We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Ari Demboski a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Ari, first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
For most of my high school career I believed that I was going to major in music, dedicating most of my school and after school hours to the music department. Despite the many hours of practicing I had under my belt and the fact that I was well awarded, I still felt like I was faking being good at music and that I could never perform to peoples standards. The pressure of being perfect because I was at the top ultimately crushed me and I decided to go to college undecided. After AP music theory, being first chair, winning solos, and mastering a multitude of instruments – I did not feel worthy or confident in my skills. Although it did not take long for me to find my true home in sustainability, the imposter syndrome derailed my intricately planned future.
It wasn’t until years later that I realized that my imposter syndrome could be dismantled with the same thing that had me pull the plug on my future: confidence. I can be well-versed in a subject and know all of the ins-and-outs of it but if I don’t feel confident then it all deflates. My internship experience helped me puff out my chest mostly because of the director who reminded the ladies in the program that we deserve to hold space at the board meeting table too. She inspired us to feel just as empowered as the men in the room and not sit back just because you’re supposed to be a soft spoken lady. That lesson changed my perspective and I started realizing that everyone truly is faking it until they make it and I was holding myself to ridiculous standards. Confidence glows through and people can tell when there is doubt. There is value in knowing your worth and being able to speak highly of what you’re putting out.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Growing up, I always looked different and never quite felt as pretty as my classmates did. Thankfully, I eventually understood the immense power of inclusivity and how it can shape how we see ourselves. Witnessing the positive impact it has on children today with diversity in movies, princesses, and books – I’ve made it my priority to create an environment where everyone can feel confident and empowered. The ECO Runways brand is fueled by the belief that inclusivity and accessibility are the cornerstones of self-assurance. When everyone is represented and valued, confidence becomes universal. And so, we’re proud to announce our upcoming event – our groundbreaking third runway show 3CO: REIGN happening on November 2nd in downtown Charleston. This is not just another fashion show; it’s a statement of embracing uniqueness, a celebration of slow fashion that respects our planet, and an invitation for every BODY to grace the stage. Mark your calendars – tickets for this empowering event go on sale September 1st at 2pm. But that’s not all, we’re on the lookout for models who embody the spirit of ECO from Charleston, New Jersey, and even Colombia. This isn’t about conforming to some predetermined notion of beauty; it’s about showcasing the real, authentic beauty that lies within each of us while practicing sustainability in fashion.
So, to all the beautiful souls out there who have ever felt different, overlooked, or underestimated – this is for you. Join us as we set the stage for a world where everyone shines, and where confidence radiates from within. Together, we’re rewriting the narrative of beauty, and we can’t wait to have you be a part of this transformative journey. At our core, ECO is not just a brand; we’re a movement that champions inclusivity and embraces diversity in all its forms. We’re able to create a platform that celebrates every unique individual, irrespective of how they’ve felt in the past. It’s the profound transformation that comes from realizing one’s true worth and beauty, and the ripple effect it has on the younger generation.
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?
During my internship mentioned before, I learned the significance of networking and the role platforms like LinkedIn play in expanding one’s professional horizons. Building connections within your industry can offer unique insights, mentorship, and potential collaborations that propel your journey forward. For those embarking on their journey, I advise you to prioritize networking. Attend relevant events, virtual conferences, and workshops to broaden your network. Additionally, craft a LinkedIn profile that highlights your strengths and aspirations, and remember, personalized connection requests go a long way in building genuine relationships.
The ability to empathize and read people proved to be an invaluable asset on my journey. In the realm of sustainability, where interactions with diverse stakeholders are integral, effective communication and collaboration are paramount. By actively honing your empathy and interpersonal skills, you can comprehend different perspectives, facilitate understanding, and build lasting relationships rooted in trust. These skills will not only aid your professional growth but also enrich your personal connections.
A pivotal realization in my journey was the shared emphasis on networking in both sustainability and fashion, particularly as you advance in your career. The connection between these fields is undeniable, and networking acts as a catalyst for growth and innovation. To excel in this intersection, adopt a strategic approach to networking. Attend events that bridge sustainability and fashion, connect with mentors who have navigated similar paths, and leverage your unique perspective. As you build relationships, don’t underestimate the power of contributing your distinct viewpoint to conversations.
What’s been one of your main areas of growth this year?
There is no question that I’ve been working on my confidence for probably over two decades, but over the last twelve months my confidence has grown exponentially. After laparoscopic surgery for my endometriosis, my body was different. As she was healing, she was still swollen and scarred but instead of going down a path of self-hatred like teenage me would have – I reminded myself that my body has gotten me this far and for that I am thankful! I struggled with body image for as long as I remember with so much pressure coming from my maternal family. I finally stopped fighting my body and embraced it, and I haven’t looked back! I can actually curate a wardrobe that’s fun and I’m not just trying to hide myself. Finding confidence inside and out has been life changing and prosperous. Sometimes, you’re the only thing standing in your way.
Contact Info:
- Website: linktree.com/elevati
- Instagram: @elevati_lifestyle
- Other: @eco_runways
Image Credits
Lauren @imaginationseyephotos
