May 20, 2024
Hello everyone,
Today, I’m writing with a mix of nostalgia and gratitude as I reflect on the life and influence of Ivan Boesky, the financier who inspired the 1987 Oliver Stone film “Wall Street.” Boesky passed away at 87, and his legacy still sparks conversations about ambition, success, and ethics in finance.
Growing up, I was a dreamer, eager to escape the limitations of my surroundings. Influential figures like Ivan Boesky and Donald Trump captured my young, impressionable mind. My childhood friend Adam Kelly, the town rebel, and I would pore over their books, convinced that unlocking their secrets could help us overcome our financial struggles and uplift our families. We believed that a Trump-like figure could be our ticket to success, and we aspired to be that change.
Fast forward to 2024, and my journey has been nothing short of transformative. After eight exhilarating years on Wall Street and over fifteen years in the secondary mortgage market, I’ve embraced a new philosophy: “Make Money and Go to Heaven.” Greed is no longer my guiding star. Instead, I’ve discovered that it’s entirely possible to achieve financial success while championing causes that uplift others and support the community.
As a woman of color in the finance world, I’ve faced unique challenges and learned invaluable lessons. One of the most important is that capitalism doesn’t have to harm; it can be a force for good. Today, I celebrate the audacity of men like Ivan Boesky who dared me to think big, even if it meant carving out my unique path in the process.
Ivan Boesky’s life and career taught me to question norms and embrace ambition. Yet, my journey has led me to a place where success is defined by more than just wealth. It’s about creating opportunities, fostering inclusivity, and supporting passion projects that make a positive impact.
In memory of Ivan Boesky, I honor the spirit of daring to dream and the evolution towards a more compassionate form of capitalism. Let’s continue to pursue our goals with enthusiasm and a commitment to making the world a better place for everyone.
Thank you, Ivan, for inspiring a journey that balances ambition with empathy. Your legacy lives on, encouraging us to achieve success that benefits all.
With gratitude and hope,