Who are you and what is your background?  

I am Karen Fomafung, professionally known as “Your Agile Evangelist.” I am an author, trainer, and mentor in the Agile space, especially in the minority community. I am known for my passion for helping people learn and grow and my ability to break down complex concepts into easy-to-understand concepts. I am also a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion in the business landscape. I have built a fan base of over 25,000 subscribers on YouTube and over 50,000 across the social media space. My book "From Day One to Success: A Step-by-Step Guide for Scrum Master Joining a New Organization" has helped hundreds of new Agile Practitioners to navigate their new role and add value successfully.

An individual who has embraced the beauty of evolution and the limitless possibilities life has to offer. Born and raised in a small town in Bamenda, Cameroon(West Africa), humble beginnings and a close-knit family marked my early years. Growing up, I remember always being hungry and always chased out of school because of overdue school fees. I made a vow that the well-being of my kids would be better than mine. These challenges shaped my character and fueled my ambition.

From an early age, I envisioned a life beyond the ordinary, filled with purpose and impact. This vision catalyzed a significant career pivot. After moving to the USA, I had a solid, conventional path of becoming a nurse, but I chose to take the leap of faith and pursue my true passion.

My journey led me to Business Agility, where I've had the privilege of making a difference and inspiring those around me through my company BeingAgile Consulting. Through hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to continuous growth, I've not only carved out a niche for myself but have also become a source of motivation for others looking to pursue their dreams.

My story is a testament to the fact that with determination and unwavering belief, we can transform our lives and create a positive impact, no matter where we come from or what challenges we face. I hope to inspire others to embrace change and chase their dreams, as I have done, with an unyielding spirit and a heart full of hope.

Can you briefly describe your professional journey and how you got started in your field?

My professional journey has been a remarkable growth and transformation. Fifteen years ago, I arrived in the United States with a heart full of ambition and a willingness to embrace new opportunities. In my early days here, I began as a nursing assistant, a role that taught me the importance of compassion, empathy, and the value of hard work. Those seven months were a vital foundation for what was to come.

I soon transitioned into the corporate world, where my career took a dramatic turn. I started as a Project Coordinator, managing tasks and deadlines diligently and precisely. This role not only introduced me to the world of project management but also ignited a passion for organizational excellence.

My dedication and commitment were recognized, leading to promotions. I quickly climbed the corporate ladder, moving from Project Manager to Scrum Master, where I honed my skills in Business Agility, teamwork, and adaptability. This journey of learning and adaptation was invigorating, and it pushed me to aim higher.

Today, I am proud to be a Senior Business Agility Coach. My current role is not just a job; it's a calling. I help organizations transform, adapt, and thrive in an ever-changing world. My journey from a nursing assistant to a senior business agility coach is a testament to the possibilities that exist when one embraces change, constantly seeks growth, and works relentlessly to turn their dreams into reality.

My story reminds me that every step in your career is a building block. Embrace every opportunity, learn from every experience, and never stop reaching for the stars. You can achieve more than you ever imagined if you're willing to take that first step and keep moving forward.

Who/what inspired you to pursue this particular professional path?

The spark that ignited my passion for this professional path was a deep-seated desire to make a positive impact, particularly within the minority community. When I first arrived in the United States, I was struck by the challenges and uncertainties that I, too, had faced during my early years here. My burning desire to help people, especially those from similar backgrounds, to navigate the complexities of life in a new country was the primary catalyst.

I recognized that I had made my fair share of mistakes due to a lack of guidance when I arrived in the USA. I didn't want others to go through the same struggles or repeat the same errors. This conviction to be a guiding light for others in their journey was the foundation of my professional aspirations.

Fate played a significant role in my journey as well. I ran into an old friend at church who knew my background and recognized my potential. He believed that I had the skills and mindset to excel in the project management space. It was through his encouragement that I stepped into the role of a Project Coordinator, and this marked a turning point in my career.

Being a lifelong learner, I've consistently strived to develop myself both academically and professionally. I firmly believe in the power of knowledge and have made it my mission to share what I've learned with anyone willing to learn. Sharing knowledge has been my secret weapon in the journey of continuous learning, and it aligns with the adage that the best way to learn is to teach.

In essence, my inspiration to pursue this path came from my burning desire to help others, the lessons learned from my own experiences, and the support of a friend who recognized my potential. My journey has been driven by a passion for guiding and inspiring those on a similar path to success.

Were there any significant challenges or setbacks you faced along the way, and how did you overcome them?

Throughout my journey, I encountered several significant challenges and setbacks, each of which I approached with determination and a desire to overcome.

Lack of a Supportive Community: When I first arrived in the United States, I felt the absence of a supportive community that could guide me through the complexities of life in a new country. This was a driving force behind my decision to start a community on YouTube and other social media platforms. Today, this community has impacted over 50,000 people worldwide, helping them step out of their comfort zones and achieve what they once thought was impossible. Many from the African community, like myself, believed their options were limited to roles like nursing or nursing assistants. My work has inspired them to explore new, fulfilling possibilities.

No Mentorship: I faced the challenge of not having a mentor to guide and advise. However, I turned this challenge into an opportunity for self-directed learning. I sought knowledge from books, online resources, and self-improvement courses, which helped me develop the skills and knowledge I needed to excel in my career.

Imposter Syndrome: Imposter syndrome is something I grappled with as I questioned whether I truly belonged in the professional roles I was pursuing. Overcoming this required a shift in mindset. I learned to acknowledge my accomplishments, celebrate my successes, and understand that I had earned my place through hard work and dedication.

Navigating Cultural and Professional Diversity: Adjusting to a new country brought the challenge of navigating cultural and professional diversity. To overcome this, I actively sought to learn about the culture and customs of my new home while also embracing the rich tapestry of diversity that the United States offers. This not only helped me adapt but also enriched my life experiences.

The Pressure to Prove Myself: Constantly proving myself to get opportunities was a significant challenge. I put in the extra effort, sought additional training, and consistently delivered exceptional results. Over time, my work spoke for itself, and I earned the trust and respect of my peers and superiors.

In the face of these challenges, I learned the power of resilience, self-improvement, and the importance of giving back to the community. Today, I am not only a product of overcoming obstacles, but also someone committed to helping others do the same. My journey is a testament to the idea that challenges can be stepping stones to success when met with determination and a positive mindset.

Can you share a pivotal moment or decision that had a profound impact on your professional trajectory?

One pivotal moment that had an immense impact on my professional trajectory was the decision to go back to school to pursue a master's degree in Agile project management. This decision was made during a time of great personal challenge and responsibility.

At that juncture, I was faced with a high-risk pregnancy, juggling a demanding full-time job and shouldering significant family responsibilities. The decision to pursue higher education while dealing with these profound personal commitments was not taken lightly. It was a daunting prospect, as it meant pushing my physical and emotional limits to balance the demands of education, work, and family.

However, I saw this moment as an opportunity to not only further my career but also to set an example for my family, especially for my child on the way. It was crucial to demonstrate that with determination and hard work, one could overcome even the most challenging circumstances. This decision was a defining moment, showcasing my unwavering commitment to professional growth and my passion for inspiring those around me.

I completed my master's degree in Agile project management within 16 months despite the obstacles and pressures that came my way. This accomplishment not only enhanced my qualifications but also reinforced the idea that with resilience and a clear vision, we can triumph over adversity.

What habits, routines, or strategies do you believe contributed most to your success?

Several habits, routines, and strategies have contributed to my success throughout my professional journey. Here are some of the key ones:

Continuous Learning: Embracing a mindset of lifelong learning has been crucial. I make it a habit to stay up-to-date with industry trends, read relevant literature, and seek out opportunities for professional development. This commitment to learning has allowed me to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing landscape.

Time Management: Effective time management is a cornerstone of my success. I prioritize tasks, set goals, and create a structured daily schedule. This not only ensures that I make the most of my time but also helps me avoid burnout and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Resilience and Adaptability: I've developed the ability to bounce back from setbacks and adapt to new challenges. This resilience has been crucial in navigating the ups and downs of my career.

Networking: Building a strong professional network has been a key strategy. I actively seek opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals, attend industry events, and engage in online communities. These connections have opened doors, provided valuable insights, and fostered collaboration.

Mentorship and Mentoring: I've benefited from both mentorship and being a mentor. Having a mentor has provided guidance and perspective while mentoring others has reinforced my own knowledge and commitment to personal growth.

Health and Wellness: Prioritizing physical and mental health is a habit I hold dear. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and mindfulness practices help me stay energized and maintain a positive mindset.

Giving Back: Sharing knowledge and experiences with others has been a strategy for growth. Teaching and helping others not only reinforces my learning but also allows me to give back to the community that has supported me.

Positivity and Gratitude: Maintaining a positive attitude and expressing gratitude for the opportunities and challenges in my journey has been a habit that has kept me motivated and appreciative of the path I've traveled.

Did you have any mentors or role models who played a significant role in your professional development?

My Friend from Church: The friend who introduced me to the project management field was an early mentor and role model. He recognized my potential and encouraged me to explore this path, which marked the beginning of my career transition.

Colleagues and Superiors: As I progressed in my career, I had the privilege of working with dedicated colleagues and supportive superiors who shared their knowledge and expertise. Their mentorship and guidance were instrumental in my professional growth.

Educational Instructors: While pursuing a master's degree in Agile project management, my instructors were valuable mentors. They not only imparted knowledge but also provided practical insights that were crucial in shaping my career.

Online Communities and Thought Leaders: In the digital age, I found guidance and inspiration from online communities, blogs, and thought leaders in my field. Their expertise and shared experiences offered valuable perspectives and insights that helped me stay current in my profession.

Family and Friends: My family and friends have been an unwavering source of support and inspiration. Their encouragement and belief in my potential have been a driving force throughout my journey.

These mentors and role models collectively contributed to my growth, offering diverse perspectives and guidance.

What role did networking play in your success? How did you go about expanding your professional network in your new field?

Networking has played a pivotal role in my success, and it has been a vital component of my professional journey. Expanding my professional network in my new field has allowed me to not only access valuable resources and insights but also connect with like-minded individuals who have been instrumental in my growth. Here are some of the networking strategies I used to propel myself to where I am today:

YouTube Channels: One of the key ways I expanded my professional network was through my YouTube channels. Creating and curating content related to my field allowed me to connect with a global audience. These channels provided a platform for sharing knowledge, engaging with viewers, and establishing myself as a thought leader in my niche. It's been a two-way street where I've learned from my audience and shared my experiences and insights, creating a dynamic and interactive network.

Mentoring Programs: Running mentoring programs has been another vital networking source. These programs not only enabled me to guide and support aspiring professionals but also allowed me to connect with talented individuals who were eager to learn and grow. The mentorship relationships formed through these programs have often turned into valuable long-term professional connections.

Conferences and Events: Attending industry conferences and events has been instrumental in expanding my professional network. These gatherings provide opportunities to meet experts in the field, engage in meaningful discussions, and establish connections with people who share similar interests. These in-person interactions have often led to lasting relationships and collaborations.

Online Communities: Actively participating in online professional communities, forums, and social media groups has been a strategy to connect with peers, seek advice, and share insights. These communities have been a valuable source of information, support, and networking opportunities.

Giving Back: As mentioned earlier, giving back through mentoring and sharing knowledge has been a two-fold strategy. It not only supports the growth of others but also enhances my own professional network as I connect with individuals who are passionate about personal development and growth.

Networking has been an ongoing, intentional effort in my career, and it has been vital in propelling me to where I am today.

Can you share any specific books, podcasts, or resources that have had a profound impact on your professional success?

"From Day One to Success: A Step-by-Step Guide for Scrum Masters Joining a New Organization" by myself Karen Fomafung (lol): This book offers valuable insights for Scrum Masters and Agile practitioners who are entering new organizations. It provides a practical guide to navigating the challenges of transitioning into a new company or project as an Agile Practitioner.

"Coaching Agile Teams" by Lyssa Adkins: This book is an excellent resource for anyone in the Agile space, whether you're a Scrum Master, coach, or team leader. It delves into the art of coaching and provides practical techniques for guiding Agile teams to success.

"Working Through Conflicts" by Joseph Grenny and Al Switzler: Conflict resolution is a critical skill in any professional setting. This book offers strategies for effectively addressing and resolving conflicts, a skill that is invaluable for Agile practitioners and professionals in any field.

"Leading Change" by John P. Kotter: Kotter's book is a classic in change management. It provides a framework for understanding and leading successful organizational change, a crucial skill for those in Agile and project management roles.

What advice would you give someone aspiring to start on a similar professional path?

Have a Clear "Why": Understand your deep, meaningful purpose beyond just money.

Set Clear Goals: Define specific career goals to guide your path.

Continuous Learning: Embrace lifelong learning to stay current and grow.

Find a Mentor: Seek guidance from experienced professionals in your field.

Network Actively: Build a strong professional network for opportunities and insights.

What advice would you give to your 20-year-old self?

If I could advise my 20-year-old self, I would say:

Embrace Change and Exploration: Don't fear change or the unknown; it's where growth happens. Embrace new opportunities and explore diverse paths without hesitation.

Invest in Continuous Learning: Commit to lifelong learning early. The more you know, the more you can achieve. Never stop acquiring knowledge and skills to stay adaptable and excel in your chosen field.

What’s next for you in terms of professional aspirations and goals?

My next significant professional aspiration is to reach and impact the African continent through my "BeingAgile Edu-Preneur" initiative. I have a strong desire to drive positive change in the African educational and professional systems. The continent has immense potential, and I aim to be a catalyst for transformation. By sharing my knowledge and experiences, I aim to inspire and empower individuals across Africa to embrace Business Agility and entrepreneurship in their Educational systems and cultivate a mindset of continuous learning and adaptability. This endeavor represents a significant milestone in my career, and I am excited to work towards it with passion and dedication.

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