Name: Briana Sallis
City: South Haven, MI
Workplace: Mid-West Family Southwest Michigan (WSJM, Inc.)
Title: Director of Community Engagement & Project Management
How do you think that Bold Women of Business demonstrate being bold?
Being a Bold Woman of Business means embracing uniqueness and authenticity in all aspects of life. It involves standing up for your beliefs, even when you’re standing alone, and confidently carving your own path toward ambitious goals. I believe that boldness is about being multifaceted and unafraid to defy conventional expectations. As we navigate a world of rapid change, it’s an inspiring time for women to challenge norms, push boundaries, and create lasting impact. I’m grateful to be part of a community where we uplift one another and celebrate our distinct journeys.
Bold women are often defined by a number of descriptors. Please choose from the following descriptors to produce the top three that you would say most exemplify your personality?
Courageous
Strong
Distinctive
Please provide an example of when you feel you were at your very best in taking action on the job or in your role.
One of my proudest moments taking action on the job was during the Stuff a Truck event for 97.5 Y-Country. I helped lead the initiative to collect food and hygiene products for local families in need. We set ambitious goals, but thanks to strategic planning, community outreach, and team coordination, we not only met but exceeded our targets. By the end of the event, we raised $45,000 and filled seven trucks with donations. Seeing the direct impact on our community and knowing I played a key role in organizing the effort made me feel I was at my best.
What’s the funniest thing that ever happened on your road to success?
One of the funniest moments on my road to success happened during a local festival where I was performing. Halfway through my song, my backing track unexpectedly cut out and didn’t come back on. Instead of panicking, I had to switch gears and sing acapella in front of the crowd. It was definitely a memorable experience! While it was a little nerve-wracking at the time, it taught me the importance of adaptability and connecting with the audience, even when things don’t go as planned.
Who most inspires your personal drive for success every day?
My drive for success is deeply inspired by my mother. Her journey from Samoa to the United States was filled with challenges, but her unwavering commitment to hard work, resilience, and education shaped my values. She taught me the importance of making a positive impact in my community and uplifting those around me. This personal connection fuels my passion for my work and motivates me to strive for excellence every day.
What is your best advice to women in Southwest Michigan looking to succeed, as you have, in business?
To the women of Southwest Michigan aspiring for success in business, my advice is simple yet powerful: remain authentic in every space you occupy. I’ve often been told I’m “too much” of this or “not enough” of that, but it’s crucial to remember that only *you* can define your identity. Embrace your uniqueness and stay true to yourself, despite external pressures. Next, discover your passion and find ways to monetize it while helping others. This journey can be incredibly rewarding, both personally and professionally. Lastly, cultivate your support system—your tribe. Women often fall into the “superhero syndrome,” prioritizing the needs of others over their own. It’s essential to recognize that we, too, need support and encouragement. Whether it’s a few trusted friends or a larger community, surround yourself with those who uplift and inspire you.
What does your selection to the ranks of the Bold Women of Business from Moody on the Market mean to you?
Being recognized as one of Moody on the Market’s Bold Women of Business is an incredible honor that deeply resonates with me. I’ve been fortunate to know many remarkable women who exemplify boldness in their own unique ways, and their influence has shaped my journey. This prestigious acknowledgment is not just a personal achievement; it’s a tribute to those who have paved the way for me. I hope to continue their legacy and inspire others to pursue their passions with courage and determination.
