2024 Fellow Focus: Stephane Manuel + TrueFiktion
Designing the Future of History Education through Human-Centered Design
2024 Fellow Stephane “Steph” Manuel , Founder of TrueFiktion shares more about his journey as a social impact entrepreneur.
What life experiences propelled you into the entrepreneurial space and made you decide to be your own boss?
While in business school, I had the opportunity to participate in an entrepreneurship fellowship program. It provided me with a great environment to test my ideas, build products, and be supported while I was curious about solving a problem. After graduating, I always knew that sooner or later, I was going to be an entrepreneur.
What do you enjoy most about being a founder?
You are trying to build something cool that solves a problem, but at the same time, you have to think about whether there is actually a sustainable business model. The process of iterating is hard but fun. I enjoy that I am in a constant state of growth. I am always trying to get better and be better, so I’m not bored with what I am spending my time working on.
What do you wish someone had told you before you started your entrepreneurial journey?
It's important to know your why and what you are willing to give up for that. I don't believe in overnight success stories. When you're trying to do something hard, it requires a lot out of you. So, the more clarity you have about your why, the easier it is to have an honest conversation about what sacrifices are needed.
Tell us about an experience you had as an entrepreneur or in starting your company that exemplified one of Camelback's core values: "Belief in Mission + Vision"; "Unafraid of Failure"; "Constant Learner"; "Humble + Hungry"; and "Give First."
I didn't have a background in education or comics when I came up with the idea for TrueFiktion, but that didn't stop me from trying to write my first comic. The first comic we introduced was so bad that I'll never show it to anyone, but I tested it out. I received a lot of negative feedback, but I learned much about what was needed for a positive classroom experience. If I had been unafraid of failure, I would have never met the people or developed the skills to build my venture.
Let's talk about your legacy. What is your vision for the kind of world you hope to create through your venture?
Our ultimate goal is that every student can see themselves meaningfully represented in their education. If we are successful in 10 years, no student will ever be able to say that they didn't see themselves, their culture, their people, or their community in their K12 education.
What's your favorite book or podcast that you draw entrepreneurial inspiration from?
The Alchemist. From the book, I learned that the universe does conspire to help you get what you want, but it's always going to make sure that you truly want it. In my journey, there have been so many times when things became the most difficult right before I had a breakthrough.
We know balancing the demands of entrepreneurship and life can be challenging. What are some of your favorite ways to prioritize your self-care?
I meditate, and I spend time with family and friends.
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