We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Amanda Bach. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Amanda below.
Amanda, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
Navigating a situation where you are the only person in the room who looks like you can be both challenging and rewarding. Thriving in situations where you’re the sole representative of your background can pose both challenges and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Here are some strategies to excel in such scenarios:
Embrace Your Uniqueness: Confidence in your individuality is key. Understand that your distinctive perspective can offer valuable insights and solutions.
Self-Confidence: Embrace your uniqueness and have confidence in your abilities. Understand that your diverse perspective can be a valuable asset in problem-solving and decision-making.
Cultural Competence: Foster cultural competence by learning about other cultures, traditions, and perspectives. This will enable you to connect with a diverse range of colleagues and clients.
Cultivate Connections: Forge relationships with colleagues or guests who share your background, both inside and outside your organization. These connections can provide support, mentorship, and a sense of belonging.
Networking: Build relationships with colleagues and peers who share your background or experiences, both within and outside your organization. These connections can offer support, mentorship, and a sense of belonging.
Continuous Learning: Stay informed and educated in your field. Knowledge is power, and being well-prepared can help you feel more confident in your abilities and contributions.
Lead by Example: Set a positive example through your work ethic, professionalism, and dedication. Show others that diversity can enhance the team’s performance and innovation.
Mentorship and Sponsorship: Seek out mentors and sponsors who can provide guidance, advice, and opportunities for career advancement. They can help you navigate the corporate landscape and promote your growth.
Effective Communication: Develop strong communication skills to express your ideas clearly and persuasively. Being able to articulate your thoughts is crucial when you’re the only representative of your background or perspective.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
A Trailblazing Entrepreneur Bridging Cultures and Creating Success
In the bustling streets of Saigon, Vietnam, a young me and my journey, igniting a spark that would eventually illuminate the entrepreneurial landscape of my life in America. My story is not just one of success, but a testament to the impact one person can make it in this land where I call home now, America, when one is driven by resilience, determination, and an unwavering passion for innovation and philanthropy.
My American adventure began when I crossed oceans as a teenager to pursue higher education, a courageous step that would shape my destiny. Little did I know that this voyage would become the first chapter in an entrepreneurial narrative that spans diverse industries and resonates with the promise of boundless of my humbled achievement.
What truly distinguishes is my curiosity and my adaptability in numerous fields. I’m not merely a businessperson; I feel as I’m a trailblazer, and I hope my journey is an inspiring validation to the boundless possibilities of the human spirit.
From the outset, my ventures have been guided by a single principle: making a difference. I’ve been a driving force behind a nonprofits that have left an indelible impact on single moms community nationwide. I built 1,200 of HTML page to build SingleMom.org organization when I was in college then. My philanthropic efforts extend beyond the boardroom, into the hearts and lives of those that I’m blessed to have met.
My dedication to positive change is a beacon that illuminates every project I undertake. Mypassion is not confined to profit margins; it is a force that transforms each endeavor into a vibrant expression of my commitment to improving the community, and the people around me, my family, my circle, my friends, my clients, and even my online foodie friends.
In the realm of business consulting, I had the ability to discern beyond the surface, to analyze and strategize, had guided countless enterprises through the complexities of modern commerce. My counsel is the compass that steers businesses toward profitability and sustainability. My journey takes an even more fascinating turn with my foray into product management, product development, steering innovations that meet the ever-evolving needs of consumers. The potential for groundbreaking changes in this space is palpable.
And now, now I embark on a thrilling new adventure with our startup. In a world teeming with possibilities, I enjoy to disrupt, innovate, and elevate. People that truly know me, often say that my boundless energy and unwavering commitment to excellence, promises an exciting journey ahead for my brand and my clients’ brands.
What sets my brand truly apart is my ability to seamlessly blend my cultural heritage with the spirit of American entrepreneurship. My experiences in Vietnam have enriched my worldview, providing a unique perspective that has become the cornerstone of my humbled success. This fusion of cultures adds depth and dimension to my brand, making my journey all the more attractive and inspiring for others.
For over 18 years, I’ve devoted myself to volunteer work as a Disaster Service with the American Red Cross. I’ve deployed to numerous disaster-stricken areas to provide crucial aid and support. Beside following footsteps of my parents being philanthropists, I’m also a blood donor ambassador for American Red Cross.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
In a world filled with countless opportunities and challenges, one’s journey towards success is often marked by the development of key qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge. Looking back on my own experiences, and many individuals/mentors/clients/colleagues/professors that I learned from, I can pinpoint three aspects that have played a pivotal role in shaping my paths to achievement. Quality 1: Resilience
Resilience is a quality that repeatedly surfaces as a driving force behind success stories. Whether it’s overcoming setbacks, facing rejection, or navigating through turbulent times, resilience enables individuals to bounce back stronger and more determined than ever. As an entrepreneur who built a few startups from scratch, emphasized the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. The journey is never without its obstacles. Being resilient means you can adapt and persevere even when everything seems to be against you. It’s about learning from your failures and using them as stepping stones.
Advice: To develop resilience, embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and maintain a positive mindset. Surround yourself with a support system that encourages you to keep pushing forward.
Quality 2: Never stop Learning
In an ever-evolving world, the hunger for knowledge and the ability to adapt to change are paramount. Successful individuals often stress the significance of continuous learning and staying ahead of the curve in their respective fields.
As a lifelong learner, I have earned my many skills from various industries. I strongly believe in learning and commitment to be a better version of myself so I can serve my community, my clients, and my business better. One of the better way I know how is to keep on learning. For instance, I become a Sommelier so I can understand about wine. I attend Gemology of America so that I can understand gemstones. I studied marketing from SJSU to better myself. Then I studied Digital Marketing from Columbia Business School, later Nutrition Management from Harvard Medical Scholl, and currently a Juris Doctor Candidate at Lincoln Law School. Learning doesn’t stop when you earn a degree or achieve a milestone. It’s a lifelong pursuit and I’m grateful for being able to learn and do what I love. Staying curious and open to new ideas is what keeps my journey fresh and exciting. (#NeverStopLearning is actually one of my favorite harshtag on IG, true story!)
Advice: Invest in your education (if you can), and education doesn’t have to be in traditional route that I too. You can seek out mentors, learn from friends, networking groups, etc., and PLEASE stay curious. Embrace every opportunity to learn, whether it’s through formal education or self-directed exploration.
Quality 3: Networking and Collaboration
No one achieves success in isolation. Building meaningful connections and collaborating with others can open doors to opportunities that might otherwise remain hidden. The ability to communicate effectively, foster relationships, and work in teams is a crucial skill.
Business or product innovation ideas thrive when it’s shared. Collaborating with fellow entrepreneurs has not only broadened my horizons but also introduced me to a level of network that I could have never reached on my own.
Advice: Nurture a network of diverse individuals who share your passion and goals. Embrace collaboration at every opportunity, and always recognize the value of building meaningful relationships. Be discerning when selecting your circle of associates, as the company you keep can greatly influence your journey, if you catch my drift.
In conclusion, reflecting on one’s journey often reveals the pivotal role played by qualities like resilience, continuous learning, and effective networking. For those just embarking on their pursuit of success, the advice I’ve gathered from these accomplished individuals serves as a guiding light. I’m been fortunate to have these opportunities, though they came with their share of challenges and setbacks. Embrace resilience, never stop learning, and build connection with others who can amplify and enhance your journey. Success may not be guaranteed, but these qualities can undeniably pave the way, and stand as living proof of their impact.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
My parents provided me with a foundation of love, unwavering support, and nurturing. Growing up in post-war Saigon, Vietnam was a challenging period for my family, with my grandparents experiencing profound losses. However, my parents were determined to offer me every opportunity for growth. They tirelessly enrolled me in a multitude of classes, spanning subjects from chemistry to calculus and from music to ballet. There seemed to be no end to my educational pursuits, and even during moments of respite, I found myself assisting my father with his various businesses.
This relentless work ethic and hunger for learning became the cornerstones of my life, ultimately shaping my journey in America. As I embarked on new adventures in a new land, the values instilled by my parents continued to guide me, propelling me toward a future filled with opportunities and success. Their unwavering support and commitment to my growth laid the foundation for the person I am today, and I am forever grateful for their influence on my life.
Regardless of my choices, my parents have always stood by me, offering their unconditional support. Even during my moments of failure and financial hardship, they have never passed judgment. Instead, they have consistently provided guidance and been my pillars of strength during my darkest times.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @1MandaBear
- Linkedin: Amanda Bach
- Twitter: 1MandaBear
- Yelp: Manda Bear
Image Credits
Trevor Newkirk Photography
