Natasha Sandella

I attribute much of my success to the community that raised and shaped me. Growing up in Dayton, Ohio, I've been fortunate to be surrounded by people who genuinely believe in lifting others up. While Dayton may be a smaller city, it has an incredibly strong spirit of collaboration, innovation, and service that has had a profound impact on my career.

Throughout my journey, I've been supported by mentors, colleagues, community leaders, and organizations that have invested in my growth and encouraged me to pursue opportunities I may not have otherwise considered. That culture of helping others succeed has inspired me to do the same in my own work. The relationships I've built and the remarkable ecosystem here in Dayton have been instrumental in both my personal and professional development, and I credit this community for helping me become the leader I am today.

One of the best pieces of advice I've ever received is to raise your hand—even if you don't feel completely ready. Early in my career, like many young professionals, I struggled with imposter syndrome and questioned whether I was qualified enough to take on new opportunities.

What I've learned is that confidence doesn't always come before the opportunity—it often comes because you took the opportunity. Growth happens outside of your comfort zone, so don't wait until you feel fearless. Do it scared. Be willing to feel uncomfortable, because that's where some of your greatest learning and career growth will happen. The more you embrace discomfort, the more confidence you build in yourself and your abilities.

My advice to young women entering this industry is simple: do it scared. Don't wait until you feel completely confident to pursue an opportunity, speak up, or take on a new challenge. Some of the most rewarding moments in your career will come from stepping outside of your comfort zone.

Just as importantly, don't let work dim your sparkle. You were hired for a reason—not just because of your skills, but because of the unique perspective, personality, and ideas you bring to the table. Don't be afraid to think differently, ask questions, or be authentically yourself. The qualities that make you different are often the ones that make you most valuable.

Keep showing up, keep learning, and keep sparkling. The right opportunities will allow you to shine, not ask you to become someone else.

I believe one of the biggest challenges—and greatest opportunities—in my field is ensuring that entrepreneurs know where to turn for support. There are so many incredible resources available to help businesses grow, from funding and procurement opportunities to mentorship and technical assistance. The challenge is that many business owners simply don't know these resources exist or aren't sure how to access them.

That's where I believe we can make the greatest impact. By building stronger partnerships, creating more connections, and meeting entrepreneurs where they are, we can help more businesses grow, create jobs, and strengthen our local economy. My passion is helping bridge that gap so business owners feel supported, empowered, and confident as they navigate their journey.

Kindness is the value I try to lead with every day. I believe that how you treat people matters just as much as what you accomplish. Whether in my career or personal life, I want others to feel seen, respected, and supported.

My family is also at the center of everything I do. They have shaped who I am and continue to be my greatest source of encouragement and perspective.

I also deeply value empathy. Everyone is carrying challenges that we may not see, and approaching others with compassion can make a meaningful difference. At the end of the day, I believe success isn't just measured by achievements—it's measured by the impact you have on others. Strive to be kind, be confident in who you are, and never lose sight of what it means to be a genuinely good person.