We recently connected with Trena Myers and have shared our conversation below.
Trena, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
Being the only one in the room that looks like you, whether due to a rare disease or any other unique characteristic, can indeed be challenging. However, it also provides an opportunity to develop resilience, adaptability, and a unique perspective that can be incredibly valuable.
Growing up in the military has likely instilled in me a sense of discipline and adaptability. These qualities are essential when navigating spaces where you might feel different or isolated. Here are some strategies that have helped me be effective and successful in such situations:
Embrace Your Uniqueness: For example, my experiences, including living with a rare disease, has given me a unique perspective that others may not have. Use this to your advantage by offering insights that others might overlook. Your voice is valuable precisely because it is different.
Build a Support Network: Seek out allies and mentors who understand and support your journey. Whether they share your specific experiences or are simply empathetic and open-minded, having a network can provide emotional support and practical advice.
Educate and Advocate: Sometimes, being the only one in the room is an opportunity to educate others about your experiences and challenges. By sharing your story, you can foster understanding and inclusivity, potentially paving the way for others who might follow in your footsteps.
Stay Confident and Authentic: Confidence can be contagious. When you believe in yourself and your abilities, others are more likely to do the same. Stay true to who you are, and don’t feel pressured to conform to others’ expectations.
Adaptability and Flexibility: Life is what you make of it. Being adaptable and open to change can help you navigate unfamiliar environments and make the most of new opportunities. This mindset can turn potential obstacles into stepping stones.
Focus on Your Goals: Keep your eyes on your personal and professional goals. By concentrating on what you want to achieve, you can maintain motivation and drive, even when the path seems challenging.
Seek Continuous Growth: Always look for ways to improve and learn. Whether it’s through formal education, professional development, or personal reflection, continuous growth can help you stay effective and successful.
In conclusion, being the only one in the room can be a powerful position if you leverage your unique experiences and strengths. Remember that you are not alone in your journey, and there are resources and communities out there that can offer support. Life is indeed what you make of it, and with the right mindset and strategies, you can thrive in any environment.


Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
Trena J. Myers, crowned Ms. Elite United USA 2024, is a beacon of hope and a powerful advocate for the rare disease community. Her legacy project, #MakeRareVisible, encapsulates her dedication to improving the quality of life for families affected by rare diseases. As the CEO of RareWish.org, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Trena spearheads initiatives that grant wishes, fund clinical innovation, and provide free healthcare tools to those in need. One of their standout campaigns is the Sunny the Rare Bear Campaign, which aims to brighten the lives of children and adults with rare diseases. Through this campaign, supporters can contribute to an Amazon Wish List to create more Sunny the Rare Bears, adopt a bear via the RareWish.org website, make a donation, or apply to receive a bear, thereby making a tangible difference in the rare disease community.
In addition to her work with RareWish.org, Trena is the owner and founder of Cre8tive Marketing Agency. This leading digital marketing agency is renowned for bringing clients’ ideas to life, serving a diverse clientele across the United States. Under Trena’s leadership, Cre8tive Marketing Agency has become synonymous with innovation, creativity, and exceptional service. Trena’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence have made her a respected figure in the marketing industry, further showcasing her multifaceted talents and drive.
Trena’s artistic prowess is equally impressive. As an award-winning Art Prize abstract artist, her work often reflects the journey of the rare disease community, symbolizing hope amidst darkness. Her unique approach, known as Living Art, involves creating artwork live during events, which is then auctioned off to raise funds for various causes. One notable piece, “Unchained,” raised $3,200 for the Rotary Clubs of Iowa, exemplifying her ability to merge art with philanthropy effectively. Through her varied endeavors, Trena J. Myers continues to inspire and uplift, leaving an indelible mark on both the rare disease community and the world at large. To learn more about her incredible work, visit www.rarewish.org and www.cre8tivehq.com.


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?
Looking back on my journey, I can pinpoint three key qualities that have been most impactful: resilience, adaptability, and continuous learning.
Resilience: The ability to bounce back from setbacks has been crucial. Life is filled with unexpected challenges, and it’s important to develop the mental toughness to keep moving forward, even when things don’t go as planned. My advice for developing resilience is to embrace challenges as learning opportunities. Reflect on your experiences, both good and bad, and understand that each one is a step toward growth.
Adaptability: In an ever-changing world, being adaptable is vital. Whether it’s adapting to new technologies, methodologies, or even shifts in personal circumstances, flexibility has allowed me to stay relevant and effective. To improve adaptability, try stepping out of your comfort zone regularly. Take on new projects, explore different roles, and stay curious about the world around you. The more you expose yourself to change, the more comfortable you will become with it.
Continuous Learning: “Everyday is a learning opportunity.” The moment you stop learning is indeed the moment you stop living. This mindset has kept me engaged, innovative, and competent in my field. To foster continuous learning, make it a habit to read widely, attend workshops, and network with others in your industry. Stay curious and never settle for what you already know.
For those early in their journey, my advice is simple: prioritize these three qualities. Build resilience by viewing setbacks as opportunities for growth. Enhance adaptability by pushing your boundaries and embracing change. And finally, never stop learning. Keep your skills sharp and stay informed about trends in your niche. Remember, every day is a chance to become a better version of yourself.


Tell us what your ideal client would be like?
My ideal client is a small to medium-sized business owner who is keen on building meaningful connections with their audience through social media platforms. They understand the importance of engaging content and are looking for innovative ways to communicate their brand’s story. Such clients are eager to invest in quality marketing collateral that effectively captures their brand’s essence and resonates with their target audience. Additionally, they value the strength of a cohesive team and are interested in organizing team-building workshops to boost morale and productivity within their workforce.
These clients are typically forward-thinking and open to new ideas, appreciating the role that creativity and strategic planning play in their business growth. They recognize the power of a strong online presence and are committed to maintaining it through consistent, high-quality content. Moreover, they are collaborative, providing insights and feedback that help refine and tailor the services to better meet their needs. Essentially, they are passionate about their business, understand the value of effective communication, and are dedicated to fostering a supportive and dynamic team environment.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.cre8tivehq.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mseliteunitedusa
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cre8tivehq
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trena-myers/
- Other: www.facebook.com/mseliteunitedusa
www.rarewish.org






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