organizations
International Coaching Federation
SHRM (Society of Human Resource Management)
Certifications
Professional Certified Coach (PCC)
International Coaching Federation
Certified Advanced Coach (CAC)
Center for Coaching Certification
SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP)
SHRM
Five Lens People Development Practitioner
FIVE LENS
Volunteer work
Co-leader, Ethics Community of Practice
International Coaching Federation
Board Member
AlphaCare
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Discover the power of the OCAA Model™
The journey that brought me to Empower Forward reflects the same principles I use with my clients: observing your reality, making intentional choices, adapting to challenges, and advancing with confidence and clarity. As the creator of the OCAA Model™, I designed this proven framework to guide you in embracing your unique context and navigating uncertainty with resilience and purpose. To see how this transformative process unfolds, explore my story—a personal case study of how the Empower Forward philosophy empowered my own bold steps forward.
Meet Mari, the Founder
Welcome! I’m Mari, transformation partner
and the heart behind Empower Forward.
My passion lies in partnering with individuals to navigate pivotal transitions, embrace their authentic selves, and move boldly forward with clarity and purpose. My own journey has shown me the power of self-discovery, resilience, and aligning actions with values. It’s this lived experience, combined with proven coaching frameworks, that allows me to meet you exactly where you are and support your path toward meaningful progress.
Whether you’re feeling stuck, seeking clarity, or ready to lead with purpose, I’m here to walk alongside you. Together, we’ll uncover who you truly are—beyond roles, expectations, and societal pressures—and design a path that empowers intentional action and creates lasting impact in your life and work.
Let’s move forward together.

“Growth, transformation, and fulfillment—these are more than just words; they are the foundation of Empower Forward.”
from the founder
Empower Forward isn’t just a coaching service—it’s a space where you can fully show up as yourself, free from judgment and open to new possibilities. It’s a partnership for leaders and individuals to reconnect with authenticity, build resilience, and navigate transitions with clarity, confidence, and purpose.
Life often layers us with expectations, roles, and responsibilities that obscure our true selves. At Empower Forward, we work together to peel back those layers, uncover your potential, and align your actions with your values and aspirations. Whether you’re leading a team, fostering change, or seeking personal clarity, Empower Forward equips you with the tools, strategies, and support to embrace uncertainty and move forward intentionally.
I invite you to explore my story. It’s a reflection of what becomes possible when we embrace who we truly are and take bold steps toward a purpose-driven life.
Courage
Freedom
Growth
Purpose
VIsion
A world where people move boldly through uncertainty, grounded in who they are, creating purpose-driven lives and inspiring impact beyond themselves.
The heart of Empower Forward
Mutual respect
We honor every journey by valuing diverse voices and building trust through understanding.
Empathy in action
We listen deeply and act with care, turning understanding into meaningful connection.
Courageous growth
We embrace uncertainty as a path to evolve, adapt, and boldly move forward.
Intentional alignment
We align thoughts, emotions, and actions to create clarity and purposeful progress.
Purposeful momentum
We take bold steps aligned with our values to create meaningful, lasting change.