How being 'different' helped these 14 female entrepreneurs find their niche and made them more successful

Dreamers // Doers is a networking community of female entrepreneurs, creatives, and change-makers.
Many of its members are founders of startups and small businesses, ranging from socially conscious fashion brands and international coworking spaces to companies that help other women navigate the startup world.
Each member overcame challenges on the journey to entrepreneurship — and learned how the things that make them different can actually be their most valuable asset, setting them apart from the crowd.
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Christina Blacken grew up as what she describes as an extreme minority. “Growing up in Utah as a black woman — racially, religiously, and politically, I was on the outskirts of the majority,” she said.

But she used her differences to propel her forward. “Since I would always stick out in a group or crowd, I started to own it, love it, and become fearless in entering any room with any type of person and stand in confidence of who I am, because there was no hiding,” she said.

Now, as the founder and chief story strategist at The New Quo, it’s her superpower. “I’m able to make genuine connections with anyone of any background easily because I understand the power of confidence in your own identity regardless of other people’s hang-ups or prejudices,” she said.

Like Blacken, many women have experienced feeling different, whether because of their racial or ethnic background, ability, less traditional career path, or something else.

Blacken and 14 other female founders and leaders shared that while their differences may have at times felt like a setback, they’ve ultimately become an incredible advantage, providing them with unique perspectives, experiences, and tools they use in their work and lives.

The following stories beautifully illustrate that it’s about what you do with your differences that truly matters.