I was a shy kid, and I learned early to observe before I spoke. I took in everything—the dynamics, the expectations, the subtle ways leadership was modeled. I didn’t see myself as a leader at first—not because I lacked the ability, but because no one looked like me, sounded like me, or led like me.
That quiet awareness stayed with me as I stepped into male-dominated industries like construction and consulting. I faced moments that shook my confidence. But I also realized something that changed everything: leadership isn’t about being the loudest in the room. It’s about presence. It’s about knowing your value, owning your voice, and showing up with intention—even when the room doesn’t yet see your worth.
With each challenge, I stopped trying to fit a mold and started honoring what made me different. That shift—away from performing and toward owning—was where my power lived. I discovered that authenticity isn’t just part of leadership. It is leadership.
Once I gave myself permission to lead as I am, I stopped waiting for a seat at the table and started showing up like I belonged there all along.