Meet Michelle Daniels-holloway

We were lucky to catch up with Michelle Daniels-holloway recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Michelle , 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?

Throughout my years, I’ve learned that being effective and successful (even when I am the only one in the room who looks like me) stems from discovering my true identity from within. It flows from doing the tough work. The inner-work. I believe we were created to be relational, and as relational as most of us are, sometimes we tend to “overlook” one of the most important relationships – The one with “self.”

Learning to study myself, ask questions, check in with myself, prioritize my mental health, practice humility, set boundaries, practice discipline, aspire to go higher, and be willing to confront the “uncomfortable stuff” on this journey to grow into a better human has led me to the deepest level of authenticity—and the best part is… authenticity has a sound.

It is a distinctive sound that is unique to you and me. Because there is only one like me or you. To discover is the greatest gift that keeps on giving. Because it allows me the capacity to serve on a level that is much greater than mine. That alone is a confidence booster… A reward for all of the hard inner work. Being me has allowed me to step into many rooms and leave others better than I found them.

The reward of discovering oneself is priceless.

Authenticity is key.

Be YOU!

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

I am a creative entrepreneur with a passion for helping others discover their purpose in life. I believe that each of us is meant to do something remarkable in our world and that uncovering and living out that purpose is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves and others.

Currently, I serve as the Founder and CEO of a youth nonprofit organization called S.P.E.A.K. OUT LOUD. Our mission is to empower underserved and at-risk youth to improve their quality of life through the arts, technology, education, resources, and advocacy. We have designed our core programs to transform trauma into empowerment, providing youth with the space and resources they need to find their voice and drive social change, while also developing valuable skills and enhancing their long-term educational and personal goals.

Additionally, I am the Founder of a new startup company, Cre8 Media Hub, LLC. This cutting-edge, collaborative workspace is designed for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and small businesses. We aim to create a thriving ecosystem where creativity can flourish without limits, allowing every artist, designer, musician, filmmaker, and innovator the opportunity to turn their passion into a sustainable career. More information will be available as we prepare for our official launch, scheduled for 2025.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

1.) Perseverance: I believe it is vital to understand that anything we pursue in life will come with unforeseen challenges. Perseverance is a special level of determination to overcome any obstacle that attempts to hold you back. My ability to succeed has always been based on my ability to persevere. Some of the greatest successors in any generation have this in common. There has never been one able to succeed without the ability to overcome. All it takes is believing in yourself and you are more than halfway there.

2.) Patience: As a mother, I am constant when teaching the power of patience. My journey has taught me there is so much power in exercising patience. When we understand that many things can happen out of our control and that the only thing we have control over is how we respond, we can experience new dimensions in life. Practicing patience builds an inner strength that allows you to trust the process of your life. It helps you to see clearly and make sound decisions. Patience is vital when pursuing goals and dreams in life. Although patience takes time, it can actually “save” time in the end. That’s how you win. Patience is the ultimate “virtue.”

3.) Confidence: My journey has taught me that confidence yields great rewards. I believe it starts with gaining clarity of your identity and learning to believe in yourself, talents, skills, and abilities. It’s about understanding that each of us holds a special key to something in life and finding the key with your name on it. This is what unlocks the door of endless possibilities curated just for you! Never stop believing in yourself and the gifts you possess. Confidence is key!!

Thanks so much for sharing all these insights with us today. Before we go, is there a book that’s played in important role in your development?

“If You Think You Can” By TJ Hoisington was a very impactful book for me. It helped me to understand the power of mindset, and how developing a positive mind is the most powerful thing you can ever possess. A MUST read!!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.speakoutloudfoundation.com/
• Instagram: @speakoutloudfoundation

Image Credits

Grateful for S.P.EA.K. OUT LOUD’S amazing team and volunteers!