Today we’d like to introduce you to Reggie Davis.
Reggie, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I have always had a natural curiosity about people who are different than me, a willingness to engage, and a desire to understand. Additionally, I have also found myself being a bridge between people who are different in one way or another. In 2016, I started inviting people to participate in learning sessions I called Conversations for Change. The first session was a conversation about the Confederate flag.
The second session was centered around the deaths of Philando Castile, and Alton Sterling and the protest on the I-40 bridge. In 2019, a friend who attended the second session, and subsequently other sessions over the next three years, called me and asked if I would be willing to facilitate a conversation on DEI with the leadership team at his job. I told him that I don’t do this for a living.
He responded, “But you should.” Within a couple of months, another friend encouraged me to monetize my ability to guide people in courageous conversations and through differences.
Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Interestingly enough, the challenges in growing the business have not been as difficult as I imagined. Yes, there have been struggles but when you are doing what you feel that you are destined to do, struggles feel different.
With that said, our biggest struggle has been adjusting from a one-man show to developing a team of facilitators in less than 6 months. Within the process of growing a team are the challenges of replicating the authenticity, compassion, and desire to help people be their best selves that go beyond being a good speaker.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
UpLift Coaching & Consulting (UpLift) is dedicated to helping create a safe environment within organizations where every member is valued and feels valued.
We aim to support our clients in their journey towards winning by cultivating a culture that embraces diversity and fosters inclusion and belonging. By leveraging our expertise and tailored approach, we will help our clients drive innovation, enhance employee engagement, and achieve sustainable business growth.
Our services are DEI Assessment and Strategy Development, Personal and Professional Development, Coaching/Mentoring, and Policy and Program Development.
What sets us apart from other DEI companies is our approach to training for Personal and Professional Development through DEI focused framework that seeks to challenge participants without shame, blame, or condemnation. The content in our training is designed to create conversation directed by our facilitators in a trusting and compassionate manner.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
I enjoy self-care – a regular massage and pedicure to decompress.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.uplift-cc.com
- Instagram: @uplift_cc
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upliftcandc
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reggie-davis-013748187/
Image Credits
Mandie J
