Paulina Vo

Co-Founder of Highnote and The Digilogue

A moment in your career when you really backed yourself.

“When I took the risk of founding a startup in music, the irony was that I'd finally landed where I always wanted to be: music publishing.

But I knew building something from scratch would be worth it, regardless of the outcome.

And it has been.

I've learned more than I ever expected, tactically, physically, and mentally. Many people are skeptical and protective when they care for you, but my community has shown up these last few years with optimism, curiosity, and support.

It takes a lot, but I'm glad I've faced my fears and kept betting on myself.”

One thing you’re proud of in your career.

“I'm proud of my Vietnamese diasporic community, my fellow Việt kiều, for being so present in the arts.

In general, the Vietnamese community hasn't been as present in the music space but that's quickly changing.

We're finding our voice as a community, encompassing both the Việt kiều side and folks in Vietnam proper.

I grew up with no presence but the last 5 or so years have given me so much to root for and hope for.”

Name another woman in music who inspires you, and why.

“I have too many to name but some peers I deeply admire and have grown with are Amber Charania (YouTube Music) and Deanna DeVivo (Too Lost).

I met both of them at Downtown/Songtrust and we've remained close despite changes in roles and industry.

I love growing with them and learning from our experiences at each step, and I'm thankful that I get to build an industry alongside them.”