BELLA Boss: Amber Afzali
Success in business demands ambition, resolve, determination, and a relentless pursuit of goals. Here, we highlight successful entrepreneurs whose remarkable accomplishments demonstrate the importance of self-belief and daring leaps of faith.
If you’re looking to reshape your career journey, let their achievements inspire you to carve your path to success.
Photographed by Birdie Thompson
Amber Afzali
Riverside, California
Actress in the new film Rule Breakers
How have you empowered yourself to get to where you are?
I've empowered myself by rejecting externally imposed limitations. I chose to define my journey by authentic self-exploration, pursuing what resonated with me, free from restrictive labels.
What traits do you think make a woman influential?
An influential woman possesses confident self-expression, deep empathy, and unwavering conviction. She champions her beliefs while simultaneously empowering others. I'm particularly inspired by women who drive positive change with grace and genuine intent.
How do you balance the need for assertive leadership while still creating an inclusive and supportive work environment?
For me, assertive leadership means articulating a clear vision and expectations while actively fostering an environment where every voice is heard and valued. Mutual respect and collaborative engagement are fundamental to achieving this balance.
How can we teach women to stand in solidarity with one another?
We cultivate solidarity by shifting from a culture of competition to one of collaboration. Instilling in girls from a young age that collective success is possible, rather than perpetuating scarcity mindsets, will build a powerful, supportive network of women who uplift each other.
Can you share an instance where you had to challenge the status quo?
Pursuing a dual path of acting and rigorous academic education was a significant challenge to conventional expectations. Many doubted my ability to succeed in both areas. By trusting my own capabilities and refusing to be deterred by skepticism, I challenged those limitations and achieved my goals.