What advice would you give your younger self?
Don’t take everything too seriously and that it’s just business, not personal. I often worried about things that never came to fruition, and while anticipating challenges is part of my job, there were times I let my imagination run wild. A wise friend once told me worrying is like praying for things you don’t want. Instead, we should be manifesting positivity.
What’s the biggest risk you’ve ever taken?
Speaking up and sharing an honest POV, especially in uncomfortable settings. I came from a generation and culture that encouraged us to keep your head down and work hard. As I became more senior in my career, I realized that speaking up is empowering and when you do so, you’ll often find success. You’re a maker of your own destiny.
If you weren’t doing your current job, what would you be doing and why?
I would be a matchmaker. I love connecting people and making introductions.
What should the industry do to encourage more women and people of color into its ranks?
Support, advocate and sponsor one another. Mentorship is key, but sponsorship is action. Lifting one another up in professional settings to ensure they are getting the same opportunities and promotions as their counterparts.
