By Dr. Brittney Clinton | Wednesday, December 11, 2024 | 7:20 PM ET
The forces forming our ideas, judgments, and identities in the fast-paced, hyper-connected world of today are frequently unseen but unquestionably strong. "Unmasking Influence" looks at the subtle ways people we decide to follow both emotionally and professionally influence us. Whether it's the mentors we follow throughout our professions, the social media influencers we follow, or the social mores that shape our conduct, these influences surround our life. Who are we truly following, then, and how are these influences changing the core of each of us? Understanding not just how we negotiate the complexity of our personal development but also how we handle our professional goals and achievement depends on this exploration. Sitting down with a pioneer in her profession, Dr. Sabreen Mutawally, whose path exemplifies the potential of unmasking and redefining influence, in this illuminating conversation.
Her career spanning innovative successes and a love for mentoring gives a unique viewpoint on how we could critically evaluate the factors guiding us. From encouraging women in leadership to questioning accepted wisdom, she thinks in actively selecting the influences we embrace rather than in passive acceptance of them. Her observations explore the need of self-awareness, the bravery to question out-of-date ideas, and the transforming power of matching one's ideals with the appropriate influences. Join us as she offers her knowledge on negotiating the complex web of influences that shapes our life, thereby enabling us to find not just who we are following but also who we desire to become.
Dr. Brittney Clinton: What does the phrase "unmasking influences" mean to you, especially in the context of personal growth and empowerment?
Dr. Sabreen Mutawally: To me, 'unmasking influences' means peeling back the layers of conditioning, expectations, and external pressures to uncover what truly drives and inspires us. In personal growth, it’s about recognizing how certain narratives or systems have shaped our beliefs and decisions. It’s the process of acknowledging how past experiences and systems have shaped our beliefs and choices while leveraging the lessons of the past, the opportunities of the present, and the vision of the future to uncover what has and is shaping our identity and growth. Both personally and professionally, unmasking influences is a transformative step toward genuine empowerment and impactful change.
Dr. Brittney Clinton: How do you determine which individuals or voices are worth following in your life, both professionally and personally?
Dr. Sabreen Mutawally: I prioritize voices that resonate with my core values of integrity, purpose, and authenticity. Professionally, I seek out individuals who are focused, driven, humble, and dedicated to equity. Personally, I’m drawn to those who embody empathy and resilience. Being purpose- and vision-driven means I actively collaborate with like-minded, visionary individuals who challenge me to think bigger while staying deeply rooted in the mission.
Dr. Brittney Clinton: Can you share a time when you realized an influence in your life wasn’t aligned with your values, and how did you navigate that situation?
Dr. Sabreen Mutawally: Early in my career, I found myself in an environment that prioritized compliance over creativity, focusing more on rigid processes than on empowering teachers and students to thrive. This approach conflicted with my core belief in fostering innovation and meaningful connections in education. Recognizing the misalignment, I made the decision to step away and transition into a leadership role that aligned with my values. That experience taught me an invaluable lesson: the power of saying no to influences that don’t serve your purpose, so you can say yes to work that truly inspires and drives change.
Dr. Brittney Clinton: How do you balance staying true to your own voice and vision while being influenced by others, especially in a world that often pressures women to conform?
Dr. Sabreen Mutawally: It’s an ongoing practice of self-awareness and intentionality. I consistently reflect on the unique value my experiences bring—whether it’s my global perspective from working in places like Ecuador or my unwavering commitment to advocating for all children. I seek guidance and feedback from trusted colleagues and mentors while staying firmly anchored in my vision of transforming education through my work and my company, Unchained EDUbilities, LLC. For me, it’s about embracing insights from others while remaining true to my authentic self.
Dr. Brittney Clinton: In your experience, how can women support one another in breaking free from harmful or limiting influences in their lives?
Dr. Sabreen Mutawally: Women have the power to create transformative spaces where honest dialogue, mutual support, and collective growth thrive. Whether through sharing resources, offering mentorship, or simply being a trusted sounding board, fostering community is essential for personal and professional empowerment. Wherever I go, I see the profound strength in women coming together to unlearn limiting beliefs and embrace the unique perspectives and talents each of us brings to the table. These spaces are not just about individual success but about building ecosystems of upliftment, where our collective strengths amplify one another’s potential. The magic lies in recognizing that our differences are assets, and our shared journeys are the bridges that unite us. When women intentionally create and nurture these connections, the ripple effects extend far beyond our immediate circles. We rise higher, achieve greater, and create lasting change when we lift one another. Together, we’re unstoppable.
Dr. Brittney Clinton: Who are some of the women or role models that have positively shaped your journey, and what specific qualities of theirs have had the greatest impact on you?
Dr. Sabreen Mutawally: My journey has been profoundly shaped by a tapestry of educators, thought leaders, and the remarkable women within my family and community. Visionaries like Mary McLeod Bethune and Maya Angelou continue to inspire me with their unwavering courage and transformative leadership. Their ability to dream boldly and act decisively mirrors the values I strive to embody in my work and life. The everyday resilience of women I’ve had the privilege of working alongside, such as Dr. Maria Pitre-Martin and Ms. Kimberly Williams, serves as a constant reminder of the power of persistence and the importance of challenging systems while uplifting others. Their leadership and compassion deeply resonate with the values I carry forward in my career: strength, innovation, and unwavering possibility. Above all, women like my grandmother, mother, and my pastor, Leah Hill McNair, have provided me with an unshakable foundation of faith and resilience. Their guidance, love, and belief in my potential have fortified me to weather life’s storms and emerge stronger. These women have shown me that strength isn’t just about enduring—it’s about thriving and creating a legacy of empowerment for those who follow.
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As we end our first look into Unmasking Influence, who are you following? Understanding the factors that influence us, both emotionally and professionally, is undeniably transforming. The people and concepts we associate with have the ability to either elevate or hinder our progress, and by actively challenging and reframing these influences, we may achieve more authenticity and success.
A special thank you to Dr. Sabreen Mutawally for graciously sharing her essential knowledge and experiences with us. Her viewpoint not only encourages us to consider who we allow to impact our lives, but it also enables us to take charge of our own story. We are thankful for her time, insight, and inspiration as we navigate the difficult terrain of influence.
About Dr. Brittney Clinton
Dr. Brittney Clinton is a content educational practitioner currently serving as an Associate Professor at Westcliff University, Dissertation Committee Member, independent published author, and compassionate leader that attract other professionals, scholars, and individuals in the community with a devoted purpose to empower, educate, and support others. Previously, Dr. Clinton served various leadership roles in Winston-Salem, NC with the following organizations: Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc and The Order of the Eastern Star PHA 30th District. Dr. Clinton currently serves as a board member for the city of Winston-Salem, NC Appearance and Commission Board. Dr. Clinton graduated from the following prestigious institutions: Winston-Salem State University, B.A. Sociology/Elementary Education 2009, Strayer University, MA Education Leadership and Management 2012, and Capella University, Ed. D Education Leadership and Management 2015. Dr. Clinton founded the motto “Continue to be a beacon of light”; which is implemented daily while effectively illuminating a successful path for others.
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