Emily Rasowsky

Tell us your story.

I started with social media and tech in school. I started an organization that worked to raise awareness of sexual violence on college campuses. Social media and technology was one of the easiest, quickest and cheapest ways to get our word out. We started a digital campaign that spread our message via social media, before this was a real ‘thing’ on college campuses. We then used an anonymous commenting platform for students to share their experiences with assault and allow a space for them to disclose, anonymously if they choose. I saw the power of tech to create collective action and I knew it was something I wanted to get involved in, professionally. I spent quite a good deal of time implementing social media at different organizations I worked at. Since I was ‘young’ in these organizations I was always put on the ‘digital’ or ‘tech’ work, which helped me build up a sense of strategy. I started in my current position in more of a sales role, initially. Over time I moved over to the social media marketing and strategy side of things and it’s definitely a move I am happy I made. For me I am always after finding ways to inspire collective action online. I am a firm believer that social media can help organize people to ‘do good’ in the world. So I try to remind myself of that in every new project I am on- how can I bring a community together online for the greater good, my client or a larger organizational mission?

What do you most want other women and young girls to know about being a woman in our digital culture?

One thing that has been apparent for me is the importance of taking time for yourself. Being a woman in our fast paced tech world doesn’t mean you have to burn yourself out. Find time to relax, be with those you love and be sure to create space for creativity. When you have room to intellectually ‘breath’ you have the chance to think outside the box and truly make waves. One other thing I will add is to do what excites you. Every day you do something that doesn’t make you happy is a day you spend without being true to yourself.

Pass it on!

My first internship boss, Natalie Cofield. She was and still is such a rockstar. I learned a lot about what it takes to run a thriving organization. She took a chance hiring me and trusted me to learn and grow quickly. For her trust and never-fleeting willpower I will be forever grateful.