FORBES THAILAND
5 Jun 2025
“Things happen for you, not to you,” the well known quote for the past 28 years of Dr. DDnard, leading investor of Asia, entrepreneur and the well known bestselling author of The Compass of Now, a book that has inspired millions.
Now, she's channeling her passion into Zoul—a mental wellness app valued at approximately $222 million, with over $37 million invested and a global team nearing 100 members.
Zoul is co-founded with Sarah, Duchess of York, and supported by international investors, with operations based in Dubai and London.
“Global wealth is being created faster, larger, and by younger individuals than ever before,” Dr. DDnard observes. “Zoul serves as the mental infrastructure that nations need.”
Unlike typical relaxation apps, Zoul delves deeper, addressing the root causes of stress and trauma through neuroscience, ancient wisdom, and cognitive science.
It's designed for entrepreneurs recovering from financial setbacks, burned-out professionals, and anyone seeking to rebuild business, life and resilience.
What began as a five-day investment conference in London transformed into a nearly two-year journey. Dr. DDnard's alumni network from the University of London and London Business School, many now leading global funds, recognized the urgent need for mental health solutions and partnered with her to develop Zoul. Today, world’s leading mental health tech companies are valued at over $3 billion, highlighting the sector's significance.
“Just as our bodies need nourishment and cleansing, so do our minds,” she explains.
“Zoul offers daily positivity, helping individuals recover sustainably from major financial challenges and navigate life's transitions.”
According to the World Health Organization, one in four people worldwide—over 2 billion individuals—face mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and burnout, leading to trillions in economic losses annually.
Zoul addresses this crisis by providing through mobile application a deep, private, and accessible mental health support, especially for those with limited time and a need for confidentiality.
Zoul aims to reach 100 million users within two years.
While other personal development program can cost between $5,000 and $15,000 for a three-day seminar, Zoul offers comprehensive content for just $30-49 per year, available 24/7.
“Zoul wasn't born as a business venture but from a passion,” Dr. DDnard shares.
“Friends in global investment circles challenged me: ‘Only high-caliber individuals understand the needs of their peers. Build something for us.’”
With over 30 years of experience in mental health and global investments, Dr. DDnard envisions Zoul as a global movement.
The platform is expanding its reach, collaborating with airlines, financial institutions, tech giants, health insurers, and employee wellness providers.
Currently available in 17 languages, Zoul offers free access in war-affected countries like Syria, Palestine, Russia and Ukraine, aiming to bring positivity to those in need.
Now residing in London, Dr. DDnard continues to develop Zoul, viewing it as a “passion investment.”
With master's degrees in economics and finance, and decades of experience in private equity and family office investments across nine countries, she has also been a dedicated philanthropist, supporting hospitals, free schools, and meditation retreats.
“I've worked diligently since earning my master’s degrees in the UK at the age of 20,” she reflects.
“My doctorate degree focused on neuroscience in self efficacy.
Whether building schools in Asia or supporting communities in Africa and India, my mission has always focused on growth opportunities for all.”
Looking ahead, Dr. DDnard plans to invest further in health tech and fintech, striving to provide the underprivileged with access to capital, knowledge, technology, and essential infrastructure, ensuring equal opportunities for all.
“Every resource we have—energy, money, technology, or connections—should be used to create positive change,” she concludes.
“Like a flowing spring, sharing brings vitality and joy.”
arah, Duchess of York, co-founder of Zoul with Dr. DDnard, said:
"Our goal is to make mindfulness, meditation, and mental wellbeing accessible to all, wherever they are, at any time.
I love Dr. DDnard's vision of Zoul as more than an app, but as a global movement that helps people find peace and heal emotionally.
Whether people are travelling to work, at the gym, or walking in nature, the aim is they can access peace and stillness.
Many of us can't stop thinking and sit in a darkened room when we want to reflect, and Zoul offers a way to find serenity even among constant thoughts.
At a time when much of the online world is filled with hate and rage, we hope to offer people a place to return to for peace and strength.
No matter who you are or what you're facing, you are not alone — Zoul is here for you."