We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful LaVada English. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with LaVada below.
LaVada, so great to have you with us and we want to jump right into a really important question. In recent years, it’s become so clear that we’re living through a time where so many folks are lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. So, we’d love to hear about your journey and how you developed your self-confidence and self-esteem.
We all entered this world armed with an innate sense of confidence and self-esteem. However, as life unfolds, the external forces attempt to snatch away our confidence, dim our light, and coerce us into shrinking. The true measure lies not in the initial endowment but in the resilience to retain that power against the relentless assaults of the world.
My journey was blessed with a father who consistently affirmed my beauty and capability, instilling in me the belief that I could conquer any challenge with the right mindset and determination. A grandfather, a paragon of business success, paved the way for the academic pursuits of his children, setting a standard of achievement. Moreover, a formidable tribe of powerful aunts and women, including both grandmothers who were successful business owners, collectively raised the bar of expectation.
The women in my family gracefully juggled roles as mothers, community advocates, educators, physicians, engineers, and corporate professionals, showcasing the multifaceted nature of strength. Observing these diverse examples, I learned that navigating life demands a strategic mindset and the discipline to put off what I want today for what I want most.
In a world where happiness is fleeting, I learned true joy is a deliberate choice—one made by working diligently, making sacrifices, and steadfastly pursuing one’s vision. These fundamental principles, instilled by my support systems and echoed in the philosophies of my family, have become an unyielding shield guarding against the theft of my confidence and self-esteem.
My sense of self is fortified by the realization that these attributes are uniquely mine, impervious to the attempts of any external force or systemic pressure to strip them away. Through the wisdom of generations and the embodiment of powerful women, I’ve learned that preserving one’s essence requires a resolute commitment to personal principles, a dedication to hard work, and an unwavering focus on the enduring vision of a fulfilling life.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
LaVada English is an inspiring educator who firmly believes in humanity’s boundless potential. As the visionary founder and CEO of Bright Places, Inc., a prominent strategic coaching firm specializing in leadership development, equity, and inclusion, LaVada has been impactful in her career spanning over two decades. And she’s only just begun!
A certified “Intercultural Capacity” coach, LaVada has influenced decision-makers’ mindsets in the private, corporate, and government sectors. Hailing from the vibrant city of Philadelphia, PA, LaVada received her education at Arcadia University, where she obtained a BA in communication and journalism, complemented by an MBA in human resource management.
Beyond her professional endeavors, LaVada actively contributes to her community and holds esteemed positions, such as the president-elect of the National Association of Women’s Business Owners California. She is an alumna of the African American Board Leadership Institute and the Los Angeles African American Women’s Public Policy Institute (LAAAWPPI). LaVada’s exceptional accomplishments have earned her recognition as a nominee for the Los Angeles Business Journal Women’s Summit and a 2023 National Association of Women’s Business Owners California Business of the Year nominee, solidifying her status as a notable figure in her field.
Furthermore, LaVada’s creative spirit knows no bounds, as she recently debuted her children’s book, “Kyla Believes.” Through this enchanting tale, readers embark on a captivating journey into the vivid imagination of a young girl. LaVada’s work transcends conventional boundaries, showcasing her versatility as an influential author.
LaVada’s self-assurance surpasses traditional measures of success, rendering titles and accolades secondary. She confidently banishes any lingering feelings of impostor syndrome, embracing her authentic self. Her infectious enthusiasm infuses every aspect of her work, uplifting and inspiring all those fortunate enough to cross her path.
Above all else, LaVada treasures her role as a devoted mother to her three wonderful children, Lauryn, Leah, and Laila. She cherishes her deep friendships and proudly advocates for transformative change in the world. LaVada English is a beacon of passion, resilience, and dedication—an unwavering force shaping a brighter future for all.
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?
Most impactful for me have been Four things: Learn, Leap, Pivot, and Faith.
The paramount importance of a relentless commitment to learning cannot be overstated in pursuing success. While this notion may sound like a cliché, its intricacies run deep. Genuine learning demands an unparalleled mastery of the art of listening—an art that necessitates silencing one’s own preconceptions, tuning out internal biases, and embracing a genuine openness to diverse perspectives.
Learning, however, is not a solitary endeavor; it requires the audacity to leap into the unknown. To truly grow, one must be willing to take risks, engage with individuals whose experiences differ from one’s own, question the very foundations of perceived truths, actively participate in events, join organizations, take up roles as a board member or community advocate, generously share knowledge and talents with those in need, and traverse the realms of life with an insatiable curiosity. All of this must unfold within the framework of moral standards, ensuring kindness and equity guide each step.
Yet, none of these strides forward would be possible without the indispensable ability to pivot. The capacity to change direction when faced with challenges, to critically reassess one’s contributions to moral injustices, and to discern higher opportunities aligned with one’s purpose is paramount. Life is inherently about change, and stunted growth becomes the fate of those unwilling to embrace it.
Lastly, and most important, is my faith; as a Christian, I lean on my belief in a higher power. This world can be hard and mysterious. Prayer and hope are needed staples in my life; they sustain my family and me.
For me, learning, leaping, pivoting, and faith have broadened my horizons and served as an inexhaustible wellspring of growth. And undoubtedly, the journey promises even more revelations and opportunities for evolution.
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?
The book that impacts my life and my work is Caste, The Origins of Our Discontent, by Isabel Wilkerson.
In her work, “Caste,” Isabel Wilkerson unveils the intricate framework of the US hidden caste systems, identifying eight foundational pillars that transcend civilizations. Among these pillars are divine will, heredity, and the dehumanization of certain groups. Through astute analysis and compelling narratives, Wilkerson draws striking parallels between the caste systems of different societies, notably exploring the historical hierarchies of India and Nazi Germany alongside the United States.
Wilkerson’s narrative transcends the confines of mere historical documentation and is a powerful exposé on the intrinsic nature of caste dynamics. She adeptly emphasizes that the caste hierarchy is not merely an arena for feelings or moral judgments but a complex web of power dynamics. She asserts succinctly that caste delineates which groups hold power and which are marginalized. By delving into this nuanced exploration, readers are equipped with a profound understanding of the societal toll exacted by artificial divisions, compelling them to confront the inherent costs within a society marred by such stratification.
Contact Info:
- Website: brgplaces.com
- Instagram: @brgt_places
- Facebook: @brgtplaces
- Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/brgtplaces
- Twitter: @brgtplaces
