We were lucky to catch up with LaDonna Williams recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi LaDonna, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
Just being myself! I made the choice to not let anyone, society or anything define who I am as a person and entrepreneur. Once I mastered my true authentic self, the possibilities were endless to me! Don’t limit your beliefs, focus on your strengths, leave the past behind, get out of your comfort zone, be vulnerable and find your community of people!
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?
I’m LaDonna Williams, with Quirky Innovations. We offer innovative balloon decor that will create lasting memories. Being artistic and imaginative, we want your special occasion/event(s) to be the talk of the town! The excitement I get about my business, it being creative and spreading joy through balloons! The smiles, the celebrations, the pictures and the overall magic of celebrating something special and I get to be a part of it!
I recently launched some business merchandise…I have pens, cups, tshirts, socks, etc that I’m excited about…POP on over to my website at www.quirkyinnovations.org and check them out!
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?
Be confident in who you are Finding your community
Resilience
Take care of you…Be proactive…Take classes/trainings for further your talents!!! Go to balloon conferences and network with the industry…Most of all, find your purpose!!!
As we end our chat, is there a book you can leave people with that’s been meaningful to you and your development?
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson
Being comfortable with being different is my biggest takeaway from the book! What do you have to lose? Embarrassment, fear, and failures don’t mean anything so you might as well try.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.quirkyinnovations.org
- Instagram: Quirky Innovations
- Facebook: Quirky Innovations
