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“What I love most about my job is the opportunity to make a difference.”
Upon joining the US Marines at age 17, Petrus Johnson promised his mom he’d get a college degree, and he delivered. Now a customer success account manager, he honors his roots by guiding fellow veterans and fostering social justice discussions beyond the workplace 1 of 14
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“I just got obsessed with creating things that were not in existence.”
Driven by his mother’s dream and a commitment to innovation, representation, and the empowerment of the Black and African American community, Tracy Jones shares his inspiring journey from poet to professional writer. 2 of 14
Videos
“I am free to be exactly who I am.”
Inspired by her son and her joy-centered approach, Ashley Witherspoon, a Microsoft customer success account manager, champions the power of a unique voice to drive change and growth in the corporate world. 4 of 14
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“We're also finding ways to affect the entire region.”
Jerome Collins discusses the influence of his father’s guidance, his passion for art and music, and his innovative approach to driving positive change and representation in his professional sphere. 5 of 14
Animated Story
Nurturing inner peace
When Ethan Alexander started at Microsoft, he prioritized money over his wellbeing. Twelve years later, the senior customer success account manager and D&I storytelling host knows that the only way to truly take care of others is to first take care of yourself. Discover his story of gratitude and growth.
Featured Artist: Camila Abdanur
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Tracy Jones is all about stories
What can an object convey about growth and inspiration? Tracy Jones reveals the personal inventory that define his path and principles. 9 of 14
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Ashley Witherspoon and the big plans she’s made
Our personal treasures hold stories of who we are. Ashley Witherspoon shares the tangible symbols of her values and journey. 10 of 14
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Jerome Collins and the items that remind him of who he is
Artifacts in our life can be a source of inspiration and a marker for success. Jerome Collins presents us with the personal items that fuel his creativity and professional growth. 13 of 14
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Bringing ourselves to the work of improving accessibility
Roberto Perez, Technical Program Manager at Microsoft, refuses to let his blindness keep him from creating solutions for those with disabilities. Equipped with a vivid imagination, a love for reading, and the magic of technology, he works to enhance independence and communication through innovative tools.
Partnering for inclusion and accessibility
Jessica Rafuse, Director of Accessibility Partnerships at Microsoft, views her disability as a strength. Drawing from personal experience, she leads global initiatives to drive inclusion and accessible technology, empowering people with disabilities and ensuring everyone can bring their full selves to work.
How a military veteran found empowerment in her ADHD and autism
Ryen Macababbad, Principal Security Program Manager at Microsoft, harnesses her ADHD and autism to her advantage in work and life. Drawing from military experience, she’s dedicated to protecting Microsoft and its customers from cybersecurity threats, while fostering trust and striving to be her best every day.
Investing in the future
We’ve given more than $10 million to 18 Historically Black Colleges and Universities since 2020 to support curriculum development, student scholarships and mentoring, faculty training, and virtual learning.
Honoring heritage and self
Staci Pendergress, Sr. Software Engineer at Microsoft, attributes her resilience and willingness to listen to her Indigenous heritage. As the first in her family to be born and raised off the Blackfeet reservation and graduate from college, she honors her parents’ sacrifices by advocating for representation in the tech world.
Giving fonts a purpose – across culture and ability
As a member of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe, Greg Hitchcock, knows the importance of preserving the emotion and expression of native languages. As Principal Software Engineering Manager for Microsoft, he aims to work with fonts and characters to further protect and archive sacred languages in the digital landscape.
Telling Indigenous stories in gaming
Crediting her Cherokee roots, Gillian Vaughn, Software Engineer at Microsoft, takes pride in seeing the value in everything around her. Now she’s made it her mission to show that Indigenous Peoples, culture, and stories are valuable in tech and gaming as well.
Finding a sense of belonging
As a young mom, Diana Gonzalez experienced imposter syndrome. Her personal journey helped her overcome it and she’s now a Senior Cloud Solution Architect at Microsoft. Diana also gets to pursue a childhood interest, writing for Fashion at Microsoft.
A path for the gamers
Utilizing the resourcefulness he feels is intrinsic to his Brazilian heritage, Daniel Martins, Xbox Loyalty Marketing Lead at Microsoft, set out to help young Latin-Americans get into gaming with programs like Imagine Cup.
Growing day by day
After her family experienced bankruptcy when she was young, Gabriela Olmos-Hill, Senior Director at Microsoft, learned how to fix things the only way she knew how — through community. Now she’s driving the business forward every day.
A captain’s treasure
We hold on to items over time and watch them become symbolic for where we’ve been and what we’ve done. For Petrus Johnson, an essay, insignia, and audiobook all hold significance to his path so far.
A journey defined by wings and words
For Vishal Amin, relics like his “thinking ball,” his first wings earned in the US Marine Corps, and treasured letters from his family offer comfort and remind him of who he is and what he’s both accomplished and overcome. These objects help to portray Vishal’s journey of duty, sacrifice, and gratitude.
Art of cherishing travel
Sometimes our possessions remind us of our favorite places or home. Athena Chang shares the items that take her back to Taiwan, Prague, and New York. Join the conversation and share with us what items remind you of the places you’ve been.
Near and dear
Keepsakes that get passed through generations of a connected family can unlock hidden characteristics of our colleagues. Cynthia Bryant presents us with some of hers that showcase her mom’s creativity and how she encourages herself to fly. What cherished keepsakes have passed through the hands of your family?
Power of empathy in effective leadership
After balancing work and caring for her son as he dealt with challenges to his eyesight, Cynthia Bryant activated her courage. Now, she strives to manage her team with grace, strength and truth in moments where they are also balancing family life and career.
Nurturing cultural commitment
Inspired by her son, Athena Chang navigates her career and motherhood with empathy and resilience. Marked by familial support and the importance of cultural preservation as she raises her own family, she shares a deep connection with her clients.
Innovating beyond the mind’s eye
Emmanuelle Rodrigues Nunes has an invisible disability that prevents her from visualizing things in her mind. Now she proves that she can do anything that anybody else can, working passionately to spread awareness of aphantasia. Illustrated by Dana Kearly.
Bringing my collective self to problem solving
Cambodian-born American immigrant Sopheak Neak is on a journey to realize his own identity and in doing so, creating safe spaces and resources for his community—inside and outside of Microsoft.
No shame
Thiago struggled to keep his ADHD and anxiety a secret, until working through a mental health crisis led him to realize that his differences brought a unique perspective to his work. Illustrated by Jason Wilsher-Mills.
Rethinking remote
During the pandemic, Experience Lead Sascha Ackermann and his team set out to make meetings and events more inclusive, for both remote and on-site teams. The result was Microsoft’s first hybrid event room.
The power of empathy
For Customer Success Account Manager Thad Stafford, living with PTSD, anxiety, and substance abuse disorder empowers him to connect more intentionally with customers.
Nichole’s Balancing Act
Nichole was used to juggling her job, her life, and her anxiety. At a time when she achieved her biggest professional goal, she found that her mental health threatened to bring it all crashing down. Jonathan Soren illustrates Nichole’s story of connection, growth, and the search for balance.
Freedom in uncovering
Manuel Pereira has been navigating life with epilepsy. From concealing his condition to being vocal about his needs, Manuel shares a journey of strength, acceptance, and the power of a supportive workplace, illustrated by Fred Campbell.
Lessons on fatherhood and resilience from my Sikh upbringing
Senior Customer Engineer Davinder Pal Singh channels the teachings from his faith and family life into meaningful representation of Sikhism in tech.
New world views
Diagnosed with a visual disability in her teens, Senior Product Manager Nidhi Jain advocates for assistive technologies in the workplace designed to meet people where they are.
From covering my identity to embracing it
Raised by Vietnamese refugees and in nondiverse communities, Director of Customer Success Ngoc Dinh now helps provide a safe, welcoming space for AAPI self-identified colleagues.
What Leaders Look Like
Shrivaths worried that coworkers would be reluctant to follow a leader with disabilities. Instead, he discovered that his experiences made him a stronger, more empathetic manager. Illustrated by Ananya Rao-Middleton.
Planting seeds, cultivating personal growth
Our possessions sometimes serve as personalized markers of our growth. Sonja Gu shares with us her avocado plant, which serves as a symbol of her personal evolution.
A mother’s love
Meet Megumi Voight, whose possessions speak volumes about her journey. From her mother’s protective amulet to a cherished challenge coin marking professional growth, each item resonates with Megumi’s personal evolution and resilience.
The power of an open heart and mind
Sometimes we possess intangible items that are useful ideals that we carry with us. Naval Tripathi shares with us three tools within his spiritual inventory that act as his most treasured possessions.
Always room to grow
Drawing empathy from her upbringing in China and her mother’s resilience, Sonja Gu, a product marketing manager at Microsoft, transitioned from banking to tech with a goal in mind: to pioneer solutions and foster company evolution. Overcoming introversion, she now confidently contributes in a way that reflects her own growth.
Everything has a solution
Jose Hernandez is a data scientist that uses the lessons instilled by his parents to find solutions to the challenges around him. Discover his story, illustrated by Sebastian Curi.
Personal tech
For Pablo Veramendi, director of Audience Evangelism, responsible innovation is more than a professional mandate: it’s part of his job as a dad. Illustrated by Phoenix Owens.
Experiencing both sides
Ana Sofia Gonzalez grew up in Mexico but went to school in El Paso. Discover how moving between two cultures helped make her a better graphic designer. Discover Ana’s story, illustrated by artist Dai Ruiz
Great expectations
When Colombian-born Joseph Sefair interviewed at Microsoft fresh out of graduate school, he was not expecting to get the job. Twenty-two years later, he continues to advocate for recruiting people from around the globe.
Citizen of the world
Sandra Valle is originally from Mexico, living in Estonia, and managing orientation for new employees from all over the world. Explore how her experience embracing new cultures prepared her to face challenges head-on in her animated story by artist Niege Borges.
Bring yourself to work
Rodrigo grew up undocumented and felt like he lived in the shadows. When he joined a group of Microsoft volunteers translating for refugees at the U.S. border, he rediscovered his light. Brought to life by artist Daiana Ruíz
This is my sazón
Ivelisse Capellan Heyer is a user experience designer that uses patience and her family to combat her own self-doubt. Watch how her journey has unfolded, illustrated by Sol Cotti.
Good Energy
Mekonnen Kassa first learned about mechanical engineering from a cab fare. Now, as a leader, mentor, and advocate, he’s helping the next generation of Black innovators find their way. Discover his story, brought to life by illustrator Phoenix Owens.
A journey to racial awareness
For Digital Account Executive Douglas Neres, starting the first Blacks at Microsoft chapter in Latin America has brought him closer to his cultural identity and community.
Tracy Jones Innovator’s Inventory is all about stories
Every object tells a story of growth and inspiration. Join us as Tracy Jones reveals the personal inventory that defines his path and principles. What items have shaped your journey?
Ashley Innovator’s Inventory and the big plans she’s made
Our personal treasures hold the stories of who we are. Ashley Witherspoon shares the tangible symbols of her values and journey. What mementos narrate your life’s chapters?
Jerome Innovator’s Inventory and the items that remind him of who he is
Every artifact in our life can be a source of inspiration and a marker for success. Jerome Collins presents us with the personal items that fuel his creativity and professional growth. What mementos represent your path to success?
When innovation and passion collide
Jerome Collins discusses the influence of his father’s guidance, his passion for art and music, and his innovative approach to driving positive change and representation in his professional sphere.
The link between customer success and the freedom to be yourself
Inspired by her son and her joy-centered approach, Ashley Witherspoon, a Microsoft customer success account manager, champions the power of a unique voice to drive change and growth in the corporate world.
How a poet achieved his ultimate goal
Driven by his mother’s dream and a commitment to innovation, representation, and the empowerment of the Black and African American community, Tracy Jones shares his inspiring journey from poet to professional writer.
Lessons from childhood on embracing change
For Project Manager Amulya Gupta, growing up in an army family shaped her approach to creating more opportunities for women in tech.
From the army to the cloud
From army veteran to senior cloud solution architect, Jimmy Avila proves that curiosity is key to personal development and connecting with customers.
Nurturing our intrinsic value
Raised with values rooted in her Japanese heritage, Megumi Voight found solace in community during deployments while in the military. Now as a managing editor of customer storytelling at Microsoft, she empowers global voices, advocating for authenticity and reminding others of their inherent worth.
Redefining security in a digital landscape
After falling victim to a public data breach, Vishal Amin developed a passion for cybersecurity and set out to defend digital spaces. He traces his journey from his Marine Corps enlistment to becoming managing director of security solutions at Microsoft, embodying the ethos to promote a safer digital world.
Beyond a promise
Upon joining the US Marines at age 17, Petrus Johnson promised his mom he’d get a college degree, and he delivered. Now a customer success account manager, he honors his roots by guiding fellow veterans and fostering social justice discussions beyond the workplace.
Uncovering courageously
Senior Technical Specialist Brent Nix once felt obligated to navigate unsafe workspaces. However, a pivotal incident at a previous company gave him the courage to uncover and ultimately find a space and voice at Microsoft where he no longer felt the need to hide his true self. Illustrated by Lynne Hardy.
My unconventional path to tech
Air Force reservist and Engineering Technical Program Manager Zachary Oxendine pulls from his rural, Indigenous roots to empower the next generation of leaders in STEM.
Stay curious
Cloud Solution Architect Dylan Apera leverages the power of the nontechnical skills he learned from his small island upbringing to build relationships with customers.
More than a game
Growing up in Mérida, Yucatán in Mexico, Luis Angel Mex was very connected to his Mayan heritage. These days, he honors that heritage by creating culturally inclusive gaming studios and experiences.
Common ground
After more than 10 years working at Microsoft, Manitoban Deanna LaJambe reflects on the impact of exercising her “empathy muscle” in life and at work.
Written in the sky
As a Microsoft Engineer and member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee, Tracy found a way to fuse tradition and technology using Microsoft language tools to help preserve and teach Indigenous languages. Experience his story, illustrated by Gregg Deal.
The icebreaker
When Paola started her new position during the pandemic, she found it challenging to connect with coworkers. So, she used existing technology and suggestions from her peers in the Indigenous community, to create something completely new.
Embrace your identity, embrace life
Business Program Manager Kimberly Marreros Chuco shares her inspiring journey of self-acceptance and adaptability, born from challenges she’s faced since moving from a mining town in the Andes. Through her story, she reminds us that it’s essential to embrace our unique identity and find beauty in the challenges we face, always remembering that making mistakes is a valuable part of our growth. Illustrated by Tai Silva.
Data-driven dreams
Funmi Omoliki is a data and AI specialist who believes in the power of storytelling and our collective power to transform society. Discover her story, illustrated by artist Dai Ruiz.
A commitment to service
Mary McCready, a US Marine Corps veteran and Microsoft content manager, has dedicated her life to helping others—from fellow vets, to Microsoft customers, to humanity as a whole. Discover Mary’s story of innovation and ingenuity, illustrated by artist Edward Dinzole.
On the front line of change
When Jasmin, a security expert in the Australian military, started transitioning from defense, her first battle was against self-doubt. Now, she’s fighting to empower veterans like herself to achieve more and win their own battles, illustrated by Debs Lim.
All the lives that have shaped me
First-generation Filipino American Director of Product Marketing Mia Reyes has found a role where her nontraditional career path is not just accepted but celebrated.
Cracking the code
When Zuzu began her career as a software engineer, she often battled Imposter Syndrome. Then, she decided to fight the status quo. Discover her story of ingenuity and empowerment, illustrated by Cha Pornea.
Removing the mask of perfection
For Customer Success Account Manager and Blacks at Microsoft (BAM) Chief of Staff Iona Wilson, finally showing up as her true authentic self helped her see her full potential — and created a safe space for other Black women.
“I am free to be exactly who I am.”
Inspired by her son and her joy-centered approach, Ashley Witherspoon, a Microsoft customer success account manager, champions the power of a unique voice to drive change and growth in the corporate world.
Balancing career, motherhood, and personal purpose
HR Business Partner and mom of two, Estefania (Fany) Canosa advocates for women taking on new challenges both in the workplace and on the homefront.
Gaming for change
Senior Direct Sales Associate and HOLA member Lilia Fratini blends her love of gaming and technology with her commitment to community through building more access to STEM learning opportunities for kids.
Showing up and taking action
Microsoft Security Senior Product Manager and entrepreneur Lisa Huang-North pulls from her multicultural upbringing to foster community for people who identify as Asian American and Pacific Islander.
Empowerment as a personal value
Sales Manager Danielle Skeen’s growth mindset and passion for empowering her team tie back to her Jamaican roots.
Waypoints of wisdom and Christina’s journey in STEM and gaming
All of our possessions are markers, proudly celebrating the waypoints we’ve reached in our lives. Christina Parker shares her cherished keepsakes that guide us through her journey in STEM and gaming. Share the mementos that act as markers in your life.
Erin’s symbols of self and her journey through personal keepsakes
Each item a person owns helps to shape their story. Erin Jagelski shares the symbols of her journey and cherished memories. Dive into the conversation and reveal the keepsakes that narrate your story.
Master of Messiness
As a mom and a tech leader, Elaine Chang has learned to embrace the chaos and put her “Octopus mind” to work in service of innovation, at work and at home, illustrated by Niege Borges.
Melissa Curry’s treasures of heritage and achievement
Our possessions showcase the things that really matter to us. Melissa Curry unveils the artifacts that encapsulate her heritage, achievements, and bonds that shape her. Tell us about the artifacts that weave the fabric of your story.
Empowerment by Design
Once one of few women in her field, Melissa Kroskie has become a fierce advocate for accessible workspaces that enable independence and empowerment for everyone. Illustrated by Pola Augustynowicz
Erin’s mission to revolutionize parental support in the workplace
Guided by a gift for listening and a commitment to motherhood, Erin Jagelski shares how she navigated post-maternity challenges and pioneered support networks for parents in the workplace by blending her passion and leadership to foster inclusive environments.
A leap through financial hardship
Influenced by her son and a mentor, Melissa Curry explains how she transformed her life through Microsoft’s LEAP program, going from financial hardship to flourishing as a technical program manager. Now, she gives back as an ambassador and helps to foster tech opportunities in underserved communities.
Virtual representation and diversity in the gaming world
Inspired by her early love for fantasy and gaming, Christina Parker champions diversity and representation in the gaming industry, explaining the accuracy of portrayals and the importance of players seeing themselves in the virtual worlds they love.
Making space
With a background more in humans than in technology, Seattle-based Community Manager Naomi Boyd helps steer cultural transformation for Microsoft’s Advertising team in her everyday interactions.
Finding belonging through allyship
As a parent of adopted children and a member of multiple communities, Senior Product Marketing Manager Tyler Mays-Childers says he’s able to find deeper connections through allyship.
Coming out to myself
For Technical Advisor and GLEAM UK Community Lead Adam Dinwoodie, launching the Pride Network at his previous company became a catalyst for his push to create safer spaces in the workplace.
From doodles to opened doors
Caroline Scalley invites us into their world through cherished possessions that act as chapters of their journey. A vintage toy computer reflects their tech journey, while a pin evokes memories of childhood creativity with Microsoft Paint.
Showing Up, Authentically
Senior Program Manager Morty Scanlon often felt unsafe bringing his identity to the forefront. Now, at Microsoft, he’s been given the welcoming and supportive environment that he’s needed to thrive in the workplace. Discover his story of authenticity and advocacy, illustrated by Avalon Nuovo.
Nurturing Inner Peace
When Ethan started at Microsoft, he prioritized money over his wellbeing. Twelve years later, the senior customer success manager and ERG storytelling host knows that the only way to truly take care of others is to first take care of yourself. Discover his story of gratitude and growth, illustrated by Camila Abdanur.
Finding Euphoria
Christabel Sheridan found the courage to come out to her coworkers after a company conference. Now, she’s spreading the word—and her wings—as a transgender educator and advocate. Illustrated by Karla Monterossa.
Utilizing your superpower
Armed with what he calls “super empathy,” Joao Madureira, principal customer reliability engineer at Microsoft, harnesses inclusivity as his strength. As a gay man and a Latino, he activates allyship in the workplace, ensuring all voices are heard. His actions have not only brought in new talent but also propelled inclusivity forward.
Freedom in self-expression
Emerging from a journey of self-discovery and embracing their nonbinary identity, Caroline Scalley, senior business administrator at Microsoft, shares their distinctive qualities with pride. Drawing from their Puerto Rican heritage and love for self-expression, Caroline blends humor with originality and compassion in their role, redefining norms through unique understanding.
Changing the game
Content Program Manager Albert Dankwa didn’t have a computer until high school. Today, he’s working to create more opportunities in the gaming industry for people who look and sound like him.
Hidden no longer
Toyia Blount’s journey of self-acceptance has helped her embrace her complexities, raise her voice, and tear down stereotypes.
A life less silent
For Lyn Cameron, her hearing loss journey helped her find her voice. Now she wants to make sure everyone has a chance to be heard.
I don’t have the option to be shy
Gonçalo Mendes has always yearned for independence. His journey with cerebral palsy led him from relying on others for care to taking care of others.
A path with many lanes
Through years of juggling her studies, part-time jobs, and motherhood, Customer Success Account Manager Tash Bettridge managed to find her place in tech— and has made it her mission to help other women do the same.
Keeper of stories
Product Marketing Manager Samuel Briscoe leverages his unique upbringing and multicultural heritage to challenge biases and drive change on the sustainability front.
I am my marae, my marae is me – “Ko au te marae, ko te marae ko au”
For Senior Channel Sales Manager Dan Te Whenua Walker, connecting with the local Māori community allowed him to bridge the two worlds of his dual heritage, Māori and Pākehā.
My true self, my way
Principal Service Engineering Manager Telmo Sampaio learned the strength of embracing differences early in life. Today, they’re empowering engineers to bring their diverse backgrounds, cultural values, and ideas into the workplace.
Embracing the unplanned path
Senior Product Manager Elva Fernandez Sanchez has confronted financial challenges, language barriers, and career shifts. She now uses her voice to shape the future of Microsoft’s products and bring about meaningful change in her community.
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