This morning at TechCrunch SF 2018, Founders Fund partner Cyan Banister shared her remarkable journey from being a homeless teenager at the age of 15 to becoming a venture capitalist who has invested in startups like Uber, Thumbtack, SpaceX, Postmates, EShares, Affirm, and Niantic.
Banister spoke this morning at Disrupt about the handful of values she cites as key to making the transition from the streets to VC investing. These included incrementalism — focusing on the next step, whether that’s getting the next meal or shower, for example — as well as individualism, mentorship and technology, and endless curiosity.
A Turning Point in Her Life
Banister credits being obsessed with making more money — capitalism — as being what eventually saved her life. She was always focused on getting to the next step — getting that next meal, getting a shower, getting a job, then learning new skills.
"I was just trying to survive," Banister says. "But I started to see all this as a game, and each step was a form of ‘leveling up.’"
Mentorship and Technology
Getting insight and advice from tech mentors she encountered was another turning point in her life, Banister says.
Learning to use computers, get online, and eventually write code gave her access to the internet, hacker culture, and then, entry-level tech work.
"’Suddenly, my brain was fully engaged for the first time in my life,’ I said," Banister recalls. "I felt like I could do anything."
Breaking into Tech
By taking initiative at work in unconventional ways, she was fortunate to not be fired for not following the rules, but rather encouraged to explore her creativity.
She received a promotion that allowed her to learn about Linux, BSD, how the internet actually works, and how to set up routers DNS servers email servers over the next two years.
From Homelessness to Success
After moving to San Francisco and working at a startup, Banister earned a windfall after an exit to Cisco. This, she used to make investments in other up-and-coming tech companies.
"My first angel check went into SpaceX," Banister says. "I was terrified but it was exciting… I became addicted."
Her savvy investments got her an invitation to join Founders Fund as a partner.
"I have a chance to play in a new arena and stretch myself intellectually," Banister says when asked how she did it.
The Secret to Her Success
When asked how she did it, Banister responded:
"I can only tell you that I was endlessly curious. I surrounded myself with people smarter and more capable than me. I played the game every day, I still do."
A Game-Changer in Tech
Banister’s journey is a testament to what can be achieved through determination and hard work.
From being homeless to becoming a venture capitalist, Banister’s story serves as an inspiration to anyone who has ever felt like they don’t belong or that their dreams are impossible.
Her success is a reminder that with the right mindset and support, anything is possible, even in the competitive world of tech investing.
A Role Model for Women in Tech
Banister’s achievement is also significant because she is a woman who has broken into a male-dominated industry.
She serves as a role model for women who are interested in pursuing careers in tech or venture capital.
Her story shows that with hard work, determination, and the right support, anyone can achieve their goals, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Conclusion
Banister’s journey from homelessness to success is an inspiration to anyone who has ever felt like they don’t belong or that their dreams are impossible.
Her achievement serves as a reminder that with the right mindset and support, anything is possible, even in the competitive world of tech investing.
As Banister continues to make waves in the tech industry, her story will undoubtedly continue to inspire others to pursue their passions and never give up on their dreams.