Sara Bavar is the co-founder of BRiDDG, a platform revolutionizing college admissions by showcasing students’ talents beyond GPAs and test scores. With extensive experience in strategic planning and operations, she has led cross-functional teams to drive impactful growth. Passionate about educational equity, she is dedicated to creating opportunities for every student to shine and achieve their full potential. A strong advocate for innovation and inclusivity, Sara combines her expertise with a deep commitment to empowering individuals through education.
What inspired you to start your journey as a coach and entrepreneur? Were there any specific events, challenges, or people that motivated you to take this path?
My journey as an entrepreneur was inspired by a combination of personal experiences and a deep desire to create meaningful change. Growing up, I faced challenges like language barriers and limited resources, which made traditional paths to success more difficult. These experiences gave me a firsthand understanding of how much talent and potential can go unnoticed in systems that prioritize standardized metrics over individuality.
A pivotal moment was recognizing how many students struggle to showcase their true capabilities in processes like college admissions. This realization, combined with my passion for equity and empowerment, motivated me to co-found BRiDDG—a platform designed to give every student the chance to shine.
Throughout this journey, mentors and advocates for social change have been a constant source of inspiration. They have encouraged me to turn challenges into opportunities and build something that could positively impact lives. Their belief in my vision helped me take the leap into entrepreneurship and stay committed to the mission.
Looking back at the beginning of your career, what were the major challenges you faced when establishing yourself as a leader/coach? How did you overcome those obstacles?
At the beginning of my career, one of the major challenges I faced was establishing credibility and earning trust as a leader without a technical background. I had to demonstrate that my value lay in my ability to strategize, communicate effectively, and guide teams toward shared goals. Another hurdle was navigating self-doubt when working alongside those with more specialized knowledge.
I overcame these obstacles by leveraging my strengths in interpersonal skills, strategic thinking, and problem-solving. I focused on building relationships, understanding team dynamics, and aligning everyone’s efforts toward a common purpose. By fostering collaboration and empowering others, I was able to establish myself as a capable and trusted leader.
Women are a growing force in workplaces worldwide, standing shoulder to shoulder with their male counterparts. What are your thoughts about women’s leadership today?
Women in leadership today represent a powerful and transformative force, breaking barriers and redefining what leadership looks like across industries. Their rise brings diverse perspectives, empathetic decision-making, and collaborative approaches to the forefront, enriching organizational cultures and driving innovation.
While significant progress has been made, challenges such as unconscious bias, underrepresentation in certain sectors, and balancing societal expectations persist. However, women leaders continue to pave the way by demonstrating resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to creating more inclusive workplaces.
I believe that women’s leadership today is not just about achieving parity but about inspiring a broader cultural shift where leadership qualities are valued regardless of gender, and opportunities are accessible to all. Empowering more women to lead is essential for building a future that reflects the true potential of humanity.
What message/advice would you have for future women leaders and aspiring entrepreneurs?
My advice to future women leaders and aspiring entrepreneurs is to embrace your unique strengths and never underestimate the value you bring to the table. Believe in your vision and your ability to lead, even when faced with challenges or doubts. Surround yourself with people who support and inspire you, and don’t be afraid to seek mentorship or ask for help.
Learn from setbacks, adapt to change, and keep pushing forward with determination. Most importantly, create a legacy of lifting others as you rise—empowering those around you to grow and succeed.
