Abby Fuqua – 20 Under 40

Abby Fuqua doesn’t just help clients achieve their financial goals as vice president of business development at accounting firm Venturity Financial Partners.

She also helps people in need in Dallas and surrounding counties with 0% interest emergency loans, healthcare loans, and more as a Dallas Hebrew Free Loan Association board member.

“​​The organization offers a hand-up rather than a hand-out and has been making an impact in the North Texas community for several generations,” Fuqua said. 

She’s also volunteered with the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum and networking groups for women in finance and business, including the Women’s Finance Exchange and the emerging leaders’ program through Executive Women’s Forum International. She’s a past president of the Dream Team Women’s Network and, as of December 2022, serves as the president of the Association for Corporate Growth DFW. 

She hopes to continue fostering success for clients at Venturity and making an impact in Dallas and beyond through service with local nonprofits.

“I am excited to see how the strategic choices made at Venturity bear fruit and continue to make a positive impact for businesses and nonprofits across the country,” Fuqua said. “​​I have had the honor of serving on impactful nonprofit boards and committees and would love to continue serving the community to ensure that great organizations continue to receive the audience and financial support they need and deserve.”

Who’s your biggest inspiration and why?

My biggest inspiration comes as a unit — my parents and my in-laws. My husband and I are so fortunate that we have supportive parents who embody selflessness and community role models. Our parents inspire me because they put family first, made sure their children had every opportunity, were active members of their communities, and mixed in a lot of fun as well. I try and emulate them in all that I do. 

What would you tell an 18-year-old you?

I would tell my 18-year-old self, “You belong in the room. Don’t be afraid to ask questions — no one has all of the answers even if they seem like they do.” My dad always told me, “Don’t let anyone intimidate you. They put their pants on in the morning the same way you do.” I still remind myself that today since I’m fortunate to encounter accomplished and impressive professionals often.

What’s a fun fact that someone wouldn’t know about you?

I am a black belt in taekwondo.

What’s on your bucket list?

I’d love to split time between Dallas and Malibu!

What was your first job and what did you learn from it?

My first job was hosting children’s birthday parties. It taught me how to multi-task, how to stay calm in crazy moments, and the value of a good party.

What is your favorite local store?

My favorite local store is Swoozie’s. Whether picking up a gift for a friend or myself, the staff is always friendly, the inventory is beautiful, and their gift wrapping makes life so easy!

Toughest business/personal challenge?

My toughest challenge is not a unique one—it’s one I share with almost everyone! Trying to master the balancing act between family and business is a futile effort—but I feel very fortunate to have support on both sides.

 How do you motivate others?

My go-to motivation tactic is simple: Enthusiasm and optimism. Never underestimate the power of a time-out to take a team out of a stressful moment and allow for the opportunity to refocus.