Leila Haugas

Leila Haugas is transforming the way businesses expand internationally by bridging cultural gaps and simplifying cross-border commerce. Born in Estonia, she is the co-founder of EYBA (Expand Your Business Abroad) and has dedicated her career to helping companies navigate global expansion with confidence. Her expertise in export strategy, business mentoring, and market validation has made her a key figure in the international business landscape.

Her passion for cross-cultural connections took root early in life. As a teenager, she attended international art camps in Finland, where she first experienced the impact of diverse perspectives. With a multicultural background that spans Iran, Turkey, Ukraine, and Latvia, she has gained deep insights into global markets and human connections, shaping her approach to business expansion.

Leila’s personal journey is just as inspiring as her professional one. In search of her biological father, she uncovered additional siblings in Turkmenistan. This profound experience not only gave her a sense of belonging but also reinforced her belief in the importance of global connections and cultural understanding.

Through EYBA, Leila has introduced a structured, data-driven approach to export strategy, empowering export managers to make informed decisions when entering international markets. She firmly believes that cross-cultural business is a continuous learning process and that those who stop learning risk losing their competitive edge.

For Leila, market validation and shaping international strategies go beyond business growth—they are essential pillars of sustainable success. She emphasizes that thriving in global markets requires strategies rooted in sustainability, effectiveness, cultural respect, and simplicity. The tools and methodologies within EYBA’s export program are designed to help businesses make decisions that are not only profitable but also responsible and future-proof.

As a dedicated mentor, she has guided numerous companies in international trade, branding, and sales, sharing her expertise across Europe, Asia, North America, and the Middle East. She has participated in over 50 international trade shows and conducted more than 30 webinars, expanding her reach to global audiences.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Leila embraces creativity and innovation in all aspects of life. She is a hobby coach who has developed unique aqua aerobics styles, including Aqua Bollywood and Aqua Latina, reflecting her ability to blend diverse cultures in both fitness and business.

Currently pursuing a PhD at Estonian Business School, she continues to deepen her research in export strategies and market validation tools. Her mission remains clear: to be a guiding force for companies looking to expand globally, equipping them with the clarity, strategy, and cultural intelligence needed to succeed while upholding sustainable values.

With an unwavering commitment to lifelong learning, Leila is continuously evolving EYBA’s strategies and tools. Her vision is to build a global network of forward-thinking entrepreneurs, making international business more strategic, connected, and future-ready.