We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Rise Powell a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Rise, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
As the only one in the room who looks like me, I’ve come to understand that being an outlier is not a hindrance but a canvas for resilience and success. Let me take you on a journey through the maze of my experiences, where being the sole representative has become a testament to the power of authenticity and determination. I have learned three effective ways to be successful in rooms that were not made for people like me and maybe even you. I like many have been told “YOU don’t fit in” “YOU don’t look the part” “YOU don’t have the right credentials”, and to all of those phrases I laugh… Why? People may fear the brilliance of what stands out, for it illuminates the shadows of conformity and challenges the comfort of the familiar. Embrace the power in your uniqueness; it’s often the unconventional that sparks the brightest flames of potential.
My journey has propelled me into spaces that an underprivileged, undereducated, financially challenged, first-generation, Multi-Ethnic (African American & Belizean) woman might never have envisioned entering, let alone taking center stage. In essence, my effectiveness and success in these unexpected rooms stem from my unwavering commitment to authenticity. You read that correctly, just being YOU! The same “YOU” they said would never be good enough, is the same person that will own a room, and network your way to the top.
With tip one penned, let’s delve into the essence of number two: Confidence! While it might seem like a given, for someone like myself, who has spent a significant part of life being underestimated, confidence didn’t come effortlessly. Building the strength to not only carry my own weight but to stand resolute in unfamiliar rooms began with a journey of inner self-discovery and growth. If you’re looking for your “spark” here’s a hint, the recipe is already inside of YOU.
Now, for the final reveal, tip number three: Listen. I let listening be my compass. Amid the hustle, remember it’s not just about talking, it’s about building real connections. In these rooms, your aim is to cultivate relationships that grow from the very first conversation. Listen to understand, to relate not just to reply. It’s in remembering the little details and, at times, sharing something a bit vulnerable that the fabric of genuine connections is woven.
In my journey, I’ve learned that people may always find a reason to underestimate you. Your task isn’t to prove them wrong,instead, it’s about showing up and revealing to yourself what resilience truly means in the face of adversity. Now, you understand how I’ve navigated these challenges and why I’ll persist in doing so. It’s not a battle against others, it’s a testament to your own strength snd determination. That alone has my name “Rise” written all in it.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I embody the spirit of a creative entrepreneur, a journey that began with a move to New York armed with $100 and a dream of pursuing acting and modeling. While I achieved success in those spaces, a deeper calling unfolded, leading me to a profound revelation.
In October 2022, I surrendered my heart to God, and by January 2023, I discovered my true calling in speaking. Recognizing that sharing my testimony could impact lives positively, I embraced the role of a certified Life Coach. My mission is to guide others from dark places to discovering their God-given purpose. Helping YOU find the recipe within.
Balancing my roles as an actor and model, I’ve found fulfillment in this multifaceted journey. What sets my work apart is the genuine joy and love I bring to it, grounded in the transformation of lives. From pain to freedom, I’ve not only discovered the true meaning of life but also dedicated myself to spreading happiness.
Gratitude fills me as I continue to serve others, witnessing the joy that emanates from their transformed lives. It’s not just a profession; it’s a heartfelt commitment to making a positive impact on those I encounter on this extraordinary journey. As I move forward, I am excited about the potential for continued growth, impacting even more lives along the way.
I am currently working on the release of my first podcast via YouTube, I’m excited to share my journey and inspire others. I am also taking boooking for speaking engagements etc.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
In reflecting on my journey, three fundamental qualities stand out: resilience, self-awareness, and perseverance. Resilience, the ability to bounce back from adversity, allowed me to overcome the impact of trauma. Building a strong support system and community contributed significantly to cultivating this resilience. Never backing down, and always getting back up.
Self-awareness, understanding my internal compass, played a crucial role. Developing mindfulness and introspection helped me navigate through challenges. Recognizing my strengths and triggers enabled me to make informed decisions and stay true to my aspirations.
Perseverance, a steadfast commitment to my dreams, was essential. Breaking down my ambitions into smaller, manageable goals created a sustainable approach. Embracing setbacks as part of the journey, I persisted in the face of obstacles.
For those early in their journey, my advice is to prioritize building a supportive network, practicing mindfulness for self-awareness, and setting incremental goals. Celebrate small victories along the way and remember that progress, much like your journey, is a gradual and rewarding process. Life is a journey not a race.
What’s been one of your main areas of growth this year?
Over the past 12 months, my life has undergone a profound transformation, marked by substantial growth and positive changes. One of the most significant accomplishments has been maintaining sobriety for over a year, a journey that has not only strengthened my resolve but also brought immense clarity and self-discovery.
In tandem with this, I’ve embraced a healthier lifestyle, shedding 30 pounds through a commitment to fitness and well-being. Letting go of the clubbing scene was a conscious decision that allowed me to redirect my energy towards more meaningful pursuits, fostering personal development and a sense of inner peace.
Navigating the complexities of a narcissistic and abusive relationship was a challenging yet crucial aspect of my journey. The process of healing from this experience has been transformative, shaping my resilience and contributing to a renewed sense of self.
On the professional front, I’ve embarked on a new and fulfilling career path in life coaching. Guiding individuals to discover their purpose and navigate life’s challenges has become a source of deep fulfillment. Speaking to inspire others, sharing my experiences, and encouraging them to find their unique recipe for a purposeful life has become a cornerstone of my mission.
In the realm of spirituality, I’ve taken a profound step by getting baptized and making God the center of my life. This decision has added a spiritual dimension to my journey, providing a strong foundation for my personal and professional growth.
As I continue on this transformative path, I am concurrently working on a book that captures the essence of my journey. It delves into the challenges, triumphs, and lessons learned, serving as a beacon of inspiration for those seeking their own path of self-discovery.
The past year has been a chapter of profound growth, resilience, and the intentional pursuit of a purposeful life. With God at the center, I am excited about the future and the continued opportunities for positive change and impact as I Rise into my truest self ad fulfill my God given purpose.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/risepowell
- Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/risepowell
Image Credits
ABESASY_PHOTO PELLUMPHOTOGRAPHY LELANDBOBBENYC
