LaToya Wilson: A Glass Half-Full Approach to Success

• LaToya Wilson reflects on her journey and the pivotal moments that shaped her career.
• She believes every challenge serves a purpose and embraces education as the cornerstone of self-improvement.
• A dedicated professional and a full-time mother, LaToya balances the demands of leadership with her personal life.

1. Can you share more about your childhood and the values that shaped you?

I was born in Jamaica to immigrant parents, who moved to Brooklyn, New York when I was two. From an early age, my parents emphasized the transformative power of education. They often reminded me that no matter where you come from, what you learn is something no one can take away. This instilled a lifelong passion for learning and personal growth in me.

We moved around quite a bit—first to Mount Vernon, New York, when I was nine, and then to Connecticut at 13. Each transition brought new challenges but also opened my eyes to different opportunities and perspectives. It pushed me to think deeply about what I wanted to do with my life.

2. What inspired your focus on early-stage companies and underrepresented founders?

When I started at Quinnipiac University, I thought I wanted to be a broadcast journalist. But after realizing journalism wasn’t for me, I stumbled upon a life-changing internship program for students of color called INROADS®. Through that experience, I got an internship offer from GE Capital, where I discovered my love for business.

After graduating, I got an offer to join one of GE’s rotational programs and gained valuable insights into how businesses operate. But as I progressed in my career, I realized that I wanted to make a greater impact, especially in underserved communities. This led me to leave GE and join the quasi-public non-profit organization, the Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone, which was launched under the Bill Clinton Administration, where I worked on investing in the high potential community for economic revitalization. 

Later, I transitioned to Morgan Stanley, where I joined Morgan Stanley’s amazing initiative that was being led by Carla Harris to highlight and bring to scale the commercial opportunities that exist when engaging with multicultural businesses. The mission? To address the missed opportunity caused by underinvestment in businesses led by underrepresented entrepreneurs. My work now focuses on crafting strategies that highlight the value of inclusivity in investment practices.

3. How do you balance your professional life with being a mother?

Balancing a demanding career and personal life requires intentionality. I’m a mother of three, and it’s important for me to be fully present with my family while meeting the demands of my role. It’s about creating quality time, ensuring my kids see me as both a role model and an engaged parent.

I’ve learned that balance isn’t static—it’s a constant recalibration. Some days I lean more into work, and other days, family takes precedence. The key is pausing when I feel out of sync and adjusting as needed.

4. How do you unwind and stay centered?

I prioritize activities that rejuvenate me. Right now, I enjoy exercise and traveling, and I also lean into creative outlets like sketching and exploring new hobbies. Spending time with my family is my greatest joy—it keeps me grounded and inspired.

5. What challenges have you faced, especially as a woman in finance?

The industry still faces barriers that disproportionately impact diverse businesses, from accessing capital to building networks. Addressing these challenges requires peeling back the layers of systemic inequities and fostering access and education.

Mindset is another hurdle. It’s about helping people see the value of diversity—not just as a moral imperative but as a business opportunity. Encouraging others to step outside their comfort zones and embrace inclusivity has been a significant part of my work.

6. If you could go back and do one thing differently in your career, what would it be?

This may sound cliché, but I would not change anything. I am a firm believer that everything happens for a reason and the paths that I went down and chose, all comprehensively make up who I am today. No matter how difficult the journey was, I try to live life with no regrets.

7. How would you describe your leadership style?

My leadership style is collaborative. I believe in empowering people to unlock their full potential, and I aim to surround myself with individuals who bring fresh energy and ideas. As one of my mentors says, “Great leaders build great leaders.” 

To me, leadership is about creating an environment where every voice is heard, and team members feel motivated to excel—not just for me but for the mission itself.

8. What mindset is essential for success?

Success starts with an open mind. Innovation thrives on creativity and feedback. Some of the most successful founders I’ve worked with are humble and eager to learn. That willingness to absorb, adapt, and grow is critical in any field.

9. What fuels your creativity and keeps you inspired?

I’ve always been a moment-driven person. At one point, I started my own handbag line and even pursued a degree in fine arts, teaching myself to sketch. These creative pursuits remind me to stay curious and embrace change.

10. Is there a quote or philosophy that guides you?

“She believed she could, so she did.” This quote resonates deeply with me. It’s a constant reminder that success begins with belief in yourself. It’s not always easy, and I have to remind myself constantly, but with intentionality and optimism, I strive to approach every challenge with the belief that I can overcome it.

LaToya Wilson’s journey reflects a commitment to intentionality and impactful leadership. From her early days in Brooklyn to spearheading initiatives at Morgan Stanley, she exemplifies how a “glass half-full” perspective can lead to extraordinary success.