We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Sybil Stewart. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Sybil below.

Sybil, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?

Startling statistics and personal experiences have compelled me to embark on a mission to create a space where everyone, regardless of their background or neurodiversity, can thrive. As I delved deeper into the challenges faced by women of color and individuals with unique abilities, I realized that existing member organizations fell short in truly understanding and catering to their needs. My needs. This realization ignited the vision for C-Suite, a dream that is now being transformed into a reality. C-Suite aims to provide access to resources that have long been denied or reserved for a select few, empowering women, people of color, and the neurodiverse to redefine success on their own terms.
Many of the women served find themselves at the intersection of multiple identities. They are not only dedicated caregivers, shouldering the responsibility of nurturing their families, but they are also highly educated and experienced professionals who have honed their skills over the years. Despite their qualifications, they often face barriers that prevent them from fully realizing their potential. Limited access to resources, a lack of representation in leadership positions, and the absence of a supportive network can hinder their progress. However, these challenges do not define them – they serve as fuel to ignite their determination to create positive change.
The Birth of C-Suite:
In the quest for a room that resonated with my identity and journey, I came face-to-face with a disheartening reality – a lack of inclusive spaces that truly understand and cater to individuals like me. A gap between me and the stereotypical definition of “professional.” This realization prompts a question that fueled my journey: Is this unique? Are there other women like me who can benefit from resources, support, and opportunities they deserve? It is this question that propelled me to be the solution.

The Power of Community:
At C-Suite, creating safe and supportive environments, and allowing for collaboration and empowerment of individuals to embrace their unique perspectives and abilities. They understand that true success is not achieved by conforming to rigid molds, but by celebrating differences and harnessing them as strengths. Our mission is to dismantle systemic barriers, champion representation, and provide the necessary resources for individuals to thrive in both their personal and professional lives.
The journey within the C-Suite is not solely about assisting women to climb the corporate ladder or breaking glass ceilings; it is about creating a transformative environment where intersectional women can come together, uplift one another, and navigate their unique journeys towards success. It goes beyond the confines of traditional corporate hierarchies, aiming to help individuals become CEOs of their own lives. Here, success is measured by personal fulfillment and authentic expression. Mindfulness and holistic health play an integral role in our program, recognizing that total care is vital not only for our well-being but also for preserving our legacies.
Our motto: You belong in the C-Suite.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Growing up, I was never excited about being a princess. Princesses were always in danger. They were eating something, dealt with mean siblings or slept way too long. It didn’t seem like the best life for a creative. So I looked elsewhere within the storyline. Behind the excitement of their troubles there was always someone creating the circumstances for them to overcome. A woman who realized the complete and total power she had in her hands. The fairy godmother. She knew she had the power to create literally from nothing. To change the perspectives of those around her, and to help even the most unassuming person see their inner truths if they believed.
After spending nearly 15 years in human resources, I came to a profound realization – my purpose extended beyond managing personnel. I yearned to be a catalyst for change, empowering individuals to unleash their fullest potential. A godmother!!!
Though it’s manifested itself through dedication and service in training and HR, I help women uncover their inner truths through providing resources, and a mindset shift.
As the founder of C-Suite it is my mission to create a platform that equips women, people of color, and the neurodiverse with the necessary tools, guidance, and network to excel. The C in C-Suite is two fold. 1st the C equals community, because we are not meant to walk this life alone. Secondly, it also means becoming the CEO of your life.
C-Suite provides mentorship, scholarship, and sponsorship. We intentionally hold the space for us and those coming behind us in meaningful ways. Additionally, because self care matters, we have practitioner advocates who support this community with resources on mindfulness, mental health, and holistic living.
Just when you think where should I go??? Know that you belong in the C-Suite.

My brand is about being a “human resource”, or the fairy godmother you didn’t know you needed.

Can you talk to us about how your funded your business?

My business came together quickly and inexpensively. It had to. I had to pivot quickly and make decisions on the heels of a quick exit from corporate. College and corporate America teach you how to be a great tree. I was an awesome tree. I stood, provided my singular duty in the forest, but never understood the ecosystem. Being an entrepreneur taught me the value of planting. I realized that resources are naturally given if you know where to look. That seeding is a process that needs to be watered and even when you think nothing is happening it’s when the dirt is doing the work.

The capital for my business came from the savings I accrued during my corporate career. I intentionally put forth effort to become debt free and was able to launch quickly and relatively cheaply because of this. I was prepared and knew how to find that which I needed. More important than money were the relationships that saved me tons! Even as I think about all of the complimentary advice, coaching, and services that others have provided me when I could not afford their services in full, I know that is worth several thousands of dollars. It is my mission to pay it forward so that others can learn to plant as well.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

It’s “career suicide”. That’s what I was told. When I decided to complete the employee survey with truth. Absent of fear. I knew it was the “informal” resignation, and yet, I was out of options. Panicked, anxious and uncertain about my job at an organization that brought me in only a year prior. What more could I do other than be honest about the ongoing challenges that I faced as being the only.

Being silenced nearly cost me my life. The compensation I got for “showing up” would never be enough if I was going to perform the duties as assigned in a way that effected change. So, I wrote everything with nothing to lose.

My recovery took about 6 months, but because of that experience I count it all joy. Without the knowing that my story was not an outlier, that there were other women who faced the same challenges in the workplace I would not be able to serve well today. It is because of that, not in spite of that experience that I am now an advocate, empowerer of women, and resource for those who need a community but are unsure of where to go.   

Contact Info:

• Website: www.thesagestewart.com
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/thesagestewart
• Other: www.csuitewomen.co