Recently, I had the honor of delivering a keynote address at the University of Washington's Foster School of Business Women in Tech dinner sponsored by Women in Tech Seattle and Boeing. As I shared my career journey with professionals at various stages of their careers, I was reminded of my own path—one that didn't always follow a straight line.
Finding my path as a first-generation student
My college journey was anything but linear. I started with computer information systems (CIS) because my uncle studied something similar, worked from home, and seemed to be doing pretty well. After one CIS200 class, I decided maybe that wasn't for me (I didn’t enjoy working in Access databases) —though sometimes I wonder if I should have stuck with it.
From there, I changed my concentration three more times: CIS to Marketing to Corporate Finance, before finally discovering my love for supply chain management during my senior year.
To my first-gen professionals/students reading this: The path isn't always clear, but keep showing up. Keep asking questions. Keep building your network. Keep trying new things. You deserve to be in every room that you are in.
Embracing the unexpected turns
At 21, I joined Amazon as a Vendor Manager managing the Microsoft relationship. Can you imagine? At 21, setting Microsoft's marketing, inventory, and sales goals at Amazon. I was terrified of messing up, but fortunate to have a leader who saw leadership potential in me before I recognized it in myself. Seek out those leaders that pour in to you, positioning you for future opportunities. These leaders can eventually become a sponsor.
Now in 2025, I lead pan-Amazon generative AI pursuits in the mobility sector—a role that didn't exist until two months ago. In eleven years, I've worked in personal computers, digital software (software-as-a-service; SaaS), and video games, held three different titles, moved from Amazon Retail to Amazon Web Services to lead product strategy for electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and just two months ago, stepped into my current position.
The world has transformed dramatically since I graduated. When I graduated, there was no Alexa. We were still downloading music to iTunes. Who even remembers iTunes?!
This is what happens in a constantly evolving world—the opportunities that excite you today may look completely different tomorrow.
Finding my voice in 2020
For me, like many of you, 2020 was transformative. As president of Amazon's Black Employee Network during what some call a racial reckoning, I found myself speaking up more than ever before, even when it was honestly scary to do so. I received hateful messages for using my voice and platform.
Profound growth happens when you do not let fear win. That year fundamentally changed how I show up in both professional and personal spaces. While I am still extremely introverted, I am not afraid to use my voice to advocate for myself and others. It has pushed me to identify ways to merge DEI into my day job where I am strong advocate for inclusive technology that doesn't leave anyone behind. DEI does not stop with hiring and company culture. It has to be embedded in the products and services that consumers and enterprise customers use.
My advice to you…
Build your professional family tree
Throughout my career, I've had mentors provide me with seats at tables I couldn't yet access alone. These relationships evolved from mentorship to sponsorship—people who advocate for you in rooms where you're not present.
I haven't had to search for a new role in five or six years. Opportunities have found me through my community engagement, advocacy work, and mentor network.
The connections you're making throughout your collegiate and professional journey are branches in your "professional family tree." The colleague you collaborate with today might become an executive at your dream company or create the next big unicorn. The mentor you're building rapport with might recommend you for a life-changing opportunity.
Water these relationships—they matter more than you know.
Take up space when it matters
You may often find yourself in rooms where no one else looks like you. Remember this: you deserve to be there, and your presence matters. You are an example of what's possible for someone else.
I don't believe in imposter syndrome. If you feel uncomfortable in a space, it rarely has anything to do with you—the environment simply isn't inviting you in properly. Think about the difference between an open door and an actual invitation to enter. Don't let the lack of invitation deter you; continue to take up space or pivot when it's time.
Your potential is greater than you can imagine
Early in my career, I didn't have a clear trajectory. I had no concept of what a product manager was, couldn't envision working in generative AI, and certainly couldn't imagine hosting company-wide town halls with Amazon's CEOs.
Yet in eleven years, I've been recognized by Forbes as a 30 Under 30 recipient and by Black Enterprise as a BE 40 Under 40 recipient. I've been mentored by Amazon and AWS CEOs and welcomed back to my alma mater as a Distinguished Graduate of the Last Decade—an award ceremony I once volunteered at as a student.
I have a feeling you are likely wildly underestimating what you're capable of. Stop that!
Embrace a future of change
The world is going to keep changing. New technologies will emerge. Social movements will reshape priorities. Your "why" will evolve.
Influencer marketing has grown into a $24 billion industry. Generative AI apps like ChatGPT transformed how we work within a year. My current role was created just two months ago to meet emerging industry needs.
So don't get too comfortable with your five-year plan. The most exciting opportunities often come disguised as unexpected detours.
My message to you is simple but powerful: step into the unknown and trust yourself. The path ahead isn't straight—it's a beautiful, winding journey of discovery. The opportunities are truly endless if you allow them to be.
What unexpected turns has your professional journey taken? How have you navigated the changes in your industry? I'd love to hear your stories in the comments below.