Creating Opportunity: Wisdom from Viola Davis

"The only thing that separates women of color from anyone else is opportunity." - Viola Davis

Viola Davis has lived the truth of this statement. From humble beginnings to becoming an EGOT-winning actress, her career wasn’t defined by a lack of talent, it was defined by access. She is definitely a living example of what can happen when skill meets opportunity.

Her words aren’t just an observation; they’re a challenge; a call to action for every woman who has ever felt overlooked or underestimated. Opportunity isn’t a matter of luck or chance alone; it’s often the direct result of preparation meeting the right moment. Viola reminds us that while talent is abundant, the real difference is who gets access to the room where decisions are made.

Viola Davis’ Empowering Message for Women of Color

If opportunity is the only separator, then the mission becomes clear: seek it relentlessly. Don’t wait for the perfect moment or a formal invitation; knock, push, or create your own door if you must. Opportunity is rarely comfortable and often requires courage, networking, and the willingness to be visible in spaces where you may feel outnumbered.

And once you find your way through, open that door wider for others. Share resources, make introductions, advocate for women who aren’t in the room yet. Viola’s wisdom challenges us not just to rise individually, but to dismantle the scarcity mindset that says success is limited. Her truth is that the more opportunities we create and share, the more we all rise together.

Let’s Dive In: How This Applies to YOU

1. Opportunity isn’t always handed to you. Sometimes you have to knock loudly, sometimes you have to build the door yourself.

2. Your skills deserve the right stage. You could be brilliant at what you do, but without visibility, your brilliance remains unseen.

3. Pull others up with you. True success doesn’t just open the door; it holds it open for the next woman coming through.

   
   

Reflections for the Week

• Where am I waiting for opportunity instead of creating it?

• Who in my circle could I share access, introductions, or resources with this month?

• What stage or platform am I ready to claim?

  
  

5 Star Reminder

Talent is everywhere. Opportunity isn’t. Be a seeker, a creator, and a sharer of opportunities.

Journal Prompt

"If I had the right opportunity today, what would I do with it; and how can I get closer to making that happen?"