Sofia Hailu is an artist, coach and entrepreneur dedicated to continual self-discovery and creative development in her work and across the industry.
Formerly a flutist with the United States Army Europe Band and Chorus, and later the United States Army 3d Infantry Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps, Sofia has toured across the United States and over 12 countries throughout Europe, performing for dignitaries and heads of state such as United States Presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden, Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom, Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands, and Pope Francis. From the White House to the Pentagon, concert halls to cocktail bars, collaborations with local pop icons in Chisinau to genre-bending productions with hip-hop artists in Baltimore and DC, Sofia’s expressive range transcends boundaries and redefines expectations.
After years of performing and presenting, Sofia’s creative passion expanded into a broader interest in the arts ecosystem. Inspired by the challenges she faced navigating the industry while staying centered in the value and meaning of her creative practice, Sofia pursued training as a coach. Grounded in her own artistic journey, she supports fellow artists and creative leaders in navigating their unique paths, helping them build structure around bold visions, embrace their distinctive leadership styles, and foster stronger community and collaboration across the cultural sector. Through her company, Hailu Coaching & Collaborations, LLC (HailuCo,) Sofia empowers creative thinkers to stay true to their vision and lead with authenticity. She believes that courage is contagious: by living and showing up authentically, we inspire others to do the same, creating profound connections in a world often divided.
Sofia has a particular interest in projects that introduce new creative pathways or address systemic failures in the current professional landscape. She serves on the board of the Iris Music Project, a 501c3 organization that cultivates collaborative relationships with musicians and residents of long-term care facilities, reimagining community, expanding artistic career paths, and elevating the artist identity from entertainer to thought leader.
She is passionate about co-creating a community expansive enough to hold space for radical exploration, dialogue, healthy dissent and diversity.
Sofia holds an MM in Flute Performance from Indiana University, an MA in Arts Management from American University, a Certificate in Executive Leadership Coaching from Georgetown University, and an Associate Certified Coach Credential with the International Coach Federation.
She is grateful for her formal studies as well as her ongoing education as a student of situations, surroundings, mentors, colleagues and collaborators.