The Twenty Minute VC (20VC): Venture Capital | Startup Funding | The Pitch 20VC: Why You Should Think Twice Before Taking Multi-Stage Money at Seed, Why Venture Has Never Been Less Collaborative, How Becoming a Parent Made Me a Better Investor and Why We Should Be Optimistic About the Future of Diversity in Venture with Deena Sh
Apr 25, 2022
In this conversation, Deena Shakir, a Partner at Lux Capital with a diverse background spanning journalism and the U.S. State Department, discusses her unique path to venture capital. She highlights why founders should be cautious about taking multi-stage funding at the seed stage and shares insights about building authentic relationships in the competitive VC landscape. Deena also reflects on how parenthood has reshaped her investment approach and the importance of diversity, encouraging young professionals from various backgrounds to enter the field.
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Deena's Unconventional Path
- Deena Shakir's career path spans journalism, civil service, Google, and now venture capital.
- Harry Stebbings praises her unique background and the overwhelmingly positive references received about her.
Impact and Ambition
- Deena's parents, Iraqi immigrants, instilled in her a strong work ethic and ambition.
- Witnessing the contrast between her Bay Area upbringing and the struggles in Baghdad fueled her drive for impact.
Making it Personal
- Founders and VCs should embrace personal aspects in their interactions, fostering authenticity.
- Deena emphasizes bringing her whole self to interactions, valuing the long-term nature of VC relationships.
