growing up among the rugged mountains of New Mexico, Amy’s journey was greatly shaped by the untamed beauty of nature. However, the call of urban life eventually led her from New Mexico to New York and finally to Berlin. It was in these transitions that Amy keenly felt the absence of nature in the urban sprawl and recognized the growing desire for a reconnection with nature. This sparked within her the desire to create something that transcends the conventional tales of corporate prowess, and she weaved a narrative that intertwined the essence of nature with the intricacies of modern connectivity. Dream Local, as Amy envisioned, would be the conduit, the bridge that guides people to discover, appreciate, and immerse themselves in the natural wonders around them.

Connecting People, Connecting Businesses: The Core of Dream Local

Dream Local isn’t just an online marketplace; it’s a catalyst for change. Amy’s brainchild seeks to make nature more accessible, by offering workshops, classes, events, and tourism activities. The benefits extend beyond mere convenience; it’s about fostering a happier and healthier urban population that is not just connected to nature but actively cares for it.

For Dream Local’s customers, the experience is not confined to a checklist of attractions. Amy emphasizes the importance of going deeper, delving into the stories behind the experiences. The result? A profound appreciation for the slice of nature encountered and a closer connection to the community at large.

The Journey of a Woman Entrepreneur

Amy’s path as a woman entrepreneur has been marked by challenges and triumphs. In male-dominated industries, she discovered the power of embracing her unique perspectives. Her ability to empathize, show vulnerability, and lead with compassion set her apart. These qualities, often categorized as ‘feminine’, became universal strengths that shaped a more inclusive and supportive business culture.

Empathy being the cornerstone of her exquisite leadership style, Amy understood the needs of both customers and her team. Embracing vulnerability in leadership fostered open communication and a shared sense of purpose. Amy’s experiences highlight that the qualities traditionally associated with women are the potent tools for effective leadership, in any setting.

Lessons from the Sales Floor: The Power of Authentic Relationships

A pivotal moment in Amy’s career harks back to her teenage years as a sales associate at Gap. Her success wasn’t just about transactions; it was rooted in the power of building authentic relationships. Connecting with customers on a genuine level, understanding their needs, and engaging authentically was the key to her consistently high sales. “The power of authentic relationships is crucial. Whether it’s with colleagues, clients, customers, or employees, building trust and genuine connections is vital,” Amy reflects.

This became the bedrock of Amy’s business philosophy. For her, business is not just about transactions; it’s about creating meaningful interactions across all levels and this approach defines how she navigates professional relationships and business decisions.

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Amy’s entrepreneurial vision for Dream Local is nothing short of revolutionary. Beyond commercial success, she aspires to harness digital platforms to bring the beauty of the natural world into more lives. The long-term goal is to create a global hub for nature exploration and education, inspiring a community of people with shared values.

In the coming years, Amy envisions Dream Local as the driving force for change in the industry. The impact won’t just be measured in financial terms but in the transformation of people’s relationship with nature. Amy hopes to spark a movement, where connecting through Dream Local translates into real-world action in conservation and sustainability.

The Magic of Storytelling

As Amy reflects on her journey, she highlights the incredible power of storytelling. For her, it’s not just about conveying facts; it’s about connecting dreams, struggles, and triumphs with others. Storytelling, for Amy, is the bridge between vision and people, making the business relatable, memorable, and, above all, human.

In a corporate world often driven by data and metrics, Amy emphasizes the importance of a shared journey. It’s not just about selling a product or service; it’s about inviting others into a world where they can see themselves. This approach, the magic of storytelling, has not only built the Dream Local brand but has also created a community around it.

Closing Thoughts

In the bustling metropolis of Berlin, the story of Amy DeTavis stands as a beacon of inspiration for entrepreneurs and nature enthusiasts alike. As a woman entrepreneur, Amy epitomizes the power of empathy and compassion in leadership. Her long-term vision for Dream Local goes beyond commercial success, aiming to inspire a global movement for conservation of nature. 

In the corporate world, where authenticity and genuine connections are often overlooked, Amy DeTavis emerges as a leader who not only revolutionizes the way people connect with nature but also redefines the essence of successful entrepreneurship. As the cover story unfolds, we invite entrepreneurs to draw inspiration from Amy’s journey, recognizing the transformative potential of authentic connections and the magic that storytelling brings to the heart of business. 

The closing statement of Amy DeTavis encapsulates her vision of leadership, where she highlights the significance of storytelling, changing our views and vision. “Storytelling is the bridge between our vision and the people we serve. It’s what makes our business relatable, memorable, and, most importantly, human”, affirms the entrepreneur. And in that human touch lies the true magic of the Dream Local revolution.