Receiving the 2024 Women’s Wireless Leadership Forum (WWLF) Fellowship Award has been an incredible milestone in my career—one that has reshaped my perspective on leadership, mentorship, and professional growth. This journey brings me back to a pivotal conversation with Carolyn Hardwick, WWLF’s Vice President, as we departed San Francisco, CA, after attending our first Trailblazers event. Carolyn asked me, “What’s next, and where do you see yourself career-wise?”

At that moment, I hesitated to voice my aspirations. Were they too ambitious? Was I mapping out my career goals too late compared to my peers? Carolyn’s response was simple yet profound: “You’re exactly where you’re supposed to be. Just keep going!” Those words have stayed with me, serving as both a compass and a source of encouragement. Goals require intentionality and boldness, and I promised myself that if I were fortunate enough to receive the WWLF Fellowship, I would seize every opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute—particularly by advocating for young girls in underserved areas who may not view telecommunications as a viable career path.

Over the past eight months, I have kept that promise, and the experience has been nothing short of transformative. This fellowship has provided me with more than a network—it has gifted me a village of mentors and advocates. I have had the privilege of being both mentored and a mentor, of volunteering my time, and of making a tangible impact in the lives of those around me.

One key lesson this fellowship has reinforced is that “a failure to plan is a plan to fail.” My leadership and professional development coach, Dr. Tamika Ellington, has been instrumental in helping me identify growth areas and encouraging me to pursue my goals unapologetically. She has reminded me to map out my aspirations with intention, accomplish those goals, and then make space for others to do the same.

This fellowship has also expanded my perspective beyond my personal trajectory. While it is crucial to focus on where we see ourselves, it is equally vital to use our vision and influence to uplift others. Organizations like WWLF foster a culture of support, advocacy, and empowerment, and I am incredibly grateful for the sponsors, mentors, and champions I have found within this remarkable community. They have reinforced the importance of intentionally choosing the roles I pursue, the teams I contribute to, and the organizations I align with—those that prioritize lifting others, fostering inclusivity, and championing professional growth.

In my current role as National Program Manager at RF Industries, I am fortunate to work with a leadership team that encourages innovation and professional development. They support my passion for being a change agent and foster an environment where I can thrive and make a meaningful impact.

To my professional village—Taylor Sierra, Karmen Rajamani, Beth Yglesias, Anisa Green, and Dr. Tamika Ellington—thank you. Thank you for pushing me to be better than I was yesterday, for inspiring me to dream bigger and work harder. Thank you for your authenticity, your willingness to teach, sponsor, and advocate for me. Most importantly, thank you for demonstrating the power of paying it forward.

As I reflect on this incredible journey, I am filled with both gratitude and determination. The WWLF Fellowship has not only been a milestone in my career but a catalyst for deeper growth and impact. To anyone considering a similar path, remember Carolyn’s words: “You’re exactly where you’re supposed to be. Just keep going.” And when you arrive at your next destination, be sure to extend your hand and lift someone else up.

Together, we can create a future where every young girl knows that a career in telecommunications isn’t just a possibility—it’s within her reach.

Thank You,

Talisha Germain, MBA
National Program Manager – RF Industries