We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Lakeya Cherry. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Lakeya below.
Hi Lakeya, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
As a Black woman and first-generation college student, being the only one in the room who looks like me has been a recurrent experience throughout my personal and professional journey. It is a reality that presents unique challenges, but I have learned to transform these situations into opportunities for growth and success.
One of the key ways I have learned to be effective and successful in such situations is by embracing my individuality (authenticity) and recognizing the value that my diverse perspective brings to the table. I understand that my presence alone challenges the prevailing narratives people may have about someone who looks like me and disrupts the status quo. This realization has empowered me to continuously work to cultivate a strong sense of self-worth and confidence, which then enables me to express my ideas and contribute meaningfully to any conversation or decision-making process.
Moreover, I have honed my ability to navigate unfamiliar environments by cultivating empathy, curiosity, and a willingness to learn. When I find myself as the only one in the room who looks like me, I see it as an opportunity to educate others about my unique experiences and perspectives. By sharing my stories, I can foster understanding, bridge cultural gaps, and create space for dialogue and inclusion. My core values are growth and contribution so by leaning into these situations, I feel as if I am living these values out loud.
In addition, I have sought out mentors and allies throughout my life who recognize and appreciate the value of diversity. Their guidance and support have been instrumental in helping me navigate the challenges I face and providing a network of encouragement and empowerment. Their belief in my capabilities has served as a constant reminder that my presence in any room is not just about me; it represents the potential for progress and change i.e. Representation Matters!
Being the only one in the room has also reinforced the importance of community and representation. I actively seek out and have created communities that uplift and celebrate individuals who have similar lived experiences based on facets of their identity. These spaces provide a sense of belonging and serve as sources of inspiration and solidarity. By connecting with like-minded individuals, I am reminded that I am not alone in my journey, and together, we can create waves of change that impact the wider world.
Lastly, I have come to realize that being the only one in the room grants me a unique opportunity to be a catalyst for change. I have embraced the responsibility to be a changemaker, to challenge stereotypes, and to break down barriers for future generations. By leading by example, I strive to inspire others who may also find themselves as the only ones in the room.
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?
At Lakeya Cherry LLC, my purpose is to empower leaders at every level to embody the leader they aspire to be. As a Partner of Evolution, I alongside other exceptional partners offer a comprehensive range of services as coaches, trainers/facilitators, speakers, and consultants/advisors. Through individual and group coaching, bespoke workshops, and offsites, we assist leaders in unlocking their potential.
What sets me apart is my commitment to fostering daring leadership through visioning, modeling, and intentionality. I believe in building the internal capacity of leaders by enhancing their emotional intelligence and addressing the obstacles that hinder their growth. By helping them develop courage, envision their path, and take action, I empower leaders to achieve their aspirations.
In addition, my offerings include Google #IamRemarkable, customized Brené Brown Dare to Lead™ workshops, and my signature program, Changemakers of Color which focuses on building courage and authenticity. These workshops are designed to unleash the potential within individuals and teams, enabling them to create inclusive, courageous cultures where everyone feels a sense of belonging and is aligned with the organization’s mission and vision. I also offer bespoke workshops customized to my clients’ needs on topics such as trust, psychological safety, and healthy communication.
What drives me is my passion for this transformative work. I approach each client with genuine enthusiasm and meet them wherever they are on their leadership journey. Through a meaningful and collaborative partnership, I support my clients while also holding them accountable for their progress. My approach is informed by both personal and professional experiences, as well as a unique educational background.
Changemakers of Color is my latest development to support leaders of color across all sectors through individual and peer coaching. See: https://changemakersofcolor.com/
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?
Reflecting on my journey, I believe there are three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that have had the most significant impact on my growth:
Emotional Intelligence: Developing emotional intelligence has been instrumental in my journey. Understanding and managing my own emotions, as well as empathizing with others, has allowed me to build stronger relationships, navigate conflicts more effectively, and lead with compassion. My advice for those starting their journey is to prioritize self-awareness and emotional regulation. Seek opportunities to learn about emotions, practice self-reflection, and engage in exercises that enhance empathy and interpersonal skills. Embrace feedback and be open to continuous personal development in this area.
Courageous Leadership: Embracing courageous leadership has been transformative for me. It involves stepping out of comfort zones, taking risks, and having the bravery to challenge the status quo. I encourage early-stage professionals to cultivate courage by identifying areas where they feel discomfort or fear and pushing themselves to take action despite those feelings. Surround yourself with supportive networks, seek mentors who embody courageous leadership, and celebrate small wins along the way. Remember that growth and meaningful change often require stepping into the unknown.
Lifelong Learning: A commitment to lifelong learning has been a driving force in my journey. Continuously expanding my knowledge, skills, and perspectives has allowed me to adapt to new challenges and stay relevant in a rapidly changing world. My advice to those starting out is to cultivate a growth mindset and embrace curiosity. Seek out diverse learning opportunities, whether through formal education, professional development programs, workshops, conferences, or even self-directed learning. Embrace the joy of learning and see every experience as an opportunity for growth.
Is there a particular challenge you are currently facing?
I am deeply committed to bridging the racial leadership gap that persists across various sectors. It’s disheartening to see the underrepresentation of people of color and individuals from marginalized backgrounds in leadership positions. To address this issue head-on, I have launched an innovative program called “Changemakers of Color.”
However, one significant obstacle I face is the lack of investment and support from employers for this crucial initiative. I firmly believe that leaders of color deserve the opportunity to thrive and contribute to their fullest potential. That’s why I am actively seeking partners and sponsors who share my passion for creating a more inclusive and diverse leadership landscape.
By collaborating with dedicated sponsors, we can make a tangible difference. Together, we can provide interested leaders with the opportunity to participate in the program at a reduced cost or even no cost at all. This initiative has the potential to transform lives, empower communities, and foster a more equitable society.
If you or your organization are committed to breaking barriers and championing the development of leaders of color, I invite you to join forces with me. Together, we can create lasting change, inspire future generations, and cultivate a thriving ecosystem of diverse leaders who will shape a brighter and more inclusive future for us all.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://lakeyacherry.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lakeyacherry/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lakeyacherryllc
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lakeyacherry/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/lakeya_cherry
Image Credits
Photographer: https://www.dfinneyphoto.co/
