Life, Values & Legacy: Our Chat with Lakesha Quarles of Greenville

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Lakesha Quarles. Check out our conversation below.

Lakesha, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What are you being called to do now, that you may have been afraid of before?
Right now, I feel like I’m being called to step into bigger leadership and visibility—to share my experiences, lessons, and voice on a larger platform. In the past, I sometimes held back, worried about whether I was “ready” or if my message would resonate. But I’ve realized that growth often lives on the other side of fear, and the very things that scare us are often the things we’re meant to do.

I’m learning to embrace opportunities that push me outside my comfort zone—whether that’s public speaking, leading new initiatives, or taking on projects that challenge my skills. I no longer see fear as a stop sign; I see it as an invitation to rise to the occasion.

This season is about saying yes to opportunities that align with my purpose, even if they feel a little intimidating, because I know that’s where the real transformation happens.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Lakesha S. Quarles, DHA(c), MHA, RMA, CMA, and I wear a few meaningful hats. I serve as the Program Director for the Medical Assisting program at ECPI University in Greenville, SC, where I’m dedicated to training and mentoring the next generation of healthcare professionals. I’m also the founder of Sunflower Births, an organization committed to supporting families through education, advocacy, and community resources.

What makes my work unique is the way it blends education, healthcare, and community impact. Whether I’m in the classroom, in the community, or at an event, my focus is always on empowering people—helping them gain the skills, confidence, and support they need to thrive.

Right now, I’m preparing for Sunflower Births’ 3rd Annual Community Day, which will bring together health services, family resources, and local support in one space. I’m also working on expanding partnerships between my program and local healthcare providers to create more opportunities for students to gain real-world experience before graduation.

At the heart of everything I do is a passion for service, education, and making a lasting difference in the lives of others.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
I think the part of me that always felt the need to have everything perfectly planned out has served its purpose and now needs to be released. For a long time, structure and control helped me achieve my goals and keep all the moving parts of my life in order. But I’ve learned that clinging too tightly to a plan can sometimes limit growth, creativity, and opportunities that come from unexpected directions.

I’m learning to trust the process more, to leave room for flexibility, and to welcome the unknown. Letting go of that constant need for control is allowing me to be more present, open to new experiences, and willing to take bold steps without knowing every detail of how it will turn out.

When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
I stopped hiding my pain and started using it as power in 2016, when I lost my son, Carter. That was the most devastating moment of my life, and for a long time, I carried that pain quietly, thinking I had to be strong in silence. But over time, I realized that my strength wasn’t in pretending I was okay—it was in being honest about my grief and allowing it to shape how I showed up for others.

Losing Carter taught me compassion on a deeper level and gave me a stronger sense of purpose. It pushed me to pour into my work, my family, and my community in ways that honor his memory. I began using my story to connect with others who were hurting, to let them know they weren’t alone, and to remind them that even in the darkest moments, there is still light to be found.

That pain will always be a part of me, but it’s no longer something I hide. It’s something I carry with intention—turning it into a source of strength, empathy, and drive to make a difference.

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes and no. The public version of me is very much the real me—you’ll see my passion for my work, my commitment to my students and community, and my genuine care for the people I serve. That’s not an act; it’s who I am at my core.

But like anyone, there are parts of me that aren’t always on display. The public sees the polished, composed version—the one who’s leading programs, hosting events, or speaking with confidence. What they don’t always see are the quiet moments of self-doubt, the exhaustion after long days, or the personal challenges I’ve had to navigate to get here.

I’ve learned that both versions are real—they just serve different purposes. The public me shows up to inspire and lead, while the private me holds space to rest, reflect, and refill my cup so I can keep showing up fully for others.

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people say that I lived a life of purpose, service, and love. That I used my gifts to make a real difference—whether it was in a classroom, at a community event, or in a quiet moment when someone just needed to be seen and heard.

I want the story to be that I poured into others, not just with knowledge, but with encouragement and belief in their potential. That I stood for what was right, lifted people up when they were down, and created opportunities for others to shine.

Most of all, I hope they say I left the world a little better because I cared deeply, loved fully, and wasn’t afraid to be both strong and compassionate.

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Image Credits
James GoldSmith-Flyer

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