Even as there is a growing recognition for the need for representation, there are still many cases where folks will find themselves as the only person in a room representing their particular demographic – and often there is pressure to perform in such contexts to prove competence not just for yourself but for everyone who is like you. The burden and the stress of being the “representer” is real, and so we wanted to create a space where folks can discuss who they go about ensuring they are effective and successful even in contexts where no one else on the team or in the room is like them.
Andre Deon Walker Jr
There’s a natural presence that everyone carries, and you get to decide on what that presence is. Is it introverted, ghostly, or just downright confident? Regardless of who’s in the room, like a chameleon shifting its colors, I’ll shift between these presences more depending on how I’d like to present myself rather than who is or isn’t in the room, resulting in me staying true to myself. Read more>>
Heather Horror
I have always prided myself on being “different”. I didn’t know up until about 2 years ago just how different I was, until I was diagnosed with ADHD that I’ve had since childhood, and discovered I have autism. I’ve always been the family’s ” black sheep, ” but somehow it never bothered me. I just naturally operate my best when I am being my authentic self. Read more>>
