Full Name
Joanna de Pena
Job Title
Founder & CEO
Company
Top Notch Scholars
Speaker Bio
Joanna de Peña is the Founder and CEO of Top Notch Scholars, a transformational leadership organization redefining what is possible for the next generation. Known for her commanding presence and ability to move audiences from insight to action, Joanna doesn’t just inspire — she activates momentum.
In February 2026, Joanna will take the global stage as a TEDx Speaker at TEDxPrinceton, where she will present on clarity, resilience, and the human side of transformation in an increasingly complex world.
Joanna’s work sits at the intersection of leadership, performance psychology, and execution. She helps individuals and organizations move through uncertainty, break through overwhelm, and translate vision into sustained action. Her message resonates because it is lived — grounded in real-world leadership, human behavior, and the discipline required to create lasting change.
A proud graduate of Proctor Academy, Joanna holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management and a Master’s degree in Education, and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Performance Psychology. Her academic and professional journey reinforces her core belief: transformation accelerates when clarity, confidence, and intentional action align.
Joanna’s mission goes beyond education — it is about building leaders who create momentum, lead with purpose, and move change forward with confidence.
In February 2026, Joanna will take the global stage as a TEDx Speaker at TEDxPrinceton, where she will present on clarity, resilience, and the human side of transformation in an increasingly complex world.
Joanna’s work sits at the intersection of leadership, performance psychology, and execution. She helps individuals and organizations move through uncertainty, break through overwhelm, and translate vision into sustained action. Her message resonates because it is lived — grounded in real-world leadership, human behavior, and the discipline required to create lasting change.
A proud graduate of Proctor Academy, Joanna holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management and a Master’s degree in Education, and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Performance Psychology. Her academic and professional journey reinforces her core belief: transformation accelerates when clarity, confidence, and intentional action align.
Joanna’s mission goes beyond education — it is about building leaders who create momentum, lead with purpose, and move change forward with confidence.
Speaking At
