Our Story

Spotlight! was founded in 2023 by Sophia Tran — a visionary with a passion for technology and a strong entrepreneurial spirit. Sophia discovered her enthusiasm for the startup world in 2019 while working at DIGITALHUB.de. Since then, she has been actively supporting emerging digital startups as an investor and mentor. In addition, she shapes the scene as Vice President of the trend network La Futura, State Representative of the Startup Association, and a member of the advisory board of the Young Digital Economy NRW. Her expertise regularly takes her on business delegations to countries such as the USA or Japan, where she represents the interests of startups on an international level.

In addition to her own experience as a founder, Sophia comes from a family with a migration background. Her personal challenges and experiences inspired her to create Spotlight! — a platform that makes perspectives visible, promotes diversity, and brings new energy to the startup world.

"Diversity isn't a nice-to-have, but the key to true innovation. With Spotlight!, we're creating a platform that not only fosters new ideas but also brings people from different backgrounds together to redefine the future of work."

Sophia Tran

Our Vision

We believe in a future where diversity is not only visible but taken for granted. A future where every voice is heard—regardless of gender, background, age, disability, sexual orientation, religion, or life circumstances. A future where every talent is recognized and every idea has the chance to change the world.

Spotlight! is a movement that builds bridges—between industries, people, and perspectives. Our goal: a European workplace that is innovative, equitable, and accessible to all.

Our Mission

We empower companies and organizations that have the courage to embrace change—through professional development, process support, and networking—to actively foster diversity and help all employees reach their full potential.

🚀 Connecting – We bring people and ideas together—across generations, cultures, and walks of life.

🎤 Empowering – We amplify voices that are too often ignored.

🔄 Transforming – We challenge existing structures and drive real, sustainable change.

Our Team

Our team is as diverse as our mission. From Bonn to Berlin to Manchester and Cape Town, we are united by the belief that the best work comes from bringing together different perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds—from different cultures, generations, life experiences, and fields of expertise. Together, we’re driving innovation and diversity in the workplace of tomorrow.