Meet Cleopatra Bauduy | Healthcare Director of Communications/ Co-Founder of My Native Tongue Mobile Game App
We had the good fortune of connecting with Cleopatra Bauduy and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Cleopatra, how do you think about risk?
My philosophy on risk-taking centers around the belief that no risk equals no reward. I firmly believe that the worst thing to fear is hearing “no,” and once you remove fear from that word, all of your opportunities lie on the other side of that question. As my mom always says, “the worst thing that can happen is the answer will be no.”
For instance, when I became a co-founder of the app, My Native Tongue Game App, despite lacking any prior experience in tech or app development, it was a significant risk. However, by embracing the challenge and diving in headfirst, I was able to learn and grow in ways I never imagined.
Another example of embracing risk was when I made the decision to move from New York to Florida, leaving behind my entire network, in order to start fresh. It was a bold move, but it allowed me to explore new opportunities and expand my horizons in ways that staying within my comfort zone never could have.
Lastly, there was a moment during an interview where I decided to change into jeans and a t-shirt mid-interview. The interviewer seemed to doubt my fit for the position because I had shown up in a business suit. Instead of being deterred by their initial impression, I took a risk by showcasing my adaptability and authenticity, which ultimately led to me securing the role.
Overall, my philosophy on risk-taking is rooted in the belief that the greatest opportunities often come from embracing uncertainty and pushing beyond perceived limitations. It’s about being willing to step outside of your comfort zone and seize the moment, even when the outcome is uncertain.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My career journey has been a testament to the importance of listening to your inner voice and seizing opportunities as they come. While in college, I balanced academics with a part-time job at JP Morgan Chase, leveraging their tuition reimbursement program to pursue my degree in Communications. However, I quickly realized the value of real-world experience over classroom knowledge, prompting me to dive headfirst into the banking world upon graduation.
After gaining valuable insights at institutions like Credit Suisse, the Bond Market Association, and Bank of America Investment Bank, I discovered that banking wasn’t my true passion. This realization led me to pivot into a new industry, where I found my calling at Ruth Schwartz & Co., a boutique Events and PR agency in New York City.
At Ruth Schwartz & Co., I immersed myself in diverse projects, traveling across the country to execute marketing activations for renowned clients in the spirits industry such as Louis XIII cognac, Macallan Scotch Whisky, and Remy Martin Cognac. I also organized fundraising galas for prominent nonprofit organizations in New York. This experience laid the foundation for my transition into the nonprofit sector, starting as an Events Specialist at Chapman Partnership in Miami.
Over the years, I wore multiple hats within Chapman Partnership, progressing from Events to Marketing and ultimately Fundraising. This journey taught me the intricacies of nonprofit management and deepened my understanding of Miami’s vibrant culture and community needs.
As a mother of two young children, I faced the challenge of balancing professional growth with family commitments. This led me to transition into healthcare, where I currently serve as the Director of Communications and Community Engagement for HCA Florida Healthcare. Here, I’ve come full circle, applying my expertise in Communications to drive meaningful impact within the healthcare sector.
Through it all, I’ve learned the importance of adaptability, perseverance, and staying true to my passions. My career journey underscores the power of embracing change, seizing opportunities, and following your instincts. As I continue to grow professionally, I’m committed to making a positive difference in the lives of others and contributing to the greater good.
Right now, my biggest passion is working alongside my team as co-founders of the My Native Tongue Mobile Game App. You can find it on the Apple Store and Google Play store, ready for download. For me, passing down culture and language is absolutely vital. Imagine playing digital charades in your own language—it’s pretty groundbreaking, right?
My parents came over to America from Haiti back in the 70s, and just by being around them, I soaked up Creole and our traditions. Now, making sure my kids get that same cultural education takes real effort. That’s where the My Native Tongue Game App comes in—it’s all about making the learning process fun!
We realized that lots of other cultures face similar challenges, so we’ve made the app available in Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, Jamaican Patois, German, Arabic, Yoruba (Nigerian), French, Hindi, Italian, Greek, and Trinidadian English. There are like 7,000 languages out there, you know? Our goal is to help preserve and celebrate that incredible linguistic diversity.
At times I have a demanding schedule, but I believe you make time for things that are important to you.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend came to town for a week, we’d definitely spend a few days at the beach. I love being near the water—it’s my happy place. The calm and serenity it offers, along with the perspective of our smallness compared to the vast ocean, always grounds me.
Since I’m a bit of a picky foodie, I’d make reservations at some of the new and exciting restaurants in Miami and Fort Lauderdale known for their delicious food and great atmosphere. And of course, we’d have to catch some local concerts because I really enjoy live music.
To wrap up the trip, I’d probably cook us a nice Haitian seafood meal at home. Cooking is something I love, especially when it comes to seafood dishes. It’s a nice way to end the week, just enjoying good food and good company.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to give a shoutout to my friend and mentor, Christina Scott. She’s not just a Communications expert; she’s a beacon of talent, creativity, kindness, all wrapped up in the most selfless and humble package I’ve ever encountered. Our paths crossed at a time when I was feeling uncertain about my career trajectory. In our very first interaction, she spoke words of encouragement and affirmation that resonated deeply with me. Despite only knowing each other for a brief period, Kristy had a profound ability to remind me of my worth and potential. Her gift for pouring positivity and encouragement into others, especially when they need it most, is truly remarkable. She’s inspired me to pay it forward and be there for those who just need to hear the right words to lift them out of a rut. Kristy’s impact on my life and countless others is immeasurable, and for that, I’m incredibly grateful.
Website: https://mynativetongues.com/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cleopatrabauduy
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