Episode 9: Introducing Amanda Blackwood

"Breaking Barriers: Kenneth's Journey of Chasing the American Dream" For today's episode of Open to Work Spotlight, please join me in welcoming my dear friend and former colleague, Kenneth Li , who is joining us from Bethesda, Maryland. Kenneth's story is one of grit and resilience. Growing up as a first-generation Chinese immigrant in the U.S., his family faced many challenges. Kenneth’s parents worked tirelessly—his mother juggling jobs as a housekeeper and restaurant worker to provide for the family. They lived in a small studio apartment in D.C.'s Chinatown, with five family members and even his grandmother sharing the space. Despite the financial struggles, Kenneth learned the importance of hard work and perseverance from a young age. At 16, life threw one of its toughest challenges at Kenneth when he lost his father. Stepping up as the male figure in the family, Kenneth took on new responsibilities and used this moment to push forward, channeling his focus into personal and professional growth. Today, Kenneth is a Program Manager at AstraZeneca, focusing on oncology studies—driven by a passion to help those battling cancer. His dedication to his work and his ability to navigate challenges reflect his strong work ethic and determination. Kenneth’s journey is just one example of millions of people who come to America, facing struggles and making sacrifices for a better life. His story is an inspiring reminder of perseverance, and a testament to how hard work and dedication can lead to success. Thank you, Kenneth, for sharing your journey with us. #OpenToWork #Perseverance #ImmigrantJourney #Oncology #AstraZeneca #HardWork #Resilience #AmericanDream

"Navigating the Cosmos of Careers: Giulio's Multifaceted Journey" We are thrilled to introduce our guest for today's episode: Giulio Pengo , joining us from Padua (Padova), Italy. Giulio is a product owner at the startup Yeppik, a PhD holder from UniNerd, a karate practitioner, and a Starfleet officer from a parallel universe! In our conversation, we dove into his professional and personal experiences. Giulio's love for Star Trek has taught him valuable life and professional lessons, and he’s still waiting for the day he gets beamed up for a real-life intergalactic adventure! As a jack of all trades, he's constantly learning new tools and skills, embodying the spirit of continuous growth. Giulio has been instrumental in building Yeppik from the ground up, managing diverse tasks, including product development, HR, and remote team coordination during the COVID pandemic. Beyond his professional life, he's a passionate gamer, a dedicated karate practitioner for over 20 years, and a committed parent to his one-and-a-half-year-old child. One of Giulio's recent endeavors includes a master’s program in AI ethics, reflecting his love for technology and classical studies. He's also diving into game development, enhancing his skills in Unity and Python, and exploring his passion for writing. Giulio's story is a testament to the importance of pursuing diverse passions and maintaining a sense of curiosity. His journey showcases the joy of discovery and the value of continuous learning. Thank you, Giulio, for sharing your inspiring story with us. Your dedication to enjoying life and learning is truly motivating. #OpenToWork #ContinuousLearning #Tech #Startups #AI #Karate #Parenting #Gaming

"Rysheem's Journey: Overcoming Challenges with Heart and Smile" Join us on Open to Work Spotlight as we introduce Rysheem from Baltimore, a beacon of resilience and versatility. With a love for animals that led him to become a vet and an unyielding spirit that saw him through to earning his bachelor's degree and now pursuing an MBA, Rysheem exemplifies the power of positive choices. His journey reflects a commitment to his community and personal growth, having overcome the allures and dangers of a life that claimed many of his peers. Guided by his grandmother's wisdom and propelled by respect and ambition, he continues to inspire and motivate. Rysheem's future gleams with promise, from exciting ventures in entertainment with his play, "Uncle Tony's Place," to significant strides in his career, potentially overseeing a pharmaceutical oncology program. With his MBA on the horizon, Rysheem's story is not just one of overcoming obstacles but also of carving a path that uplifts and impacts those around him. Tune in to discover how Rysheem's dedication and grandma's timeless advice steer him towards a future full of success and fulfillment. Thank you, Rysheem, for sharing your inspiring journey, and may your story encourage many to pursue their paths with courage and heart. #OpenToWorkSpotlight #Resilience #CommunityImpact #AnimalLover #MBAJourney #Playwright #VeterinaryLife #Empowerment #EducationalJourney #InspirationalStories

"From Code to Colombian Markets: Aman Kasy's Tech-Driven Adventure in Entrepreneurial Innovation" In today's episode of Open to Work Spotlight, we would like to introduce Aman Kasy , an individual whose entrepreneurial spirit led him to Colombia in search of new adventures. Aman, with his rich cultural background from Egypt and Ethiopia, brings a unique perspective to his journey. Initially setting out to become a pilot, he pivoted to computer science, discovering a passion that aligned with his innate talents. The COVID-19 pandemic presented an unexpected opportunity, shifting his work dynamics to remote, which ultimately led him to Colombia. There, Aman identified a gap in the market for online shopping solutions, inspired by the vibrant downtowns of Medellin and other South American cities. Aman's venture into entrepreneurship with Decentro was born from a desire to solve a problem he observed firsthand. His journey was not just about starting a business but about immersing himself in a new culture and language, learning Spanish to communicate his vision effectively. The challenges were numerous, from building a team to understanding local market dynamics, but Aman's resolve led to the successful launch of a platform that bridged the gap between local products and online shoppers. This experience taught him invaluable lessons in management, teamwork, and the importance of adapting to new environments. Looking forward, Aman is eager to share his experiences and learnings with others, hoping to inspire those who dream of embarking on their entrepreneurial journeys. His story is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and the courage to step out of one's comfort zone. Aman's journey highlights the beauty of embracing new challenges, learning from them, and ultimately, making a difference in a new community. His message is clear: with determination and a clear vision, any obstacle can be overcome, and any dream can be realized. #Entrepreneurship #Innovation #CulturalExchange #RemoteWork #StartupJourney #Inspiration #TechForGood #GlobalImpact #CommunityBuilding

"Rohan's Stand-Up Act: Merging Wisdom with Humor" We're excited to feature Rohan Parekh , joining us all the way from Arlington, Virginia. A stand-up comedian hailing from Mumbai, Rohan is currently an MBA student at Georgetown University and is on his way to becoming a seasoned product manager. Rohan's journey started in Bombay, where he earned his engineering degree. However, he soon realized that a purely technical career was not his calling. He transitioned into consulting with EY, working across multiple industries and travelling extensively across India. Outside of EY, Rohan worked on a government project with IIT Delhi, contributing to the expansion of India's technical textile industry. Seeking to enhance his business acumen, Rohan is pursuing an MBA at Georgetown University. During his studies, he interned with Nextracker, a solar tech company in California, where he continued to develop his product management skills. Simultaneously, Rohan has cultivated a decade-long passion for stand-up comedy, finding a unique balance between his professional aspirations and his passion for making people laugh. Rohan’s story is a testament to the power of versatility. He embodies the spirit of someone who is not just career-focused but also dedicates himself to his passion for comedy. As he approaches his MBA graduation in May 2024, Rohan is open to opportunities that align with his dual interests in technology and entertainment. Join us in appreciating Rohan's journey, a perfect blend of professional growth and personal passion. We wish him the best in his future endeavors and look forward to seeing where his unique combination of skills and interests will take him next. #CareerJourney #MBAStudent #StandUpComedy #ProductManagement #GeorgetownUniversity #OpenToWork #TechCareer #EntertainmentIndustry #ProfessionalGrowth #LifeBalance #InspirationalStory

"Journey of Perseverance: Kami's 8,500-Mile Quest from Hong Kong to London in Pursuit of Her Tech Dream" Join us in today's Open to Work Spotlight as we delve into the incredible story of Kami Lam , who embarked on an 8,500-mile journey from Hong Kong to London. Kami's adventure included traveling by train, bus, and even hitchhiking on the back of a truck, showcasing her unwavering determination to pursue her dream of becoming a web developer. In this inspiring episode, Kami shares her diverse experiences, from studying philosophy to working in various roles, including as a babysitter, shop assistant, and factory worker. Her story is a testament to resilience and the power of following one's passion, eventually leading her to a junior developer role in a media company. Kami's interests extend beyond her profession, delving into history, sociology, and psychology, driven by personal experiences and a quest to understand human emotions. Her journey is not just about professional growth, but also a personal exploration and the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. Tune in to hear how Kami navigated her way through different continents and cultures, and how these experiences shaped her path to becoming a web developer. This episode is a reminder that no dream is too far to reach, and every journey, no matter how long, begins with a single step. Join us in celebrating Kami's journey and her exciting future endeavors. #CareerJourney #WebDevelopment #Resilience #OpenToWorkSpotlight #GlobalTravel #TechCareers #InspiringStories #CareerTransition #LifeJourney #ProfessionalGrowth

"Empowering Gaming Industry Professionals: Madison's Journey of Support and Resilience" I am excited to introduce you to Madison Lillian —an exceptional individual making a profound impact in the gaming industry. Madison brings a wealth of experience in employee engagement and event coordination. She is a dedicated mother of three, a passionate Harry Potter fan, a musician, and a TikTok content creator. When the gaming industry faced the daunting challenge of widespread layoffs, Madison supported her former colleagues by creating private LinkedIn groups where professionals could share advice and support each other. However, her commitment didn't stop there. Madison proactively reached out to major companies like Amazon, Netflix, and Xbox Studios. Through her efforts, she orchestrated successful events and outplacement initiatives, enabling her colleagues to establish direct connections with hiring managers. These efforts have been a lifeline for talented professionals navigating a highly competitive job market. In a year marked by industry-wide layoffs, Madison's unwavering dedication showcases the power of community and collaboration. She exemplifies how unity can make a profound difference, even in the face of adversity. As Madison embarks on the next chapter of her journey, exploring new opportunities both within and beyond the gaming industry, she's taking valuable time to be with her family, cherishing precious moments, and continuing to extend her helping hand to those in need. Madison, we salute your resilience, compassion, and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact. You are an inspiration to us all. #GameIndustry #CommunitySupport #Inspiration #OpenToWork #OpenToWorkSpotlight

"A Heart Mom Warrior: Sandy Becker's Unyielding Spirit in Life's Toughest Battles" I'm thrilled to introduce you to Sandy Becker , an embodiment of resilience and determination. In Episode 7, Sandy shared her incredible journey that will inspire you. Sandy's professional journey spans an impressive 22-year career in the financial services sector. She specialized in order management for a Fortune 500 company, focusing on federal accounts for the Department of Defense. Sandy grew up in a military family, and as an Air Force brat, she spent her early years living in various parts of the world. Fortunately, she had the lifelong built-in best friend through her identical twin to accompany her. Sandy is a dedicated mother of three grown children. Her journey as a mother, however, has been marked by challenges. Raising her daughter as a single mother for a couple of years before marrying and having two sons, Michael and Troy, Sandy faced adversity that would have tested anyone's resolve. Michael's diagnosis with a congenital heart defect at a tender age left Sandy uncertain of what the future held for her son. Four years later, Troy suffered a permanent birth injury, leading to countless hours with doctors and lawyers. This took a toll on her marriage, resulting in her becoming a single mother of three. These challenges proved to be the force that forged Sandy's resilience. She embraced running, joining a running club and quickly progressing from running a mile to running a full marathon. With the same determination, Sandy continued her educational journey, earning a bachelor's degree in IT management and a master's degree in cybersecurity. However, as she set her goal of completing the master's program in 6 months, life's uncertainties soon intervened. She re-prioritized her goals to focus on Michael, who underwent his third open-heart surgery. His surgery was a success, and Sandy returned to her academic pursuits, completing her degree in nine months. Her story shows that life can throw unexpected diversions, causing us to revisit our goals. Yet, the true priority often lies with family. Sandy is focusing on opportunities that align with her vision, attending webinars, networking, and pursuing industry certifications. Sandy is being selective about the roles she applies for, ensuring they align with her goals. Sandy is also volunteering her time to support children and families affected by congenital heart defects. In celebrating her incredible journey, we are reminded that challenges are not roadblocks but steppingstones to growth. Her story encourages us to persevere in the face of adversity, adapt to changing circumstances, and always prioritize what truly matters – our loved ones. Let us draw inspiration from her unwavering determination and use it to fuel our own pursuit of dreams and resilience in the face of life's toughest battles. #HeartMom #IdenticalTwin #CyberSecurity #Inspiration #Resilience #CareerJourney #OpenToWorkSpotlight

"Touchdowns and Triumphs: The American Football Story of Amy and Alexander Browning's Resilience" In Episode 6, we're featuring Amy Browning from San Antonio, Texas. She is a mother and a Business Architect with a passion for advancing women in Enterprise Architecture. Her roles span working for the federal government, a Fortune 100 company, and a university. She holds double post-graduate degrees in Business Administration and Enterprise Architecture. Recently, Amy has also joyfully taken on the role of 'dog mom' to her Goldendoodle, CoCo. Amy's heart beats in sync with her son Alexander's, especially during his high school football season. It's a season that reflected not just a game but the ethos of resilience and the pursuit of substantial goals—mirroring Amy's professional dedication. Amy's wisdom, advising her son to 'make something great from this experience,' speaks volumes about her belief that growth happens when stepping out of comfort zones. Amy saw her son's commitment to football as a reflection of her own professional resilience. Alexander's transformation from a novice to the starting wide receiver, under the Texas heat, instilled in him a dedication to hard work and setting lofty goals. Amy, witnessing her son's dedication, drew parallels to her career, embracing new challenges with a zest for continuous learning. She's increasingly saying 'yes' more than 'no,' opening doors to new opportunities and experiences that showcase her adaptability and thirst for growth. She has adopted Alexander's 'practice makes perfect' attitude toward her professional development and has pushed beyond comfort zones to learn to tackle challenges head-on. Looking ahead, the duo is set on exciting new challenges. Alexander, with dreams of playing for the Texas Longhorns, is meticulously selecting high schools that will prepare him for a future at UT Austin. Meanwhile, Amy is gearing up for active roles in Enterprise Architecture. She's not only presenting at the upcoming Women in Architecture (WIA) conference but also preparing to further certify her expertise in Business Architecture. Both mother and son demonstrate an incredible drive toward achieving their dreams, reflecting their mutual belief in the value of hard work and ambition. This mutual exchange of inspiration demonstrates the unique bond they share—where a mother learns from her son's triumphs on the football field and applies those lessons to conquer her professional world. If any The University of Texas at Austin undergraduate admissions officers are tuning in and looking for a spectacular wide receiver, you might want to reach out to Amy for more details on Alexander. #MotherAndSon #BusinessArchitect #EnterpriseArchitecture #OpenToWork #HardWork #Resilience #Football #LearningFromYouth #UTAustin #TexasLonghorns