Why celebrating Vice president - Elect Kamala Harris's gender and race is so important.

What a time to be alive. We are living through a global pandemic, building our careers from home, and witnessing a global societal shift.

This weekend we all witnessed something that hasn't happened for over 28yrs, the US President Donald Trump was not re-elected to sit his second term. Instead, we all observed a real moment in history, President-elect Joe Biden was voted into office, and for the first time, a woman Vice President was selected to work beside him.

The response this weekend has been an overwhelming feeling of relief, joy, optimism, and excitement. However, I have also seen many comments stating that Kamala Harris was simply the right person for the job, and nothing else matters!

This statement theoretically is true, but it's so much deeper than that.

Only 100 years ago, women were not allowed to vote; it's only 60 yrs ago, Ruby Bridges was escorted by the US government to attend an all-white school, and women were seen as homemakers and primary caregivers.

Kamala Harris is the first woman VP, the first black VP, and the first Asian American VP.

This alone has taught me to embrace being first. It's a mental shift; no longer will I moan that I am the first for anything. I will simply reply with the famous words 'I may be the first, but I definitely won't be the last. ????

The fight for gender equality has been a long one, and even though we are far from done, the election of Kamala Harris shines a spotlight on the clear intersection between race and gender.

This is why representation matters; this weekend, all women have witnessed a black and Asian women take a position only white men have occupied for over one hundred years.

This moment is a teachable moment for us all -

White Men - Allyship is about being intentionally supportive of someone who does not look like you.

White women - We are stronger together.

Black women - If there ever was a time to rise and shine! Now is the time.

Black men - Obama taught us that black men have the inner power to show up and be great.

All people of color - We have been ignored and disregarded for so long! This weekend will not change that, but let's use this as ammunition to reach for the stars.

For me, I have three key takeaways!

- Work hard and strive for excellence

- Surround yourself with great sponsors

- Eat 'No' for breakfast ~ Kamala Harris

To every young girl witnessing this moment, dream with ambition and lead with conviction - Kamala Harris - US Vice President

I hope this has motivated you to set new heights, seek new firsts, and be encouraged that change is coming.

Sending positive vibes,

Hannah. A