Cheryl Nankoo | The Nankoo

Founder | Executive Coach | TEDx Speaker | NLP Trainer

I’m Cheryl Nankoo, a Dubai-based Executive Coach, Certified NLP Trainer, and global facilitator. I work with leaders and teams around the world to unlock human potential, navigate change with confidence, and create meaningful impact.

Through transformational coaching, leadership development programs, and high-impact workshops, I help leaders build self-awareness, cultivate high-performing teams, and lead with authenticity and purpose. My approach combines 20+ years of commercial experience with powerful mindset and communication tools drawn from Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP).

I’ve had the privilege of working with leading organizations including Capgemini, PricewaterhouseCoopers, and Gartner, supporting senior executives, board members, and professionals from a wide range of industries. My work is grounded in real-world experience, having spent much of my career thriving in high-pressure environments while navigating challenges related to gender, race, and age.

Throughout my life, I’ve made bold moves in pursuit of purpose and growth — from leaving the corporate world in 2011, to immigrating to Dubai in 2015, adopting two incredible children in 2020, and stepping away from corporate life again in 2025 to launch my own business. I’m not afraid of change — I make change happen. And I can help you do the same.
Whether through one-to-one coaching or group sessions, my mission is to empower you to step into your full potential — with clarity, confidence, and heart.

In April 2025, I delivered a TEDx Talk titled Rewriting Family: Lessons from Adoption, Identity and Language — a deeply personal reflection on my motherhood and leadership journey, exploring themes of belonging, identity, and the transformative power of language.
I love walking, staying active, and exploring new cultures through travel – all of which keeps me curious, energised and connected to what matters most.

My Mission

The goal is to foster leadership that drives sustainable, positive change through ethical decision-making, innovation, and collaboration. This helps organizations grow and contribute positively to society and the environment. Programs, workshops, and mentorship support leaders in creating meaningful impact. Ultimately, empowered leaders inspire transformation within their communities and industries.

My Values

At the heart of everything I do is a commitment to living out my values — not just stating them. I believe that values are the foundation of trust, impact, and lasting growth, both for individuals and organisations.

The core values that guide my work are:

Integrity. Trust. Honesty. Commitment. Continuous Learning. Flexibility. Fun. Love.

These values shape how I lead, coach, and collaborate — creating a professional yet human-centred approach that empowers people and teams to thrive.

Partnership Principles

My approach is grounded in trust, excellence, and long-term partnership. I’m committed to delivering real value — not just during workshops or coaching sessions, but in the lasting impact that follows.

I collaborate with organisations and individuals who are driven to make a positive difference in the world. My work integrates multicultural perspectives, sharp business acumen, and a deep understanding of human behaviour to support meaningful, sustainable change.

Here’s what you can expect when we work together:

Client-Centred Focus: I bring full presence, deep listening, and tailored support to every interaction.
Commitment Beyond Delivery: I stay connected with clients beyond our sessions, ensuring long-term success and accountability.
Cultural Intelligence: I work across diverse cultures with sensitivity, curiosity, and inclusion at the heart of my practice.
Flexibility with Purpose: I adapt in real time based on what I observe — staying responsive while staying on track.
Excellence and Integrity: I hold myself to the highest standards and take full responsibility for the quality and impact of my work.
Positive Energy: While the work is deep and transformative, I believe in bringing joy and lightness into the process — because growth can (and should) be energising.