Nicole: Tech & Advertising

My experience working as a project manager has been a unique one. In this particular field, working for various tech and advertising agencies, it was quite rare that I would come across another project manager of color (female or male). I found that to be its own challenge, where I was constantly seeking relatability and a general sense of comfort within my work environments; never truly feeling like I belonged. 

I remember working for a company where I was recruited to be the main contact for all of our “black clients.” I was asked to attend meetings where project managers normally weren’t invited in, and perform duties outside my scope of work. At times I felt that my race was a privilege (for closing the deals) but conflicted by the deep isolation and expectations involved.