Karla Merza
Certifications
Professional Scrum Master IPCCICP-CAPICP-APM

About Me

Leadership & Organizational Coach | Speaker | Educator

I've never found it easy to write an "About Me" section. A few paragraphs can only tell part of the story, and I'd much rather be known through the conversations I have and the people I work with.

Professionally, my journey has been anything but linear. I started out as an engineer, found my way into Agile, leadership, and organizational transformation, and eventually discovered coaching. Along the way, I've worked in corporate environments, startups, consulting, academia, and entrepreneurship. Looking back, every chapter has taught me something that still shapes the way I work today.

Today, I'm a Leadership & Organizational Coach, supporting professionals as they step into leadership roles, navigate change, and grow with intention. Many of the conversations I have revolve around confidence, perfectionism, impostor syndrome, communication, and becoming the kind of leader people genuinely want to follow.

One thing that's always been true about me is my love of learning. I'm constantly reading, taking courses, listening to podcasts, or exploring a topic simply because it sparked my curiosity. Learning isn't something I do to collect certificates — it's something I genuinely enjoy.

Speaking of certifications... you'll find quite a few on my profile. They're important, and I'm proud of the work that went into earning them. But I don't believe certifications, on their own, make someone a great coach or leader. They need to be backed by experience, reflection, curiosity, and a commitment to keep learning long after the certificate is framed.

The values that guide both my work and my life are honesty, curiosity, kindness, perspective, and continuous learning. They remind me to stay authentic, keep an open mind, and approach people with empathy before judgment.

If our paths cross, I hope you'll find someone who listens deeply, asks thoughtful questions, and isn't afraid to challenge your thinking when it helps you grow.

A Few Fun Facts

  • I firmly believe good conversations are even better over a great cup of coffee.
  • 📚My top VIA Character Strengths are Honesty, Love of Learning, Kindness, Curiosity, and Perspective, which explains both my bookshelf and why I ask so many questions.
  • 🌱I'm an INFJ (Advocate). I don't think personality types define us, but this one resonates with me more than most.
  • 🌊The seaside is my happy place. If I need to recharge, you'll probably find me near the water.
  • 🐾I have a soft spot for animals and will happily stop to say hello to a friendly dog (or cat).
  • ✈️I love traveling, not to tick countries off a list, but to experience new places, cultures, and ways of seeing the world.