CBV Alumni Board Feature: Brandy Williams + Generation Success
2020-21 CBV Alumni Board Feature: Brandy Williams of Generation Success.
What propelled you into the entrepreneurial space? And what do you enjoy most about being a founder?
I was tired of being in spaces, mistaken for the secretary, or told that I was too young to be the "Head" of something. Thus, I created my own table at Generation Success and took my seat there. What I enjoy most about being a founder is dreaming big, and often, then watching my dreams come true. It is a feeling of unbridled freedom and joy that is unmatched by any other feelings in the world.
Tell me about an experience you had as an entrepreneur or in starting your company that exemplified one of Camelback's core values.
I am an unapologetic, Black woman. Being Ruthless For Good means not being willing to accept the status quo, despite the barriers placed in front of me and my work. Last year, I had an idea for mentoring and creating a new pipeline of teachers. A funder turned me down, cold. I did not quit. I simply started building a teacher training network, from the ground up and with no funding. Now, I am being requested by major school districts and organizations across the country.
Is there anyone from the #camelbackfam you'd like to shout-out? Why?
I would LOVE to shout-out to 2019 Camelback fellow and founder Elijah Moses. I misunderstood who Moses was in my fellowship. I did not understand or appreciate his genius until now. He is a dope brother who believes in keeping his word and doing what is right. I appreciate his energy.
How are you and/or your team adapting to the challenges of the coronavirus crisis? What are you most proud of overcoming in recent months?
We had no choice but to adapt. We lost significant funding, so, we made a way out to stay afloat. These times have been some of the most enjoyable for our team because we were able to get back to doing what we love the most, serving the community. When Covid-19 began, we took to providing parents and students with IEPs support in an uncertain time. That outreach gave us joy and hope. I am most proud that my team - in spite of the racial unrest and the uncertainty of the pandemic - gave of themselves even when we weren't sure I could pay them, and they did so without care or concern.
What are you looking forward to as a Founder in 2021?
I am looking forward to expansion and growth. We have really worked hard during this pandemic to make ourselves better and a more sustainable organization. Thus, I want to step back and enjoy the fruits of that labor.
You can learn more here about Brandy Williams and Generation Success.
Find out more about all of the CBV Fellows by clicking below: