The modern-day labor market is highly competitive, with an accelerating demand for technically and professionally skilled talent who could replace the less-skilled ones. The Robert Half Canada Demand for Skilled Talent Report reveals that 48% of technology and IT hiring managers plan increase their hiring in 2026. 69% of tech leaders stated that upskilling current employees is required for them to meet their work targets, with evident skill gaps of 42% in AI and ML, 35% in IT governance and compliance, and 33% in IT operations, infrastructure, and security. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that labor force participation slowed to 62.3% in June 2025 from 62.4% in May since December 2022.
The present scenario of the two countries’ labor market highlights the demand for skilled employees and a persistent skill gap across sectors, indicating the need for employee upskilling, personal, and professional development of individuals to ensure they thrive in a job market where everyone is fighting tooth and nail to survive.
Ayeesha S. Kanji founded Chestnuts Coaching & Consulting to support individuals and teams in bringing that professional expertise to help them navigate the job market. Chestnuts Coaching stands as a testament to Ayeesha’s unwavering dedication to transforming people’s lives through accountability coaching, career transitions, and holistic growth. We, at The CEO Views, recognize the contributions Ayeesha made with Chestnuts Coaching & Consulting to the field of professional development, garnering them the title of ‘Innovators of the Year 2026.’ On the occasion of achieving this milestone, we had the opportunity to talk with Ayeesha, who shared with us Chestnuts Coaching’s incredible journey in changing lives.
1. What inspired the creation of Chestnuts Coaching & Consulting?
Chestnuts Coaching & Consulting grew out of a clear gap I kept seeing, a high-achieving individuals and organizations doing all the “right” things, yet feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, or misaligned. My own journey through leadership, transition, and self-reflection showed me how powerful it is to have space to pause, recalibrate, and move forward with intention. Chestnuts was created to offer that space—grounded, thoughtful, and human.
2. Provide a brief overview of the company and its services.
Chestnuts Coaching & Consulting is a leadership and transformation practice that supports individuals, founders, and organizations through coaching, advisory, and facilitation. Our work focuses on leadership development, clarity during transition, values-based decision-making, and sustainable growth—both personal and professional.
3. How does the company contribute to the continued growth and innovation of Chestnuts Coaching & Consulting?
I stay relevant by listening very closely to my clients and the environments they operate in. Continuous learning, reflection, and iteration are built into how I work. Each engagement informs the next, allowing the practice to evolve naturally while staying anchored in purpose rather than trends.
4. How is the company driving innovation within the coaching and consulting industry?
Innovation, for me, is less about new buzzwords and more about depth and integration. I combine traditional coaching frameworks with reflective practices, systems thinking, and real-world leadership experience. The result is work that is practical, grounded, and deeply personal. It is not one-size-fits-all.
5. What are some of the most significant milestones Chestnuts Coaching & Consulting has achieved to date?
Some of our most meaningful milestones aren’t measured by size, but by impact—supporting leaders through pivotal transitions, helping clients regain confidence and clarity, and building long-term relationships rooted in trust. Establishing a clear voice and identity for Chestnuts has also been a defining achievement.
6. Ayeesha has a habit of delivering organized and efficient solutions while maximizing time and capacity. How does she do that with Chestnuts Coaching & Consulting?
I prioritize clarity of goals, roles, and expectations—before action. By creating simple structures and focusing on what truly matters, I’m able to maximize time and energy without overcomplicating the process. Efficiency comes from alignment, not urgency.
7. What makes Chestnuts Coaching & Consulting different from its competitors?
We don’t rush the transformation. Chestnuts values depth, honesty, and long-term change over quick fixes. Clients often tell us they feel genuinely seen and heard, which allows for work that is both challenging and supportive. That balance is what sets us apart.
8. What’s next for Chestnuts Coaching & Consulting?
The next phase is about thoughtful expansion—deepening existing work while exploring new collaborations and platforms that allow us to reach wider audiences without losing intimacy. Growth, for us, will always be intentional and values-led.
Considering every coaching relationship as unique, Chestnuts Coaching tailors development methods according to each client’s specific goals, needs, and circumstances. From career transitioning coaching to holistic wellness coaching, Chestnuts’ services are designed to transform lives from both personal and professional aspects. Ayeesha’s visionary leadership and over 10 years of coaching experience have positioned Chestnuts Coaching & Consulting as a pioneering force in the professional and personal development industry, changing lives and helping individuals transition to their preferred career.
