I took a coaching class with Brianna and it was amazing! I developed a better marketing strategy, received feedback on my online presence, defined my target audience and so much more. Plus I had great interaction with the rest of the class. Would highly recommend. Dawn F. Founder Beauty by Dawn Project Elevating Strategy & Engagement Year 2023 Scope of Work 60-Day Pow Wow Industry Lifestyle, B2C

Lachers Reese Expansion, Here We Come! Lachers Hair By Demand Improves Operations Management Client Lachers Reese: Holistic Growth Year 2018-2019 Scope of Work Brand Messaging Development, Brand Partnerships, Project Management, Systems Implementation, Administrative Assistance, Team Development Industry Lifestyle, B2C Here's the Stitch (aka Situation) A move to a new salon location in 2018, sparked a determination for brand growth--starting from the inside! Goal & Objectives Update and launch website Create and promote event packages for weddings, event planners, bar & bat mitzvahs, entertainment companies, etc Create and implement marketing/public relations plan that increases client relationships, workshops and strategic partnerships Find opportunities to maximize staff, and overall growth in customers Our Approach To prepare the Lachers Reese brand for the benefits of an aggressive integrated PR/Marketing Strategy & Communications plan, BRVC's collaboration focused on brand development, digital marketing consulting, operations consulting, creative services & preliminary public relations support. Our Impact & Client Milestones Updated website for discoverability, brand identity and consistency purposes. Updates included: biography, images, online booking, special occasion bookings and newsletter subscriptions. The updated website generated incoming inquiries from potential clients (a nearly 50% monthly increase from 2017-2018) Developed messaging & graphics for brochures, which highlighted special occasion bookings Generated a list of state-wide venues, event planners & entertainment/performing arts companies to prepare for an aggressive promotional campaign Brainstormed & created a brand ambassador/influencer program to connect with local influencers Grew salon team to include assistant, receptionist and another stylist that aligns with updated brand goals and company infrastructure Ongoing support: Lead operations management Develop internal processes Improve company culture Host staff meetings Brainstorm salon specials Improve external communication processes & more

Cheryl Grace Changing The Narrative: Former Corporate SVP Turns Full-Time CEO of Her Own Company Client Cheryl Grace: Corporate SVP to Full-Time CEO Year 2022 Scope of Work Brand Messaging Development, Public Relations, Speaking Engagements Industry Lifestyle Here's the Stitch (aka Situation) After working over 25+ years in corporate America, this highly sought-after speaker and corporate pioneer took a leap of faith - and transformed her side-hustle into a full-time executive lifestyle firm--which is committed to coaching women on how to be their best multi-dimensional selves. Transitioning from a 25+ global corporate career to full-time entrepreneurship is no easy feat--espeially when you're mainly known for your work and (huge) accomplishments in the c-suite. (Cheryl Grace enters the chat.) But the challenge was no match for Cheryl Grace. After transforming corporate reputations and changing the way consumers and decision-makers valued Black America's spending power and corporate influence, she decided to commit, what she calls her "Career 2.0," to transforming individuals to next level advancement at work, in love and at home. Unapologetic about living a fabulous life and her journey to get there, Cheryl left corporate America behind in April 1, 2021 to level up Powerful Penny LLC (a side-hustle she began in 2017)--and she was eager to share her new narrative. Our Approach While being mindful of the sensitivities of this transition, we started our collaboration with a brand audit and strategy to ensure Cheryl's messaging as well as identity factors were updated to best show why her shift was an example of how corporate women can reclaim their power and live a fabulous life. Then, we used our leading strategy to kick off a 9-month"From C-Suite to Corporate Coach" campaign which targeted visibility opportunities via traditional media, speaking engagements and strategic alliance. Our outreach began local, and gradually expanded to national platforms. Having set the foundation of Powerful Penny's brand awareness, we implemented a follow-up 5-month "Continuing the Fabulosity with Intentionality" campaign in 2022 to solidfy Cheryl's brand as a valuable contributor as an executive lifestyle coach for individuals as well as corporations; and complement her owned media platform (Level Up with Grace LinkedIn newsletter) Our Impact & Client Milestones Two months into BRVC's collaboration with Cheryl, we met our media goals by 66% (with 75% of coverage being national and internationally recognized) and our speaking engagement goals by 50%. Over our 14-month collaboration, out of the 46 placements earned (Estimated 2B+ impressions): 3 were TV interviews where Cheryl promoted products live, as well as her online store (Cheryl's Shop of Fabulosity) where she sells work and love products, courses, workshops and bootcamps Coverage included traditional and non-traditional online, print and broadcast platforms 52% of the coverage included backlinks to Cheryl's platforms, 38% generated direct traffic 1 resulted in Cheryl writing bylines where her executive lifestyle expertise was consistently exposed to women 40 - 65 years old, who reside in the U.S., U.K., Italy and Australia Notable outlets include: Essence, Yahoo, Sheen Magazine, Authority Magazine, Thrive Global, Well + Good, Daytime Chicago, Hustle & Soul, xoNecole, The Sisaundria Show, and Crunchy Tales. 5 months since our campaign ended, our efforts resulted in coverage on the She Ventures Podcast and Today. Out of the speaking engagements and strategic alliances secured: 1 resulted in Cheryl receiving a 2022 Entrepreneurship Innovator Award 1 resulted in Cheryl being a Main Stage speaker at 2021 Black Women's Expo, where provided on the spot executive coaching to 4 attendees; and she also had a booth to sell her products all weekend 1 resulted in Cheryl being a panelist and love workshop facilitator at 2022 Essence Fest Here's the Stitch (aka Situation) After working over 25+ years in corporate America, this highly sought-after speaker and corporate pioneer took a leap of faith - and transformed her side-hustle into a full-time executive lifestyle firm--which is committed to coaching women on how to be their best multi-dimensional selves. Transitioning from a 25+ global corporate career to full-time entrepreneurship is no easy feat--espeially when you're mainly known for your work and (huge) accomplishments in the c-suite. (Cheryl Grace enters the chat.) But the challenge was no match for Cheryl Grace. After transforming corporate reputations and changing the way consumers and decision-makers valued Black America's spending power and corporate influence, she decided to commit, what she calls her "Career 2.0," to transforming individuals to next level advancement at work, in love and at home. Unapologetic about living a fabulous life and her journey to get there, Cheryl left corporate America behind in April 1, 2021 to level up Powerful Penny LLC (a side-hustle she began in 2017)--and she was eager to share her new narrative.

Haiama Beauty Co. Project 8 Weeks to Marketing Success Year 2023 Scope of Work 60-Day Pow Wow Industry Lifestyle, B2C BRVC is an incredible firm! I attended an 8-week course for SMBs/entrepreneurs and I learned how to use TikTok, how to better reach my target audience and identified attainable marketing goals for the next 3 months. Highly recommend! Allison S. Founder

National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) Transforming Internship Programs: Streamlining Recruitment, Onboarding, and Alumni Engagement for Long-Term Growth Client National Museum of African America History & Culture Year 2023-2024 Scope of Work Project Management, Systems Implementation, Administrative Assistance, Event Planning Industry Here's the Stitch (aka Situation) The National Museum of African American History & Culture (NMAAHC) needed assistance in transforming its internship and workforce development programs. Specifically, BRVC worked on simplifying the recruitment process, streamlining onboarding, and fostering long-term alumni engagement. This was crucial for enhancing the museum's internship programs while supporting a high volume of applications and candidates. With nearly 1 million followers, viral moments, and cultivated influence, Tina Turtle has reached a pivotal point in her brand journey, that involves solidifying her as a fashion and lifestyle content creator. Our Approach BRVC worked with NMAAHC to evaluate their current systems, identify bottlenecks, and implement solutions that improved efficiency and scalability. Our services included project management, systems implementation, administrative assistance, and event planning. Auditing Current Systems: We started by auditing NMAAHC’s existing databases, resources, and workflows to gain familiarity with their program. We identified key bottlenecks and areas of improvement, especially in tracking internship applications and maintaining alumni connections. Creating SOPs and Workflows: To address the identified challenges, we created Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to document best practices and ensure consistency. We also developed workflows using Asana, which streamlined communication, task management, and follow-ups. Additionally, we implemented a timelining system to ensure that the application process and intern onboarding remained on track. Implementing Systems: We leveraged automated tools to enhance data tracking, manage tasks efficiently, and ensure timely responses. These systems allowed NMAAHC to reduce manual effort while increasing the scalability of their processes Our Impact & Client Milestones Streamlined Recruitment: Through the implementation of efficient SOPs and workflows in Asana, we helped NMAAHC manage 1,300+ applications , reduce processing times, and ensure that candidate inquiries were promptly addressed. This led to record-high application volumes and reduced internal bottlenecks in the recruitment process. Improved Alumni Engagement: By reconnecting with 75+ alumni through surveys, newsletters, and networking events, we successfully launched a new alumni initiative. This kept alumni engaged and turned them into advocates for the program, further enhancing the museum's reputation and community connections. Efficient Onboarding: The redesigned onboarding process for over 60+ interns provided a structured, stress-free experience. By creating easy-to-follow workflows and helping with logistics like background checks and IT support, interns started their roles with confidence, and supervisors saved valuable time. Operational Efficiency & Future Planning: Our work laid the foundation for scalable growth in NMAAHC’s internship programs. With automated workflows, clearer processes, and a stronger alumni network, the museum is now better positioned to continue expanding its reach and improving participant experiences in future cycles.

Future Link Optimizing Processes and Expanding Sustainable Impact for Future Link’s Career Coaching Program Client Future Link Year 2023-2024 Scope of Work Project Management, Systems Implementation, Administrative Assistance Industry Non-Profit Here's the Stitch (aka Situation) Future Link sought a program evaluation consultant to assess and provide recommendations on the structure, processes, metrics, and scaling plan for their Career Coaching Program (CCP). The goal was to increase students' college persistence rate, degree completion, and workforce training outcomes that lead to internships and job placements. With nearly 1 million followers, viral moments, and cultivated influence, Tina Turtle has reached a pivotal point in her brand journey, that involves solidifying her as a fashion and lifestyle content creator. Our Approach BRVC worked closely with Future Link to evaluate the program and create recommendations aimed at scaling the CCP. Our approach focused on improving efficiency, streamlining processes, and maintaining a human-centered approach while leveraging technology for scalability. Program Evaluation & Process Improvement: We reviewed the current program, focusing on the three-track structure, student life cycle, and career coach life cycle. Based on our analysis, we created three Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) Documents to standardize processes for the Career Planners, students, and staff. We also recommended automation to streamline tasks, improve efficiency, and maintain program effectiveness. Metrics Evaluation & Scaling Plan: We conducted market research to assess national benchmarks for career development programs, ensuring that Future Link was measuring the right data points. We also developed a scaling plan that outlined the steps needed to grow the program — including human, technical, and financial resources. Implementation & Automation: We implemented processes using Monday.com for tracking, reporting, and automation. This included designing workflows for all stages of the program and providing a clear, actionable plan for scaling and reporting to key stakeholders, such as the Future Link board and the ECMC Foundation. Our Impact & Client Milestones BRVC helped Future Link build a scalable framework for their CCP, focusing on process improvement, resource development, and data-driven strategies to ensure sustainable growth: Scaling Plan Development: We created a roadmap to expand CCP by focusing on human, technical, and financial strategies. The plan set clear goals to increase student reach to 175 students and secure 65 internships by 2024. We also identified key metrics for success, including graduation rates and financial stability. Process Improvement & Automation: Streamlined SOPs and integrated Monday.com for tracking and automating workflows. This improved efficiency, reduced administrative tasks, and supported the scaling of the program without compromising its personalized approach. Resource Creation: Developed 41 resources, including templates, tutorials, and guides, to aid in program execution and staff onboarding, empowering Future Link to grow while maintaining consistency. Data-Driven Strategy: We aligned the scaling efforts with measurable metrics, ensuring continuous improvement and positioning Future Link for future funding opportunities with detailed reports for stakeholders like the Future Link board and the ECMC Foundation.

Lachers Reese Expansion, Here We Come! Lachers Hair By Demand Improves Operations Management Client Lachers Reese: Holistic Growth Year 2018-2019 Scope of Work Brand Messaging Development, Brand Partnerships, Project Management, Systems Implementation, Administrative Assistance, Team Development Industry Lifestyle, B2C Here's the Stitch (aka Situation) A move to a new salon location in 2018, sparked a determination for brand growth--starting from the inside! Goal & Objectives Update and launch website Create and promote event packages for weddings, event planners, bar & bat mitzvahs, entertainment companies, etc Create and implement marketing/public relations plan that increases client relationships, workshops and strategic partnerships Find opportunities to maximize staff, and overall growth in customers Our Approach To prepare the Lachers Reese brand for the benefits of an aggressive integrated PR/Marketing Strategy & Communications plan, BRVC's collaboration focused on brand development, digital marketing consulting, operations consulting, creative services & preliminary public relations support. Our Impact & Client Milestones Updated website for discoverability, brand identity and consistency purposes. Updates included: biography, images, online booking, special occasion bookings and newsletter subscriptions. The updated website generated incoming inquiries from potential clients (a nearly 50% monthly increase from 2017-2018) Developed messaging & graphics for brochures, which highlighted special occasion bookings Generated a list of state-wide venues, event planners & entertainment/performing arts companies to prepare for an aggressive promotional campaign Brainstormed & created a brand ambassador/influencer program to connect with local influencers Grew salon team to include assistant, receptionist and another stylist that aligns with updated brand goals and company infrastructure Ongoing support: Lead operations management Develop internal processes Improve company culture Host staff meetings Brainstorm salon specials Improve external communication processes & more

City of Bridgeport Driving Community Engagement for Equity in Procurement Client City of Bridgeport Year 2024 Scope of Work Content Creation, Public Relations Industry Municipal Here's the Stitch (aka Situation) The City of Bridgeport, in partnership with Griffin & Strong, P.C. (GS), conducted a Disparity Study to examine potential disparities in municipal procurement based on race and gender. GS sought BRVC’s support to drive local community engagement and public relations efforts to raise awareness of the study and maximize attendance at English- and Spanish-speaking Informational Meetings and Public Hearings. Our Approach BRVC implemented a strategic outreach and public relations plan to promote the Disparity Study and encourage community participation. Key initiatives included: Community Outreach & PR Planning: Created pre-event plans tailored to English- and Spanish-speaking audiences for both the Informational Meetings (September 10–11, 2024) and Public Hearings (November 20–21, 2024). Collaborated with GS and Bridgeport’s Small Minority Business Enterprise office to identify and engage target organizations, networks, and individuals through databases, research, and personal connections. Marketing Collateral Development: Designed transformative English-language flyers for both the Informational Meetings and Public Hearings to connect with the community. Drafted and launched press releases via Cision’s PRWeb, reaching up to 133 media platforms. Distributed press releases directly to local outlets, including CT Post, News 12, Channel 8, Hartford Courant, Patch - Bridgeport, and event platforms like AllEvents.in. Strategic Online Promotion: Secured calendar placements on local platforms like CT Post, Patch, and others to maximize visibility. Adapted outreach for Public Hearings to target construction-related professionals and service providers for broader participation. Our Impact & Client Milestones BRVC’s strategic outreach and public relations efforts successfully amplified community awareness and engagement for the City of Bridgeport’s Disparity Study, resulting in the following impactful outcomes: Increased Visibility: Press releases reached a potential audience of up to 3.8 million, with 260 placements across both events and numerous clicks driving interest. Secured online calendar placements on prominent platforms like CT Post, Patch - Bridgeport, and AllEvents.in, generating thousands of local impressions. Community Engagement: For the Informational Meetings, 83% of contacted organizations responded, with 33% sharing event details through newsletters and e-blasts. Notable participants included Colorful Bridgeport, Connecticut Construction Industries Association (CCIA) + CCIA Divisions/Associated General Contractors of CT, and ABC Connecticut (Associated Builders and Contractors of CT), demonstrating strong community collaboration. Public Hearings maintained participation, with key organizations like the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Bridgeport Regional Business Council, and others amplifying outreach efforts and engaging diverse community members. Event Attendance: Recognizable attendees included influential community members and representatives from targeted sectors, particularly construction-related industries, as outreach efforts shifted to better align with audience demographics.

Future Link Optimizing Processes and Expanding Sustainable Impact for Future Link’s Career Coaching Program Client Future Link Year 2023-2024 Scope of Work Project Management, Systems Implementation, Administrative Assistance Industry Non-Profit Here's the Stitch (aka Situation) Future Link sought a program evaluation consultant to assess and provide recommendations on the structure, processes, metrics, and scaling plan for their Career Coaching Program (CCP). The goal was to increase students' college persistence rate, degree completion, and workforce training outcomes that lead to internships and job placements. With nearly 1 million followers, viral moments, and cultivated influence, Tina Turtle has reached a pivotal point in her brand journey, that involves solidifying her as a fashion and lifestyle content creator. Our Approach BRVC worked closely with Future Link to evaluate the program and create recommendations aimed at scaling the CCP. Our approach focused on improving efficiency, streamlining processes, and maintaining a human-centered approach while leveraging technology for scalability. Program Evaluation & Process Improvement: We reviewed the current program, focusing on the three-track structure, student life cycle, and career coach life cycle. Based on our analysis, we created three Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) Documents to standardize processes for the Career Planners, students, and staff. We also recommended automation to streamline tasks, improve efficiency, and maintain program effectiveness. Metrics Evaluation & Scaling Plan: We conducted market research to assess national benchmarks for career development programs, ensuring that Future Link was measuring the right data points. We also developed a scaling plan that outlined the steps needed to grow the program — including human, technical, and financial resources. Implementation & Automation: We implemented processes using Monday.com for tracking, reporting, and automation. This included designing workflows for all stages of the program and providing a clear, actionable plan for scaling and reporting to key stakeholders, such as the Future Link board and the ECMC Foundation. Our Impact & Client Milestones BRVC helped Future Link build a scalable framework for their CCP, focusing on process improvement, resource development, and data-driven strategies to ensure sustainable growth: Scaling Plan Development: We created a roadmap to expand CCP by focusing on human, technical, and financial strategies. The plan set clear goals to increase student reach to 175 students and secure 65 internships by 2024. We also identified key metrics for success, including graduation rates and financial stability. Process Improvement & Automation: Streamlined SOPs and integrated Monday.com for tracking and automating workflows. This improved efficiency, reduced administrative tasks, and supported the scaling of the program without compromising its personalized approach. Resource Creation: Developed 41 resources, including templates, tutorials, and guides, to aid in program execution and staff onboarding, empowering Future Link to grow while maintaining consistency. Data-Driven Strategy: We aligned the scaling efforts with measurable metrics, ensuring continuous improvement and positioning Future Link for future funding opportunities with detailed reports for stakeholders like the Future Link board and the ECMC Foundation.

Town of Waterford Showcasing Grant Impact and Establishing the Economic Development Commission’s Presence Client Town of Waterford: Establishing the EDC's Presence Year 2023 Scope of Work Brand Identity, Brand Messaging Development, Content Creation, Newsletter Creation Industry Municipal Here's the Stitch (aka Situation) In 2022 and 2023, with the help of BRVC’s Operations Management team, the Town of Waterford (TOW) awarded a total of $170,065.01 in grants to small businesses through its Small Business Grant Program, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act. Despite the program’s success, TOW lacked in-house support for marketing and content creation to effectively showcase its impact and position the Economic Development Commission (EDC) as a resource for the local business community. Our Approach BRVC’s Creative Strategy team provided comprehensive support to amplify the program’s success and elevate TOW’s branding as well as storytelling. Marketing Audit: Conducted a competitor analysis to refine TOW’s brand identity and identify successful elements of similar programs. Mini Marketing Campaign: Developed messaging, strategy, and key performance indicators to promote the program and align with TOW’s long-term branding goals. Content Creation: Produced 8 original social media posts, including captions and hashtags, along with a newsletter and press release highlighting the program’s achievements. Visual Branding: Designed and delivered a specific EDC logo to establish the commission as a trusted resource for the business community. Our Impact & Client Milestones Delivered high-quality, engaging content (videos, graphics, and written assets) shared on TOW’s website and social platforms, effectively showcasing the First Selectman and EDC’s impact on small businesses. Supported TOW in sharing grant recipients’ stories and highlighting the program’s success, building stronger connections with the local business community. Provided a ready-to-use press release template to spotlight the distribution of over $170k to small businesses. Positioned the EDC as a valuable resource through cohesive branding and storytelling, and a first-ever logo. With BRVC’s expertise, TOW successfully demonstrated the transformative impact of its grant program, enhanced its public visibility, and set the stage for long-term community engagement and support BRVC x TOW & EDC - NEWSLETTER - Small Business Grant Program Cohorts 1 and 2 (2022 - 2023) BRVC x TOW & EDC - NEWSLETTER - Small Business Grant Program Cohorts 1 and 2 (2022 - 2023)

City of Bridgeport Driving Community Engagement for Equity in Procurement Client City of Bridgeport Year 2024 Scope of Work Content Creation, Public Relations Industry Municipal Here's the Stitch (aka Situation) The City of Bridgeport, in partnership with Griffin & Strong, P.C. (GS), conducted a Disparity Study to examine potential disparities in municipal procurement based on race and gender. GS sought BRVC’s support to drive local community engagement and public relations efforts to raise awareness of the study and maximize attendance at English- and Spanish-speaking Informational Meetings and Public Hearings. Our Approach BRVC implemented a strategic outreach and public relations plan to promote the Disparity Study and encourage community participation. Key initiatives included: Community Outreach & PR Planning: Created pre-event plans tailored to English- and Spanish-speaking audiences for both the Informational Meetings (September 10–11, 2024) and Public Hearings (November 20–21, 2024). Collaborated with GS and Bridgeport’s Small Minority Business Enterprise office to identify and engage target organizations, networks, and individuals through databases, research, and personal connections. Marketing Collateral Development: Designed transformative English-language flyers for both the Informational Meetings and Public Hearings to connect with the community. Drafted and launched press releases via Cision’s PRWeb, reaching up to 133 media platforms. Distributed press releases directly to local outlets, including CT Post, News 12, Channel 8, Hartford Courant, Patch - Bridgeport, and event platforms like AllEvents.in. Strategic Online Promotion: Secured calendar placements on local platforms like CT Post, Patch, and others to maximize visibility. Adapted outreach for Public Hearings to target construction-related professionals and service providers for broader participation. Our Impact & Client Milestones BRVC’s strategic outreach and public relations efforts successfully amplified community awareness and engagement for the City of Bridgeport’s Disparity Study, resulting in the following impactful outcomes: Increased Visibility: Press releases reached a potential audience of up to 3.8 million, with 260 placements across both events and numerous clicks driving interest. Secured online calendar placements on prominent platforms like CT Post, Patch - Bridgeport, and AllEvents.in, generating thousands of local impressions. Community Engagement: For the Informational Meetings, 83% of contacted organizations responded, with 33% sharing event details through newsletters and e-blasts. Notable participants included Colorful Bridgeport, Connecticut Construction Industries Association (CCIA) + CCIA Divisions/Associated General Contractors of CT, and ABC Connecticut (Associated Builders and Contractors of CT), demonstrating strong community collaboration. Public Hearings maintained participation, with key organizations like the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Bridgeport Regional Business Council, and others amplifying outreach efforts and engaging diverse community members. Event Attendance: Recognizable attendees included influential community members and representatives from targeted sectors, particularly construction-related industries, as outreach efforts shifted to better align with audience demographics.

Open Positions Internships For 1099/ Independent Contractors (Part-Time) Account Operations Manager - View Description (Part-Time) Strategic Partnerships - View Description (Part-Time) Influencer Talent Manager - View Description Perks of Being A BRVC Intern You can work from the comfort of your own home or wherever you can complete the tasks delegated to you. (If you're near Bridgeport, CT you can also join Brianna in-person for more 1:1 mentorship and coaching. You will have access to a network with other go-getters. You will contribute to a millennial environment that strives to shift the narrative around the work experience. You will gain a hands-on experience, GUARANTEED! This intern position is a strong resume/portfolio builder! (No mundane tasks like coffee grabs or trips to the printer...) No Roles Are Available At This Time BRVC is an equal opportunity workplace and puts its best efforts in place to practice affirmative action. We believe individuals from all walks of life--regardless of their race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status--should be given fair opportunities. It is our belief that the world, and what we do in the world--individually and collectively, is better because of it. CULTURE & CAREERS Teamwork makes the dream work and we welcome talent, of all levels, to join our women-centric and multicultural remote team. BRVC's culture embraces teammates from all walks of life, who are sponges for knowledge, go-getters, diplomatic, empathetic, hard-working, and not afraid to be themselves.