Faith in Business: How Carla Harris, Cher Wang, and Folorunsho Alakija Turned Challenges Into Triumphs
1. Carla Harris: A Voice of Faith and Finance
Starting Out
Carla Harris grew up in Jacksonville, Florida, in a household that valued education and faith. After graduating from Harvard University and Harvard Business School, she joined Morgan Stanley in 1987. She quickly climbed the ranks, becoming one of the few Black women in high-stakes investment banking.
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Challenges
As a young Black woman in finance, Harris faced biases and systemic challenges. She often felt underestimated, but rather than letting these barriers deter her, she used them as fuel. One pivotal moment came when she was passed over for a promotion despite exceeding expectations. Instead of giving up, she sought to prove herself through even greater achievements.
Overcoming and Thriving
Harris leaned on her faith to remain steadfast. Her trust in God’s plan provided her with resilience, and she credits her belief in prayer and divine guidance for helping her make tough decisions. She also embraced authenticity, often sharing gospel songs with colleagues—a bold move in the corporate world.
Successes
Today, Carla Harris is a senior managing director at Morgan Stanley and has led multibillion-dollar transactions. She’s also an acclaimed author, motivational speaker, and gospel singer. Her accolades include being named to Fortune’s “Most Influential Black Executives in Corporate America.” Her message to aspiring leaders: “Never underestimate the power of prayer and an excellent spirit.”
2. Cher Wang: Innovating With Purpose
Born into a wealthy Taiwanese family, Cher Wang was educated in the United States, graduating from the University of California, Berkeley. Her Christian upbringing instilled in her a sense of responsibility to use her resources for good. In 1997, she co-founded HTC Corporation, a company that became a pioneer in mobile technology.
Challenges
Though Wang came from privilege, her entrepreneurial journey was not without struggles. HTC faced fierce competition from giants like Apple and Samsung. The company experienced significant market share loss in the 2010s, prompting critics to question its future.
Overcoming and Thriving
Wang’s faith played a crucial role during difficult times. She remained committed to her vision, praying for guidance and staying resolute in her belief that God had a purpose for her work. She redirected HTC's focus toward virtual reality technology, a decision that revitalised the company’s relevance.
Successes
Wang’s leadership has been transformative. HTC is now a key player in the virtual reality space, with its VIVE products recognised globally. Beyond business, Wang is a philanthropist, funding educational institutions and health initiatives worldwide. She believes her business serves a higher purpose, saying, “Work is an extension of my faith. Every decision I make is with God in mind.”
3. Folorunsho Alakija: From Typist to Tycoon
Starting Out
Folorunsho Alakija began her career as a secretary in Nigeria, working her way up from humble beginnings. She later ventured into fashion, establishing Supreme Stitches, a brand that catered to Nigeria’s elite. Her breakthrough came when she acquired an oil prospecting licence in the 1990s, leading to the founding of Famfa Oil.
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Challenges
Alakija’s journey was fraught with obstacles. She faced intense opposition from powerful figures who wanted to wrest control of her oil business. Legal battles over her oil block spanned years, testing her resolve and faith.
Overcoming and Thriving
Alakija credits her unwavering faith in God as the source of her strength. She spent countless hours in prayer and trusted that God would fight her battles. Her persistence paid off when the Nigerian Supreme Court ruled in her favour, securing her family’s rights to the oil block.
Successes
Now one of Africa’s wealthiest women, Alakija is worth billions. Beyond her business achievements, she is a philanthropist and founder of the Rose of Sharon Foundation, which supports widows and orphans. Alakija often shares her faith journey, inspiring others with the words: “When you put God first, everything else falls into place.”
Lessons From Their Lives
These women teach us that success isn’t just about financial acumen or professional skills. It’s about maintaining integrity, trusting in God, and using one’s influence to uplift others. Their stories remind us that challenges are inevitable, but faith can turn them into stepping stones.
- Carla Harris demonstrates the power of resilience and authenticity in a competitive field.
- Cher Wang highlights how faith and innovation can transform industries and lives.
- Folorunsho Alakija proves that humility, prayer, and persistence can lead to extraordinary success.
Through their journeys, they inspire us to ask: What would happen if we trusted God with our careers and dared to live out our faith boldly?
Image: Business Insider, AIXR, Money Inc.
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