Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Pastor Robert Leak III. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Pastor Robert , so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
I found my purpose at the age of 5 years old when I tapped into my spiritual higher power of hearing God say, “my sheep are depending on you to preach the Gospel.” I used that confirmation to begin to study my bishop and my other peers in regards to how to put a sermon together and to understand how ministry operates internally and externally. I also found my purpose at the age of 12 year old by working with my grandfather, Robert Leak Sr. by working in the community. He provided me with the tools to organize in communities and build engagement with the residents. Because of my grandfather leading and providing guidance, I was able to become president of the neighborhood I grew up in at the age of 16 years old.
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 am a Pastor of a local church in the city of Winston-Salem, NC. Our mission is to love God, transform lives and change communities. I am also a community activist. I focus on uplifting undeserved communities by organizing on a asset-based community development level by helping residents discover their gift, skills, and talents. I am also the founder of Sunshine Consulting which provides services to nonprofits with board development, technical assistance, and training. I named my consulting firm after my late mother, Vanessa Leak, who transitioned of lung cancer back in 2003. Sunshine was her nickname.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back, three important qualities that were imparted into me are understanding that everyone has a gift, understanding that we must learn how to meet other people where they are in their life, and always have compassion for the underdogs. Make sure to use your gift with humility, not for recognition or rewards. Rather, use it to help lift someone and empower them into the next level.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
the most impactful thing my parents taught me was to never forget where you came from. And always be willing to help someone despite of their situation. My parents also taught me that through tests and trials, I should always keep pressing and looking upward because tests and trials make us stronger.
Contact Info:
- Facebook: Robert Leak III
- Twitter: Prophet Robert Leak III
Image Credits
Charles Cooper Photography
