Meet Lakeya Cherry | CEO & Executive Leadership Coach and Consultant

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lakeya Cherry and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lakeya, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Risk-taking is scary but necessary. I avoided taking risks in many aspects of my life because I was afraid. I would imagine every possible thing that could go wrong, so to protect myself I would not bet on myself. Now, while scary, I understand how necessary these risks are and how important it is for me to bet on myself and take a chance regardless of what the outcome will be. It may take longer for me to take the risk, but I’d rather know than not know. Either way, I will grow.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I am an executive leadership coach and consultant. My mission is to build the internal capacity of leaders through daring leadership, clear visioning, and unwavering intentionality. I offer 1:1 and group coaching in addition to leadership development workshops and offsites. I am a Brene’ Brown Certified Dare to Lead facilitator, Google #IamRemarkable facilitator, and certified to offer EQ-i 2.0 and EQ 360 assessments.

I am most proud that I had the courage to start a business. As a nonprofit executive for over 8 years, I’ve seen the need for diverse executive coaches and felt called to help fill this gap. I am really excited to see how my business grows and support my clients to see their goals realized.

Starting a business and sustaining a business is not easy. It is a lot of work, but thus far, it has been incredibly rewarding and gratifying. I feel a sense of pride when I reflect on what it took to get to this point and what I have achieved in just one year. Some days I question what I am doing and whether luck happens to be on my side, but when the fear creeps in, I sit with the emotion, process it, and fact-check it before I let it consume me.

I’ve learned the importance of using myself as an instrument. By being vulnerable and bringing my whole self to my work, my clients ultimately benefit. This professional use of self is something not always talked about but important. While I am supporting others, I am well aware that I also am not perfect, nor do I have all of the answers. However, I can use what I know and my experiences to support and challenge my clients.

In addition, I’ve learned the importance of being a learner and asking for support. I am curious, open, and willing to learn. This desire to learn and grow helps me to continue working on refining and strengthening my skills and business. There are people in my corner who can and will support me. I just have to be willing to ask for support.

The main thing I want the world to know about my brand/story is that I am an authentic, empathetic leader who is passionate about and committed to supporting you to be the leader you envision. I am willing to meet you where you are at as your coach and thought partner. I will give you the support and accountability you need to succeed.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If you enjoy hanging outdoors, San Diego is the place to be.

If a friend was visiting, we’d spend time at some of the most scenic spots in the area e.g. LaJolla, Sunset Cliffs, Cabrillo National Monument, and Coronado.

We’d spend time eating and hanging out downtown, in Little Italy, as well as the various neighborhoods such as North Park and South Park.

If time allows, we may also go bike riding, hiking, and golfing.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to shoutout my squad (they know who they are). Thank you for seeing me and believing in me when I didn’t believe in myself. Thank you for reminding me of my worth and firmly encouraging me to step into the arena. I appreciate all of you.

Website: https://lakeyacherry.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lakeyacherry/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lakeya-cherry-llc

Twitter: https://twitter.com/lakeya_cherry

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lakeyacherryllc

Image Credits
Photographer: Studio Luniste