Welcome to Spotlight Hustle, my weekly newsletter celebrating Black women who are shaping industries, building legacies, and leading with purpose.
From the Bronx to the Boardroom: Tamra’s Story
Tamra Billinghurst grew up in the Boogie Down Bronx, a place filled with rhythm, resilience, and realness.
Her childhood soundtrack was the rise of hip-hop, the hum of the Stella D’oro factory, and the steady heartbeat of family and faith.
The women who shaped her, including her mother, grandmothers, and daughters Amber and Savanajh, taught her that love and strength can coexist with bold ambition.
But even with that foundation, the road was not always easy.
Early in her corporate career, Tamra faced a painful demotion that shook her confidence.
Ready to quit, she called her mother, who reminded her:
“You don’t have to take their BS because you have a B.S. Pack your ish and come home.”
That moment became a turning point.
It was not just a pep talk; it was a reclaiming. Tamra realized she did not need permission to rise. She just needed perspective.
From that moment, she committed to leading differently, with empathy, excellence, and audacity.
Career & Impact
Tamra started her career in customer service, learning to listen deeply, problem-solve quickly, and connect across cultures.
She often says she felt like an “immigrant to Corporate America,” finding her way through unfamiliar systems while holding onto her authenticity.
Her first hustle was babysitting.
That early job taught her that leadership is about understanding what people need and meeting them there.
Today, she is the Co-Founder and Co-CEO of ImpactEdge Culture Consulting, a firm helping organizations strengthen leadership, shape inclusive culture, and drive lasting change.
Her leadership mantra is simple: Meet people where they are, then help them get where they want to be.
On her desk, she keeps a reminder of her top five strengths: Maximizer, Empathy, Activator, Connectedness, and Positivity. They are not just words, they are the blueprint she leads by.
Challenges & Resilience
Tamra’s resilience was tested when she and her husband relocated to a new city with their baby, and within a few years, he became totally disabled.
She suddenly found herself raising two young children while managing her career and caregiving responsibilities.
There were days she wanted to give up, but faith, community, and mindset carried her through.
Today, she calls setbacks TSAs — Tamra Specific Announcements.
They are divine reminders that when life redirects her, it is not rejection; it is revelation.
Mindset & Motivation
Faith is her foundation.
Her family, her CoCo (co-founder and co-CEO), and her mentors keep her grounded.
Her biggest “why” is clear: her daughters Amber and Savanajh Black, and the thousands of young professionals of color coming behind them.
Over the years, her mindset has evolved from chasing titles to walking in truth.
She no longer waits for validation from others; she moves in the confidence that comes from knowing her worth, even when it goes unseen.
Identity & Representation
As a Black woman in leadership, Tamra has faced stereotypes, silence, and moments of invisibility.
But she has learned to turn every “only one in the room” experience into an opportunity to stand taller.
Representation, for her, is more than presence; it is power.
It is about being visible so others can believe it is possible.
She stays true by bringing her full, unapologetic self into every space she enters.
Routines & Hustle
Tamra’s daily rhythm is a blend of prayer, tea, purpose, and laughter.
Her typical day moves between corporate leadership, family life, sorority commitments, and her consulting firm, all balanced by one constant: intentional peace.
Her non-negotiables for staying centered:
- Prayer — her morning reset
- Positivity — the mindset she chooses daily
- Walking — her favorite moving meditation
She knows balance is not perfect, but she fiercely protects her joy with the same energy she gives to her goals.
Wisdom & Advice
To her younger self, she would say:
“Don’t waste time or money trying to fix what no one but you says is broken.”
Myth to bust:
You do not have to choose between corporate success and entrepreneurship.
Tamra proves you can build both intentionally, sustainably, and on your own terms.
Her biggest lesson is that success does not require shrinking. It requires audacity.
Looking Ahead
Through ImpactEdge Culture Consulting, Tamra is building a legacy of leadership rooted in authenticity and transformation.
She and her co-founder are preparing to release #ItHadToBeSaid, a powerful conversation series she hopes to turn into a book.
Her dream is to continue creating spaces where leaders of color can thrive without apology and where women can rise with both strategy and soul.
The WIDB community can support by collaborating, amplifying her voice, and connecting on LinkedIn, or by referring organizations that need real culture change.
Rapid-Fire Round
- Coffee or tea? Tea
- Morning person or night owl? Night owl
- One word for this season? Pivotal
- Currently reading: The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John Maxwell
- Mantra: All things are working together for my good
- Favorite activity: Walking
- Discipline hack: Keep your “why” where you can see it every day
Why We’re Excited
Tamra Billinghurst embodies what happens when purpose meets professionalism.
Her work is transforming the way organizations see leadership and the way women see themselves.
She will be joining the stage at the Top 100 Most Powerful Black Women Summit, and trust us, you do not want to miss her message.
Grab your free ticket today.
Seats are limited, but inspiration like this is limitless.
Here’s to bold moves, faith-fueled leadership, and walking in audacity together.
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