LRIWN: Angela Bannerman Ankoma, LRI ’14

The Leadership Rhode Island Women’s Network interviewed Angela Bannerman Ankoma (LRI ’14), Executive Vice President, Director of Community Investment at United Way of Rhode Island. Her Top 5 CliftonStrengths are Futuristic, Connectedness, Strategic, Relator and Ideation.

 

How did someone come to be a mentor to you?

My work in the community lead me to meeting my mentor. Interestingly enough, I didn’t realize the person was my mentor until some years into our relationship. I had begun to rely on this women for guidance and as a strategic thought partner. Then one day while speaking to her, I mentioned, I think you are my mentor. Ha! My mentor saw potential in me that I didn’t even recognize in myself, she believed in me and pushed me beyond my comfort zones. She gives me open and honest feedback and is one of my biggest supporters.

 

What do you consider the 3 key skills for success? 

Determination, Hope and Kindness.

 

My mantra is…. 

I didn’t come this far to only come this far.

 

What challenges have you taken to get to where you are now?

I’ve had to work long hours which meant spending time away from my young and growing family. While I don’t have regrets about the sacrifices and challenges along the way, you can also never get time back once it’s lost. I feel blessed that I am now able to prioritize spending time creating memories with family.

 

What would you tell your younger self?

    Speak up: What you have to say matters.

    Trust yourself: You know more than you think you know.

    Go for it: Push that negative thought out of your head.

    You can and you will.  

 

Angela Bannerman Ankoma will be one of the featured speakers at our upcoming Entrepreneurship: Do It Your Way on February 11th. Click here to find out more.