While the majority of 20-somethings are struggling to land a job interview, Entertainment mogul-in-the-making Sammye Scott is effortlessly navigating her way to becoming one of the top women in the music business.
In the midst of working to discover music’s newest superstars as an A&R at label giant, Atlantic Records, the Spelman graduate also serves as the operational manager to BuVision, manager of recording artist Marissa, project manager with Blue Alley Touring, and manager to media duo Who Hired These Chicks. Now that’s a sister with superpowers.
Scott has always believed her purpose is best fulfilled dominating behind the scenes but her work ethic continues to push her to the forefront. In 2017, she was honored as one of Atlanta’s Top 20 under 30 Millennials.
She attributes her success to prayer, humility, and the early teachings of adolescent mentors. “As a child, I was raised and mentored by strong Black women,” says Scott. “It is my obligation to make sure that I carry on the legacy of helping my younger sisters, given my life experiences.”
Check out Scott’s interview below as she shares her perspective on the importance of African American women having leadership roles, why collaboration in any industry is essential, and how risks are necessary to reach new career heights.
As a Black woman, what do you consider your superpower to be?
My ability to overcome obstacles and not taking no for an answer.
What key skills or qualities make you unique as an African American female leader?
My ability to assimilate in any situation while maintaining my values and being respectful of others, but being able to collaborate with others on a path to success.
What thoughtful or encouraging piece of advice would you give to your younger self?
Encouraging advice that I would give to my younger self is not to let others expectations dictate the path you foresee for yourself, as well as remembering self-confidence is one of the major keys to success. Believe in who you are and know that you have a plan to reach your ultimate goals in life.
Why is it important for women of color to lead or work in leadership roles and decision-making capacities?
Women of color have a unique perspective and have carried more responsibilities than most. Unfortunately, we often have to raise our families without a partner and provide both emotional and financial support. Additionally, we are often faced with the challenges our society stigmatizes to being a woman and black. The strength gained and the skills honed as a result of what we have to overcome has put women of color in a unique position to be considerate, decisive and goal-oriented leaders.
If you could thank any Black woman history maker for her contributions to society, who would it be and why?
I would have to thank Oprah for her contribution and defined example of an African-American woman leader. She set the precedence for all ages of African American women. She exemplifies and exudes nothing but perseverance, how to overcome stereotypes, confidence, how to fight for what you believe in regardless of all the odds you may have against you as well as knowing your worth.
How do you feel about the hashtag #CollaborationOverCompetition? What qualities or values do you deem indispensable in your business partners or collaborators?
Love the hashtag. We must join in the training and development of our young women and young men of color. We have to show them how to lead [and] how to work with each other rather than against each other.
Values that are indispensable: Honesty, objectivity, providing a different lens, helping others see through a different lens, open to and understanding critiques, critical thinking, and even criticism.
What are your thoughts on taking risks? Making mistakes?
Taking risks in life is pertinent. Risks help cultivate your character and embody fearlessness. When you take a risk, you build the courage to fight the fear of the unknown.
Making mistakes is pivotal. I feel like growing up your parents try to hinder you from making the same mistakes they did, but in all actuality [mistakes] are necessary for you to make and go through. I feel like it serves more of a hindrance for you not to go through them. It inhibits you from being able to navigate through life-based off life experiences.
