Interviewed on stage at Inspirefest 2017 by Sharon Vosmek, Backstage Capital’s Arlan Hamilton talks about breaking the mould for venture capital investment.

Black, lesbian and proud, Arlan Hamilton represents the new wave of venture capitalism that brings more diversity to Silicon Valley by investing in women, minorities and the LGBTQ community.

Today, Hamilton’s fund, Backstage Capital, has invested nearly $2m across more than 45 companies.

With a fund of $5m, it seeks to take a 1pc stake in early-stage start-ups.

“I have an insatiable curiosity mixed with the love of freedom and having a say in my destiny. I am the new face of venture capital,” she said.