Some leaders arrive at confidence early.
Others build it — moment by moment — by choosing courage again and again.

Yannette Lebrun’s leadership journey is rooted in creativity, perseverance, and quiet strength. Founder of YL Design Interiors, Yannette has spent more than 15 years shaping spaces in the hospitality and commercial design world — often as the only woman, and frequently the only woman of color, in the room.

For Tiffany Odutoye, this conversation is especially meaningful. Their shared experiences as devoted daughters, caregivers, and leaders navigating demanding careers create a powerful and tender through-line. Listening to Yannette feels like hearing from someone who has learned to trust her voice — and now uses it to serve others.

Building a Creative Career Against the Current

Yannette’s path into interior design didn’t follow the expectations placed in front of her. Raised in a Haitian immigrant household, creativity wasn’t always viewed as a “safe” career choice. Nursing, teaching, and traditional paths were familiar. Design was not.

But Yannette listened to her instincts.

Through research, persistence, and discipline, she pursued interior design long before it became mainstream on television or social media. She entered an industry where representation was limited — and navigated corporate, hospitality, and commercial environments with determination and professionalism.

Her ability to take risks with confidence — through color, texture, and bold design choices — reflects both her cultural background and her personal courage.

Confidence, Preparation, and Being the Only

Yannette speaks honestly about what it means to be “the only” — the only woman, the only minority, the only designer in high-stakes rooms.

Confidence, she explains, didn’t come naturally. As an introvert, she relied on preparation, faith, and organization to stand tall in spaces that weren’t built with her in mind. Knowing her work, owning her expertise, and trusting that she earned her seat made all the difference.

Over time, those experiences didn’t diminish her — they strengthened her leadership muscle.

Scaling Creativity Through Systems and Technology

One of Yannette’s defining strengths is her ability to pair creativity with structure.

As a business owner, she learned quickly that growth requires systems — knowing what to build in-house, what to outsource, and how to use technology to scale without burning out. Her shift into virtual interior design allowed her to reach clients nationwide while preserving flexibility and impact.

She now coaches and mentors other designers, helping them build sustainable businesses with clarity and confidence — becoming the mentor she wished she had earlier in her career.