​Startups are packed with opportunities. Join us on August 31 to get inspired by professionals who've seized opportunities for career growth and development at fast-growing companies in Buffalo. Hear success stories of pivots and leaps into new industries and discover how you can kickstart your journey to success. Join us at Mastering 2023: Pivot & Grow and forge your path to greatness!

​Our Panelist

​Danielle Gaddis, Chief of Staff, WYL

​After almost a decade in the Buffalo Bills ticket office, Danielle's desire to make a difference led her from sports to the startup world. Joining WYL as an executive assistant at the end of 2022, her meticulous planning, process-driven approach and exceptional organizational skills resulted in the rapid expansion of her role. Today, she serves as WYL's Chief of Staff, exemplifying collaboration and a people-centric philosophy in her leadership style and day-to-day responsibilities.

​Kiarra Beshaw, Marketing Specialist, AMPAWorks

​Kiarra is a recent graduate of Canisius College and the Fashion Institute of Technology. She began her role in the Buffalo startup ecosystem in 2021 as a marketing intern at 43North. Today, she is a marketing specialist at AMPAworks, a Y8 43N winner that relocated from Santa Monica to Buffalo this past January. Kiarra is furthering her education at Canisius University, where she will pursue an MBA in Global Supply Chain Management starting this fall.

​Justine Nadherny, Marketing Manager, Top Seedz

​Justine is a dynamic marketing and brand builder with a creative touch. Her journey began by launching Breast Cancer Awareness events on Beaver Creek Mountain at the age of 21. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to the world of digital marketing through tech, where she established her own consulting and design venture. Prior to joining Top Seedz, Justine's talents led her to the music industry, where she traversed the United States managing hospitality for stars on nationwide tours. Today, Justine's expertise shines as she manages various aspects of marketing at Top Seedz. Beyond work, she enjoys snowboarding, golf, wake surfing, and DIY projects at her East Aurora home.

​Izzy Rufat, Director of Sales, 3AM Innovation

​Izzy Rufat worked at FIFCO, which owns Labatt USA, from 2008-2022.  His roles there included Sr. District Manager of WNY, Director of Trade Marketing, and finally, Director of Virtual Sales and Export and was a member of the sales leadership team.  After FIFCO, Izzy moved over to 3AM Innovations as their Director of Sales.  3AM Innovations provides a software solution for accountability tracking for first responders.  Izzy lives in Orchard Park, NY, with his wife, Valerie and two boys.