LaVada English, MBA
CEO of Bright Places, Inc.
• Certified Goldman Sachs 10KSB Business• People Development Consultant and Coach, specializing in Inclusive Leadership Development and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging.
LaVada English, MBA, is the founder and CEO of Bright Places, Inc., specializing in leadership development and equity. With over two decades of experience, LaVada is a certified "Intercultural Capacity" coach impacting decision-makers across sectors. She holds a BA in communication and journalism and an MBA in human resource management. LaVada is also President Elect for NAWBO CA and a nominee for the Los Angeles Business Journal Women’s Summit. She is set to release her first children’s book, "Kyla Believes," and is known for her authenticity and dedication to empowering others.
Professional Experience
• CEO, Consultant, Coach at Bright Places, Inc.
— 2018 to Present
• President Elect at NAWBO CA
— 2020 to Present
• Talent Management, Enterprise Leader, Organizational Learning and Development at County of Santa Barbara
— 2016 to 2018
• Diversity Management, Talent Management, Talent Acquisition, Training and Career Development at Pepperdine University
— 2012 to 2015
• Womanpreneur, Consultant, Coach at LaVada English Consulting
— 2006 to 2012
Leadership Series Topics
• Building Self-Awareness: Unlocking Your Leadership Potential
• Leadership Fundamentals: Understanding Your Role and Responsibilities
• Developing Strengths: Enhancing Leadership Capabilities
• Nurturing Positive Relationships: Building Strong Connections
• Motivating and Inspiring: Activating Leadership Drive
• Mobilizing Team Members: Guiding and Empowering Your Team
• Effective Communication Strategies: Enhancing Leadership Influence
• Emotional Intelligence for Leaders: Cultivating Empathy and Understanding
• Conflict Resolution and Collaboration: Fostering Productive Team Dynamics
• Talent Excellence: Hiring and Retention for Sustainability
LaVada English is an inspiring educator and visionary leader dedicated to unlocking human potential and fostering equity and inclusion. As the founder and CEO of Bright Places, Inc., a prominent strategic coaching firm specializing in leadership development, LaVada has made significant strides in transforming mindsets and empowering individuals across various sectors.
With over two decades of experience in her field, LaVada's impact transcends boundaries. She holds a deep-seated belief in the power of intercultural understanding and serves as a certified "Intercultural Capacity" coach, influencing decision-makers within private, corporate, and government spheres.
Hailing from Philadelphia, PA, LaVada pursued her education at Arcadia University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication and journalism. She furthered her academic journey by obtaining an MBA in human resource management, equipping herself with the knowledge and skills to effect meaningful change in organizational dynamics.
LaVada's commitment to community engagement and leadership is evident in her multifaceted involvement. She is the President Elect for NAWBO CA, leveraging her expertise to foster entrepreneurial growth and empowerment. Additionally, LaVada is an esteemed alumna of the African American Board Leadership Institute and the Los Angeles African American Women’s Public Policy Institute (LAAAWPPI). Her dedication to excellence has earned her nominations, including recognition as a nominee for the Los Angeles Business Journal Women’s Summit.
In addition to her professional endeavors, LaVada is an avid writer and thought leader. Together with her team, she co-authors the Bright Places Blog, offering invaluable insights into effective leadership practices and fostering dialogue on critical issues. Her forthcoming children's book, "Kyla Believes," exemplifies her commitment to nurturing the potential of young minds and instilling a sense of limitless possibility.
Beyond her impressive list of accolades and certifications, LaVada embodies authenticity and resilience. She confronts the pervasive phenomenon of imposter syndrome head-on, embracing her worth and inspiring others to do the same. Her enthusiasm for her work is contagious, and she cherishes her roles as a devoted mother to Lauryn, Leah, and Laila, a loyal friend, and a tireless advocate for positive change.
Certifications:
• Dale Carnegie Communication Training Certification
• DDI Talent Acquisition Track
• Six Sigma (Yellow Belt)
• Civil Treatment in the Workplace, Certified Trainer, ELI
• Stay Interview Certified Trainer
• Gallup Certified
• IDI Intercultural Development Inventory
• Cornell University DEI Leadership Inventory
LaVada English's journey is characterized by a relentless pursuit of excellence, a commitment to inclusivity, and an unwavering belief in the transformative power of leadership. Through her work, she continues to inspire individuals and organizations to embrace diversity, cultivate talent, and create brighter futures for all.
LaVada English in Action
CCSWG Equal Pay Educational Briefing: DEI in the Workplace
Embracing Diversity & Inclusion for Lasting Change with LaVada English
Kyla Believes by LaVada English
Testimonials
"LaVada led an engaging team retreat for my division, she customized the program to meet our needs and provided us with a valuable tool to implement within our cultural landscape."
—DIVISION HEAD, PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COUNTY ORGANIZATION
"LaVada has single-handedly transformed the way I think about my people and our culture. I have yet to see anyone do what she does."
—CEO, NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION
"The knowledge I received working with LaVada and her team is important for the retention of staff and integral to our organization's brand appeal."
—MANAGER, GOVERNMENT ORGANIZATION
"After taking La Vada's Hiring Expertise course, my team was able to effectively execute a structured executive acquisition process, leading to successful placements in an efficient time frame."
—DIRECTOR, BEHAVIORAL WELLNESS AGENCY
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