Rising Together: Insights from the Ascending Stars Summit
Rising As An Ascending Star
Recently, I had the honor of receiving an Ascending Star Award at the Ascending Stars Summit, hosted by the Golden State Valkyries and Rakuten. To be recognized so early in my journey, just two years into business ownership, was both humbling and encouraging.
Truthfully, these last two years haven’t been easy. Entrepreneurship comes with its fair share of challenges, and at times, I’ve felt discouraged by how much there is to learn. But standing in that room, surrounded by brilliant, impactful women and non-binary folks, who are not only achieving amazing things but also dreaming boldly about what’s next, I felt a renewed sense of hope. This award reminded me: I can keep going, and I don’t have to give up.
Lessons & Takeaways
The Summit was more than an awards ceremony; it was a day filled with wisdom, connection, and inspiration. Dr. Akilah Cadet reminded us to lead authentically and never become our own barrier, posing the powerful question: How do you celebrate your small wins daily? As someone who often moves the goal post on myself, I left with a renewed commitment to acknowledge my efforts and victories each day.
Tiffany Hayes, Valkyries player and business owner, emphasized that we are our own blueprint and that by showing up authentically, the right people and opportunities will naturally align with us. Jess Smith, President of the Valkyries, highlighted the importance of community in building something great, reminding us that even when self-doubt whispers that we don’t belong, we do and that collective strength makes the journey richer. Finally, Adrienne Coulson, COO of Rakuten, shared her experiences of being the only woman in a room, encouraging us not to be afraid to show up exactly as we are.
From my achievement, I want others to feel empowered to keep going. On a broader level, I hope we all continue to invest in women and non-binary folks. The dreams and ideas I heard at the Summit were powerful, and they deserve support. And for those who have “made it,” I encourage you to reach back and lift someone else up. Hearing accomplished women pour into us was invaluable, and I carry that with me.
Walking away from the Ascending Stars Summit, I felt like I could conquer the world. More importantly, I left inspired by the collective brilliance and resilience in that room. My hope is that others reading this feel the same, motivated to keep pushing forward, to celebrate their wins, and to know that they, too, belong in the spaces where their dreams can thrive.
What does This Award Means to me?
Professionally, it’s a powerful reminder that the work I’m doing matters. Personally, it’s an honor to be seen and celebrated alongside women whose vision and impact inspire me deeply. Every conversation I had that day left me full; these women were not just sharing successes but also lifting one another up with dreams, ideas, and encouragement.
Every Experience requires gratitude
I am deeply grateful to the Golden State Valkyries and Rakuten for not only honoring me with this award but also for creating such an intentional space for safe learning, connection, and growth. Thank you for the honor and for fostering an environment that inspires us all to dream bigger and lead with courage.
I am especially thankful for my sister, Shanice W., owner of Soul Movement Success. From the very beginning, she believed in me, even when I had no desire to be a business owner. She has encouraged me every step of the way, and much of what I do today wouldn’t be possible without her support.
