Meet DeLores Pressley

We were lucky to catch up with DeLores Pressley recently and have shared our conversation below.

DeLores, we’re so excited for our community to get to know you and learn from your journey and the wisdom you’ve acquired over time. Let’s kick things off with a discussion on self-confidence and self-esteem. How did you develop yours?

Confidence didn’t come to me overnight, it was a journey shaped by every chapter of my life. I started out as an elementary school teacher, where I first learned the importance of nurturing potential in others. But it wasn’t until I stepped into the world of plus-size modeling that I truly began to understand and embody self-confidence. Founding one of the first plus-size model agencies in the United States wasn’t just groundbreaking, it was deeply personal. In an industry that often overlooked women who looked like me, I had to learn how to stand tall, not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually.

Growing up, I was teased for my weight, and for a long time, I internalized that pain. But eventually, I chose to let those experiences refine me, not define me. I began speaking, coaching, and writing, not because I had it all figured out, but because I had walked the road myself. I wrote books, founded She Elevates, and stepped on stages across the world with one mission: to help others see the power within themselves.

Confidence is not a destination. It’s a decision. Every time I chose to believe in myself, even in the face of doubt or adversity, I added another layer to that confidence. Today, I help others do the same, because once you realize your worth, there’s nothing you can’t do.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

I’m DeLores Pressley, an author, keynote speaker, confidence coach, and the founder of She Elevates, a nonprofit that empowers young girls to envision themselves as future leaders and CEOs. As the President of DeLores Pressley Worldwide, I spend my days helping individuals and organizations tap into their inner power, embrace bold leadership, and build lasting confidence.

What’s most exciting about my work is witnessing transformation. Whether I’m speaking on stage, mentoring a young girl, or coaching a client one-on-one, there’s nothing more rewarding than seeing someone realize they are worthy, capable, and ready to lead. My work is about impact, impact that doesn’t just change lives in the moment, but echoes through generations.

I actually started my professional journey as an elementary school teacher, which taught me early on how vital it is to nurture potential. Later, I entered the fashion world and made history by

launching one of the first plus-size model agencies in the U.S. That chapter fueled my passion for representation and reminded me how powerful it is to challenge societal norms and walk in your truth.

Through my books, including Clean Out the Closets of Your Life, Believe in the Power of You, and Empower, I’ve been able to inspire others to own their stories and step into purpose. I’m currently working on a children’s book focused on self-esteem and purposeful living, set to release in early 2025. This project is especially dear to me because I know how childhood experiences can shape the way we view ourselves for life.

My brand is rooted in helping people lead authentically, overcome challenges, and influence with purpose. If there’s one thing I want people to remember, it’s this: confidence is a journey, and it begins with believing in yourself.

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, three key qualities have truly shaped my journey: resilience, the ability to communicate with purpose, and a deep commitment to personal growth.

Resilience was essential. From being teased as a child to launching a plus-size model agency in a time when inclusivity wasn’t the norm, I had to learn how to rise above rejection, stereotypes, and setbacks. For anyone early in their journey, resilience isn’t about never falling – it’s about getting back up, learning from each fall, and using those experiences to fuel your next step.
Purposeful communication has also played a huge role. Whether I’m on a global stage or mentoring a young girl through She Elevates, the ability to speak with clarity, confidence, and compassion has opened doors and built lasting relationships. I encourage others to invest time in learning how to share their story, your voice is one of your most powerful tools, and when used with intention, it can move hearts and change minds.

Lastly, committing to growth, through learning, reflection, and surrounding myself with mentors and communities that uplift has made a profound difference. No matter how successful you become, there’s always more to learn. For those just starting, I recommend carving out time regularly to develop your skills, read, attend events, and most importantly, listen to others who’ve walked the path before you. My advice? Embrace the journey, not just the destination. Build your resilience like a muscle, speak life into your dreams, and never stop learning. That’s how you’ll not only grow, but lead.

Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?

When I feel overwhelmed, I start by pausing and giving myself permission to breathe – mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Pushing through without reflection only creates more chaos, so I take a moment of stillness or prayer to reconnect with my purpose. Then, I practice prioritization through perspective. I ask: What truly matters right now? What can wait? That clarity reminds me I don’t have to do everything at once. I also lean on my support system – mentors, friends, team members. Asking for help isn’t weakness; it’s a sign of strength. Give yourself grace. Take small steps, speak kindly to yourself, and know it’s okay to reset. Even strong leaders need time to restore. Rest is part of the strategy.

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