Jessica Weaver

When I started in the financial industry in 2010, I joined my father’s financial firm as the only female advisor. Women make up only 18% of advisors, and majority of advisors are also in their 60s. Here I was young, a woman, and very few people took me seriously! I did what I thought would be best, I worked hard, I did what was expected of me, and I did what I was told to do. Then I woke up one day, looked in the mirror, and didn’t recognize who I was.  Read more>>

Jonny Saldana

As the Executive Director of the Charlotte Gaymers Network, I’ve learned several key strategies to be effective and successful, especially in situations where I might be the only one in the room who looks like me. First and foremost, it’s about embracing our identity as the largest LGBTQ+ gaming non-profit organization in the nation. This unique position has not only given us a platform but also a responsibility to represent and advocate for our community. Read more>>

Randy A. Waczkowski

I believe that the best way to be effective and successful in any setting is to simply be my genuine authentic self. In my belief in the heart I have grown and a strong belief in God, I can exist in any room and radiate positive energy that passes on to others around me while also serving as an inspiration for others. As I stand, I stand tall, as I shake your hand, I shake it firmly, and as I give a hug, I give it with love. Read more>>

Alisha Turner

Thank you for asking what I believe to be a very important question for individuals who belong to marginalized groups. It honestly wasn’t until I landed a role working with Grow Dialogue – which is an extremely impactful organization providing Trainings centralized around Conflict Resolution, DEIB, and Leadership – that I became aware of how impactful diversity can be. Read more>>

Tyler Kidd

Since I was seven I’ve in most cases had been the bigger guy in the room. With that being said though, I’ve been in plenty of spaces as a dancer and overall performer where I felt shy to be there because of my size. Although I eventually had to realize that that was one of the small things that made me different as a performer and ultimately stand out in a positive way. Read more>>

Lloyd Booker

A GREAT QUESTION!! As Bruh James Brown would say ‘I Don’t want nobody to give me nuthin open up the door I’ll get it myself’!! (https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=fqulmEzz5nw) … Being a Tall, Fine ,Relatively Educated Artistic Black Man lol .. oh & @ times well spoken lol! I’ve had to be twice as good as my colleagues (this was instilled in me by Parents & Family) in getting anything done! But .. also @ the same time still learning to straddle / navigate fences in regards to peoples misperceptions about me as a person! Read more>>

Shawnick Rodriguez

I actually enjoy being the only one in the room because I utilize those moments as a teachable experience to others. Being the only Latina Artist in the room at times, I get to share my culture through my art, I am able to not only give visuals but also tell a story about who I am and what my culture is all about. It makes it effective because it gives others something that’s outside of the norm of what they are looking for. Which because inviting and a conversation piece. Read more>>

Soniyah Robinson

Being the only one in the room who shares your personal intersections and identity is a common experience among minoritized communities, and something I’ve faced most of my life. Professional, academic and even social spaces can feel burdensome and emotionally taxing when you are the only one that looks like you. There is a certain heaviness that can invade the experience of someone in this position, because there is often pressure to be the representatives of our entire community. However, I’ve learned that this pressure is something that we don’t deserve as a collective, and it doesn’t belong to us. This pressure is rooted in a history of exclusion and isolation, and it is a form of resistance to release ourselves of this weight. Read more>>

Stella Carakasi

Delivering value and expertise with confidence and authenticity, while staying open-minded and receptive to different ideas and perspectives, not only demonstrates leadership but also professionalism and builds strong teams. Believing in one’s abilities and expressing ideas assertively while showcasing skills and work ethic matters to be effective. I have gradually developed these skills over my 30-year career, and I have developed a lot of resilience coping with many challenges.  Focusing on one’s strengths during difficult situations while learning from setbacks fosters growth, experience and wisdom that can be applied to new obstacles. Read more>>

Wynter Eddins

I challenge myself to remember my “why.” Being the only one in the room is an opportunity for me to make space for those who resemble me, and may not have the resources and access to get into those rooms. More importantly, I find that I am most successful in spaces where I am the only Black woman by assuming that everyone is coming from a place of love. I know this sounds a bit cheesy, but try it out sometimes, it really does change the way we interact with one another. Just because society has told me I should feel this “otherness,” it is important to challenge that back and remind myself that I have more in common with people, regardless of race, ethnicity, or gender. We can all find commonalities, and I find that I have been most successful by taking the risk of navigating these spaces with unshielded confidence.  Read more>>

Jequetta Zeigler

This question strikes a chord with many of us who have found ourselves in situations where our uniqueness stands out, both in a positive and challenging light. It’s a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and unwavering determination that has shaped my perspective on success and effectiveness. Firstly, I’ve come to understand that my differences are not obstacles but assets. Embracing my individuality has allowed me to bring a fresh perspective and unique insights to the table. By recognizing the value in diversity, I’ve been able to contribute to discussions and problem-solving in ways that might not have been possible otherwise. Read more>>

Angelica Trygar

I learned that we are all different. I. learned that each of us have different talents and struggles. We all have something different to bring to the table. When I am networking or on set with people who are completely different than I am I bring my sense of humor and real life stories. Everyone can relate to one another by just being a human. Read more>>

Giancarlo Simpson

Being the only one in the room has taught me to regulate my anxiety and the need to overcompensate. I have taken time (and will continue to) to build my competency on matters, and if I am unaware, I do not pressure myself to act as if I do. I am naturally curious, and regardless of the circumstances, I aim to learn from others. It does not take away from my own intelligence because through my curiosity, I will learn what I entered in the room, not knowing. Read more>>

Kenneth Gilliard

Navigating situations where you’re the only person in the room who looks like you can present unique challenges, but it’s also an opportunity to bring diverse perspectives and contribute in meaningful ways through resilience and a strong work ethic. As an African-American male, being the only one in the room, unfortunately, is nothing new as I worked to hone my craft and elevate my skillset. Read more>>

Anuroop Kumar

It’s funny, through the journey of my life, it’s as if I’ve always been the consummate “outsider”. Whether it be my background, education, professional history, cultural heritage, identity, etc. There are 3 things I will mention that have allowed me to be successful & effective with this: 1) Embrace the Eccentricity: Yes, my background and even my thought process may be different – that is exactly why I belong in the room. What perspectives and experiences can I contribute to the discussion? How does this help move a step closer to the end goal? If not the primary solution – I may still present a powerful counterpoint to the proposed approach. This still provides value to the conversation. Read more>>

Shella Sylla

Over the course of my career, I have found myself often being the only woman & person of color in the room, especially in the male-dominated banking industry. Rather than viewing it as a hurdle, I embraced the opportunity to stand out and make a positive impact. One particular instance comes to mind, where my ability to navigate being the only woman in a crucial business negotiation not only showcased my skills but also paved the way for greater inclusivity within the industry. Several years ago, while working in a lending capacity I was on the verge of securing a major client. The meeting was set, and as I walked into the boardroom, I couldn’t help but notice the sea of suits and the lack of diversity. Read more>>

Janna Moretti

I think that there is too much reduction to identity. People are more than their demographic markings. Though I was the one of only girls during my time in the Marines, one of very few women working at hospital construction sites, the only blue-collared writer in my MFA writing workshops, one of the only tattooed full-time professors on campus, a 40+-yo mom who powerlifts competitively and owns a gym while leading a Girl Scout troop–the fact that I have a variance of identities sitting at the fringes of most of groups is not something I worry too much about, really. Read more>>

Tyomi Morgan

When I am the only one in the room, I see it as my super power and I lean into my individuality. I understand that I will be serving as a representation of my culture and of people who look like me, so I make it my duty to do my very best and stand on integrity. I think quick on my feet in situations where micro-aggressions and biases may be at play and commit to calling behaviors forward while keeping my mission in mind and maintaining respect. I also unapologetically take up space by introducing myself to folks in the room and offering my opinions and ideas openly and boldly without shame. Read more>>

Tracy Shroyer

That is the best position to be in as it gives me an opportunity to provide a diverse perspective. This might be from a cultural or educational background, or just experience in general. It’s so helpful to see that each of our perspectives bring something unique to the table, and keeping that it mind helps me realize that my thoughts and contributions can make a difference. Read more>>

Gabrielle Peete

Remaining true to me has always been the best way. When you move authentically people feel that and it draws them in. Apart of my success has been loving all of me. Having that love for me and accepting all parts of me allows me to move through any room without feeling like I’m not supposed to be there. If I’m in that room it’s not by coincidence it’s because it’s meant for me. Read more>>

Stacy Whitenight

As a Latina in the tech industry, I’ve often found myself in a unique position. Representing a mere 2% of the workforce in this sector, I’ve had to navigate being part of a highly underrepresented group. My journey has taught me invaluable lessons about effectiveness and success in such environments. Firstly, I’ve always been confident in expressing my opinions, a skill honed through early involvement in Model UN and debate teams. This experience taught me the importance of structuring arguments persuasively to influence others, a vital skill in any professional setting. Read more>>

Simona Grace

As Commissioner on the Status of Women and the Founder and Executive Director of Moms in Office, I’ve often found myself in spaces that weren’t designed for someone like me – a single mom and a working parent. I’ve learned that being unique in a room full of people who might not share my experiences is not a barrier, but an opportunity. It allows me to introduce new ideas that might otherwise go unheard. My role is not just to represent myself, but also the many women and families whose voices are often overlooked in policy discussions. Read more>>

Shavell Gounod

Growing up in the inner-city, poverty was the norm. A place where drugs were prominent, gangs were the reality, and finishing a high school education was a dream. Being the youngest of five, the first to attend college, graduate, and go on to obtain a law degree, I have observed how various conditions can alter one for either success or disaster. I chose to succeed and not allow a negative environment to derail my goals or objectives. Read more>>

Jerijanneice Walker

This question has so many different ways to describe, and dissect. To be honest all my life i have felt like even in a crowded room I still stood alone. Let me explain more, in my early adulthood I was always voice full and upfront with my approach because I’ve always carried a abrupt and passionate approach. Over time I learned it was never anything wrong with what I spoke about,but maybe my approach was very strong. I studied many ways to be a public speaker as well as how to outline detail to my approach. Read more>>