Inevitably you will find yourself in a room where no one else is like you. They might not look like you, speak like you, pray or love like you or think like you. Managing to be effective in all contexts is an essential part of your journey towards reaching your full potential and so we asked some brilliant members of the community to share their stories and advice.
Gamila Smith
I use the I am frequency , I am confident, resilient, blessed . I share my wisdom and knowledge with respect, reverence & grace to individuals who ask for guidance or advice. Read more>>
Karishma Devnani
It took me a very long time to realize that no matter how many people are in a room, they will never be me. There is no one like me no matter how many similarities I have with your best friend or the stranger I met today. Read more>>
Shari Beckford
By being COMPELLING. Read more>>
Zachary Walker
As a VP of Social Media in advertising, our industry’s been known for being predominantly led by white males. As such, I’ve spent more time in my professional career being the only or one of the few in the room who looks like me. But like most things in life, depending on your outlook in life, that can either be channeled into something productive or something that controls you. Some of the things that have helped shape my bold journey: Read more>>
Nubia Ramos
I think it’s all based on valuing and accepting people’s qualities, including your own. When you analyze your virtues, work on your defects and begin to believe in yourself, everything shines, we should not try to be a brighter source of light than others, we should seek to be the purest and most incredible source of light within its own qualities. Read more>>
Deborah Young
Most of my life in the community where I grew up, I was the only multi-ethnic individual, and it was very hard being the only one who looked like me. This is very true; it was incredibly difficult for me. A lot of times, I felt insecure, and sometimes, to this day, I still feel insecure about the way I look. Read more>>
Diarra Cummings
As a pilates instructor, I am often in workplaces that lack racial and ethnic diversity. I have very often been the only person of color on a teaching staff, and most of the clients that I have worked with are not reflective of my cultural identity. Read more>>
DanJuma Ochai
I’ve learned to be my own best advocate. When you’re in spaces where you’re the only person that looks like you you have to be very mindful of how you communicate and to whom you’re communicating to. Read more>>
Kaitlynne Rainne
I love this question! As a BIPOC creative, sometimes I walk into a room and I’m the only one who looks like me. But more often, I am the only one with my heritage or cultural background in the room. I’m from Belize, a small Central American/Caribbean country and my heritage lies in Creole, Mestizo, and East Indian culture. Read more>>
Indigoz Specialty Insoles With “MemGel” Technology
How we have learned to be effective/successful in our own lane, is we pointed out the good in our differences and the different benefits of us being different. People are always looking for something new to experience, with that we offer something that others do not offer, which is style, comfort, and stability, with an extra booster, to create an all around feeling. Read more>>
Z. F. Taylor
As an artist who comes from one of the national meccas for creativity, artistry, and fame, working hard to be noticed within the melting pot of the tri-state area (New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania) is a skill set I believe the majority of East Coast babies are innately endowed with. Read more>>
Traci Luthy
I try not to frame being the only one in the room as an absolute negative. It’s certainly not ideal and it needs to change, however in the meantime, I try to view it positively and use it to my advantage. Many clients gravitate toward working with me precisely because I stand out from the crowd. I’m a black female business owner, and people love and understand that I offer a unique perspective that can benefit them. Read more>>
Dr. Selena Smith, PhD
My journey in corporate America has been marked by resilience and determination. Often finding myself as the only person of color and sometimes the youngest in the room, I faced the challenge of having my goals and aspirations questioned simply because of my identity. Despite these obstacles, I remained steadfast in my purpose, a promise I recognized at the young age of nine. Read more>>
Khalua Kinard
As someone who has often found themselves as the only brown person in the room, I have learned to navigate these situations with confidence and grace. I believe that my unique perspective and experiences bring value to any space, and I make sure to shine as bright as I can, not afraid to share my gifts and talents. Read more>>
Liam Slater
For a long time I really struggled to fit in. Especially in Nashville, there is a look, a sound, a way of writing a song, that people expect. There are plenty of people who fit the expected image of a Nashville artist, and for a long time I tried to fit into that box myself. I changed the way I dressed, I wrote songs I thought people wanted to hear, I acted. I played a part that wasn’t me, and it drained me. Read more>>
Linda Calvin
Being an only is tough and it takes a patience, creativity and strategy to be successful. When I join a team and I’m an only, I take time to identify the leaders and influencers in the room. I connect with them and request an informational session, just a one-on-one. I find informational sessions great ways to learn about those on my team, their expectations of my role, and I always ask my favorite question, “what are three things that keep them up at night?” Read more>>
Khary Alexcee
I think this is a great question. Believe it or not it it is a great motivator. First I start with the belief that I’m in that room for a reason and that I belong there. Also, I look at it as an opportunity to bring a different perspective. Read more>>
Carissa Lataillade
As a black woman and a psychotherapist, I’ve often found myself being the only person of color in a room. The unspoken expectation of representing an entire ethnicity can be overwhelming. Amidst the whirlwind of thoughts, staying focused and successful can be challenging. However, I’ve developed three essential strategies that have helped me thrive in such situations. Read more>>
Jasmine Mckenzie
I learned how to be effective by truly being my authentic self unapologetically
Where my experiences have undoubtedly shaped my resilience, adaptability, and ability to thrive even in challenging environments where oftentimes I am the only person with my specific background and identity. Read more>>
Trisha Hershberger
When you are inherently different than what people are expecting – whether that be due to gender, age, race, orientation, etc – it can make it difficult to be accepted in any community. For me, as a woman and especially as a mom, I’m not generally what people expect see when they are looking for gaming, tech or comic/sci-fi/fantasy content. Read more>>
Aaliyah Duah
I love this question because it’s a skill I’ve been working on for a while. A lot of the time, at events, social gatherings, or different places I go, I’m usually the youngest person there. This puts me in a unique spot where I can either focus on feeling out of place or embrace the fact that I stand out because I’m different. Read more>>
TRINITY COX
Thankfully, I have never hinged my diligence or production on whose in the room, even when I was afraid and just starting out. From the perspective of being a minority dancer in the room, I developed an understanding of integrity and regality for my work. From the perspective of those who sit at the front of the room, their presence only makes me excited to share what I have to give the world. Read more>>
Nicole Alston
I have learned that authenticity is something that has to be present when you are in a room where you are the only one who looks like you. Being myself has been the most effective and successful. People are more drawn to your energy and how that translates into your brand. For people to want to shop or be a client of yours your personality has to reflect in that. Read more>>
Aria Leighty
I know that if I am the only one in that room that doesn’t look like me- it was intentionally built that way. So many rooms and systems have been built to keep Brown, Black, and Queer folk out of them. Or if we are allowed in, there is an unspoken rule that we must conform, water ourselves down, soften our edges, quiet our voices before entering. Read more>>
Sylvia Longmire
I’m often in an environment where I’m the only wheelchair user in the room. The best way I overcome any issues that stem from this is to just know what I’m talking about. It’s amazing how many people don’t take wheelchair users seriously for whatever preconceived notions they might have. Read more>>
Justus King
Being the only Black male in spaces has taught me a tremendous amount. I embrace my unique perspective, stay resilient, build strong support systems, and always deliver top-notch work. I stay true to myself and use my voice to push for more diversity. My uniqueness is my strength! Read more>>
Lotus Flow
I want to discuss this because Asian female music producers are rare in the industry, with only 3.4% of music producers worldwide being female. As an Asian female producer, I may be one of just two in the world. Navigating this career path without role models has been incredibly challenging and lonely. Read more>>
Franchesca Voltaire
Being the only one in room when no one looks like has gotten so far in my life and career. I stand out so I can easily capture the audience attention and be approachable to talk to. Why be one of many when you can be one of one. Read more>>
Luis Del Mar
Being a male makeup artist in a female-dominated industry can be challenging. It’s an environment where men aren’t always welcomed, and the idea of men wearing makeup isn’t universally accepted. To navigate these challenges, I’ve developed a thick skin and resilience. Read more>>
Wanda Lloyd
As an African American woman who grew up in the segregated South, I have been the first or “only” many times in my career. I had just completed a course in journalism in my all Black high school in Georgia, and I remember the day at the end of 11th grade when I announced to my family that I already knew that daily newspaper journalism would become my life’s work, Read more>>
Sonja Beauchamp, MBA, CMQ/OE, FM
How have I learned to be effective/successful even when no one in the room looks like me is a great question that speaks to who I am. Being a minority, often times no one looks like me in the room and being a women, it’s common I’m the only one at the decision table “IF” I’m given a seat at all at the table. Read more>>
Dani Julian
I think that, despite being an “alt” girl with a ton of tattoos and a quirky personality, I have proven to my fans, clients, and friends that I am a kind, generous person who makes a strong effort to get along with everyone I encounter. I aim to express empathy for all people, whether they be a platonic friend, a “business only” illustration client, or a stranger. Read more>>
Dr. Raynetta Stansil
During most of my career, I have always been one of few of the black individuals in the room. In addition, I have also been the only African American in the room.I have always lived in the model be myself but also know your audience. Read more>>
Ty Chen
I find it a gift being the only one in the room that looks like me. Metaphorically, this can even apply to the way that my photography looks. Being unique is a gift, it allows you to stand out. Being in a room with everyone who looks like you, or in this instance when other photographer’s works look like yours, can be comforting to know that you fit in. However, it is very hard to differentiate yourself from everyone else that way. Read more>>
TheReal KreShai
Whew! Well as a BBW that’s definitely been a thing for a while now. Especially in an industry where everyone wants to look the same to be seen as acceptable and or beautiful. I like to let my personality outdo my looks. Read more>>
Siraaj Woods
Navigating being the sole representative of your background in various environments can be both challenging and enlightening. As an African-American male in his mid-20s, I’ve often found myself as the only person of my demographic in diverse settings—from classrooms to professional events, even in neighborhoods that I’ve lived in. Read more>>
Shanice Hamilton
When I moved to Los Angeles, I expected to be at odds while working in a male-dominated role. Surprisingly, while working as a personal trainer for Equinox, I was the only Black Female trainer. As well as the only female athletic performance trainer. At first, I let fear overtake me, and I had a very hard time adjusting and getting new clientele. Read more>>
Bryant Griffin
Being the only one in the room is the story of my late teen to adult life. Unfortunately as a person of color, this is the case for pretty much everyone, especially in certain professions and levels of management. What helps me is to not assume that people are out to get your or sabotage your career. Read more>>
Tana Newberry
Hey there, I’m Tana Newberry, the International Psychic of nearly two decades- turned Wealth Activator and Luxury Psychic Business Mentor you’ve been hearing about. I Lead 6 Figure+ Psychic CEOs and Spirit-led Entrepreneurs to Transform Into World-Class Luxury Brands w/ Premium Offers & Unmatched Industry Authority. Read more>>
Srinidhi Moram, Nidhi Gadekar, and Dileep Kotireddy
Young Athlete Aid has learned to be successful by utilizing our unique perspective that comes from the diversity of groups with different purposes and goals. As a non-profit led by high schoolers, our journey has had challenges that have allowed us to overcome any hurdle thrown our way, which adds to our unique perspective on how to handle situations. Read more>>
Jocylynn Coleman
Before I started my entrepreneurial journey, I worked as a Controller for a Developer. I remember a particularly challenging project where every decision I made was questioned simply because it came from me. It was a a multi-million dollar development that required precision and strategic financial planning. Read more>>
Ms Hitch
I always love getting this question because it allows me to speak on some topics that go far beyond the surface. In the space I am in in my life and my career, I understand the art and beauty of human differences. Living in America and specifically Los Angeles, California there is a melting pot of different peoples and cultures, that we have the liberty to learn from, and create with. Read more>>
Racha Aimach
Being authentic is the key! I learned that being my self and embrace who I’m is the way to be successful. Being different is a powerful quality. You will be a point of interest to others Another main point for that be genuine with your interest in others work and ask informative questions, that can start great conversations in return is a key for others to be interested in your work, and create real connection and relationships that lead to being successful. Read more>>
Ieisha/Thomas Rice
Ieisha/Thomas: Despite my initial awareness of being the only one in the room, I don’t let it hinder my efforts to connect with others. I actively engage with people, focusing on understanding them beyond initial impressions. This approach has allowed me to form deeper, more authentic connections. Read more>>
Delilah Ossa
I have worked many roles in the Apartment Industry, and my promotions into a leader for these roles, including as a Community Director and Resident Services Manager, have put me in many situations where I was the only manager who looked like me. Read more>>
Kara (KC) Chaney
My fashion choices and designs are an extension of my personality, allowing me to feel confident and comfortable. When I feel good about my appearance, it boosts my overall confidence and presence. Naturally, I’m charismatic and easy to talk to, so I leverage my true self in situations where I may feel uncomfortable. Read more>>
Blaire Chastain
As a woman in the construction industry, I often times find myself in this situation. I struggled with this early on, often felt like my ideas were small or I didn’t belong. Over time I have witnessed these “small” ideas transform into beautiful designs and buildouts that I’m proud of. I’ve learned to be resilient, trust in myself and in my process. Read more>>
Lauren Stern
From as young as I could remember, I was a complete computer nerd. I spent all day and night immersed in virtual worlds, learning how to create design and dream. I spent summers at computer camp, and even returned to the same computer camp during college as a programming instructor. In college, it only made sense that I dive into Computer Science and ended up being one of the few women in the major. Read more>>
Will Lu
I aim to have two attributes when I’m in these types of situations. The first is to be genuinely enthusiastic. It is natural to gravitate towards positive people. A little enthusiasm goes a long way when trying something new or meeting someone for the first time. Think of the energy you feel when encountering a friend you haven’t seen. It’s hard not to feel excited about someone else who is excited to meet you. Read more>>
Christina Liedtke
To be effective and successful when you’re the only one in the room who looks like you, involves a great deal of awareness, confidence, and influential expression that brings people along on your thought process and journey. Read more>>
Pauline Victoria
There is a small percentage of people in the world who look like me, a multi-ethnic woman born without limbs. This means that I’m often the only person like me in a room, especially related to business. Since I was born, I have gotten used to living in a world that is not made for me. Read more>>
Hannah Shelton
Being an Artist has long been considered a taboo career choice or lifestyle. Combine that with an even more taboo art medium of working with bones and you can prepare yourself for a lot of questions and strange looks. In the world of oddities and the macabre most people would picture someone with a dark or gothic style themselves. Read more>>
Bethany Shields
As a nationally-board certified health and wellness coach and a large-bodied endurance athlete, I’ve navigated a unique path in the health and fitness space. I’m not the only one in the room that looks like me, but when I started out, I often felt that way. Read more>>
Chris & Maya Dawson
In 2021 we shot our first short film “The Dress.” We had no idea what we were doing, but we were passionate about the story we wanted to tell and surrounded ourselves with experts that we could trust. As a black man and woman who were producing and directing a project of this caliber for the first time it was very intimidating. Read more>>
Jenn Bethune
In 2011, we lost our son Ethan in a car accident, on our way to Walt Disney world for his 7th birthday. Ethan was such a courageous kid, very wise beyond his years. I had him when I was 17 and had been a single mom, up until Ethan was 18 months old, when I met my partner Kyle. Ethan never met his Father. So truly, Kyle was the only dad he’d ever known. Read more>>
Axel Rivera
Finding myself in new creative spaces and network environments is something that I self encourage but it can also come up as a constant challenge since the industry is competitive. Embracing my journey and remembering where I come from is important to me. Read more>>
Marcus Cardona
I’d say my success in being effective as the only one in the room that looks like me comes from my upbringing. At many times it felt like I was the only one in the state who looked like me. Being a Filipino born in Maine, one of the whitest states, I was not only the only Asian in the room but a lot of the times the only BIPOC in the room. Read more>>
Malika Williams
As an African American woman I strive to go against the norm because I know about all the stereotypes that were placed upon my life even before I was born. Being the only person in the room that looks like me, provides me the confidence I need to understand the importance of my presence. I have to be the voice of those that don’t have one. Read more>>
Mrs. Kiara Streater
When facing the formidable challenge of being the only one in the room who looks like me, I’ve learned to transform the weight of that solitude into a source of strength and resilience. Rather than succumb to the discomfort of being ‘the only,’ I’ve harnessed the power of representation, using it as a catalyst for meaningful change and progress. Read more>>
Fco. Chandia
There have been many times when I’ve felt like an outsider or a misfit. I’m very passionate and tend to hyper-fixate on different topics that interest me. I navigate through life with this intense passion, never letting anybody take control of what I like and love. Read more>>
