From Tenacity to Triumph: A Trailblazer's Journey in Tech, Media, and Empowerment

I grew up on the west side of Baltimore with a hardworking single mother who faced many struggles. She was only able to complete school through the 9th grade, but she was determined that her children would have the education she never had. She firmly believed that education was the key to a better future, and her discipline and devotion instilled that belief in me as well.

As a naturally curious and determined young girl, I excelled in school. Even then, there were very few women of color in science and technology. When it came time for college, I had to choose between journalism and computer science. With encouragement from my school counselors—and of course, my mother—I chose computer science, recognizing the career opportunities and financial stability it could provide.

For over 20 years, I built a solid and successful career in information technology, proving that education truly can change lives. However, after losing my mother in 2007, I did some deep soul-searching. While I still loved technology and remained in the field, I also felt a strong pull back to my love of media and journalism.

I started small, launching a YouTube video blog that highlighted the stories of heroic single parents and their accomplishments—an homage to my mother and her sacrifices. Little did I know that this passion project would set the stage for the next chapter of my life and career.

Through radio, TV, and podcasting, I have had the privilege of interviewing numerous entrepreneurs and celebrities. In late 2022, my team and I launched the BeSpire TV Network, bringing inspirational and empowering content to audiences. Every week, we connect with viewers through The B Zone w/ Traci S. Campbell radio show.

Beyond media, I’ve remained dedicated to uplifting others. Since 2013, through the BIBO Foundation, we have honored over 120 women from various cities and industries across the U.S. We also launched the McKnight Education and Entrepreneurial Scholarship to support disadvantaged young women in achieving their goals and dreams.

How do you define your personal story of success?

My personal story feels like a novel unfolding—you’re only in the fifth or sixth chapter. The plot is getting good, but there’s still so much more to come!

I’ve overcome significant challenges—establishing credibility in my field, navigating the hardships of launching and running a nonprofit, and taking a leap of faith to develop a streaming network. Along the way, I’ve been fortunate to conduct incredible interviews across podcasts, streaming platforms, and radio.

Yet, I know there are still many chapters left to be written, and I’m excited to see how the story continues to unfold.

What leadership qualities do you believe are essential for success?

I've learned that compassion and empathy are just as important as tactical skills in leadership. As a leader, you must think strategically and make tough decisions at times. But that doesn't mean you should lead without compassion and empathy for those who work for you and alongside you. Leading with these qualities not only strengthens relationships but also earns trust and respect from those you guide.

How has resilience played a role in your journey?

One word that has often been used to describe me throughout my journey is "tenacious"—a compliment I deeply value. To be tenacious means to maintain a firm grip on something, refusing to let go easily. Tenacity and resilience go hand in hand, and both have been essential in my career.

I’ve built my path in two demanding, male-dominated industries—technology and media. Succeeding as a minority woman in these fields requires a strong sense of self-worth and unwavering determination. To be taken seriously and drive meaningful change, you must embody tenacity—over and over again—until it becomes resilience.

For me, staying connected to these qualities isn’t just about personal success. It’s about paving the way for other women, especially the next generation, to thrive in these industries.

What’s one lesson you’ve learned the hard way but wouldn’t trade?

In 2013, we launched the BIBO Awards (Beauty In / Beauty Out), an event honoring remarkable female role models. Our first show in Chicago was a success, and the following year, we ambitiously decided to expand to Atlanta. Our plan was to host the event and capture it on video for future broadcast on our websites and possibly local Chicago stations.

However, just before the event, a major source of funding fell through. I was devastated. Young women, whom we called Starlets, had spent their last dollars to attend, purchasing gowns and making travel arrangements to celebrate their academic achievements. Families were set to be there, and I felt an overwhelming sense of responsibility and guilt, unsure of how we would pull it off.

Watching my emotional rollercoaster—from frustration to tears—my husband stepped in with unwavering determination. He insisted that not only would we make the Atlanta show happen, but we would also get the video footage as planned. With that resolve, we took action—selling personal items on Craigslist and eBay, dipping into our savings, and renting a large van to haul everything we needed for the 11-hour drive from Chicago to Atlanta.

On top of that, we reached out to local supporters, and incredibly, volunteers stepped up to offer videography services simply because they believed in our mission. Against all odds and on a shoestring budget, we made the event a reality.

That experience taught me invaluable lessons. First, never rely on a single source of funding for a critical event or business endeavor. Second, when your mission is to uplift and celebrate others, faith and perseverance can move mountains—but you must be willing to do your part. And sometimes, that means making personal sacrifices.