From Katherine Harrington, President & CEO | West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce
At this year’s Athene Black & Brown Business Summit, we had the honor of hearing from one of the most inspiring keynote speakers imaginable — Christine Ha, the first blind contestant and winner of FOX’s MasterChef. Through her keynote address and a powerful fireside chat with Angela Jackson, Christine shared not only her incredible journey, but also timeless lessons for entrepreneurs and small business owners striving to build something greater.
Christine’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and unshakable belief. After losing her vision due to an autoimmune disease, she faced unimaginable challenges — but instead of giving up, she leaned in. She taught herself to cook again by relying on her other senses, eventually competing (and winning) against sighted chefs on national television. She has since gone on to open two acclaimed restaurants — The Blind Goat and Xin Chào — and continues to be a trailblazer in both the culinary and entrepreneurial worlds.
Through Christine’s keynote, several core takeaways stood out:
Dream Big: Christine reminded us that “the greatest rewards require the greatest risks.” Entrepreneurs must allow themselves to dream boldly, even when it feels intimidating.
Innovate and Adapt Constantly: Agility is key. Christine emphasized that success often depends on the willingness to innovate, pivot, and respond to change.
Trailblaze Through Individuality: What society labels as a “weakness” can be your greatest strength. Christine’s blindness, once seen as a disadvantage, became part of what makes her extraordinary.
Be Bold: Courage isn’t the absence of fear, but the choice to move forward despite it.
Challenge Self-Doubt: The naysayers will always exist. True strength lies in believing in yourself even when others do not.
Build Your Circle with Intention: Christine highlighted the importance of surrounding yourself with kind, curious people — individuals who may not have all the answers but are eager to learn and grow with you.
Her message is especially timely when considering the essential role that entrepreneurs and small business owners play in America’s economy. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, small businesses account for over 44% of U.S. economic activity and create two-thirds of new jobs annually. They drive innovation, fill vital gaps in our communities, and foster resilience in local economies.
When we invest in entrepreneurs we are investing in the strength and future of our communities. Events like the Athene Black & Brown Business Summit, presented by Wells Fargo, exist to celebrate, educate, and support these visionaries, ensuring that innovation and opportunity continue to flourish.
Christine Ha’s story reminds us that success is not reserved for the lucky few. It’s built by those who dare to dream, adapt to challenges, and lean into the qualities that make them different. Her keynote and conversation with Angela Jackson left every attendee with a deeper belief in the possible — and a renewed commitment to champion the dreamers among us.
Because, as Christine showed us, greatness often begins where others only see obstacles.