We were lucky to catch up with April Frazier Camara recently and have shared our conversation below.
April , we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?
Growing up in the Deep South, I learned resilience early as a child from my parents and grandparents. My resilience is more than just a trait; it is a testament to my ancestors’ strength, woven into my very being. This resilience has been cultivated from generations and generations who faced adversity head-on and thrived despite it. Their legacy is my blueprint, a map of strength, determination, and undying hope that guides me through life’s challenges.
My resilience is visible in my daily life. It’s in the way I navigate spaces that weren’t designed with me in mind, how I advocate for myself and others who look like me, and the relentless pursuit of my dreams despite systemic barriers. It’s a quiet strength that does not always roar but endures, underlines my every achievement, and whispers in my darkest moments, reminding me of the light I carry within.
It’s also in the joy and love that I cultivate, creating spaces where I and others can be fully seen and celebrated for who we are. This resilience is a legacy of love, a bridge built on the backs of those who came before me, allowing me and the generations that follow to walk a little taller and speak a little louder.
In essence, my resilience as a Black woman from the South is a multi-layered narrative of triumph, hope, and relentless courage. It is a story continuously being written, a journey of becoming that pays homage to the past while boldly striding into the future. It is my most precious inheritance and one of my greatest gift to the world.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
As President and CEO of National Legal Aid and Defender Association, my primary responsibility is to advocate for equal justice for those who encounter the legal system and can not afford legal representation. I work daily to ensure that everyone has a fair fight in court regardless of one’s income and zip code, and I lead a national organization that supports public defense and civil legal aid attorneys.
As President and CEO, I also focus on ensuring sustainable growth and prosperity for an organization that is over 1oo years old, and I am focused on ensuring that the organization is effective in the current social and legal environment. It is my duty to remain forward-thinking, identifying opportunities for expansion and innovation, while also mitigating potential risks that could impede our progress.
In addition to guiding the organizational strategy, my role deeply intertwines with being a national leader on equal justice and executive leadership. My background provides a unique vantage point from which to blend my legal and executive leadership experience.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
My journey as a Black female attorney and CEO is a testament to the profound impact of courage, authenticity, and hope. These foundational principles have not only propelled me forward but have also illuminated my path through the complexities of my profession and identity.
Courage has been my constant north star, especially in environments where my presence was a rarity. In the legal field and as a CEO, where Black women are significantly underrepresented, courage motivated me to assert my intelligence, capability, and leadership. It was courage that pushed me to speak up in rooms where I was the only Black woman, to challenge the status quo, and to advocate for equity within the legal system.
Authenticity has been the essence of my personal and professional identity. Early in my career, I felt the pressure to conform to traditional norms, to mute my voice, and to mask my true self. However, I quickly realized that my power lies in my authenticity—my unique perspective, my cultural heritage, and my lived experiences. By being authentic, I have been able to foster genuine connections, advocate for meaningful change, and lead with integrity. Authenticity has not only set me apart but has also empowered me to bring my whole self to every situation, inspiring those around me to do the same.
Hope has been the light guiding me through challenges and setbacks. In face of systemic barriers and societal biases, hope has kept me resilient. It has been the belief in a brighter future—for myself, for aspiring Black female attorneys and CEOs, and for the communities we serve—that has spurred me into action. It also led me to create the Black Public Defender Association to nurture and support the next generation of black defenders. Hope has driven me to mentor, to advocate for diversity and inclusion, and to contribute to creating a more equitable legal and business environment. It is this hope for a future where diversity is celebrated, and equity is realized that fuels my commitment to breaking down barriers and building bridges for others to follow.
The interplay of courage, authenticity, and hope has not only defined my path but has also the potential to inspire and empower others facing similar challenges. It is a testament to the fact that when we stay true to ourselves, uphold our values, and maintain optimism, we can overcome obstacles and achieve greatness, regardless of the circumstances we face. My journey is a reminder that these qualities are powerful tools in shaping not only our own destinies but also those of the communities we are part of.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
When I feel overwhelmed in my role as President and CEO, I have developed a personal strategy to navigate through the stress and to regain focus and clarity. I use the motto: “Progress over Perfection.” First, I take a moment to step back from the immediate situation to regain perspective and think about how to move forward.
To tackle the feeling of being overwhelmed, I also prioritize tasks and responsibilities. I look at what needs my immediate attention, what can be delegated, and what can be scheduled for a later time. This process of prioritization helps in managing my workload and reduces the feeling of being overwhelmed by the multitude of tasks at hand.
Seeking support is another crucial aspect of my strategy. I have a trusted circle of advisors and mentors with whom I consult regularly. Discussing challenges and seeking advice not only provides me with different perspectives but also reinforces the sense that I am not alone in facing these challenges.
Moreover, I maintain a disciplined approach to self-care. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate rest are non-negotiable for me. These practices help in maintaining my physical and mental well-being, which is crucial for effective leadership.
Lastly, I always remind myself of the mission and values of our organization. This helps me to reconnect with the bigger picture and the reasons why I took on this role. It provides me with a sense of purpose and motivation to navigate through the challenges.
In summary, when I feel overwhelmed as President and CEO, I take a step back, prioritize tasks, seek support, commit to self-care, and remind myself of the larger mission. These strategies help me to manage stress, maintain focus, and lead effectively.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.nlada.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aprilcamara/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/april-frazier-camara-esq-06b7973/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/april_camara
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
