Sama Ali-Berchem never saw herself as someone who would follow the traditional corporate path forever. With a degree in Economics from Macalester College and a background in IT Security and Medical Devices, she had all the makings of a technical expert. But deep down, she was always a creative at heart.
When she discovered search engine optimization (SEO) and web development, she realized she could merge her analytical skills with her love for innovation. That’s how Portkey SEO Solutions was born. Nearly nine years later, she’s running a thriving business and redefining what it means to be a female entrepreneur.
A Different Playing Field
Entrepreneurship isn’t the same experience for women as it is for men. “It’s 100% different and in so many capacities,” Sama says. “When I started, I was 25. It wasn’t just gender but age, too. Women are placed in a position where they must demand authority, which can be challenging for other egos.”
She’s seen these differences play out in networking groups, where young men seem to gain immediate acceptance, while women often wait months for approval. “It doesn’t feel like an even playing field. We have to work harder and set boundaries early. And sometimes, it’s okay to turn down opportunities.”
For Sama, setting boundaries isn’t just about self-preservation—it’s about protecting her team. “They deserve a strong leader who is looking out for them.”
She also believes in the importance of women supporting women, especially in local communities. “There’s room for all of us to rise. Instead of competing, we should lift each other up, collaborate, and celebrate our wins together.”
Finding Time for Herself
With multiple businesses growing at once, Sama admits that self-care sometimes takes a backseat. “It does get compromised,” she says. “But the boundaries I set help me carve out time with my family, and that’s my self-care.”
When she does get a chance to unwind, she enjoys walks in the spring and fall, quiet moments where she can clear her mind, and the occasional nail appointment. “If I had more time, I’d get a massage once a month. That would be amazing.”
Motherhood & Business: The Balancing Act
Sama’s seven-year-old son keeps her on her toes with his many activities, and balancing work and family takes careful planning. “I try to be as efficient as possible. I wake up early and aim to get everything done between 5 AM and 5 PM. Evenings are for my family.”
She also has one firm rule: no business communication on weekends. “I don’t respond until Monday. It’s a matter of principle.”
A Travel Buddy & Bookworm
One of Sama’s favorite things is traveling with her son. “He’s such a good traveler! He helps with his luggage, never complains about long walks, and when my husband isn’t there, he tells me, ‘I got you, Mom.’”
Their love for books is another shared passion. “We read together before bedtime, and now he reads to me instead. He’s really into fantasy stories, which I love, too.”
Living with Otosclerosis
Two years ago, Sama was diagnosed with otosclerosis, a progressive bone disease that has caused complete hearing loss in her right ear. Over time, the condition will gradually spread to her other ear. “It’s something I’ve lived with, but I finally decided to get a hearing aid to help improve my daily quality of life.” Rather than hide it, she hopes to empower other women to be open about their own challenges. “This isn’t something to feel sorry about. It doesn’t have to hold us back.”
Words of Advice for Future Female Entrepreneurs
Sama doesn’t sugarcoat the realities of entrepreneurship. “Have tough skin. If you don’t, fake it until you make it. Over time, you’ll develop it.”
She’s dealt with difficult clients, payment delays, and people trying to push her around. Her advice? “Put your blinders on to avoid distractions and focus on your goal. Look at the hurdles as minor inconveniences on the way to the life you’re building. You’ll get there.”
And most importantly: “Invest in yourself. A business coach, a life coach—whatever helps you grow as a business owner. Stick with it. Success doesn’t happen overnight.”
Invest in yourself. A business coach, a life coach—whatever helps you grow as a business owner. Stick with it. Success doesn’t happen overnight.
Women are placed in a position where they have to demand authority, and that can be challenging for other egos. We have to work harder, set boundaries, and sometimes, it’s okay to turn down opportunities.