In honor of Women’s History Month, we are highlighting Destiny Leclerc, Social Media Coordinator at Crunchyroll.

Tell us a little about yourself:

I'm a Jamaican American with a tenacious passion for anime, activism, dogs, and the color pink!?I love spending time with my family and friends and convincing them to watch all of my favorite shows (Peach Girl, Case Closed, NANA)

Who has been the most influential woman leader in your career and why?

Lucky for me, I was surrounded by two incredible black women Siobhan Sullivan and Medjine Lesperance, who took me under their wing and helped me remember to stay true to myself through all my career endeavors!

Are you an anime fan? What do you think about the growing popularity of anime in mainstream pop culture, especially with celebrities, athletes, and other entertainers?

I am a HUGE anime fan, so much so I created an anime podcast called Getting Animated where I've had the pleasure of talking to multiple voice actors and guests, and it has been heard in 41 countries!

If I’ve learned anything through the years of being a fan, running my podcast, or even more recently, Meg Thee Stallion at the Anime Awards, when the community comes together, there is no feeling as magical as that. I'm excited to see what was once a spread-out community turn into a globally connected community that loves anime!

As a woman in the anime industry, what opportunities do you see for other women?

I’ve witnessed so many integral roles at our company that are women led! I think there is no role a woman couldn't come in, and crush it. I am truly excited to see the future of the industry.

What is one piece of advice that you would give to young women starting their career?

The things that you’ve been told are weaknesses aren’t true. Your ability to feel empathy for your peers and that “headstrong” attitude is what drives you. Don’t let anyone dull your shine.