Candace H Bui-Walston

I attribute my success to my children — not simply as motivation, but as the reason I made deliberate choices about how I work and lead. Early in my journey, my daughter once told me how much she loved it when I was home to brush her hair before school. That moment clarified what success needed to look like for me.

I realized I didn’t want achievement that came at the cost of presence. I wanted to build a career and an income that allowed me to lead, provide, and still be there for the small moments that matter. Everything I have built since — in entrepreneurship and in executive leadership — has been guided by that decision, and by the discipline required to honor it over time.

The best career advice I’ve received was never spoken. I learned it by watching my parents — how they worked hard, stayed humble, and treated people with respect regardless of title or circumstance.

That example shaped how I lead. It taught me that consistency matters more than recognition, that humility builds trust, and that how you treat people on the way up defines the kind of leader you become. Those principles have guided every role I’ve held, from education to entrepreneurship to executive leadership.

My advice to young women entering my industry is to stay true to yourself — especially when you are misunderstood. Not everyone will recognize your vision, and that doesn’t mean it isn’t valid.

I was raised in a traditional Chinese family where success followed a prescribed path. When I chose to step away from a six-figure role to build something different, many people in my life didn’t understand the decision — including those closest to me. What carried me forward was trusting my instincts and staying aligned with who I knew myself to be.

Authenticity compounds over time. When you lead with clarity and confidence, the world eventually adjusts. One principle I live by is simple: Be yourself. The world will adjust.

One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is the pace of change. With the rapid rise of AI, new software, and an influx of tools promising instant results, many professionals are chasing trends without building a strong foundation.

The opportunity lies in resisting that pressure. Authentic storytelling, clear strategy, and thoughtful execution still matter — and they matter more than ever in a crowded, noisy landscape. Leaders who understand how to use technology as a tool rather than a crutch are the ones who will stand out.

In this environment, clarity becomes a competitive advantage. Those who focus on fundamentals instead of shiny objects are better positioned to create meaningful connection, long-term impact, and sustainable growth.

The values that guide both my work and personal life are hard work, authenticity, and respect. I believe in showing up fully and consistently, being honest about who I am and how I lead, and treating people with dignity regardless of role or title.

Authenticity, to me, is not about saying everything — it’s about acting in alignment with your values over time. I’ve learned that integrity builds trust, and trust is what sustains relationships, teams, and long-term success. The way you show up matters, because the energy and intention you bring into the world have a way of returning to you.