Meet Dr. Leketa Hawkins

We recently connected with Dr. Leketa Hawkins and have shared our conversation below.

Dr. Leketa, looking forward to learning from your journey. You’ve got an amazing story and before we dive into that, let’s start with an important building block. Where do you get your work ethic from?
In the luminous tapestry of my life, woven with vibrant threads of dedication and determination, lies the heart of my story – a work ethic forged in the fires of family tradition and honed in the diverse arenas of life.

It all began in the quaint, nostalgia-filled backdrop of my grandparents’ store – a place where the term ‘shop’ carried with it an air of humble beginnings and earnest hard work. Here, amidst the gentle hum of family ties and traditions, the seeds of my work ethic were sown. These early years were a crucible, shaping my understanding of resilience and dedication, under the watchful eyes of loved ones whose tales of perseverance and triumph resonated deeply, etching a legacy of strength and resolve in my young mind.

As I ventured further, the canvas of my work ethic expanded, enriched by the dazzling realm of mentorship. In this world, burgeoning talents meet the seasoned wisdom of professionals, turning work ethic into a captivating dance of learning and growth. My ethos was not merely shaped by those who walked the path before me but was also colored by the diverse cultural influences I encountered. Like a richly woven tapestry, these global perspectives added depth and complexity to my professional journey.

The vibrant mosaic of my work ethic is also a testament to the power of collective effort and individual determination, each contributing a unique hue to the overall picture. This confluence of cultures and experiences forms the rich fabric of my professional life, a testament to the diverse influences that shape us.

Academic institutions played a pivotal role in laying down the foundations of discipline and tenacity. Whiteville Hish School and Winston Salem State University was not just an educational journey; it was a rehearsal for life’s demanding stages, instilling a sense of responsibility and diligence that would guide my future endeavors.

At the core of my story is an unbridled passion – a driving force that transforms every challenge into an opportunity. Whether it’s a love for design, innovation, or service, it is this fervor that fuels my work ethic, turning it into a powerful catalyst for achievement.

In the grand ballroom of professional life, my work ethic is not a solitary act but a symphony of these varied influences. Mentorship, cultural diversity, academic rigor, and passionate drive all intertwine to create a harmonious melody. This delicate dance of ambition and responsibility has shaped a formidable work ethic in me, unveiling the intricate fusion of factors that choreograph a captivating symphony, one that resonates through the glossy pages of my life’s story in this stellar popular magazine.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
In this vibrant world of entrepreneurship, where dreams and determination intertwine, I stand as a guiding light of financial wisdom and empowerment. My creation, HawCLeigh, has blossomed into a key player in the small business community, synonymous with fostering financial literacy and empowerment. I’m not just the founder of this business consulting company; I see myself as a visionary, a trailblazer whose passion for education fuels my mission to arm aspiring business owners with the resources they crucially need.

My journey to financial freedom and savvy entrepreneurship is a personal narrative of transformation and triumph. I’ve faced and conquered my own financial struggles, turning these experiences into a reservoir of knowledge and guidance for others. My battle with financial challenges like overdrafts, lack of savings, and credit card debt wasn’t just a personal struggle; it laid the foundation for what HawCLeigh would eventually become.

With unwavering determination and a meticulously crafted plan, I turned my financial situation around. This personal metamorphosis ignited my calling as a money coach and pocketbook strategist. My experiences in overcoming financial challenges are the bedrock of my passion for empowering others to achieve their own financial stability and freedom.

At HawCLeigh, the services we offer are shaped by my experiences and cover a broad spectrum of essential business needs. From budget analysis to building high-performance teams, offering career consulting, and meticulous expense tracking, my approach is comprehensive and customized, addressing the unique challenges and goals of each entrepreneur I work with.

For me, empowering business owners goes beyond the realm of a mere profession; it’s a deep-seated calling. I understand the economic ups and downs inherent in running a business and have crafted strategies and resources to help others navigate these waters with more ease and confidence.

In discussing my philosophy on financial literacy and entrepreneurship, I aim to share a narrative that’s not just compelling but also deeply personal. It’s about breaking free from the shackles of debt, transforming from financial struggles to becoming a respected money consultant. My story is one of thriving, not just overcoming, and paving the way for others to build their dreams on a foundation of sound financial understanding and freedom.

Through HawCLeigh, I’ve become more than just a name; I’m a symbol of hope and guidance, a mentor empowering individuals and businesses to chart their own paths of financial success and independence. My journey is a testament to the power of overcoming adversity and the vital importance of sharing knowledge to uplift others. In the diverse and ever-evolving tapestry of entrepreneurial ventures, I, Leketa Hawkins, alongside HawCLeigh, shine brightly, leading many toward a future of financial empowerment and prosperity.

I am currently in the process of changing the law for financial literacy to be offered to more than just high school students in the state of North Carolina. I also have a financial fast starting for 7 days on along with a book signing on and some speaking engagements including a panel discussion with law students titled: pathways for Prosperity; Show me the Money. I currently already offer consultations along with classes. Please follow me on all social media platforms at Hawcleigh and/or Pocketbook strategist for more details of upcoming events and etc.

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 on my journey there are three key qualities, skills, and areas of knowledge that have been instrumental to my success: financial literacy, resilience, and empathetic communication.

Financial Literacy: Mastering the art of financial management, understanding the nuances of budgeting, investing, and debt control, has been the cornerstone of my career. For those at the beginning of their journey, I suggest starting with the basics of personal finance. Educate yourself through books, online courses, and by seeking mentorship. Apply these principles in your own life to understand their practical implications. Remember, financial literacy is a lifelong journey of learning.

Resilience: The path of entrepreneurship and financial advisory is fraught with challenges. Resilience has been my anchor through turbulent times. To cultivate this, I advise embracing failures as learning opportunities. Maintain a positive mindset and don’t shy away from difficult situations. Resilience is like a muscle; the more you exercise it, the stronger it becomes. Seek out challenges, learn from them, and keep pushing forward.

Empathetic Communication: Being able to connect with clients and just people in general on a deeper level, understanding their unique situations, and conveying complex concepts in an accessible manner have been crucial skills. For those developing their career, focus on enhancing your listening skills and the ability to express empathy. Practice explaining concepts in simple terms and always tailor your approach to the individuals needs.

For anyone starting their journey, these three areas – financial literacy, resilience, and empathetic communication – are key. Invest time in developing these skills, and be patient with yourself as you grow. The path may not always be smooth, but with these tools in your arsenal, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities that come your way.

Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?
I honestly cannot just name one as its so many but if I had to choose it would be the first one. Two books that have significantly influenced my development are “Rich Dad Poor Dad” by Robert Kiyosaki and “Think and Grow Rich” by Napoleon Hill. These books have been instrumental in shaping my financial and entrepreneurial mindset, offering invaluable insights and wisdom.

From “Rich Dad Poor Dad,” a few impactful nuggets of wisdom include:

The Importance of Financial Education: The book emphasizes the crucial role of financial literacy in achieving wealth. It taught me that understanding the difference between assets and liabilities is key to building wealth. This perspective has been foundational in developing strategies for financial empowerment.

The Power of Passive Income: Kiyosaki’s discussion on generating income from assets rather than solely relying on a paycheck was a game-changer. It opened my eyes to the potential of creating streams of passive income as a means to financial freedom.

Mindset Over Money: The book instills the idea that having a rich mindset is more important than having a lot of money. It’s about how you manage and leverage your resources, not just about how much you earn.

From “Think and Grow Rich,” some of the valuable lessons include:

The Power of Desire: Hill emphasizes that desire is the starting point of all achievement. Learning to channel my desires into clear, actionable goals has been a driving force in my career and personal growth.

The Role of Persistence: The book teaches that persistence is crucial to success. Overcoming obstacles and maintaining focus on my goals, regardless of the challenges, has been key in my journey.

The Mastermind Principle: The concept of surrounding oneself with a network of knowledgeable and supportive individuals (a mastermind group) has greatly influenced my approach to business and personal development. Collaboration and learning from others have been integral to my success.

These books have not only provided me with practical financial strategies but also instilled in me the importance of mindset, persistence, and the value of a supportive network in achieving success. They have been guiding lights in my journey, constantly reminding me of the power of education, strategic thinking, and unwavering determination.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Cameron Hawkins(my personal pics)

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