Cicely Rue Unstudios

I started the day with disappointment. I didn’t advance in a pitch competition I had spent weeks preparing for. For a moment, it stung.

But later, I pitched at the .foundation’s AI Supply Chain Summit. This time, I left the script behind and spoke from the heart. The feedback was the best I’ve ever received.

What could’ve been a discouraging day turned into one of my most affirming experiences. A reminder that every setback can make space for something better.

This past weekend was special.

I got to volunteer at The M.A.D. Effect: Transform St. Anthony’s Academy and be part of something that truly matters.

We painted walls, cleaned up classrooms, and created a space where kids will walk in and feel like they matter.

Volunteering is something I’ve always tried to do 1–2 times a month. I fell off recently, but this reminded me why I started.

Huge thank you to my friend for the invite, and to for hosting such a beautiful event and vision.

Grateful for every hand, every moment, and every reason to keep showing up. 💛

My nature is to work quietly in the background.

But since launching SelfSuffi, I’ve had to do the exact opposite and step out of the shadows.

I’m pitching to full rooms.
I’m reaching out to strangers.
I’m learning to sell and storytelling at the same time.

It’s uncomfortable, but it’s also empowering.

Stepping into the spotlight has pushed me out of my comfort zone, and little by little, I’m getting the hang of it.

Founder life stretches you. And if you let it, it shapes you.