A Prologue to my Portfolio Career
Six-year-old Zoha dreamed of being a rockstar. I would sing my heart out in front of the mirror, imagining myself on stage. Teenage Zoha longed to become a DJ, spinning tracks that would ignite a dance floor, or a wildlife photographer, capturing the raw beauty of nature through her lens. Little did I know that life had a different plan for me.
Today, I am someone who wears many hats and follows multiple passions. I am a Career Strategist, Workshop Designer and Facilitator, Employment Facilitator, Communication Consultant, Photographer, Social Media Manager, Researcher, Poet, Writer, Journalist, and Community Leader in Arts and Creativity. It's a whirlwind of roles and titles that might seem scattered to some, but for me, it's the essence of who I am.
My educational background led me down the path of communication and international relations. Through my studies, I gained diplomacy, crisis communication, networking, and strategic planning skills. Little did I know that these skills would become the bedrock of my unconventional journey—a journey that defies the traditional notions of a linear career.
Embracing a portfolio career has been a challenging decision. Understanding and expressing the reasons behind my diverse pursuits took me a while. And then, a moment of clarity came when I discovered the term "multipotentialite," coined by Emily Wapnick. It was as if a light bulb had switched on—I finally had a label that resonated with my career decisions.
A photo with one of my best friends - A camera
It is such a fulfilling journey exploring the value Portfolio Careers hold. However, it comes with a price. And that is exploring, expressing and accepting your identity as a Portfolio Careerist. Herminia Ibarra, the Charles Handy Professor of Organizational Behaviour at London Business School, explores the concept of a "portfolio career" and delves into the challenges portfolio workers face, such as the lack of a clear identity and the need for community and structure.
Defining a clear identity has been a challenge along this path. How do I encapsulate my many roles on my resume or LinkedIn profile? But I've come to embrace the complexity and fluidity of my portfolio career. It's what makes me unique.
In this journey, effective communication has become my superpower. It allows me to convey my skills and experiences with confidence and clarity. Whether I'm negotiating freelance agreements, pursuing pro-bono work, or connecting with potential employers, I can articulate my value and make an impact.
A portfolio career goes beyond work—it's about aligning my lifestyle with my passions. I refuse to settle for a life where I'm not genuinely excited about what I do. Each day, I strive to infuse my projects with joy and purpose, blending my diverse interests into a harmonious whole. It's not always easy, but the fulfillment I find in pursuing my passions makes it all worthwhile.
So, if you're considering embarking on a portfolio career, know it's not a one-size-fits-all path. It requires a willingness to embrace your unique journey, with all its ups and downs. But let me assure you; it's an exhilarating and eye-opening adventure. Along the way, you'll discover hidden strengths, forge connections with like-minded individuals, and craft a narrative that reflects your true essence.
Embrace the excitement, nurture your passions, and fearlessly challenge the norms. The world eagerly awaits the remarkable blend of skills and talents that only you possess. As for me, who knows? Maybe, One day I'll add rockstar, DJ, or wildlife photographer to my already extensive list of roles. After all, life is full of surprises, a sign of life.
Good Luck!
