The article describes the experiences of a founder who navigates the complexities of success while grappling with feelings of inadequacy. Despite achieving significant milestones, including obtaining a visa, securing major clients, and building a team, the individual feels like an outsider in the entrepreneurial space. Their recent invitation to speak at a leading design conference underscores the pressure to conform and prove oneself, amplified by a disheartening response from event organizers before the talk.
That process really messed with my head. But I did it. I got the visa, got the awards, worked with big clients, built a studio and hired a team.
I didn't feel like I fit the mould; I don't sound like a typical founder. I didn't grow up speaking English. I didn't come from money.
A few months ago, I was invited to close the main stage at one of the biggest design conferences in the world. It felt like a big moment.
Then, a couple of nights before my talk, during a speakers' dinner, someone from the company pulled me aside and said they wanted another rehearsal.
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