EmpowHer at GFT: Building Your Personal Brand Beyond Brushstrokes

I was beyond honored when Larissa Cavalcanti Simão invited me to speak as the first-ever guest at EmpowHer @ GFT an inspiring event dedicated to uplifting and empowering Latinas. My session, “Beyond the Brushstrokes: Building Your Personal Brand,” was about embracing our unique journeys and turning our passions into a brand that truly shines.

Here are some highlights from this amazing event:

Building a Personal Brand: Your Story is Your Power

I started my talk by emphasizing that while I can’t physically paint (my brushstrokes are digital), each interaction we have is like a brushstroke painting the picture that others see of us. Our personal brand ensures the world sees us exactly how we want to be seen, staying true to our values and identity.

As I shared my own unconventional journey becoming a Senior UX Designer at Google without a traditional college education I encouraged everyone to see what makes us different not as weaknesses, but as our greatest strengths. My personal story includes overcoming imposter syndrome, embracing my Brazilian heritage, and understanding that authenticity is our superpower.

Your Brand is Your Future

From facing significant setbacks like my first design agency closing down, being unemployed, injured, and even temporarily homeless, I revealed how these challenges shaped me.

Each obstacle wasn’t just a setback; it was a step towards truly discovering and embracing who I am. One of the core messages I shared was:

“Your brand isn’t your past;
it’s your future.”

It’s about who you aspire to be. Every moment, every choice, is part of your brand, reflecting the masterpiece that is your life.

Empowering Latinas and the Value of Community

Being among such powerful, passionate Latinas reinforced the power of community. I highlighted how important it is to uplift and empower each other, celebrating our cultural strengths and the unique perspectives we bring into professional spaces.

It was an absolute joy connecting with everyone at EmpowHer. My hope is that all attendees felt empowered to be unapologetically themselves because that’s truly the best brand anyone could have.

Grateful for the opportunity and looking forward to seeing all the amazing personal brands you build. Keep shining!