04/11/2024
NAKAI Group Founder Retires
It is with a blend of emotions that I announce my formal retirement from the NAKAI Group and LOLI Cafe & Lounge as of April 19, 2024. Since our humble beginnings in 2006, building and nurturing NAKAI has been a labour of love and dedication. Over the years I have watched these incredible businesses grow and thrive. I am so proud and so grateful.
NAKAI holds a special place in my heart. NAKAI Moncton and NAKAI Saint John have grown up right alongside my little humans Nathan and Kaia. It was founded in 2006 with a vision to create a legacy that empowers and supports women leaders. Over the years, we have achieved significant milestones and received national recognition. The journey would not have been possible without the support of our incredible guests, dedicated suppliers, and phenomenal artists.
I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Sharon, my valued partner since 2019. Her dedication, passion and unwavering commitment to excellence have been instrumental in the success of NAKAI and LOLI. I have every confidence that Sharon will lead with grace and vision and I am excited to witness the continued growth and success under her stewardship.
I also want to thank my original partner and love of my life, Rob. He has been my cheerleader, confidant, and sounding board since the inception of NAKAI two days before the birth of our first child 18 years ago. His dedication early on was instrumental in setting NAKAI up for success.
While my role may be changing, my commitment to NAKAI and LOLI remains unwavering. I am honoured to transition formally to a role of Strategic Advisor to Sharon and the Senior Management Team. I am also thrilled at the opportunity to remain connected as a guest.
I now turn my focus to my Consulting Practice. I look forward to helping other customer-focused organizations thrive and grow through the application of foundations and fundamentals. As I embark on this new chapter, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to each of you for your continued support, loyalty and friendship. Your belief in our shared vision has been a driving force behind our success and I am profoundly grateful for the relationships we have built over the years.
In closing, I extend my warmest wishes to all of you. Thank you for being part of the NAKAI and LOLI families. I look forward to on-going collaborations and shared success in the future.
With heartfelt appreciation and warm regards,
Melanie Lang