We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Talethia Edwards. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Talethia below.
Hi Talethia, so happy to have you on the platform and I think our readers are in for a treat because you’ve got such an interesting story and so much insight and wisdom. So, let’s start with a topic that is relevant to everyone, regardless of industry etc. What do you do for self-care and how has it impacted you?
For self-care, I prioritize quiet reflection, prayer, and journaling—those moments where I can center myself and hear clearly. I also make time for walks, intentional rest, and time with my family. As someone who gives so much to others, I’ve learned that if I don’t pause to care for myself, I can’t serve effectively.
This practice has had a major impact on my effectiveness as a leader. It gives me clarity, helps me stay grounded, and reminds me of my “why.” When I show up rested and aligned, I lead with more focus, compassion, and resilience. Self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s part of my leadership strategy.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I am deeply passionate about community development, advocacy, and empowering people to lead from where they are. I work at the intersection of policy, people, and purpose—bringing together grassroots energy with strategic planning to create sustainable change in underserved communities.
I serve as the Executive Director of Good News Outreach in Tallahassee, where we provide housing, food access, and wraparound support to seniors, returning citizens, and families in need. I’m also the CEO of ToEdwards Community Development Consulting LLC, where I help organizations build authentic community engagement strategies and develop programs that respond to real, lived needs.
What’s most exciting to me about this work is the power of transformation—seeing individuals and neighborhoods move from surviving to thriving. I am especially energized by helping people tap into their own potential and use their lived experiences as a foundation for leadership and change.
I’m also the author of the reflective writing journal called Only Paper Understands a tool designed to help individuals use reflective writing for healing, clarity, and personal growth. In addition to that, I’m currently developing my own community development framework, one that blends participatory planning, grassroots leadership, and equity-centered systems change.
Right now, I’m expanding my offerings as a speaker, trainer, and facilitator—with a special focus on leadership development, parent engagement, and justice-centered planning. I’m always open to collaborations that align with my mission to build more just, vibrant, and empowered communities.
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?
Looking back on my journey so far, three qualities have been most impactful: resilience, relationship-building, and a deep understanding of systems—how they work, and more importantly, how to disrupt them for equity.
1. Resilience:
Much of my work has grown from lived experience—navigating systems that weren’t built with people like me in mind. Resilience gave me the courage to not only overcome obstacles but to stand in the gap for others. It’s a muscle that gets stronger through practice. For anyone early in their journey, I’d say: don’t be afraid to start where you are. The path won’t always be clear, but your persistence will carve the way.
2. Relationship-Building:
Whether advocating for a policy change or organizing a food drive, success often comes down to trust and connection. I’ve learned that the most transformative change happens in community, not in isolation. Build genuine relationships—across race, age, income, and political lines. Listen more than you speak, and let people know you see them. This kind of relational capital is priceless.
3. Systems Knowledge:
From community planning to birth justice, understanding how systems function—healthcare, education, criminal justice, economic development—has helped me challenge them with informed, strategic action. If you’re just starting out, I encourage you to study the systems that impact your community, then learn how to navigate and reimagine them. Whether that’s through a formal program, mentorship, or lived experience, your knowledge is your power.
My advice? Stay rooted in your “why.” Keep learning, stay open to growth, and trust that your unique story is not a limitation—it’s your superpower.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
Absolutely—I’m always looking to collaborate. I believe that meaningful, lasting change happens when we bring together diverse voices and resources around a shared vision.
I’m especially interested in working with government agencies, local officials, nonprofits, grassroots organizers, and like-minded change makers who are committed to equity, community empowerment, and systems-level transformation. Whether it’s a community initiative, policy work, training, or program development, I’m open to partnerships that center people, dignity, and impact.
If you’re reading this and feel aligned with the work I do, I’d love to connect. You can reach me directly at [your email address or preferred contact method] or visit [your website or social media handle] to learn more and start a conversation.
Let’s build something powerful—together.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.TalethiaEdwards.com
- Instagram: @toedwards
- Facebook: Talethia O. Edwards
- Linkedin: Talethia O. Edwards
Image Credits
Micheal Cork and Jennifer Powell
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
