About Amy Sylla
My Journey of Overcoming Challenges, Embracing Change, and Empowering Others
My professional journey in North America has been anything but linear—spanning over a decade and marked by visa challenges, the frequent hearing of “You don’t have the Canadian experience!”, roles for which I was often overqualified, company layoffs, periods of unemployment, and career pivots. Though these experiences were difficult and took an emotional toll, leading to self-doubt and imposter syndrome, they also shaped me into a resilient and resourceful individual determined to find my purpose.
Maya Angelou’s poem, "Still I Rise," has always resonated with me. It is more than just a quote; it is a mantra I live by, reminding me to rise above challenges and stay true to my purpose. This conviction led me to seek guidance from inspiring women who mentored and coached me as I embarked on a journey of self-discovery. Through this process, I uncovered my authentic self, tapped into my creativity, and built the confidence needed to manifest opportunities aligned with my values.
In 2020, my story inspired the creation of Brown Sugar Talk—a labor of love, a haven for marginalized voices, and a platform for sparking meaningful conversations on race and culture. This endeavor solidified my commitment to advocacy and launched my public speaking career, attracting the attention of renowned organizations eager to share my story and inspire others to embrace change and advocate for equity.
In 2021, my career evolved organically from digital marketing into the EDI sector, where I now provide strategic guidance, foster psychological safety, and support the creation of inclusive and equitable environments where every voice is heard, valued, and empowered to shine. Through this EDI work, my role as a coach naturally emerged, and I have had the privilege of coaching over 20 racialized women and women with disability, guiding them on their journeys toward self-fulfillment and success.
As a multifaceted professional—combining my experience as an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Leader, Coach, and Public Speaker—I have aligned my various roles with my commitment to uplifting racialized women, immigrants, and future generations. Today, I am dedicated to guiding them through their transformative journeys, helping them uncover their potential, and empowering them to create the lives they envision.
“My mission is to empower you to build bridges to rise to new horizons. I provide the tools, knowledge, and inspiration you need to overcome obstacles and create the life you envision, all within a supportive and safe space. As a guide and catalyst for positive change, I’m here to help you succeed and thrive.”
My values are rooted in embracing your RACE—Resilience, Authenticity, Community, and Empowerment—because every step you take brings you closer to winning your own RACE.
Resilience: I help you bounce back from setbacks and transform challenges into opportunities for growth.
Authenticity: I guide you in embracing your true self, allowing you to create a genuine and memorable presence.
Community: I believe in fostering a supportive network, where shared experiences and intersectionalities strengthen us all.
Empowerment: I empower you to take control of your destiny, inspiring positive change and fulfilling your potential.
Meet My Audience
A closer look at the people I empower across the globe:
84%
WOMEN
20%
19-24 YEARS OLD
52%
25-34 YEARS OLD
48%
CANADA
28%
35-44 YEARS OLD
35%
USA
Some Highlights of My Career
Inclusive Leader - Top 3 Finalists
Club Canadien de Toronto (FR) | June 2022/24
The RelèveON Awards celebrate young Francophone professionals under 40 in Ontario. This category recognizes individuals who have made significant strides in advancing diversity and inclusion, especially for women, visible minorities, and the LGBTQ2+ community.
Best Black Employee Resources Group Leader of the Year
BPTN | June 2024
The Obsidi award recognizes ERGs that empower Black professionals through resources, advocacy, and leadership. It celebrates groups that foster professional growth, drive inclusivity, support social justice, and collaborate with leadership to advance diversity and inclusion within their organization.