Zaka Presents: My Journey

Princess Jolie Charles, a fearless Haitian-American advocate, community strategist, and Co-Founder of FEWGI talks about what it really means to lead, to belong, and to fight for your voice. Raised in Brooklyn by her grandmother who spoke only Haitian Creole, Princess shares how navigating identity, faith, and adversity shaped her into “The Speaker of Humanity.” With raw honesty, she reflects on unsafe rooms, unspoken trauma, and unwavering faith offering testimony on resilience, God's grace, and the power of knowing who you are and whose you are. From walking through Crown Heights with spiritual armor to coaching TEDx speakers at Harvard, Princess brings light to the struggles and strength of immigrant women everywhere.  Princess reminds us: you are worthy, you are called, and you are never alone.

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Valeria Feliciano, a proud Puerto Rican filmmaker, model, and storyteller, whose mission is to dismantle stereotypes and elevate the voices of Latinas in media. Valeria opens up about the struggles she faced embracing her natural curls in an industry that often celebrates narrow beauty standards. She recounts the emotional moment when a young woman of color told her, “You are the reason I participated,” and how that became a life-changing affirmation of her purpose. From rejecting roles that reduce Latinas to stereotypes to celebrating the beauty of bilingualism, Valeria challenges the status quo while inspiring others to own their identity unapologetically.As an immigrant Latina navigating entertainment, Valeria shares her journey of persistence from being overlooked to co-hosting an event with Vanilla Ice after a cold outreach. She speaks candidly about the importance of seeing Latinas as leaders, not just background characters, and how her upcoming podcast aims to spotlight the women who are breaking barriers behind the scenes. Valeria's leadership is rooted in authenticity, representation, and the power of visibility. Her story is a reminder that even when the world says no, your truth can still open doors for you and for those watching.

In this compelling episode, we sit down with Vivian Otabor, a seasoned career coach, business consultant, and founder of Resilient Immigrant to explore the often-overlooked challenges skilled immigrants face when starting over in the United States. Vivian opens up about the emotional and professional hurdles she encountered after leaving a successful career in Nigeria, only to find her qualifications questioned and doors closed.Now a Harvard-certified leader and Career Strategist for Agile Career Consulting, Vivian has transformed personal setbacks into platforms for systemic change. Through her nonprofit, she has helped hundreds of immigrants gain access to workforce opportunities and develop future-ready skills. With a unique blend of strategy, empathy, and storytelling, she shares what it takes to not only survive but rise and thrive in a new country.

In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Guadalupe Gonzalez, an Argentine-born accountant turned emotional intelligence and leadership coach, whose immigrant journey is a blueprint in adaptability, purpose, and inner strength. Guadalupe reflects on her transition to the U.S., the weight of working in a demanding analytical field, and how emotional intelligence became not just a leadership tool but a life-saving compass.She shares how she's intentionally using emotional intelligence to prepare her children to navigate the social and academic pressures of school, and how she herself learned to manage the emotional toll of a numbers-driven profession. Guadalupe defines emotional intelligence as “the ability to respond to unexpected situations,” and unpacks how this mindset has helped her show up more fully at work, at home, and in every space where belonging isn't always guaranteed.

In this episode, we sit down with Sherece Brown, the visionary founder of Dr. Pabs Pineapple is a Berry. Born to Jamaican immigrant parents and a proud Howard University graduate, Sherece shares her powerful journey from a 16-year career in corporate America to launching a purpose-driven wellness brand. Motivated by her passion for health, wellness, and community impact, Sherece created Dr. Pabs to deliver high-quality, plant-based vitamins designed for children's growth and well-being. Tune in as she opens up about embracing her immigrant roots, navigating major career transitions, and building a brand that stands for inclusion, resilience, and true purpose.

We sit down with Mina Brower, a distinguished Mexican-American attorney, author, and advocate whose journey captures the strength and complexity of the immigrant experience. Mina shares how coming to the United States at a young age, without speaking the language, forced her to grow up quickly. As the first in her family to learn English, she became the default advocate, translating documents, navigating public systems, and even taking the lead at grocery store checkouts. These early responsibilities laid the foundation for her passion for justice and advocacy, ultimately shaping her path to becoming a partner at her law firm and a mentor to young women in law.But Mina's story doesn't end in the courtroom. In 2024, she self-published A God of Moonlight and Stardust, a romance fantasy novel that explores themes of power, truth, and survival in a post-apocalyptic world. Her debut has earned critical acclaim from Kirkus Reviews and Publisher's Weekly, placing her firmly in the spotlight as a rising literary voice. Mina speaks candidly about the duality of living between cultures, the healing power of writing, and why her story while personal is shared by so many in the immigrant community.

In this episode, Kathryn takes us through her journey from growing up in Jamaica to breaking barriers, driving multimillion-dollar growth, and creating opportunities for others in the corporate and startup worlds. She shares the mindset, strategies, and lessons that have shaped her success from launching Accenture's Black Founders Development Program to leading billion-dollar innovation initiatives. As an immigrant, she navigated challenges with resilience and vision, proving that bold leadership and innovation can create lasting impact. 

In this uplifting episode, we sit down with Lauren Brockett, an immigrant, HR leader, and determined advocate for economic empowerment. Lauren has dedicated her life to helping immigrants, refugees, and underserved communities build brighter futures creating pathways to employment, financial stability, and long-term success. From establishing Atlanta's first career center for war survivors to launching community lending circles during the pandemic, her impact is both profound and personal.As someone who has walked this journey herself, Lauren knows firsthand the struggles of finding purpose and opportunity in a new country. She's turned her challenges into a mission: ensuring others don't have to navigate that path alone. We explore her inspiring story, the wisdom behind her book Always Employed, and practical strategies to help you land the right job, stay resilient, and create the future you deserve.

What happens when a young girl in foster care refuses to let the system define her future? In this powerful episode, we sit down with Brigitte Jolliet, an attorney, advocate, and policy expert who is breaking stereotypes and proving that foster youth have the resilience, skills, and drive to succeed. Brigitte takes us through her extraordinary journey, from navigating instability in the foster care system to fighting for children's rights, clerking on Capitol Hill, and now advocating for justice as a personal injury attorney. Along the way, she shatters misconceptions about foster youth, shares the pivotal moments that shaped her path, and offers wisdom for those facing adversity. This is a story of grit, transformation, and the power of turning struggle into purpose one you won't want to miss

Born and raised in Trinidad & Tobago, Micha Cooper-Edwards built a powerhouse career in corporate America, leading global marketing for brands like Nike and Jordan before taking a bold leap into entrepreneurship. As the founder & CEO of Soleil Space, she's on a mission to dismantle the systemic barriers that keep independent filmmakers especially creators of color from owning their work. In this episode, she reveals the hard truths about Hollywood's gatekeeping, the power of controlling distribution, and how creatives can reclaim their narratives in an industry designed to keep them out. We also dive into the lessons she learned transitioning from the corporate world to building a tech-media platform that gives underrepresented voices a global stage.

Farah Allen, a remarkable Jamaican-American tech entrepreneur and CEO of The Labz, who has redefined digital innovation and built powerhouse partnerships with Google, Microsoft, and Delta Airlines. Farah takes us through her incredible journey, from her Jamaican roots and early influences that shaped her love for technology to breaking barriers as a woman of color in leadership. She shares how her first job set the foundation for her career, the bold leap she took from corporate to entrepreneurship, and the resilience that kept her moving forward despite challenges.She speaks into the inspiration behind The Labz, how she built relationships with some of the world's biggest companies, and the strategies that helped her establish herself in the tech industry. Farah also opens up about the setbacks and failures that shaped her success, the challenges she's faced as a Black woman in tech, and the values that drive her mission to empower underrepresented groups. Whether you're an immigrant, entrepreneur, or aspiring innovator, this conversation is packed with wisdom, inspiration, and practical advice to help you break into and thrive in the world of tech.

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Victoria Tollossa, the Founder and CEO of Illume, a personal branding agency helping entrepreneurs and executives amplify their impact. But Victoria's path to success was anything but conventional.Born bi-racial and navigating cultural challenges, Victoria migrated to the U.S. in pursuit of opportunity only to face homelessness. Despite the hardships, her passion for storytelling led her to a successful career as a professional songwriter, where she collaborated with top artists in the music industry. But a pivotal moment inspired her to shift gears, leveraging her expertise in branding, messaging, and storytelling to build a business of her own.The Grammy-nominated, branding expert and two-time founder, Victoria shares how her cultural background, industry experience, and resilience shaped her entrepreneurial journey. We discuss personal branding in 2025, why first-gen immigrants should embrace visibility, and strategies to stand out in a crowded digital world.

Illiana Acosta is the Make It Happen Master, a leader with over 20 years of experience in tech, global partnerships, and media sales. Currently a Senior Manager at LinkedIn's Business Development organization, Illiana shares her journey from growing up in New York City as the daughter of immigrant parents to becoming a leadership strategist and thought leader in career development, ERG and DEIIlliana opens up about the challenges she faced as a Latina in the corporate world, including overcoming imposter syndrome and navigating spaces where she was often the only woman or person of color in the room. She shares actionable insights for anyone striving to find their voice, build confidence, and unlock their full potential. As the former Global Co-Chair of LinkedIn's Hispanic Employee Resource Group (HOLA), Illiana also provides practical strategies for ERG leaders to amplify underrepresented voices, drive engagement, and foster lasting cultural and business impact.

We sit down with D'Angelo Senat, a visionary Haitian-American entrepreneur and founder of AllPeeP, to explore his inspiring journey of resilience, innovation, and empowerment. From growing up in Broward County, Florida, and witnessing his parents' entrepreneurial struggles, to redefining his path after a sports injury and leading a mission to revolutionize online communities, D'Angelo's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and mentorship. He shares how winning Pharrell Williams' Black Ambition Prize transformed his work, the importance of cultural heritage in his leadership, and his dedication to creating inclusive spaces where everyone can thrive. Tune in for an intimate and uplifting conversation about breaking barriers, leading by example, and building a legacy of impact.

We welcome Miles Mendes, a remarkable student-athlete whose maturity, faith, and passion for basketball set him apart. At probably the youngest age of any guest we've hosted, Miles shares a life journey filled with wisdom and lessons that resonate well beyond his years. Growing up in a culturally diverse household and attending a Christian university, Miles reflects on how his background, faith, and love for the game have shaped his outlook on life.Miles dives into his childhood dreams, the values he carries into his collegiate career, and how basketball became more than just a game, it became a driving force in his life. He speaks candidly about balancing the demands of being an athlete with academics, the challenges of navigating cultural nuances in his day-to-day life, and how his faith keeps him grounded through it all.

We sit down with Dr. Yves Salomon-Fernández, a visionary leader in higher education and the President of Urban College of Boston. She shares her extraordinary journey from immigrating to the United States from Haiti at the age of 12 to breaking barriers in academia as a first-generation college graduate and leader. With degrees from the University of Oxford, the London School of Economics, and Boston College, Dr. Salomon-Fernández has built a career dedicated to expanding access and creating opportunities for underrepresented students. Her story is one of resilience, determination, and a deep commitment to equity and inclusion, offering invaluable insights for anyone navigating challenges as an immigrant or aspiring leader.Throughout the conversation, Dr. Salomon-Fernández discusses her leadership philosophy, the importance of creating inclusive spaces, and the pivotal role community colleges play in empowering diverse communities. She also opens up about the systemic barriers she faced as a woman of color in higher education and how she worked to break them while uplifting others. 

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Nancy Douyon, a well accomplished immigrant professional who has redefined success at the intersection of technology, ethics, and inclusion. From her journey as an immigrant breaking barriers in Silicon Valley to leading groundbreaking initiatives at Google, Facebook, and Uber, Nancy's story is one of resilience, innovation, and impact. As the founder of Incluversal, she's harnessing the power of AI and inclusive design to accelerate career growth and create opportunities for underrepresented professionals. Her insights will inspire anyone striving to carve their own path in a competitive world.Nancy opens up about how her immigrant background shaped her drive to succeed, her work advising the Obama administration on universal design, and the challenges of integrating ethical principles into cutting-edge tech projects. Whether you're looking to rise in your career, navigate a new culture, or lead with purpose, this episode is packed with wisdom and actionable strategies to help you turn obstacles into stepping stones toward your dreams. 4o

Author and occupational therapist Samarra St. Hilaire shares her journey of growing up Haitian-American in Brooklyn, self-publishing her debut YA novel Brushed Between Cultures, and balancing cultural expectations with personal dreams. Discover how her 22 years as a therapist shaped her storytelling and the powerful themes of resilience, identity, and friendship in her work. Perfect for anyone navigating tradition and independence.

Today, we celebrate resilience, vision, and the power of purpose. Our guest is Zuleka Fraser, an immigrant leader from St Kitts & Nevis, in the affordable housing industry who has turned challenges into opportunities that have transformed lives. From navigating the complexities of public housing finance to spearheading game-changing programs like the 4% Bond LIHTC initiative, Zuleka's journey is one of grit, determination, and heart.In this episode, Zuleka shares how her personal experiences ignited her passion for equity and led her to dedicate her career to creating accessible housing for underserved communities. You'll hear how she transformed roadblocks into stepping stones and used her leadership to inspire real change, proving that with purpose and perseverance, we can all leave a lasting impact.

How does an engineer turned attorney become the Mayor and Council President of Upper Arlington, Ohio? In this episode, we sit down with the amazing leader, Ukeme Awakessien Jeter to explore her incredible journey from immigrant professional to community leader. Ukeme shares how her diverse experiences and immigrant background have shaped her unique leadership style and fueled her passion for driving innovation and inclusivity.Drawing from her book, ImmiGRIT: How Immigrant Leadership Drives Business Success, Ukeme uncovers the superhero qualities of immigrant professionals such as adaptability, resilience, and resourcefulness and how these traits can transform organizations and communities alike. Whether you're an aspiring leader, an entrepreneur, or someone navigating life as an immigrant professional, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable insights to help you harness your own superpowers.

In this episode, we sit down with David “MOZE” Baptiste to explore the incredible journey of a boy from New York City, raised in a Grenadian-American household, who rose to legendary status in the entertainment industry. Known for promoting icons like Kool G. Rap, Erykah Badu, Jay Z, Naughty By Nature, and Mary J. Blige in the 90s, David's career is a masterclass in adaptability and reinvention. Hear firsthand how he transitioned from managing hip-hop and R&B greats to becoming a multi-industry entrepreneur, now leading a commercial cleaning company and Roll It Forward Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to roller derby and community impact. David shares his wins, losses, and the life lessons that have shaped his journey and continue to fuel his mission of empowering communities. 

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Alan d'Escragnolle, CEO and Co-Founder of Filmhub, the tech-powered platform transforming film distribution. Born in San Diego to Brazilian and American parents, Alan opens up about the challenges of navigating two cultures. After leaving San Diego at a young age to connect more deeply with his Brazilian roots, Alan's journey eventually led him to Silicon Valley, where he's now empowering filmmakers globally.From growing up in Brazil to earning his degree at Wharton, Alan shares how his immigrant background fueled his entrepreneurial spirit and shaped his leadership approach. Get an inside look at Filmhub and its mission to let filmmakers retain their rights and monetize their films on global streaming platforms with unprecedented transparency. Alan also tackles the challenges of traditional film distribution and explains how Filmhub is restoring trust with creators.This episode is packed with insights for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially immigrants, as Alan offers valuable advice on navigating the tech and film industries and shares his vision for the future of global film distribution.

we are joined with Dr. Ty Richardson, a Trinidadian-American entrepreneur who boldly left a thriving corporate career to pursue his vision of building impactful ventures that empower others. From turning his start-up, YoPro Global, into a global social enterprise supporting youth and young professionals, to founding Pinnacle & Beyond Enterprises and leading One Global Index Consulting, Dr. Ty has become a leader for emerging markets and underrepresented communities worldwide. His journey of resilience, innovation, and strategic leadership offers a powerful  entrepreneurs striving for success. Our inspiring conversation is packed with insights on overcoming obstacles, building impactful businesses, and making a global difference.

We sit down with Shawna Kaye Lester, an entrepreneur and founder of Memorable Essay, who has dedicated her career to helping ambitious students and international medical graduates secure spots in their dream schools and residencies. Shawna's journey from Jamaica to the U.S. is one of grit, determination, and relentless pursuit of growth.She opens up about her personal story of navigating cultural differences, her diverse career path across multiple industries, and the challenges of building her business as an immigrant entrepreneur. Shawna shares her best tips for standing out in competitive application processes, and offers key advice for those considering entrepreneurship, especially for immigrant women balancing multiple roles.

We dive into the inspiring journey of Karoll-Ann Fanfan, CEO of TaxFit LLC and Kouka's Closet LLC. Forced to leave her native country after a traumatic event, Karoll-Ann shares how she turned adversity into success as a leading tax consultant and entrepreneur in the U.S. Through vulnerability and resilience, she opens up about her challenges, triumphs, and her passion for helping others. Don't miss this heartfelt conversation on overcoming obstacles and thriving in the face of hardship.

In this episode, we highlight the inspiring success story of Richardson Pierre, a first-generation Haitian immigrant who defies negative stereotypes with his entrepreneurial journey. Richardson shares how the determination and grit he absorbed from watching Haitian merchants as a young boy shaped his mindset and fueled his ambitions. From his early days in Haiti to building multiple successful businesses, including U.S. One Tax Services, Versailles Home Solutions, and Lionhart Truck Company.Richardson opens up about his path to success. He also reflects on the valuable lessons he learned during his time in Corporate America and how those experiences helped him transition into entrepreneurship. We dive deep into the challenges he overcame as an immigrant entrepreneur, his mission to provide affordable housing, and his advice for young immigrants and aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make their mark. 

In this episode, we sit down with Julio Manteiga, the Head of Content and Communications at the National Basketball Retired Players Association. Born to immigrant parents from Cuba and Spain and raised in Queens, NY, Julio's story is one of grit, perseverance, and passion. From his humble beginnings to becoming a key figure at the NBA, Julio opens up about his journey, sharing how his cultural background influenced his career and the challenges he faced as he ascended through the ranks.We explore Julio's time at the NBA, where he served as Director of Latin America Communications, leading global influencer programs and bridging cultural gaps across Latin America. Now, at the NBRPA, he reflects on the transition and his mission to continue making a lasting impact in the sports world. Tune in to hear about his inspiring rise, lessons learned, and advice for the next generation of professionals looking to break barriers in their careers.

We explore the extraordinary journey of Jamaican-born actress Judi Johnson, who went from Clarendon to Hollywood, starring in projects like Magic Mike XXL and Double Cross.In this episode, Judi shares how she transitioned from corporate work to starring in over 40 projects. She speaks on the challenges and strengths of being a Black actress and how she defied the expectations of her immigrant upbringing, where careers in entertainment were often discouraged. Her mantra, “Live Alive”, inspires us all to chase our dreams, no matter the obstacles.

We're beyond excited to share our conversation with Samantha Ramirez-Herrera, a talenter filmmaker, advocate, and the founder of OffThaRecord. Sam's story is one of resilience, transformation, and relentless advocacy. As a former undocumented immigrant, she has dedicated her career to addressing some of today's most pressing issues such as economic justice, immigration, and reproductive rightsWith election season upon us, public discourse around DACA, Dreamers, and immigration are in full swing. Sam's story brings a deeply personal perspective to these important topics, humanizing the conversation and reminding us of the real lives being impacted.Sam shares her journey from an undocumented immigrant to a celebrated filmmaker, her challenges as a Latina in a competitive industry, and how she continues to use her platform to uplift the communities she cares most about. Her story is a powerful reminder that anyone can turn adversity into a mission for change.

We sit down with Tina, Senior Director of Content Strategy, Programming, and Acquisition at AspireTV. With over 20 years in the media industry, Tina shares her journey, how she found her voice, the evolution of content strategy, and the importance of diversity in storytelling. She also offers advice for emerging professionals from underrepresented backgrounds.

Join us as we sit down with Kamala Avila-Salmon, the dynamic Head of Inclusive Content at Lionsgate, who is redefining representation in Hollywood. In this episode, Kamala shares her journey from Jamaica to Harvard, the pivotal moments that shaped her career, and how she's using storytelling to drive social change. Get inspired by her insights on diversity in film, her groundbreaking initiative, Story Spark, and her commitment to uplifting underrepresented voices. Don't miss this powerful conversation with one of the entertainment industry's leading voices on inclusion and equity.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Jevic Muteba, a former NCAA student-athlete from Zaire (now the DRC) turned successful entrepreneur. Jevic shares his journey of founding businesses, raising over $35 million, and driving key partnerships in high-growth tech companies. We'll explore how his immigrant upbringing shaped his path, his challenges as a student-athlete, and his impactful work in DEI, Talent Acquisition, and Employer Branding with Fortune 500 companies.

Linda Kugblenu is an award-winning Vice President at JPMorganChase and a leader in finance and payments innovation. As an immigrant leader, Linda is committed to expanding access to capital for social and economic impact, leading groundbreaking initiatives in cross-border payment strategies.In this episode, Linda shares her journey from empowering small businesses in Uganda to becoming a thought leader at JPMorgan. Her achievements have earned her accolades like the Rising Star in Payments and the RiseUp Award for Women in Payments.Beyond her corporate success, Linda founded Foreign at Work, a career coaching business dedicated to helping high achievers navigate the corporate world and advance their careers. She reveals her passion for empowering professionals like herself, discussing common challenges and her strategies for overcoming them.Tune in to discover Linda's roadmap for success and gain insights to elevate your career in the competitive corporate landscape.

We sit down with Johanne Joseph, the powerhouse behind J'Organic Solutions (J.O.S). Born in Haiti and faced with the challenge of an autoimmune disease that led to hair thinning, Johanne transformed her personal struggle into a thriving beauty brand. Immigrating to the U.S. at just 14, she defied the odds to become a master hairstylist and entrepreneur. Drawing from her family's tradition of using herbs and natural resources, Johanne meticulously developed her all-natural hair care line, which now boasts over 20 products designed to nourish and hydrate dry, brittle hair. Since its launch in 2016, J.O.S has received accolades from mainstream media platforms like Essence, Hope, Hype Hair, and Sheen magazines, as well as CBS, NBC, Fox, and ABC, and is available online at Walmart, Amazon, and local beauty supply stores.Johanne's journey is a testament to resilience and perseverance. Despite the challenges of starting a business, she remained committed to quality and authenticity, sourcing ingredients from Haiti and infusing her products with cultural heritage. Today, JOS stands as a source of innovation and sustainability in the beauty industry, offering solutions that promote healthy hair growth and hydration. 

In this motivating episode, we sit down with Marc-Edwin Rigaud, a talented Software Developer at Ally Financial. From his miraculous birth with his twin brother Carl to overcoming numerous challenges, Marc-Edwin's journey is guided by his life creed, "Kaizen," meaning continuous improvement.Marc-Edwin shares inspiring childhood memories from Haiti, the obstacles he faced, and how his cultural background shaped his perseverance. He highlights his educational path and the blueprint he followed to forge a successful career in financial technology.Marc-Edwin discusses working alongside his twin brother, his current role, and offers invaluable advice to aspiring immigrant professionals. This episode is a source of inspiration and tangible insights for anyone aiming to achieve their dreams against the odds. 

"Model What You Want to Attract" is the motto that Ajayi lives by. He is a remarkable first-generation immigrant from St. Thomas who has made significant strides in both public health and authorship. Ajayi's journey is a testament to resilience and dedication, having witnessed firsthand the disparities in youth and family outcomes in his hometown. This experience fueled his passion for advancing health equity, leading him to obtain a Bachelor's degree in Biology from American University and pursue a Master's in Public Health from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Ajayi has excelled academically and become a powerful voice for BIPOC and immigrant Gen Z professionals through his recent book, which provides proven strategies for securing jobs in a competitive market.Ajayi shares his personal and professional journey, emphasizing the pivotal moments that shaped his commitment to empowering disadvantaged communities. He discusses how his scientific knowledge and public health expertise are seamlessly integrated into his writing and speaking engagements to drive meaningful change. Ajayi's book, aims at uplifting and guiding emerging professionals, is a crucial resource for navigating the job market. Through insightful anecdotes and practical exercises, Ajayi empowers readers to craft compelling skills pitches that capture employers' attention. Whether a seasoned professional or recent graduate, this book offers invaluable strategies for landing the right role with intention. 

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Carl Rigaud, a Senior Analyst at Ally Financial. Born prematurely alongside his twin brother, Carl's early life defied the odds, earning them the nickname “miracle babies.”Carl's journey takes us from the vibrant streets of Haiti to overcoming the challenges of a massive earthquake and personal adversity. Despite these obstacles, Carl has built a remarkable career in software engineering, driven by his passion for innovation and a thirst for knowledge.Join us as Carl shares his childhood memories, the hurdles he faced, and the mentors who guided him. As a role model for Haitian Americans, he reflects on the importance of representation and offers wisdom to aspiring immigrant professionals.

Michelle Manglal-lan is  the Senior Manager of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Samsung Electronics.  With over 20 years of experience across multiple industries, Michelle is a powerhouse in Talent Management & Development, DEI, Engagement, Employer Branding, and Employee Mobility.Michelle's journey is deeply inspired by her parents, who emigrated from the Philippines. Their resilience and strength have fueled her dedication to creating inclusive and equitable workplaces. In this episode, Michelle shares her insights on the transformative shift in HR, her experience in recruiting, training, performance management, ergs, employee engagement, and promotion, and the critical importance of diversity in today's world.We learn so much from her wealth of knowledge and experience, exploring how Abraham Lincoln's quote, “In the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years,” is relevant to your career journey.

Yasir Kurt, a first-gen Turkish-American who turned the seeds of grit and resilience into a flourishing career in counseling and education. Yasir's story begins in a household where education beyond middle school was a distant dream, yet the drive to achieve more was deeply instilled by his visionary parents a tailor and a farmer.Today, Yasir serves as the Director of Life Design Graduate Programming at The Johns Hopkins University . Armed with a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision, his approach is shaped by his strengths: Activator, Futuristic, Learner, Ideation, and Achiever. Yasir is embracing challenges and transforming them into stepping stones for continuous growth.Yasir shares how the wisdom of Rumi, “As you start to walk on the way, the way appears,” guides his innovative methods in life design. It's a conversation filled with insights on harnessing one's inherent strengths to navigate the complex landscapes of life and career.

 We explore the remarkable journey of Srijita Ghosh, a distinguished venture advisor based in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. From her early days overcoming personal challenges with anxiety to becoming a driving force for entrepreneurship in the Midwest, Srijita's story is a compelling testament to resilience and visionary leadership.Discover how Srijita's early experiences in India, influenced by her mother's bold decision to defy traditional gender roles by introducing her to tennis, shaped her identity and fortified her resolve. Learn about the pivotal injury that ended her sports career but also catalyzed her transition into the entrepreneurial world with her innovative startup, StoPanic, which offers solutions for managing panic attacks through therapeutic music and on-demand counseling.Dive deep into Srijita's experiences moving from Kolkata to Ada and how these shaped her commitment to intentional community building. This episode highlights her strategies for fostering supportive environments that empower underrepresented founders and stimulate local economic development. Srijita Ghosh leverages her unique insights and experiences to mentor the next generation of founders, helping them refine their ideas, secure funding, and build successful businesses. 

Devika Brij, Founder of Brij the Gap Consulting, shares her inspiring career journey in tech, including her impactful roles at Google and LinkedIn, and how these experiences led her to launch her own firm. Brij the Gap Consulting specializes in empowering underrepresented employees and their leaders through career advancement strategies, self-advocacy, and personalized coaching. Devika's expertise has made a significant difference for key clients like Visa, Nike, NerdWallet, Great Place to Work, Meta, Reddit, Saks, and Morgan Stanley.Devika is also the author of the newly released book Thrive in Color: How to Master Self Advocacy and Command your Career as an Underrepresented Professional. Growing up in a single-parent household with a mother from Fiji, Devika developed a strong drive and resilience that has fueled her success. She discusses how her upbringing influenced her passion for self-advocacy, career growth, and her involvement with Zaka, where she is developing strategies and career advancement workshops specifically for first and second-generation immigrants. 

As the Head of Engineering at a leading tech company in Silicon Valley, Bala Arjunan Muthiah shares his remarkable journey from leaving India 15 years ago to becoming a prominent leader in the tech ecosystem. His story is one of resilience, navigating the challenges of adapting to a new culture, and turning those experiences into valuable lessons in real leadership. Bala's unwavering commitment to leadership, people development, and entrepreneurship propels him forward. Through active involvement in tech startups and nonprofit organizations as an advisory board member and mentor, he helps shape the trajectory of progress and inspires others to achieve their aspirations.Tune in to hear Bala's insights on overcoming cultural barriers, thriving in the competitive Silicon Valley environment, and his passion for empowering the next generation of immigrant entrepreneurs.

Taonaya Fleury Ghazarian's story is one of resilience and determination. She shares how her diverse career path, from real estate to being a flight attendant, has given her a unique cultural perspective and prepared her for the tech industry's challenges. Her groundbreaking mental health tech company, PhrenTech, leverages cutting-edge virtual reality technology, making high-quality therapy accessible and engaging for everyone. Our conversation with the PhrenTech CEO covers it all: mental health challenges for immigrants, colorism, sexism, racism, and being a mother.

We bring you the story of Castelline Tilus, a Haitian American visionary who exemplifies the potential of immigrant professionals. Castelline's journey, from her arrival in the United States at age 6 to becoming a leader in sustainable development, serves as an inspiration for anyone striving to make an impact.As the Founder of Akademi and Co-Founder of Ayiti Analytics, Castelline has played a pivotal role in advancing Haiti's tech industry. Her leadership at Ayiti Analytics led to the creation of its flagship data science bootcamp, which partnered with local institutions and placed 90% of graduates in jobs with local employers. Castelline's success is bolstered by her education at Stanford University and the Middlebury Institute of International Studies, fueling her passion for leveraging technology for economic development. Castelline's remarkable story demonstrates how immigrant professionals can overcome challenges, build thriving careers, and contribute to the global community.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Mischka Crichton, CEO of the Toronto Caribbean Carnival, as she shares her journey from Deloitte to leading North America's largest attended event. Discover how her cultural heritage and lessons from her immigrant family inspired her to defy conventional career paths and embrace a life of passion and cultural celebration. Tune in to learn about the Carnival's mission, Mischka's role as CEO, and her invaluable advice for those considering a bold career change. Don't miss this episode filled with motivation and insights into following your dreams!

Jean D. Pierre, the Executive Vice President and Chief Behavioral Health Officer at Community Health of South Florida Inc., educates us on the diverse career paths within social work and the strategic advantages of social work certification. Jean emphasizes the importance of ensuring that the Licensing for Social Worker test incorporates DEI principles to foster culturally competent care. Starting his career as a government analyst focused on children and families, Jean now oversees a $13 million budget at Community Health of South Florida Inc. In his current role, he serves as a crucial liaison with other social service agencies and participates on area councils and professional boards, shaping the future of healthcare services with his extensive expertise and visionary leadership.

Liberian-American Sandie Bonwinkor's story embodies resilience and adaptability. Raised by a single mother in the US, Sandie learned the value of hard work and perseverance early on, driving her to achieve success. Her profound understanding of Gen Z dynamics, coupled with her corporate experiences, now fuels her mission to craft compelling brand narratives. This positions her clients as industry leaders and influencers. She excels at creating authentic brand narratives that resonate in today's digital landscape, helping her clients establish themselves as thought leaders in their respective fields. She joins us to speak about her transition from banking to brand strategy.

Christian McKenzie shares her inspiring journey from navigating the challenges of growing up in an immigrant household to carving a path in the world of venture capital. Starting as a retail buyer for Macy's, Christian's passion for supporting founders propelled her into venture capital, driven by a strong work ethic instilled by her immigrant background. Faced with obstacles, she showcased resilience through strategic networking and seizing opportunities, leading her to make waves in venture capital and become a champion for diversity in an industry where Black women represent only 1%. Don't miss this compelling conversation with Christian, a true leader reshaping the landscape of venture capital.

On Air Personality, Jaylah Sandoval, followed her passion to work in a field that she loves and can still be able to inspire and motivate others. As a Costa Rican and Salvadorian, she speaks about being a Latina  in her industry and the challenges and perseverance it took  to break into the entertainment industry.  Her experience includes working with MTV and Billboard and UnivisionShe offers insightful perspectives on the importance of diverse representation in the entertainment industry. Additionally, she uses her platform to create Cafe Cultura,  a south florida based community organization focused on connecting cultures and building businesses through technology and innovation. It's tailored around the idea of internet cafes whereby diverse cultures from all over the world come together to support each other's businesses, create job opportunities, and support one another along the founder journey. 

Born in India and raised in the US, Neelu Kaur  shares her immigrant story. She moved with her parents at a young age with only $75. As an Executive Leader Coach, Speaker, and Author, she grew up in a traditional Indian culture that valued the collective "we" over the individualistic "I". Advocating for herself and acknowledging her own accomplishments was incredibly uncomfortable. This struggle is shared by many immigrants working in Corporate, and Neelu is on a mission to empower all individuals with the tools to become effective self-advocates both in their professional and personal lives. Her professional challenges led her to become a Facilitator, Author, and Speaker. She talks about how to own and express our worth, leading to happier, healthier employees and more innovative, competitive organizations. Her clients include Google, Credit Karma, RBC, Sony Music, Deloitte, IPG, EY

Meet Lester Moses, a Senior Customer Solutions Manager (CSM) supporting the Salesforce.com account at AWS. In his current role, he is responsible for building trust and serving as a key advisor for Salesforce. Leveraging his expertise in program management, technical skills, organizational acumen, and transformational leadership, Lester translates Salesforce's business and strategic goals into executable plans, driving successful implementation. Additionally, Lester is a founding board member of the Caribbean Connections group at Amazon.Before achieving success and earning accolades at Boeing and Amazon, Lester grew up in Guyana and Botswana before settling in the US after high school. He shares his personal journey, which laid the foundation for his determination and perseverance, documenting the challenges he faced and the resilience he developed along the way. Join us as we delve into Lester's inspiring story, marked by resilience, determination, and a commitment to excellence.