How Identity Has Influenced a Global Diversity and Inclusion Leader at a Tech Company's Career
Teobesta, a first-generation college student and immigrant, describes how societal expectations within their Ethiopian community emphasized careers like doctor, lawyer, or engineer as markers of success. However, their career journey prioritized finding "the work that makes you happy," leading to roles in sales, business, talent acquisition, and ultimately a leadership position in global diversity and inclusion; this path enabled them to give back to their family and community in a meaningful way.
Overcoming Challenges, First-Generation College Student, Immigrant Experience, Career Satisfaction, Giving Back
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Teobesta Ashenafi
Global Diversity and Inclusion Leader and Americas Talent Acquisition Leader
Global Technology and Measurement Insight Company
UC Davis
N/A
Biology & Related Sciences
Electronics & Semiconductors, Technology
Human Resources (HR)
Took Out Loans, Immigrant, Greek Life Member, First Generation College Student
Video Highlights
1. Teobesta's family emphasized traditional, high-status professions like doctor, lawyer, or engineer, illustrating cultural expectations that can influence career choices.
2. Despite family pressure, Teobesta highlights the importance of pursuing a career that brings personal happiness and fulfillment, leading to better work and the ability to give back.
3. Teobesta's journey reflects the possibility of a fulfilling career path even if it deviates from traditional expectations, showcasing the importance of personal happiness and inspiration in professional success.
Transcript
As someone who identifies as a first-generation college student and immigrant, how has that impacted how you've navigated your career?
I mentioned this earlier in a previous question, but I'm Ethiopian. As many immigrants can attest, to be successful in the eyes of my family or the Ethiopian community at large, you're a doctor, a lawyer, or an engineer. Those are the three career paths that really determine success.
Being an immigrant and a first-generation college student has really impacted my life. Our families did a lot to get us here; they sacrificed a lot and gave up a lot. The biggest lesson I've learned over these many years is to do the work that makes you happy.
It is then that you are able to inspire and deliver great work. It is then that you are able to be happy in your day-to-day life. All of that is what then makes you successful. When you're happy in your path, you're able to go back and give back to your family and take care of them in the same ways they took care of you many years ago.
You'll see the joy in their faces when you find the joy in your life. That would be my biggest takeaway and how I've moved through my life. It's the reason I've taken leaps of faith in my career, jumped into sales and the business world, and then found TA and grown into the work I've been able to do and accomplish.
So, choose what makes you happy. From there, you can go and give back and inspire.