Leadership from an African Centered Perspective

In American society, we have been taught to operate in and value a Eurocentric worldview. This perspective is reinforced in school, through social interactions, and in the workplace. It is so ingrained in our culture that, unless we are specifically educated or trained to think and operate differently, we unknowingly move in ways that may undermine us and limit the full engagement of our best selves in our work as leaders. This is especially true for Black women.

This session will introduce participants to the benefits of operating from an Afrocentric leadership perspective – using our authentic voices and focusing on Ubuntu, a South African concept that translates as “I am, because we are. And because we are, therefore, I am.” We will explore how to shift from centering traditional Eurocentric values towards a more inclusive worldview that celebrates the strengths of African-descended people and emphasizes community and connection.

Please join us for this THRIVVE workshop featuring social impact consultant and licensed master social worker (LMSW) Tracey Rollins Spann.

Who are we?

Tracey Rollins Spann is the founder of TRS Consulting Group, LLC, which guide non-profits and social enterprises to ensure they remain mission driven, culturally responsive, and impactful. Tracey is passionate about using her energy to influence and shepherd organizations to discover, develop, and amplify their potential to positively impact the world in which we live. Recognizing the uniqueness of every individual and organization, she guides leaders to take a deep dive into the complexities of their operations and culture to best identify the root causes of issues that may be limiting personal and/or organizational advancement and success. She provides a roadmap to highlight strengths and address challenges.

Tracey believes our connectedness to one another makes us who we are. Without one another, we would not be able to accomplish our goals. By combining the strength of Ubuntu, the knowledge provided by comprehensive and accurate data, well-developed operational systems, accountability, and thoughtful, focused decision-making, we can move mountains.

Asila Calhoun is a certified coach whose coaching business, Calhoun Coaching & Consulting, focuses on partnering with new leaders through executives from a variety of professional backgrounds who are ready for change. Asila facilitates this change during one-on-one and group coaching sessions with her clients and through her consulting services of delivering leadership training, team facilitation, and diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging coaching, consulting and training.

Asila has a direct yet supportive style that facilitates self-discovery and growth in her clients. Asila is recognized as a coach and facilitator who deeply listens to what her clients say – and do not say, inquiring about what she’s sensing while offering a different perspective.

Asila earned her Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from UC Berkeley, and she holds PHR and SHRM-CP HR certifications. She is an Associate Certified Coach (ACC), and a Certified Inclusion Coach (CIC). Asila is also a certified meditation teacher.

Joelle LaGuerre is a certified HR professional – a consultant and coach with a passion for positive psychology. A trainer and facilitator by trade, she is a dynamic presenter with an evident enthusiasm for both individual and organizational growth.

Through her company PRO-YOU, Joelle works with coaching clients to focus on self-awareness and exploration as the foundation for meaningful career and leadership development. An equally passionate consultant, she seeks to help organizations develop strategies that promote optimal individual and team performance.

Joelle earned her Bachelor’s degree in organizational psychology from Oakwood University as well as a graduate certificate in leadership development from George Washington University. She is a certified professional in talent development (CPTD) and she is a Associate Certified Coach (ACC).