Lucy Chen’s journey is one of courage, reinvention, and quiet strength. From arriving in the United States as an immigrant student with language barriers to becoming a leadership coach, author, speaker, and publisher, Lucy has transformed personal struggle into purpose. Humans of Fuzia is proud to feature her story because it reflects the resilience of women who rise despite systemic barriers—and who choose to lift others as they grow. Her story resonates deeply with our global community committed to supporting women, by women and allies who believe in shared progress.
What inspired you to start your journey as an entrepreneur?
I came to the U.S. in 1994 to pursue my advanced degree at UCLA in environmental engineering. On the surface, my life looked successful—I had a stable career, worked for years at a large financial institution, built a family, and settled down. But inside, I struggled deeply with identity, confidence, and belonging, especially as an immigrant woman navigating cultural and language barriers.
During the pandemic, I shifted careers and realized I wanted to help people who looked like me—immigrant women who felt unseen. I began writing and coaching, and the more I shared my story, the more I connected with others. That’s when I knew this wasn’t just my healing journey—it was my purpose. I wanted to pay it forward.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced, and how did you overcome them?
Communication was one of my biggest challenges. Early in my career, I failed a presentation at work and felt so ashamed that I nearly quit. Instead, I made a decision that changed my life—I joined Toastmasters.
That choice helped me transform my mindset. I stopped seeing myself as a victim and chose to believe I could grow. Over time, by consistently practicing public speaking and leadership, I gained confidence, visibility, and clarity. I ended up earning promotions and stepping into leadership roles—not because I chased titles, but because I worked on myself.
Which milestone are you most proud of so far?
Earning my Distinguished Toastmaster title was huge for me. English isn’t my first language, yet through discipline and practice, I stood confidently on stage. Another milestone was publishing my first English book, Build Resilience, Live, Learn, and Lead. Thirty years ago, I could never have imagined becoming an author.
I’ve since published more books, built a publishing house to amplify diverse voices, and spoken on global stages, including SXSW. Each milestone reminds me that resilience compounds when we keep showing up.
What are your thoughts on women in leadership today?
Women are making powerful moves, but structural gaps still exist—especially for women founders and immigrant women. Visibility is everything. When women share their stories, we create pathways for others.
I believe women grow stronger when we collaborate across communities and support each other openly. Leadership starts when we stop hiding our struggles and allow ourselves to be seen.
What does success mean to you—professionally and personally?
Success, to me, is self-actualization—using my abilities fully while continuing to grow. But it doesn’t stop there. True success is seeing others rise because of something I shared, taught, or modeled.
Personally, success also means nurturing strong family relationships and raising resilient children. A fulfilling life balances purpose, service, and connection.
“When we choose visibility over fear and resilience over self-doubt, we don’t just change our own lives—we give others permission to rise.”
Want to be featured?
If you’d like to be featured in the Humans of Fuzia series, email us at fuziatalent@fuzia.com
