8 Principles of Business Longevity from Immigrant Entrepreneurs

‘A transformative guide to building businesses that last, inspired by stories of resilience and purpose.’

About Pioneers

Pioneers uncovers the secrets of enduring success from the world’s most inspiring immigrant entrepreneurs.

Through 8 actionable principles, this book empowers leaders to build businesses that thrive across generations.

Featuring insights from founders of Chobani, Duolingo, Calendly, and others, Pioneers bridges passion, purpose, and practicality for a lasting impact.

Praise for Pioneers

  • Mel Robbins, Bestselling author and host of The Mel Robbins Podcast

    "The most profound, captivating, and unparalleled business advice you will find."

  • Adam Grant, #1 New York Times bestselling author of HIDDEN POTENTIAL and THINK AGAIN, and host of the podcast ReThinking

    “This book busts myths about what it takes to start and sustain a successful business. Neri Karra shares lessons from immigrant entrepreneurs that are both memorable and practical.”

  • Frances Frei and Anne Morriss, Bestselling authors of Move Fast & Fix Things and host of the hit podcast Fixable

    “This astonishing book shows all of us how to thrive in imperfect conditions, the essential task of business and of life.”

  • Amy C Edmondson, Novartis Professor of Leadership at Harvard Business School and Author of Right Kind of Wrong: The Science of Failing Well

    "Entrepreneur and scholar Neri Karra sets out to answer the question of why immigrants are overrepresented in entrepreneurship, and especially overrepresented in successful entrepreneurship – founding companies able to grow and survive over time. Her surprising answers, found through compelling research and conveyed through gripping stories offer timeless wisdom for business leaders that could not be more timely today."

  • Dorie Clark, Wall Street Journal bestselling author of The Long Game and executive education faculty at Columbia Business School

    "Pioneers masterfully captures the spirit of immigrant entrepreneurship, offering rich insights into how their innovations are disrupting industries and building businesses that endure. A must-read for entrepreneurs looking to create lasting impact."

  • Stuart Crainer, Cofounder Thinkers50

    “Full of amazing, touching and inspiring stories, Pioneers is essential reading. In our intolerant and uncertain times, it teaches us the power of being open to others and of the indomitable entrepreneurial brilliance of so many people. We owe Neri Karra Sillaman thanks for sharing her own remarkable story and those of the other pioneers.”

  • Ayse Birsel, Cofounder, Birsel + Seck, and author of Design the Life You Love

    "In an era where we're all pioneers navigating unfamiliar territory, Neri Karra's Pioneers serves as an essential guidebook for thriving in our rapidly evolving world. Whether you're crossing geographical borders or adapting to seismic shifts in your industry, this book will show you how to design your own path in a world that's new to us all."

  • Kamal Munir, Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Professor of Strategy and Policy, University of Cambridge

    “At a time when immigrants are being viewed with suspicion in many parts of the world, Neri Karra’s book comes as a breath of fresh air. She has brought together inspirational stories of immigrant entrepreneurs from around the world shining a light on their tenacity, appetite for risk and capacity for hard work, and how it translates into success. This book is not just for immigrants though. All entrepreneurs would do well to read it."

Meet Dr. Neri Karra Sillaman

Dr. Neri Karra Sillaman is a globally recognized entrepreneur, thought leader, and author.

Named to the Thinkers50 Radar list, she is the founder of a luxury leather goods brand and a sought-after advisor to global leaders. A former child refugee, her journey is a testament to resilience and impact.

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