As we head into the New Year, we’re embracing the theme of joy, growth, and fresh starts. ✨🎉
To celebrate, we asked our Authenticate 2024 panelists to share what brings them joy—both in their careers and personal lives—and to recommend a cozy book for this reflective season. Their insights offer a glimpse into the passions that fuel their work and the simple pleasures that inspire them outside of it.
Meet Teresa Wu
Vice President, Smart Credentials | IDEMIA Public Security North America
What brings Teresa joy?
In my work, I find joy in leading teams to achieve our goals by overcoming challenges with innovative solutions. It is exciting to see a product or solution from inception to its successful real-world implementation. I love seeing that I continue to grow and learn along the way with my team members and customers.
Personally, joy is found when I can share memorable moments with my family and friends. I also love having quiet moments to myself where I can explore nature, learn how to cook a new dish, or complete a new creative craft project.
What’s on Teresa’s Book List?
This is a very difficult question. I read so many great books. If I have to choose one, I would choose The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. I love the combination of an enchanted personal journey of dreams and destiny with philosophical insights. Santiago’s journey resonated with me. The messages in the book inspired me to embrace challenges with courage and pursue a fulfilling life.
Meet Jamie M. Danker
Senior Director of Cybersecurity and Privacy Services | Venable LLP
What brings Jamie joy?
Aside from puns, my gorgeous chocolate labradoodle, Cocoa, brings me joy as my “work from home” co-worker (she provides excellent emotional support and comic relief). She is also a beloved family member and keeps us on our toes and active. Oh, I should probably mention my human family (13-year-old daughter and husband) also bring me joy, but they are less furry and not nearly as excited to see me when I get home after work! Professionally, I like to keep in touch with former co-workers and mentor other women as they navigate various stages of their careers.
What’s on Jamie’s Book List?
I do so much reading for work that getting back into reading [for pleasure] is a consistent New Year’s resolution.
Over summer vacation, I read a phenomenal book called The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store by James McBride. It’s a mystery/historical fiction novel about Jewish and Black communities in the 1920s and ‘30s coming together to help each other out. It’s one of those books that really makes you think about humanity and how disparate communities face unique challenges but can still unite to support one another.
12 Books to Inspire Your 2025 📚✨
As we welcome the New Year, it’s the perfect time to dive into books that spark inspiration and growth. Members of Women in Identity have curated a list of 12 thought-provoking books, shows, and films to guide you through 2025 with purpose and reflection:
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How Women Rise – Sally Helgesen & Marshall Goldsmith
A guide tackling hurdles women face as they rise in their careers—essential for unlocking leadership potential. -
The Hill We Climb – Amanda Gorman
A stirring poem of resilience and hope, showcasing the power of words to inspire change. -
The Mask You Live In – Documentary
A deep dive into masculinity and societal expectations, challenging traditional gender norms. -
Dare to Lead – Brené Brown
Insights into vulnerability in leadership, creating pathways for compassionate and courageous workplaces. -
Impact Players – Liz Wiseman
An insightful guide on creating value and leading with purpose. -
Race After Technology – Ruha Benjamin
A critical examination of technology’s intersection with race, equity, and justice. -
Too Soon Old, Too Late Smart – Gordon Livingston
A book of life lessons, comforting yet thought-provoking. -
How to Win Friends and Influence People – Dale Carnegie
Timeless advice on building relationships for personal and professional growth. -
The Choice – Dr. Edith Eva Eger
A story of survival and healing that offers profound insights into the human spirit. -
RBG – Documentary on Ruth Bader Ginsburg
An intimate look at RBG’s dedication to justice and equality. -
Range – David Epstein
Challenging the notion of specialization, showcasing the value of diverse experiences. -
Banker to the Poor – Muhammad Yunus
The story of microcredit and poverty alleviation, inspiring large-scale change.
Whether you’re looking for career advice, inspiration, or a thought-provoking escape, this list has something for every type of reader or viewer. Start your New Year inspired! ❄️
A New Year of Joy and Possibility 🎆
As we reflect on the year that’s passed and step into 2025, our panelists’ insights remind us that fulfillment often lies in the small moments of life. Their reflections highlight the passion they bring to their work and the balance they seek. As you recharge for the year ahead, may their recommendations inspire your own moments of joy, growth, and connection.
Help us create a more inclusive 2025.
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