The executive director of the National Basketball Player’s Association delivered the keynote address at the GW Women in Business’ annual spring conference in Funger Hall Saturday.

Tamika Tremaglio discussed her experiences as a woman of color in a male-dominated industry and offered advice for young professionals aspiring for success in their own careers. About 150 people attended the event, which was moderated by the organization’s co-chairs – Kate Dressel, a sophomore studying business analytics and finance, and Emily Morris, a junior studying international affairs.

Tremaglio said she built her business skills while working for Deloitte – a London-based financial consulting firm – as its first Black female managing principal.

“Having gone to Deloitte and having the experience that I have had as an African American female running one of the largest offices in the world, it was a truly humbling experience,” she said at the event. “I wake up each and every morning in a constant state of gratitude.”

Tremaglio said people who want to perform well in business and finance need to live by three ideas – trust, self-belief and a dedication to something larger than oneself.

Tremaglio discussed her battle with “imposter syndrome” – when a person doubts their own abilities – which she “carries each day.” She said young professionals should have confidence in their work to avoid being dragged down by self-doubt.

“They may seem simple,” she said. “But, as women in a highly dominated male industry, it is important that you remember all of these things – the first being the gift of trust. To me, it really starts with trusting in yourself.”