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.
Deroll Scarlett
That’s an excellent question. Being headquartered in New York could be considered a blessing or a curse. On one hand, you’re in one of the world’s largest fashion hubs—and on the other hand, you’re fighting to be seen among the best. We take these factors into consideration with each collection that we launch. Our customer won’t have to worry about attending any event and seeing 20 people in the same look. Read more>>
Rona Bachour
Recognize that my differences make me special. Embracing my identity can give ne the confidence to excel in any setting. Leverage my unique perspectives and skills to contribute in ways that others may not be able to. Being open to learning; I continuously take classes on how to make my cookies along with my marketing better. Read more>>
J V
As an Afro-Latina I’ve been the only one that looks like me in the room from a young age for a long time. When I was younger it was a challenging experience to fully accept that I belonged but it helped me gain confidence in myself. Everywhere I go now I embrace my identity as an Afro-Latina and recognize the value that my diverse perspective brings to the room. Read more>>
Leslie Becker
There are two beliefs that have always guided me. The first one is: God did not create us to fit in, but to stand out. I have actively chosen to walk my own path and not try to fit in. By simply being true to who I am I’ve been able to find success. The second belief, or more like a life’s motto has been: Never ask permission to enact a great idea. I think most people care so much about the approval of others that they often lose sight of their own gifts. Read more>>
Karen Landis
The first time you walk into a room and notice you’re the only person in it who looks like you, it can be hard to muster up the courage to walk into a similar room again. To be successful, you have to keep showing up. Keep placing yourself in those rooms all the while maintaining confidence in yourself and your abilities. Read more>>
Dr. Shinika McKiever
I’ve learned to use my voice and stand for what I believe in. As a Black woman, I’ve experienced many spaces where I was the only person in the room who looked like me. In those times, I showed up as my authentic self and confidently because I am worthy of any space I step into and that we have to unlearn a lot of what we’ve been taught. Read more>>
Aaron Thomas
I wanted to take a moment to share a glimpse of my journey and experiences as an individual of color in various professional sectors. As someone who has navigated through college, business ownership, and nonprofit involvement, I have encountered unique challenges that have shaped my perspective and determination. Read more>>
Mersadez Hemphill
I quickly learned that success is not just about looks or talent; it’s about confidence and resilience. I realized that I had to be my own advocate and create opportunities for myself. Instead of waiting for someone to recognize my potential, I started networking and connecting with industry professionals who appreciated diversity and valued authenticity. Read more>>
Star Rolle
Navigating being the only one who looks like me in the room hasn’t always been easy, but it’s taught me to value my unique perspective. I’ve learned to speak up and share my insights confidently, knowing that my diverse background brings a fresh angle to the table. Building connections with colleagues and mentors who appreciate my perspective has been crucial. By focusing on my skills and accomplishments, I’ve been able to prove that success knows no boundaries, regardless of appearances. Read more>>
Shay Williams
Move in day couldn’t come quick enough for me as a first-year college student back in 2014. At the time, I had recently graduated from my high school located in Brooklyn, New York. My high school was filled with other black and brown students who looked just like me. So you can imagine the culture shock I experienced when I met a classmate who complimented my hair and then proceeded to touch it. Read more>>
Elizabeth Joseph
The truth is, I DIDN’T. I didn’t even consider starting my own business or know that was an option until I saw others that looked like me do it. But once I did, I hit the ground running. Read more>>
Ray McGee
My success is not only a product of my hard work and talent but also how I carry myself in how I speak and dress. Even when I’m surrounded by individuals who don’t look like me, I still make sure to embody a high standard to set myself apart. It gives me the boost I need to strive for excellence. Read more>>
Justin Dodson
As a black male therapist, I have consistently been the only one in the room that looks like me since Undergrad, through both graduate programs, conferences, and job orientations. You grow accustom to this picture. When you’re familiar, you typically learn how to respond. Read more>>
Tanya Walker
I have always stood out in my environment because I firmly believe that green spaces and bodies of water are not meant for only one race. My passion for serving my community led me to start Black Women Who, an initiative aimed at breaking down the barriers and myths that prevent black and brown women from enjoying such spaces. Read more>>
Jerome Renard
That’s a funny question, because my work is being alone in a room and working on making music translating emotion to others. Read more>>
Allison Fogarty
When I was younger and I had a trach tube in my neck to help me breathe, I felt self conscious; it felt like everyone was staring at me. Now I don’t have a trach tube (after 23 years), but I do still have Down syndrome. Sometimes people ignore me and ask my parents questions about me when I am standing right there. Read more>>
Allison Ulloa
Being a writer and working for myself has often meant being surrounded by people who don’t understand what it is that I do or what some of the challenges are that come with it. As a result, I discovered early on the importance of finding like-minded people to connect with and reach out to for wisdom. This has meant coffee dates with friends of friends, Zoom calls with colleagues living in other states, and even starting a group for Christian women on a mission to pursue their business and creative goals. Read more>>
Derek FrosTT” Ward-Majors Jr “
They saybthe loudest in the room is the weakest…but I have a healthy mix going. I carry myself as a champion no matter where I go. Its not to be cocky but its to establish my place in the room/event. Never show you hand and I keep my hand close. People are underestimated by my presence. The quiet, humble guy with a way with words. Read more>>
Angel Strong
Being the only one in the room that looks like me makes me embrace & really admire how far I’ve come to make it where I am today. It’s exciting and extremely beneficial for me in excelling in my work ethics & abilities. It allows me to stand out and showcase what and who I am and what i bring to the table. Read more>>
Jadzia Emerson
Being the only one in the room that looks like me has been a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and growth. I’ve learned to be effective and successful through a few key strategies. Read more>>
Letitia Clark
Early in my political career, I had an opportunity to work for the Speaker of the House in Georgia as a policy analyst after leaving New Orleans post Hurricane Katrina. Let’s just say the Speaker was someone who was on a completely different political spectrum than me–we could have not been further apart politically. Read more>>
Dr. Kristine Loharun
This is such a great question because chiropractic is a male dominated field. Specifically Caucasian males. This is changing now, my graduating class was closer to a 50/50 split but historically, it has been a male dominated profession. So as an Asian American woman, I, oftentimes, am the only one in the room. Read more>>
Vernetta Thomas
I was born and raised in Oklahoma by parents that allowed my sister and I to be self confident, self sufficient, independent, and critical thinkers. My parents always supported me in these traits by allowing me to always express my creativity and my thoughts through poetry, photography, and activism. It was through their support that I attained the ability to remain confident in myself and my abilities, artistic and otherwise, to stand out, even in a crowded room. Read more>>
Cecilian Dang
Getting over the fact that you may not conform to the physical attributes of the people around you/in a room can be really difficult — it’s no linear journey. I was born and raised in Nashville, Tennessee by my Vietnamese immigrant parents and family. And if it wasn’t obvious enough, the demographic in Tennessee isn’t exactly a melting pot, so being a new face in the room isn’t something I’m unfamiliar with. Read more>>
Precious Perez
I have learned that being the only one in the room that looks like me is not only powerful, but empowering. As a disabled artist in the latin sphere within the music industry, I tend to be the only blind latina woman in the room. I have unique perspectives based on all of the communities I represent, and this is what makes me stand out. Read more>>
Joe Conway
As an African/Black American, I recognize that being the only one in the room who looks like me can present both challenges and opportunities. However, my sense of purpose and commitment to inclusion fuel my determination to navigate these situations successfully. Here are some strategies I use to ensure my effectiveness and success. Read more>>
Jade Glasgow
As a petite model it’s easy to feel out of place in a room full of tall models at a casting call or photoshoot. I try my best to shift my mindset from “Do I belong here?” to “Let me demonstrate why I belong here.” When you don’t see yourself represented doing something, it’s harder to imagine yourself doing that thing, be it modeling or anything else. Read more>>
Darian Smelser
Surrounding yourself with positive people has such a huge impact on your success & support system! However, there are always times when you feel like the odd one out. I have always embraced being “weird” and “silly”. Growing up, my father was always the funniest man in the room. I believe I developed my bubbly and funny personality from watching him. Read more>>
