Meet Vanessa L. Bryant

We recently connected with Vanessa L. Bryant and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Vanessa L. , 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?

Growing up in a very monocultural community, it was difficult for me at a young age to see the value in standing out and embracing my differences. As a child I wanted to just “fit in” and “be like everyone else.” That mentality stayed with me for a long time and turned into insecurities that fed into my inner critic, creating voices that tried to tell me that I wasn’t good enough, that I wasn’t worthy and that I didn’t belong. It wasn’t until I started to work through those emotions, and acknowledge the unique perspectives and strengths that my background afforded me, that I began to shift my mindset. I realized that my differences weren’t weaknesses but rather assets that could enhance my contributions in any environment. This epiphany empowered me to embrace my identity, even when I was often the only one in the room that looked like me.

Instead of shrinking back in discomfort, I learned to harness the power of my unique experiences to offer fresh insights and solutions. Being in spaces where I was a minority challenged me to develop resilience and confidence, forcing me to articulate my thoughts more clearly and assertively. I became adept at building connections with others, bridging gaps between diverse viewpoints, and fostering an inclusive environment. Ultimately, I transformed my insecurities into strengths, proving to myself and others that authenticity can lead to effective collaboration and success, regardless of how different one may feel in a given setting.

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?

Vanessa L. Bryant is a connector of people, creator, writer, speaker, and compassionate self-advocacy and empowerment coach. Her journey from war-torn Liberia to Salt Lake City, Utah, has been one of profound self-discovery, where she learned to embrace her unique qualities and find strength within them.

As a Master Certified Professional Coach & Soul Coach Practitioner with a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing and an MBA, Vanessa skillfully merges her academic and professional expertise to establish Soulfully Spoken Co., where she nurtures and uplifts the minds, bodies, and souls of countless individuals. Through her work as an author and event curator, notably at the Unleashed Summit, Vanessa adeptly leads others on transformative growth journeys. By sharing her personal story, she champions the profound impact of vulnerability and connection, exemplifying the tools essential to living an empowered and soul-fueling life.

What excites me most about the work I do is the opportunity to connect with individuals from all walks of life and facilitate their journeys toward empowerment and self-advocacy. Each interaction is a chance to witness transformation—a moment where someone realizes their worth and embraces their unique story. I find joy in creating spaces where people can come together, share experiences, and support one another in their growth. Whether it’s through coaching sessions, workshops, or events like the Unleashed Summit, I am constantly inspired by the resilience and strength of those I work with.

To stay connected and find upcoming events and workshops, I encourage everyone to follow my journey through my website (www.soulfullyspoken.com) and social media platforms (IG: @soulfullyspoken.co) . There, you can discover opportunities to engage with my work, join a community of like-minded individuals, and participate in transformative experiences that will uplift your mind, body, and soul. Together, we can continue to break barriers and build a more inclusive world where everyone’s voice is heard and valued.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Looking back on my journey, three qualities that have been most impactful are self-love, vulnerability, and resilience. Each of these has played a crucial role in shaping not just who I am, but how I interact with the world around me.

Self-love has been fundamental in my journey. It allowed me to embrace my uniqueness and recognize that I am worthy of love and respect, regardless of external validation. For those early in their journey, I encourage you to cultivate self-love by practicing positive affirmations and surrounding yourself with supportive people who celebrate your individuality. Remember, it’s okay to prioritize your well-being and happiness.

Vulnerability has also been a powerful tool for me. By allowing myself to be open and authentic, I’ve fostered deeper connections with others. Sharing my struggles and triumphs has not only helped me heal but has also resonated with those around me. My advice is to lean into your vulnerability—don’t be afraid to share your story. It can be incredibly liberating and can inspire others to do the same.

Finally, resilience has been a cornerstone of my growth. Life can present numerous challenges, and developing resilience has empowered me to bounce back and learn from setbacks. For those just starting out, embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Build a toolkit of coping strategies—whether it’s mindfulness practices, journaling, or seeking support from mentors. Know that every challenge you face is a stepping stone toward your personal evolution.

Incorporating these qualities into your life will not only enhance your journey but will also foster a sense of connection and purpose. Embrace who you are, share your truth, and stand firm in your resilience. You are capable of amazing things!

Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?

I always say that community is key. That is true for me and my story of overcoming as well. Community has been vital element that has significantly impacted my journey. Being surrounded by a supportive network of individuals who uplift and encourage has made all the difference, especially in reminding me of my significant value and purpose in this world.

Additionally, my faith has been a guiding light for me, it has been the filter to which I make decisions and find strength and comfort in the times of trouble. Whether it’s faith in a higher power, the universe, or simply in the goodness of humanity —whatever form it takes for you, I hope that you can trust that there is a purpose to your journey and that challenges can lead to growth and transformation.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.soulfullyspoken.com
• Instagram: @soulfullyspoken.co
• Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/vanessa-l-bryant-563271236

Image Credits

Whit Hawkins Photography