Getting to Know Angela Lang
What was the defining moment, story, or person that inspired you to pursue entrepreneurship?
Listening to a parent, her child, and their friends share that accessibility to quality education and an environment where families felt welcomed was limited for many students in their community, especially given that I am from that same community.
What do you enjoy most about being a founder?
Seeing myself grow as a leader but also seeing the vision come to life and knowing that I am playing a small role in making it happen.
If you could go back to the beginning of your entrepreneurial journey, what is one piece of advice you would give to your past self?
Organize and prioritize your tasks and become skillful with time and task management.
Want to learn more about Dr. Lang and I Dream Big Academy?
Discover more about Dr. Angela Lang and I Dream Big Academy at idreambigcharter.com. Interested in the Camelback Ventures Fellowship Program? Learn more here.
Living Camelback’s Core Values
Tell us about an experience that exemplifies one of Camelback’s core values.
Humble and Hungry: At the start of this adventure, I endured backlash, criticism, and negative remarks because those in “opposing” positions did not want us to establish a school option. I had to stand before people who had made it publicly known that they were opposed to my efforts, regardless of what I said, provided, or delivered. I listened as former colleagues questioned my experience and capabilities, despite times when I had helped them succeed in their own positions.
Despite public denials and closed doors, I humbly continued to stand and speak for school choice. I sought alternatives after each closed door until there were no more doors to close. At times, I wanted to give in and give up, but I knew so many were counting on me to succeed. So, I swallowed my pride, continued to seek help and guidance, and pressed forward until we received an unanimous authorized approval.
Looking Ahead: The Next 10 Years
What is your vision for your venture over the next ten years?
My vision is to see my venture scale across multiple cities with a sustainable and replicable model that leads to educational impact across both the charter and public school sectors. I hope to see graduating students and staff exemplifying principles of love, character, and advocacy for equity.
Inspiration and Self-Care
What’s your favorite book or podcast that you draw inspiration from?
I draw inspiration from meditating and daily reading of scriptures to guide me throughout the day.
How do you balance the demands of entrepreneurship and life?
I struggle with prioritization but have found a joyful balance by carving out a few hours each week without a phone, simply snuggling in front of the TV with my husband and talking about a mindless TV episode or a random interest.
The Camelback Ventures Fellowship
Since 2015, Camelback Ventures has championed underestimated entrepreneurs, investing over $10 million in ventures designed to create lasting societal shifts. Backed by leading philanthropic partners including Bloomberg Philanthropies and the Walton Family Foundation, the organization continues to prioritize fairness and representation in innovation.
You can learn more about the Camelback Ventures’ Fellowship and meet past fellows. Camelback Ventures’ next fellowship application window will open in March of 2025. Interested in joining our next fellowship cohort? Fill out our interest form today!
