Rondette
“Being a woman means strength, power and beauty. We truly posses what it takes to keep this world moving.”
Rondette is a dynamic business professional, specializing in the area of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion. She is passionate about making an impact on the lives of others, both on the career front and in her podcast pursuits. As the co-creator and co-host of Race2Rise, along with her friend Renee, she is helping to uplift women to stay driven, while creating discussions around informative and relatable topics. As someone who loves to make connections with new people and places, she is helping to create a positive space that fosters inclusivity and self improvement. Meet Rondette. This is her story.
K: Please introduce yourself!
R: Hi! I’m Rondette hailing from Brooklyn, NY. I currently reside in London and prior to moving here 4 years ago, I lived and worked in Hong Kong. I am the regional Head of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at an investment bank. I love to travel and I co-founded and co-host the Race2Rise podcast with my friend Renee.
K: Describe or define yourself in your own words.
R: I’m passionate about connecting others and truly being a conduit for like-minded people. I love to learn new things - so I am constantly researching or traveling or aiming to discover more about different cultures, ways of life and ways to do things.
K: What is your favorite thing about yourself?
R: Great question! I love my ability to be resilient and bounce back. My journey hasn’t always been the easiest, but I’ve always powered myself up to find a way to show up brighter and better after being knocked down.
K: Tell us a story. Have you had an experience that’s defined you or made you stronger?
R: There are so many stories I could share, but one of my favourites is how I ended up working and living in Hong Kong. In the summer of 2014, my colleague (and now very close friend) turned down an offer to go to Asia on a short term assignment. As a result, I was asked next and accepted. What was meant to be a 2 month assignment turned into a full blown relocation for 3 years! Couldn’t have expected or planned this. It was never in the cards for me (I thought!) to live abroad, much less in Asia, but I’m so so glad I said “yes!” and seized the opportunity. It’s truly changed my life!
K: What is one piece of advice you would give to your younger self?
R: I’d remind myself of my mantra - “All will be well”. I’m such a planner that I tend to worry and stress a lot when things feel wildly out of my control and I would remind my younger self that all things will work out the way they should - even the least expected
K: What does being a woman mean to you?
R: Being a woman means strength, power and beauty. We truly posses what it takes to keep this world moving.
K: Who is one woman that inspires you? What would you say to her if she were here now?
R: Hands down…my mother. I wouldn’t be where I am today without her encouragement and endless sacrifices. I’d say “Ma, you’re the wind beneath my wings!”