Ten years ago at the age of 24, I was on the road to fulfilling my dreams at the Seton Hall University School of Diplomacy and International Relations.
After receiving a full-tuition scholarship twice, I completed a Bachelor and dual Master’s Degree in Diplomacy, International Relations and Public Administration within a 7-year span.
Despite having many academic accolades, I found myself in a position like most people today: unemployed.
After tons of rejection letters, I decided: "If they won't hire me, I'll hire myself."
Shortly after, I co-founded The Virtual Global Consultant (VGC) Group with my partner, Dr. Naomi Jordan Cook. We built a global IT company that helps entrepreneurs, companies, and organizations embrace digitalization to access new revenue and value-producing opportunities.
By combining strategies like mobile and web development, lead generation, and email marketing, we helped a variety of organizations—from ministries to nonprofits and more recently for-profit companies—raise hundreds of thousands of dollars online in donations and sales globally.
I never imagined my life unfolding the way it has. I went to diplomacy school, and like many pursuing international relations, I assumed my path would lead me to a role within my government or an international body like the United Nations.
Entrepreneurship was never on my radar as a route to diplomacy—let alone the idea that I would one day be running a food manufacturing company. And yet, here I am, having started in tech, only to find myself simultaneously building a food enterprise rooted in impact and innovation.
Creating global impact extend beyond traditional diplomacy; it now incorporates technology, entrepreneurship, and new ways to connect diverse communities. This frontier is waiting to be shaped by your bold ideas and unwavering commitment despite the pain of your process along the journey.
As you step into the arena of global affairs and impact, never forget that: The consciousness you bring to your craft is your most powerful currency. Don’t be afraid of shifting political tides or new presidential directives. Irrespective of what side of the aisle you sit on, purpose is colorblind. Labor with your vision until you can give birth to your mission.
Most importantly, learn how to navigate People, Policies, and Processes as your pathway to true purpose, turning any ounce of humility into your due honor.
All of my life experiences have culminated in the creation of this theory. I had been researching and writing about it for some time, but it wasn’t until a recent trip to Kuwait—where I was invited by the U.S. Embassy of Kuwait to participate in a week-long program for Global Entrepreneurship Week with both private and public sector stakeholders—that I publicly shared my formula with the marketplace. The overwhelmingly positive response from people of all backgrounds reinforced the significance of bringing this work to a broader audience, helping others reimagine their personal and professional pursuits.
The Triangular Trade of Transactions Theory™ posits that citizen-level economic growth is fundamentally driven by one’s ability to navigate the interconnected dynamics of People, Policies, and Processes. I will devote the rest of my life to teaching individuals how to master this approach, helping every day citizens become global leaders.
My forthcoming book on the Triangular Trade of Transactions Theory™ and global leadership is slated to be released in 2026 post my graduation from the University of Michigan's inaugural Doctoral in Business Administration program.
People
How to engage and mobilize people to support your purpose in life, and make unreasonable requests to propel you forward.
Policies
How to adapt and influence existing rules to be conducive for you to thrive.
Processes
How to implement and recreate structured systems to achieve a goal.
Tell me if any of this resonates with you...
You want your story—complete with its struggles, dead-ends, and breakthroughs—to resonate with people waiting for your product or service.
You had one vision for yourself but life has taken you on a different journey
If you’re ready to finally break free, take charge of your destiny, and share your unique brilliance with the world—right here, right now is YOUR moment. Let me guide you on the exact path to transform your life, claim the success you truly deserve, and make an impact far beyond your current seat!
You think about the fact that it's time for a change in your life
Whether it's a scenery change or merely a change in what you are doing and how you are doing it so that life can feel more meaningful and intentional, you are on that path right now. Remember, there's nothing to find in life. Everything is a creation.
You understand that you deserve more than what you have now
If you’re tired of playing small, you know in your heart you deserve so much more, and you’re ready to make a big impact that stretches far beyond your current location—then it’s time to step up, and unleash the unstoppable force you were born to be global!
You believe you can impact people beyond your current location
If you feel that unstoppable pull to touch lives beyond your local circle, then now’s your moment—step into that bigger purpose, share your message with the world, and become the beacon of hope countless people are waiting for your gift!
If you said “yes” to any of the above, then you’re in the right place!
Start Here
You can't speak to someone's shoes you haven't walked; I've been where you are and that's why I can advise you on how to get to where you want to go.
The Desk
Join a community of every day citizens positioning themselves for global leadership. Level up your skills and save valuable time with resources —carefully curated to help you jumpstart your goals and sustain your growth. No strings attached, just pure value to empower your journey at your pace so that you can win your race. Check email for login after signing up.
Global Leadership Programs
You’ll discover that optimal leadership is not an inborn trait reserved for a select few—it’s a consciousness that anyone can embody, and use to impact the world around them. This high-level program is designed for aspiring and seasoned leaders alike who want to create meaningful impact in their local communities, all while building the foundations for a broader global influence. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Download The Digital Diplomat Mobile App
Are you ready to take control of the complex world of nonmarket strategies? My new mobile application is designed to guide you step-by-step in aligning your people, policies, and processes —all from your smartphone or tablet! Your Global Advisor at your finger tips.
TESTIMONIALS
What People Are Saying
I had the honor of working with Wendy Ekua Da’Cruz on several projects and can confidently say she is a force to be reckoned with. A fierce entrepreneur at heart, Wendy combines creativity with an unwavering determination that ensures she not only starts tasks but also sees them through to completion.
Her consultancy skills are top-notch, always geared toward fostering positive change and impactful results. Wendy’s unique blend of entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to creating meaningful impact makes her a standout in any setting. I wholeheartedly endorse her for any venture she chooses to pursue.
Anyse Pereira, PhD, Senior Climate Change Strategy Officer, Cape Verde
I had the pleasure of meeting Wendy during the U.S. Department Professional Fellows Program at Michigan State University in September 2022. Her inspiring presentation on food, business, and women empowerment left a lasting impact on me and my fellow African fellows. Since then, we have worked towards collaboration on various projects, and I am proud to call her my American sister. Wendy’s expertise in digitalization and strong interpersonal skills make her an excellent communicator and a valuable asset to any team or stakeholder. Her positive impact on my business has been remarkable.
I believe we can continue to spearhead impactful work together.
Tracy Vongai Mapfumo, Eny's Treats, Founder, Zimbabwe
I first had an encounter with Wendy during an exchange Professional Fellows Program at Michigan State University, where Wendy and her partner Naomi Jordan Cook were invited to speak to the group on Innovation & Entrepreneurship. This was by far, one of the best experiences I had while on the program, mainly because Wendy chose not only to speak on professional growth and investment but delved into the growth and feeding of the soul as well. A relevant topic that I believe most start-ups disregard when launching a business today. To quote Rev, Dr Katie Cannon, she said “Do the work your soul must have”, and I have been running on that quote since. She managed to rope me into her experiences by being so vulnerable and authentic; I found her shared experiences relatable, making the experience feel more relational than transactional.
As a young woman in transition and trying to find myself and my purpose in business, getting to listen to Wendy and the things she represents and stands for was absolutely refreshing and was a game-changer for me and the way I used to think. From my experience with Wendy I gathered that my next big idea, how far I can go and how much impact I can make in my community is all really in-between my ears. In Wendy’s words, “Live at the level of your consciousness and not your circumstances”.
Runyararo Musanhi, Professional Fellows Program, Zimbabwe
I had the privilege of engaging in a highly insightful meeting with Wendy Ekua (W.E.) Da’Cruz today, where we delved into strategies for scaling my Shea butter business, Nubian Empire. Wendy’s depth of knowledge and her commitment to fostering growth were truly impressive.
Wendy demonstrated a keen understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the Shea butter industry, providing invaluable insights on how to navigate and capitalize on them. Her strategic approach and thoughtful suggestions illuminated new avenues for expansion and innovation for Nubian Empire.
What stood out most was Wendy’s willingness to share her wealth of knowledge generously. Her recommendations were not only practical but also tailored to the specific needs of my business. Wendy’s insights on tackling various aspects of growth, from market penetration to operational efficiency, were instrumental and will undoubtedly contribute significantly to the success of Nubian Empire.
I am grateful for Wendy’s expertise and collaborative spirit. If you are seeking a partner who not only understands the intricacies of business growth but also actively contributes to its realization, Wendy Ekua (W.E.) Da’Cruz is a remarkable resource.
Todd Afeku, Nubian Empire CEO, United States