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Vienna Mbagaya Highlight
When you're struggling you feel isolated, because we're ashamed to share when we're struggling. But you're not the only one. We're all connected in this. I like the struggle because I think where I'm going is bigger than me and it forces me to get over myself.
About Vienna
- Came to the US from Kenya in high school; says the change was "more than a culture shock; it was a smack in the face."
- Unfamiliar with US vernacular and cultural norms, she was placed in special ed despite protests and fell into isolation.
- Feeling alienated eroded her self-esteem; so much so that she avoided mirrors in fear of facing how different she was.
- Decided to share her immigrant story in a blog post and received an outpouring of support from people all over the world.
- Realized she had tapped into a common human experience everyone could relate to: feeling alone.
- Recognizing the power of community to tackle isolation, she founded Invisible Neighbors, an organization that gives voice to immigrants.
- Today, as a consultant and entrepreneur, she's on a mission foster global inclusion and empower those who feel invisible.
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