Today we’d like to introduce you to Lakeisha Edwards.
Hi, Lakeisha; having you on the platform is an honor. Thanks for sharing your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
It all began in Covington, Tennessee, where my parents, Autry and Diane Edwards, raised me. I’m a proud graduate of Covington High School’s Class of 1997 and later pursued higher education at the University of Memphis. I graduated in 2002 with a degree in Social Work and Psychology. I furthered my leadership skills by graduating from Leadership Memphis in 2018.
My professional path started at Shelby County Child Support Services, where I was deeply involved in community service. This role was my first step into public service, allowing me to make a tangible impact on families’ lives. I then expanded my experience to Davidson County Child Support Services, eventually returning to Shelby County to serve as Operations Manager. This thirteen-year tenure was incredibly formative, teaching me the intricacies of organizational management and the importance of community-focused service. Seeking to deepen my impact, I transitioned to the Mid-South Food Bank as the Director of Agency Partnerships and Programs. For five years, I dedicated myself to fighting food insecurity across a tri-state area, which was both challenging and profoundly rewarding. Throughout my career, I’ve been actively involved in various community initiatives, including the Shelby County Mayor’s Young Professional Council, the founding board of Leadership Preparatory Charter School, and the Fund Development Coordinator for the Junior League of Memphis. Each of these roles has allowed me to contribute meaningfully to community development.
In 2021, my journey took a creative turn when I became the Executive Director of Art Ventures, a nonprofit art gallery in Fayetteville, Arkansas. There, my focus shifted to artist representation, art education, and fostering community collaboration. This role was particularly fulfilling, allowing me to support local artists and enrich our cultural ecosystem. It earned me recognition as one of the ‘Ones to Watch’ by Celebrate Arkansas Magazine in 2023 and the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette in 2022. Today, as the Executive Director of the UrbanArt Commission, I continue to leverage my background in social services, food security, and the arts to impact our communities significantly. It’s a role that is a culmination of my experiences, allowing me to drive cultural vibrancy and community engagement in Memphis and beyond. My journey has been continuous learning, growth, and an unwavering service commitment. Each step has prepared me for the next, and I’m excited to see where this path leads as I continue to work toward creating positive change in our communities.
It wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Reflecting on my journey, I wouldn’t say it’s been entirely smooth, but I’ve certainly had more favorable circumstances than many. A fact I largely attribute to my family’s unwavering support and wisdom. My parents, especially, have been a constant source of invaluable advice that has steered me through my career and life. Their encouragement allowed me the luxury to pursue roles I was truly passionate about rather than positions merely serving as a paycheck. Knowing help was just a phone call away, this sense of security empowered me to make decisions that were true to my values and passions. However, my path has not been without its unique challenges. Being a black female leader in the nonprofit space comes with its own set of struggles. Navigating systemic barriers, breaking through stereotypes, and sometimes working twice as hard to prove my worth have been part of my reality. Yet, these experiences have also taught me resilience, the importance of authenticity, and the value of lifting others as we climb. The most complex challenge I’ve faced was deeply personal – dealing with the profound grief of losing my father. He was more than just a parent to me; he was my ‘person,’ my go-to for advice and support. Our bond was extraordinary, and his passing left a void that’s been challenging to navigate. I consider myself fortunate to have had such a wonderful father for 40 years, and my mother had him as a devoted husband for 44 years. Losing him was a stark reminder of the preciousness of time and the importance of cherishing our loved ones. It’s a lesson that has profoundly influenced my personal and professional life, teaching me resilience, gratitude, and strength in our closest relationships. So, while my professional road may have been smoother than most, the personal journey of dealing with loss and the challenges of being a black female leader has shaped me into the person and leader I am today.
Thanks. So, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in a collaborative style of leadership, which is the cornerstone of any successful organization. This approach fosters a culture of trust and respect and empowers team members to bring their best selves to the table, driving innovation and productivity. I’m known for my ability to lead effective teams through periods of significant change. Navigating the complexities of change management requires a delicate balance of strategic planning, clear communication, and empathy – qualities I prioritize in my leadership practice. Moreover, my work in creating sustainable partnerships stands out as a testament to my belief in the power of collaboration beyond organizational boundaries. These partnerships have not only amplified the impact of our projects but have also created a more interconnected and supportive nonprofit ecosystem.
What sets me apart is my holistic approach to leadership and management. I don’t just focus on the ”what” of our work but also profoundly engage with the ”how” and ”why.” This perspective ensures that we’re achieving our immediate objectives and contributing to a larger vision of community development and empowerment. I am most proud of my courage to redefine my career path, embracing the arts as a powerful medium for community engagement and social change. Finding my niche in art allowed me to blend my passion for social advocacy with my love for artistic expression, leading to impactful work that resonates deeply within our communities. This pivot has been a testament to my resilience and commitment to following my passion and a fulfilling career that truly makes a difference.
This achievement of successfully transitioning and finding a sustainable, impactful niche in the arts, against initial advice, showcases my dedication to my values and the innovative approach I bring to the nonprofit sector. It’s a powerful reminder of the importance of following one’s passion, the value of adaptability, and the impact of arts in driving social change—principles that I hold dear and have guided my most meaningful work.
What matters most to you? Why?
At the core of my personal and professional life, what matters most to me is my commitment to improving the quality of life for others. This guiding principle is not just a reflection of my professional ethos but is deeply rooted in the values instilled in me by my family. My parents and extended family have been exemplary models of generosity and nurturing, constantly extending their support and care to those around them. Their influence has been a guiding light, shaping me into who I am today.
Making my family proud is equally important to me. They are genuinely good people who have always prioritized the well-being of others, and I see my achievements as a reflection of their love, sacrifice, and the values they’ve imparted. I am continuing this tradition of giving back and fostering community well-being, an essential part of my father’s legacy. It’s a legacy that speaks to the power of compassion and the impact one can make through selfless service. In essence, what matters most to me is living a life that not only seeks to elevate the quality of life for others but also pays homage to the remarkable examples set by my family. It’s about being a testament to their influence, continuing the legacy of giving, and ensuring that their virtues of compassion and support are carried forward. This dual focus on community impact and making my family proud drives my actions and decisions, fueling my passion for my work and the life I lead.
Pricing:
- $25 donation to be a “Public Art Collector”
Contact Info:
- Website: www.uacmem.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lakeisharedwards/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100020495437833
- Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/lakeisha-edwards-554026a5
