How Identity Has Influenced a Leadership Coach and Consultant's Career at Akili Well
Josie's experience as a Black woman and first-generation student necessitated "more intentional navigation" of career barriers, proactively seeking resources like scholarships, grants, and mentors within identity-based and professional networks. This proactive approach, fueled by a determination to overcome systemic inequities and a belief in the availability of support despite societal challenges ("we are actually very, very resourced"), proved instrumental to Josie's success.
Overcoming Challenges, Networking, Resourcefulness, Mentorship, Resilience
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Josie santiago
Leadership Coach and Consultant
Akili Well
Cal Lu
Master's in Secondary Education at UMSL
Anthropology, Sociology
Climate, Environment, Sustainability & Waste Management, Consulting & Related Professional Services
Consulting
Scholarship Recipient, Took Out Loans, Worked 20+ Hours in School, First Generation College Student
Video Highlights
1. Josie's proactive approach to navigating career barriers: Josie emphasizes the importance of actively seeking out resources, such as mentors, scholarships, grants, and supportive networks, to overcome obstacles.
2. Building and leveraging professional networks: Josie highlights the value of connecting with various networks, including those based on shared identity (e.g., Black women entrepreneurs, BIPOC coaches) and professional expertise, to expand access to opportunities and support.
3. Persistence and self-belief in the face of adversity: Despite facing doubts and uncertainties about securing grants and scholarships, Josie's determination and belief in her capabilities led to success, showcasing the importance of perseverance in navigating a challenging career path.
Transcript
As someone who identifies as a Black woman and also a first-generation student, how would that impact how you navigate your career?
For me, it took more intentional navigation. I knew there were more barriers in my life because many people treated me that way and created those barriers. So, my approach was to proactively look for resources.
It could be easy to let those barriers discourage you, to just give up or not try. But I knew I still wanted to reach my goals. That meant I had to take more steps and be more proactive in finding the resources I needed.
This included finding mentors, looking for and applying for scholarships and grants. It also meant finding networks that I knew would be supportive.
This was particularly helpful, not just in career networks, but in identity networks as well. I'm connected with a group of Black women entrepreneurs and a group of BIPOC coaches. I've had these networks in previous roles too. I also have a network of career professionals in similar roles.
These connections and referrals are really helpful. There have been many times I wasn't sure I would get a grant or scholarship, but I applied anyway. I knew I wanted to try, needed help, and wanted to succeed.
The society has many inequities, which can make it hard to see resources. However, there are actually a lot of resources out there. It just takes a little extra time to find them.
Once you find them and look for them, they are there and can be a great support. So, I recommend looking for them, applying, and finding your network.
Advizer Personal Links
https://www.akiliwell.com. : IG and ticktock Akiliwell : Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephine-s-68a918145/