We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Eric Brown, Jr.. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Eric below.
Eric, 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 who looks like me in the room, I’ve learned that it’s important to stay focused on my purpose and presence. My foundational years at My HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) Delaware State University helped me appreciate the legacy I carry. That experience shaped me to see the brilliance I bring to the table. I’m there to share ideas, spark creativity, and offer a unique perspective that might not always be heard.
When I was just starting out, sometimes I paid attention to the fact that I didn’t look like everyone else or come from the same background. But my mentors were always there to remind me that I was in the room for a reason.
Now, I embrace being the only one and use my spot at the table to inspire new ideas and growth.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once talked to students in Philly about the importance of being “somebody,” striving for excellence, and dedicating yourself to service. These principles have become the core to how I approach my work and tackle challenges. No matter where I go, I aim to be a light, a catalyst for change, and a beacon of what’s possible. I use my influence and creativity to create equitable opportunities and pathways for more people who look like me to get a seat at the table.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am a leader, a dreamer, a believer, an achiever, and a scholar with a passion for people and a love for technology. My curiosity has led me on a journey through the world of tech, where I’ve been constantly learning, growing, and turning challenges into opportunities.
I’m originally from Delaware. I went to Delaware State University. From there, I launched my career in tech at Microsoft, where I helped businesses embrace cloud computing and emerging technologies like Mixed Reality, Internet Of Things, and HoloLens.
A mentor challenged me to stretch myself and asked, “Why not you?” This sparked my journey to Harvard, where I focused on leveraging innovation for equity and strengthening communities through 21st-century skills development and entrepreneurship.
Now, as the founder of ELVTE Coaching & Consulting, I’m committed to helping leaders and organizations navigate innovation. Our goal is to help leaders stay ahead of the curve and unlock new business value. We do this through innovative coaching and consulting that is rooted in human connection.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
I believe that resilience, a people-centric perspective, and lifelong learning are important qualities to develop. Even the best plans fail, and there are unexpected challenges on every pathway. One’s response becomes crucial. Possessing resilience and compassion is essential.
We live in a digital-driven, AI-enhanced era. Having the quality to ask, “Who benefits from this? And “How does this empower communities?” I believe is an important quality. There are human narratives behind the hardware and algorithms.
Life is a cycle of change, and growth isn’t automatic; it’s a choice. Learning has to be an intentional part of one’s journey. Sometimes, you also have to unlearn things that are no longer serving you.
Advice for Those Early in Journey
If you are just starting out, here are a few pieces of advice from my experience.
- Find yourself a mentor. It’s valuable to have someone in your corner who’s been where you want to go. They can share wisdom, make connections, and help provide perspective along the way.
- Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. It’s easy to get stuck in thinking and planning. Take action before you feel ready. A lot of what we desire is on the other side of fear.
- Get your hands dirty. There is nothing like real-world experience. Volunteer, look for internships, workshops, and hackathons. These experiences allow you to apply what you’ve learned and build a portfolio.
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?
Many books have influenced me over the years, but one that always comes back to mind is ‘As a Man Thinketh’ by James Allen. It discusses how our thoughts and attitudes shape the way we experience life and approach challenges.
One of the most memorable parts of the book is when he compares our minds to gardens. Just like a garden needs tending to grow, our minds need nurturing to stay positive and focused, especially during tough times. This has really stuck with me and helped me keep things in perspective.
The book also emphasizes that we attract what we are, not just what we want. This has been a reminder to always work on personal growth and not just chase after material possessions or status.
As a forward thinker, I was inspired by the book’s affirmation that Dreamers drive change and innovation in the world.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ericbrownjr.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Ericbrownjr_/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericbrownjr/
Image Credits
Photos by Aaron Ricketts and Alvin;
Contact: management@aaronricketts.com, alvin@peopleinthiscity.com
