5 Lessons from VC Partner Christine Kenna on Forging New Territory & Finding Work That’s Worth It

In the span of 90,000 working hours, finding an impactful career isn’t about fitting in—it’s about creating your own extraordinary path. Christine Kenna, Partner at IGNIA Venture Capital, reimagined her professional potential by challenging conventional structures. Now she offers her shoulders for others to stand on, urging them to jump into their purpose too.

Recently, I got to chat to her in and discuss her journey as a Venture Capitalist (VC). These are some nuggets of wisdom from her on shaping the mold to be a catalyst for change.

1. Challenge Existing Structures – In Yourself and the Workplace

The first step to reshaping your world is by dismantling preconceived notions—both internal and external. Kenna’s journey in Venture Capital began by questioning her assumptions of what a VC “should” look like. Her experience discovered something different, and the fact that industries evolve when individuals redefine their boundaries.

She also found that while traditional credentials give people faith in your ability, and a foundation for learning, it’s up to you to build on that. You may have soft skills that you undervalue – empathy, adaptability, teamwork. In the right place, those skills can become distinctive professional strengths, giving you a competitive advantage. Don’t overlook them.

2. Seek Collaboration Versus Competition

In an industry often characterized by cutthroat dynamics, Kenna found undeniable impact in leaning into the collective spirit. Her approach has seen collective ecosystems and expanding opportunities for entire professional communities. Witnessing the success of others has given Kenna the drive for more VCs to open up their backyards to create spaces for learning and collaboration.

By prioritizing collective growth, you create a ripple effect that extends far beyond individual achievements.

3. Always Be Teachable

Continuous learning is a great accelerator for success. Relationships are not just networks – they are trampolines that propel you into new areas of potential.

Kenna discusses the power of mentorship: “At each stage of my career, I’ve had incredible mentors or sponsors that I’ve been able to learn from—everything from the first time sitting on boards. I was able to shadow Leon Kraig and the other partners from IGNIA for many years before I was able to take my board seat. Then they would call me up and able to encourage me to take up things I thought were far out of my realm.”

Finding leaders who challenge and support you is crucial to discovering your unique zone of genius.

4. Be Fearless in Finding Your Place

The most transformative professionals aren’t those who fit perfectly into existing molds, but those who create entirely new ones.

As Kenna powerfully articulates: “Don’t be intimidated in the fact that you don’t see yourself in this (or any) industry. You need to create that mold. We are in the industry of investing in outliers. If everyone looked the same…there is a lower return on investments. The highest returning investments happen when one person sees something the no one else did…”

Don’t be intimidated by industries or roles where you don’t see representation.

5. Believe in Yourself

The thing that sets you apart could be your superpower. Embrace your unique insight, world view, experience and path. Stepping into unchartered territory requires boldness, vulnerability and confidence. Success may not be guaranteed, but neither is failure. So jump in and own it.

Kenna’s tips provide a mantra we can all live by:

• Own your narrative
• Be assertive
• Choose empowering language when talking about yourself
• Intentionally define what you want to be known for
• Own your potential without arrogance
• Take bold leaps

A Final Invitation

Reshaping the world begins with reshaping your perspective. Sometimes doing work that’s worth it requires wiggling into unassuming and unexpected spaces.

Listen to the full conversation with Christine Kenna on my latest podcast (link). We invite you to share your thoughts and reflections on points that moved you towards reshaping the world – in your own way!

Georgi