We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Monique Campbell a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
MONIQUE, so great to have you with us and thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts with the community. So, let’s jump into something that stops so many people from going after their dreams – haters, nay-sayers, etc. We’d love to hear about how you dealt with that and persisted on your path.
I persist despite the haters and nay-sayers by leaning into the resilience I’ve built through both my lived experience and professional journey. As a Black Transgender woman, I have faced systemic barriers, discrimination, and doubt at every level—from my personal life to leadership positions in public health, housing advocacy, and nonprofit management. But instead of allowing those obstacles to define me, I use them as fuel.
My persistence is rooted in my purpose. I know why I do this work: to uplift, to create access, and to carve out spaces for people like me—people who have been told “no” too many times. When I served as Shelter Operations Manager at the Taimon Booton Navigation Center, I saw firsthand how trans women, particularly Black trans women, were often the last considered and the first dismissed. That knowledge didn’t discourage me; it motivated me to fight harder, advocate louder, and build better.
The same is true for Lady J Linda Kay’s House—a vision I refuse to let go of, no matter how many roadblocks arise. Some have doubted the need for a retreat center and workforce development program centering cis Black women and Trans women of color, but I’ve lived the reality that proves otherwise. I’ve watched how access to basic needs, financial assistance, and professional development can transform lives. That evidence—real, tangible, and undeniable—is stronger than any doubter’s opinion.
When people say, You can’t, I remember all the times I already have. I have spoken at universities and national conferences. I have advised federal agencies like the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS and consulted with the CDC multiple times. I have served on local and national boards, proving that my expertise is not only valid but necessary.
Most importantly, I persist because I refuse to let my story—and the stories of those I advocate for—be silenced. Kindness and compassion are my guiding principles, even in the face of resistance. They are not signs of weakness but of unwavering strength. Because at the end of the day, the haters and nay-sayers are just that—background noise. I am here to do the work. And I won’t stop.
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 am Mo’Nique Campbell, a Black Transgender woman, leader, advocate, and entrepreneur with a mission to create sustainable pathways for marginalized communities, particularly Black women and Trans women of color. My work spans public health, housing advocacy, nonprofit management, workforce development, and leadership consulting—all rooted in a deep commitment to ensuring that those most often left behind are centered, uplifted, and given access to the resources they need to thrive.
One of my most exciting projects is Lady J Linda Kay’s House (LJLKH), a multi-service nonprofit that provides housing support, workforce development, healthcare linkages, and community-building opportunities for cis Black women, Trans women of color, and their families across the Bay Area and Central Valley. What makes LJLKH special is that it’s not just about services—it’s about transformation. It’s about creating a space where people don’t just survive but truly thrive. From financial assistance for housing sustainability to professional development workshops, we are filling the gaps that traditional systems have long neglected.
Beyond my nonprofit work, I also consult, speak, and lead workshops on topics ranging from public health and HIV prevention to leadership development and nonprofit management. I’ve had the honor of speaking at universities like UC Davis, Santa Clara University, and San Francisco State University’s School of Medicine, as well as presenting at national conferences like the United States Conference on HIV/AIDS. I’ve also worked directly with the CDC and the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS (PACHA)—bringing lived experience into spaces where policies and funding decisions are made.
As for what’s new—LJLKH is expanding! We are working on securing funding and partnerships to launch a dedicated retreat and workforce development center, where women and trans folks of color can gain the skills, knowledge, and support they need to build stability and independence. Additionally, I am continuing to grow my consulting and leadership development work, offering services in grant writing, program development, and strategic planning for mission-driven organizations.
If you believe in equity, access, and the power of community, I invite you to follow my journey, collaborate, and support the work. Whether through partnerships, funding opportunities, or simply spreading the word, we can make lasting change—together.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, three qualities have been most impactful in my journey: resilience, adaptability, and strategic relationship-building. These have not only shaped my career but have also allowed me to navigate the many challenges of being a Black Transgender woman leader, advocate, and entrepreneur.
1. Resilience
Resilience has been at the core of everything I’ve done. From surviving personal and systemic barriers to leading programs that support marginalized communities, I’ve had to push forward despite setbacks, discrimination, and the constant underestimation of my capabilities.
How to Develop It:
• Learn to see setbacks as learning opportunities rather than failures.
• Surround yourself with mentors, allies, and a support network that uplifts and reminds you of your strength.
• Prioritize self-care and boundaries—burnout can diminish resilience, so protecting your energy is crucial.
2. Adaptability
In every leadership role I’ve held—whether as Programs Manager, a CDC-certified facilitator, or a nonprofit founder—I’ve had to pivot, adjust, and evolve. The ability to adapt to changing circumstances while keeping my mission and values intact has been essential to my success.
How to Develop It:
• Stay open to feedback and learning—even from unexpected places.
• Build a mindset that welcomes change as a growth opportunity rather than a disruption.
• Diversify your skill set—whether through formal education, certifications, or hands-on experiences—so you are prepared for different roles and challenges.
3. Strategic Relationship-Building
Every milestone in my journey has been made possible through genuine, intentional relationships—from my work with the CDC and Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS to launching Lady J Linda Kay’s House. Understanding how to build, sustain, and leverage relationships has been a game-changer.
How to Develop It:
• Approach networking with authenticity and purpose—build relationships based on shared values, not just transactions.
• Give before you ask—offer support, knowledge, or connections before seeking help in return.
• Be consistent in showing up—whether through follow-ups, collaborations, or simply staying engaged with your community.
Advice for Those Early in Their Journey
If you’re just starting, be clear about your “why”—your mission will keep you going when things get tough. Seek out mentorship and community, develop the skills that will keep you flexible, and never be afraid to take up space. The world needs your voice, your vision, and your leadership—don’t let fear or doubt silence you. Keep moving, keep learning, and keep building.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
Yes! I am always looking to partner and collaborate with individuals and organizations who are passionate about equity, community-building, and creating sustainable opportunities for Black women, Trans women of color, and other marginalized communities.
Who I’m Looking to Collaborate With
🔹 Nonprofit Leaders & Organizations – If you’re working in public health, housing advocacy, workforce development, leadership training, or community organizing, let’s explore ways to amplify impact together.
🔹 Grant Funders & Philanthropists – Those interested in supporting Lady J Linda Kay’s House (LJLKH), particularly as we expand our programs and housing assistance initiatives.
🔹 Consultants & Subject Matter Experts – If you have expertise in program development, nonprofit management, DEI, behavioral health, or social work, I’d love to collaborate on training, workshops, or strategic initiatives.
🔹 Universities & Conference Organizers – I am available for speaking engagements, panels, and workshops on topics including public health, social work, leadership development, and the intersections of race, gender, and access.
🔹 Media & Storytelling Collaborators – Writers, journalists, and content creators who want to highlight the stories of Black Trans women leaders, housing justice, or workforce equity.
If you’re reading this and want to build something impactful together, don’t hesitate to reach out! Let’s create change, uplift our communities, and make equity a reality—together. ✨
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