APRIL SABRAL
A Visionary Leader in Business, Retail, and Hospitality
April Sabral is a globally recognized leadership and mindset coach, bestselling author, and founder of Ask April AI, an innovative AI-driven leadership training platform designed to empower retail, hospitality, and service-based business owners. With over three decades of experience leading teams for iconic brands such as Starbucks, Gap, Banana Republic, and DAVIDsTEA, April has dedicated her career to transforming managers into confident, high-performing leaders.
As the visionary behind The Positive Effect Leadership System and RetailU (now part of AskApril.ai), April has helped thousands of business owners and managers develop the skills needed to drive results, increase retention, and create thriving workplace cultures. April has trained brands such as Jimmy Choo, Sunglass Hut, Psycho Bunny, Tory Burch, My Theresa.com and Indochinoto name a few.
April is the author of the acclaimed book The Positive Effect: A Retail Leader’s Guide to Changing the World, which has been named a top global retail book by the NRF (National Retail Federation) in 2025. Her book is also a recommended read in the Forbes Leadership Library, solidifying her impact in shaping the future of retail leadership.
In addition to her work as a leadership expert, April feels deeply connected to Miami’s Design District, where she first became a homeowner in 2003 on NW 49th Street and North Miami Avenue, making her one of the original community members in the area. She then moved to Canada in 2006 to pursue international experience. Her passion for retail, commitment to community growth, and international business expertisemake her the ideal Executive Director to support the continued success of the Design District Chamber of Commerce. April now resides in Miami.
April also hosts The Positive Effect Podcast, where she shares insights, interviews industry leaders, and provides practical strategies for business success. A sought-after keynote speaker and consultant, she continues to inspire and empower leaders worldwide, with a mission to positively impact 1 million leaders globally through transformative training and mentorship.
April Sabral – Executive Director
Contact April at – info@miamidesignchamber.org
Instagram: @askaprilsabral