Imagine stepping into a room, feeling like you're the only one wearing a different uniform. That's the "other" feeling, isn't it? It's a feeling I know well, and it's something Daniela Pierre Bravo explores with such raw honesty and grace. Like many of us, Daniela's journey is a tapestry of "firsts," resilience, and a whole lot of grit, woven together with the threads of her immigrant experience. 

She reminds us that being "the other" isn't a weakness; it's a superpower. It sharpens our emotional intelligence, compels us to be resourceful, and forces us to see opportunities where others might see obstacles. Daniela's story, from her Greyhound bus odyssey to her pivotal moments with Mika Brzezinski, is a testament to the power of strategic vulnerability and the importance of finding your voice. She reminds us that sometimes, the biggest leaps in our careers come from the smallest acts of courage, like brewing the perfect cup of coffee or daring to pitch an idea on a plane.

Key takeaways from our conversation:

• Embrace the "Other" as a Superpower: Daniela highlights how being from a marginalized background can enhance your emotional intelligence and ability to read people, turning potential weaknesses into strengths.
• Strategic Proactivity over Reactivity: In a climate where DEI efforts are being challenged, it's crucial to move beyond simply doing the work. Take inventory of your stakeholders, identify potential career sponsors, and proactively seek opportunities to advance.
• The Power of Sponsorship and Mentorship: Daniela's relationship with Mika Brzezinski underscores the transformative impact of having a sponsor who believes in your potential and advocates for you in rooms you're not in.
• Intentional Relationship Building: From perfecting Mika's coffee order to strategically pitching an idea on a plane, Daniela demonstrates the importance of building genuine relationships and finding ways to add value to others.
• Community and Connection: Daniela emphasizes the importance of finding community, especially for those from marginalized groups. Her work with her "Exceso Community" highlights the power of shared experiences and collective support.

Actionable Allyship Takeaway: Take a moment to map out your professional landscape. Identify three key stakeholders in your organization who could potentially be allies or sponsors. Consider how you can add value to their work and strategically build relationships with them. Remember, it's about mutual benefit and shared success.

Find Daniela at https://www.danielapierrebravo.com/ and Julie Kratz at https://www.nextpivotpoint.com/ and on LinkedIn.