Her Story
About Diarra
Diarra Anderson is an event planner and manager with a background in UX research operations. After nine years in tech at companies including Facebook and Uber in the Bay Area, she transitioned to focus on creative live events and immersive experiences following a period of burnout. She currently serves as an event planner for the Aura event at Fever, held at Grace Cathedral in San Francisco, where she has built operations and on-site management. Anderson is also developing her own event business, DNA Studios, to create engaging in-person gatherings. She holds a degree from Scripps College for Women in Southern California, where she studied psychology and French and lived in France for a time. Her work draws on her early passion for dance and event planning, emphasizing beautiful, engaging spaces and attendee experiences.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Diarra
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to having family, whether born or chosen, who support me in being myself without shame. Being open and honest, asking for help, and surrounding myself with people who advocate for me and see the best in me has been key. My parents and siblings have been incredibly supportive, and I've learned to forgive past generations for their mistakes while recognizing they did their best with what they had.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Follow what you innately feel inside that brings you light and joy. Don't feel you need to prove yourself or listen to limiting beliefs like needing to be technical. Trust the signals from childhood passions like dance or decorating, and cultivate them without guilt. We don't have infinite time, so pursue what you enjoy while securing your future.
03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Focusing on overall health and well-being as essential, not extra. Treating your brain and body with curiosity and self-love to optimize what you have. Prioritizing self-love as active daily practices like resting or avoiding harmful environments, and surrounding yourself with people who practice the same loving-kindness to share with others.
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