Summary: Many of our guests have had their fair share of obstacles they’ve had to overcome, but Nancy Douyon is on a whole other level. A user experience researcher at Google, Nancy found her way to happiness and stability only after bridging a new and bewildering culture, bouncing around foster homes and living on the streets, and coming to terms with her broken childhood. <br><br>You won’t believe the magical, serendipitous encounter with the MIT Media Lab that changed (and potentially saved) her life, revealing an aptitude for computers and design at a young age. Another big theme from her interview is the struggle she faced with her mom and how she was able to heal that relationship – a true hallmark of the heroine’s journey. Nancy is real, resourceful, and she has an incredible story to share.<br><br>Show Notes: <br>-An inquisitive daughter of immigrants: Nancy’s early years in Boston surrounded by her Haitian culture. [4:33]<br>-Feeling confused, behind, and like an outsider as she tried to bridge American culture, plus the remarkable outcome of running away. [10:35]<br>-How she got connected to Computer Clubhouse, an MIT program where she learned to produce music, code, use photoshop, build robots, and lead her peers. [16:28]<br>-The lowest point: Bouncing around between being homeless and different foster homes. [19:02]<br>-The role of art and design as her only respite during a phase of anger and loneliness. [24:32]<br>-How she chose to get revenge on the foster care system, and her struggle to afford college. [28:24]<br>-Finding her passion, acknowledging her skills (despite stereotypes), and taking first steps to healing the relationship with her mother. [34:44]<br>-Moving forward and making amends, plus her decision to “show love through technology”. [42:49]<br>-How the earthquake in Haiti affected Nancy and her family, and the growth she experienced as a result. [45:33]<br>-“Fight to be authentic” and other advice from Nancy for women on their own journeys. [48:23] <br><br>References: <br>Tech Social Impact Conference - <a href="http://www.techsocialimpact.com" rel="noopener">www.techsocialimpact.com</a><br><br>*Nancy has been working on multiple support efforts in Haiti - visit her relief outreach page at: <a href="http://www.douyonsignature.com/outreach" rel="noopener">www.douyonsignature.com/outreach</a><br><br>Music by Lucia Lilikoi - lucia.bandcamp.com<br><br>Episode Sponsors:<br>UENO - ueno.co<br>InVision - invisionapp.com
