Seeing it differently, to do it differently
INSPIRING OTHERS & BEING A ROLE MODEL
Welcome back amazing reader, to our empowering confidence blog series for career-driven women of color. I hope this series has offered you some amazing thoughts that align with feeling empowered and inspired.

In this installment, let’s get into the superpower of inspiring others and being a role model. As a narrative inquiry researcher and mindset coach committed to uplifting women of color, I firmly believe that by sharing our remarkable stories and experiences as successful women of color, we can cultivate confidence, inspire change, and pave the way for future generations. Let us draw inspiration from some well-known extraordinary individuals and explore how we can uplift others while staying true to ourselves.

Leading by Example

Now it’s only right to start with a Michelle Obama quote. She famously said, "You have the power to change perceptions, to inspire and empower, and to show people how to embrace their complications and see the flaws and the true beauty and strength that's inside all of us." One of the most powerful ways to inspire others is by leading through authenticity and empowerment.

Consider the story of Ava DuVernay, the trailblazing filmmaker and director. Despite facing numerous challenges and industry biases, DuVernay embraced her unique vision and storytelling, breaking barriers, and inspiring others along the way. By leading with authenticity, she showed aspiring filmmakers that their stories matter and that they too can make a significant impact.

Lifting As We Climb

Mentoring and empowering others is a powerful way to uplift the next generation of women of color. One of the most rewarding roles you can undertake as a career-driven woman of color is that of a mentor and a sponsor. As Michelle Obama beautifully articulated, "When you've worked hard, and done well, and walked through that doorway of opportunity, you do not slam it shut behind you. You reach back and give other folks the same chances that helped you succeed."

Take inspiration from the impactful work of Tarana Burke, the founder of the #MeToo movement. Through her advocacy and mentorship, Burke has created a global movement empowering survivors of sexual assault and harassment. Her leadership and commitment to lifting others as she climbs have inspired countless individuals to find their voices and stand up for justice.

Embodying Resilience and Perseverance

In the face of challenges, we can find inspiration from women like Serena Williams, the iconic tennis champion. Throughout her career, Williams has faced adversity, criticism, and personal setbacks. However, she has consistently demonstrated resilience and perseverance, inspiring others to overcome obstacles with unwavering determination.

By sharing stories of individuals like Williams, we remind ourselves and others that setbacks are not the end of our journey, nor do they define us. They are opportunities for growth, pivots, and transformation. Embodying resilience and perseverance, we become examples of hope, motivating others to push through challenges and pursue their dreams.

Opening Doors for All

As influential women of color, we have the power to create inclusive environments that uplift and empower others. Let us draw inspiration from the remarkable work of Indra Nooyi, the former CEO of PepsiCo. Nooyi championed diversity and inclusion within the corporate world, creating opportunities for individuals from all backgrounds to succeed.

By fostering a culture of inclusion, we create spaces where diverse voices are heard, valued, and celebrated. We can advocate for policies that promote equity, mentorship and sponsorship programs that provide guidance, support, advancement opportunities, and initiatives that amplify the achievements of all underrepresented folks. Together, we can open doors for future generations, cultivating a more inclusive and equitable world.

As women of color, we have the power to inspire and uplift others through our own journeys and by sharing the stories of remarkable women who have paved the way. By leading by example, mentoring/ sponsoring, empowering others, embodying resilience and perseverance, and fostering a culture of inclusion, we can ignite confidence, inspire change, and create a ripple effect of empowerment. We are some amazing role models, so let’s embrace it so that we can uplift one another and shape a future where all women of color thrive.

Coming up next in our final installment for this series, cultivating confidence - what's next?