Meet Anita Thomas

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Anita Thomas. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Anita, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?

Ever since elementary school, there were times when I was the only person in my class who looked like me. Kinky hair. Dark skin. Tall and lanky. Female. Not to mention a bit of a nerd. You could say there were times when I felt…awkward. Out of place. But once I realized that my intellect was a great neutralizer, it allowed me to gain more confidence and step into my superpower. Each time I was able to relay a correct answer to my teachers’ questions, or received high marks on a test or a quiz, my self-assurance grew. I learned how to speak up, and to do so more boldly. It sharpened my sense of belonging–or least helped me to realize that I had every right to be there.

Fast forward, these formative moments helped shape my experience in the corporate world; in meetings and in board rooms. And it continues to serve me today as an entrepreneur.

What I have learned is that the very thing that makes you different can be your advantage. Ultimately, diverse thought and unique approaches to problem-solving (shaped by our individual perspectives and experiences) is what makes all of us valuable. And when you wake up to that truth, it frees you to move past feelings of insecurity.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

I’m the founder of Lavāda which offers a patented, 4-in-1 plant-based vegan leather handbag that women can modify to change up their style and uphold their sustainability ideals. We specialize in accessories like handbags, and we also offer eco-friendly clothing options. After changing my diet and lifestyle, it was important for me to re-evaluate my wardrobe as well. I wasn’t able to easily find some options I was looking for, so I set out to create my own.

In addition to running an online boutique, I also do consulting in the higher education space (my former career). Plus, I serve on an advisory board.

But the most meaningful parts of my life right now are my creative endeavors and volunteering with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southern Nevada.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

The three qualities and skills that have been most impactful along my journey are as follows:

1. Self confidence. Above all else, having a strong sense of self identity, self worth, and self pride are foundational to so many things that life will demand of us.

2. A resolve to keep learning and growing. This includes reading a lot, taking courses, going to conferences, enhancing your skill set, etc. I’ve always had a love for learning new things and just broadening my horizons. And that has served me in different roles, on different times, and even across different industries.

3. A strong network – Our network can consist of family, friends, trusted colleagues, mentors, community leaders, former teachers. I think there is something we can learn from each person who plays a role in our lives. And I also think everyone needs a personal board of directors: people who don’t always think the way we do and who can give us hard-hitting insights that we need in order to help push us forward to realize our fullest potential.

One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?

Looking forward to 2026, I’m looking to collaborate with more business owners who want to partner in serving charities and youth-driven community organizations; especially around themes of sustainability practices. Unique partnerships can be meaningful and lead to increased impact.

Contact Info:

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