About Me
S. Victoria Hillard | Founder, Executive Director, & Professional Coach
Overview
Empowerment is not just a goal; it is my life’s work. With over twenty years of experience spanning hospitality, quality assurance, and career transition coaching, I have dedicated my career to dismantling the barriers that stand between the blind and visually impaired community and professional success. My journey—from earning degrees in Human Services and Psychology to leading 501(c)(3) organizations—is fueled by the belief that our community’s value is defined by our unique abilities and professional authority.
As a leader and advocate, I operate at the intersection of education, entrepreneurship, and media.
By removing financial barriers to essential services and championing personal branding as a tool for empowerment, I am committed to creating a world where every visually impaired individual can navigate their career with clarity and insight.
The Journey: From Sight to Soul
Twenty years ago, my life took a turn I didn't expect: I became blind. While many saw this as a limitation, I discovered it was the ultimate catalyst for my growth. In truth, my best life began the moment blindness chose me.
The Shadow of the Unknown
At 29 years old, the world as I knew it changed. I lost my sight suddenly, and for seven long years, I lived with the weight of the unknown, searching for answers. During those early years, the transition was more than physical; I navigated the deep internal battles of depression and a loss of self-esteem.
Eventually, I was diagnosed with Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO), a rare disease that caused permanent, irreversible damage to my optic nerves. Finally having a name for my condition didn't restore my sight, but it gave me the clarity to begin rebuilding. I realized that if I wanted to change my reality, I had to stop looking with my eyes and start leading with my soul.
A Legacy of Professional Excellence
With a renewed sense of purpose, I returned to my education, earning an Associate’s degree in Psychology and a Bachelor’s degree in Human Services. My professional return was defined by a relentless work ethic and a commitment to service. Over the span of two decades, I built a diverse career in customer service and corporate operations, successfully navigating roles ranging from entry-level positions to high-level leadership.
My professional footprint is a rich tapestry of experience across hospitality, finance, quality assurance, education, and small business start-ups. I have specialized in career transition coaching, customer service management, and specialized training for individuals with disabilities. Throughout these transitions, I also maintained and grew my private coaching practice as a development coach. This unique blend of corporate expertise and personal resilience has taught me that true leadership is about more than what you see—it is about the insight and value you bring to every interaction.
Building a Legacy of Empowerment
My passion for community has always driven my entrepreneurial spirit. From my early work in San Diego founding Beloved Butterflies for young girls, to co-founding Blind Buddies in Houston, I have consistently worked to create spaces where others can thrive.
This journey reached its pinnacle with the founding of Blind Professionals Network (BPN), BPN Workplace Solutions, and the Blind Table Talk Podcast. Today, whether I am overseeing operations for BPN, managing training programs at Houston Lighthouse for the Blind, serving on the board of HAVIN, or behind the mic on Blind Table Talk, my mission is clear: to equip others with the skills and confidence to succeed. I don’t just advocate for inclusion; I build the systems that make it possible.