Chenadra Washington Of Black Orchids On How We Can Increase Women’s Engagement in Leadership and Management
An Interview With Vanessa Ogle
Continuous and tailored professional development: Professional development programs should be tailored to meet the specific needs of women leaders. From my personal experience, I found that I particularly needed support from a black woman in leadership who could provide mentorship and guidance tailored to my unique experiences and challenges. Organizations should invest in programs that offer tailored support and development opportunities for women leaders from diverse backgrounds.
Despite strides towards equality, women remain underrepresented in leadership and management roles across various sectors. In this series, we would like to discuss the barriers to female advancement in these areas and explore actionable strategies for change. We are talking with accomplished women leaders, executives, and pioneers who have navigated these challenges successfully, to hear their experiences, tactics, and advice to inspire and guide the next generation of women toward achieving their full potential in leadership and management roles. As part of this series, we had the pleasure of interviewing Chenadra Washington.
Chenadra Washington is known for her exceptional communication skills and captivating speaking style. Formerly a global financial services leader, Chenadra brings a rich understanding of leadership developed through both corporate career-building and entrepreneurship. Chenadra has held roles such as corporate brand ambassador, talk show co-host, and communications consultant. Her expertise has been recognized by major media publications, solidifying her status as a thought leader in communication and brand elevation. As the CEO and founder of Black Orchids PR, Chenadra has established herself at the forefront of the intersection between communication and professional development. Chenadra, a bestselling author and award-winning business leader, is dedicated to helping individuals and organizations unlock the power of their stories. She believes that your story matters and you must know how to tell it! Washington encourages mastering storytelling to boost visibility and influence. With her strategic guidance, she helps clients excel and leave a lasting impression in their industries.
Thank you so much for doing this with us! Before we dig in, our readers would like to get to know you a bit more. Can you tell us a bit about your “backstory”? What led you to this particular career path?
In 2020, while much of the world was adjusting to life in the pandemic, I found myself facing a different kind of battle — an internal one. It led me to question my purpose, my next steps, and ultimately, to confront the toxicity of the final years of my career in financial services. The icing on the cake was the discovery of being underpaid tens of thousands of dollars to a male colleague I managed. Amidst the uncertainty, I realized I had to make a choice. Was it harder to start something new, or to remain stuck, undervalued, and unfulfilled?
Throughout my corporate career, I often found myself as the only woman who looked like me in the room and lacked support systems. It was a difficult decision to leave behind a career I worked so hard to build, but I knew I had to prioritize my well-being and pursue a path that aligned with my values and aspirations. Despite the challenges, I made the brave choice to step away from what no longer served me and embark on a new journey. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of Black Orchids PR — a platform dedicated to helping women of color increase their visibility and profitability in their business/professional brands.
From its humble beginnings, Black Orchids PR has continued to grow and expand. This is largely driven by our commitment to amplifying voices, enhancing communication strategies, and empowering individuals and organizations to leave lasting and memorable impressions.
Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you began your career?
One of the most intriguing moments since I embarked on this career journey has been witnessing the emergence of a different and more defined version of myself. Despite my natural demeanor being quite reserved, I discovered an uninhibited side of me that freely emerges when I operate within my passion.
One memorable moment occurred during a particularly hectic event where I found myself fully immersed in the hustle and bustle of managing various tasks. In the heat of the hustle, a colleague approached me and remarked, “Your presence is incredibly calming.” Their words took me by surprise, as I had been completely focused on navigating through the whirlwind of responsibilities.
Reflecting on this encounter later, I realized the profound impact of authenticity and passion. It’s fascinating how operating within our true passions can not only enhance our effectiveness in business but also facilitate personal growth. This experience served as a poignant reminder of the power of authenticity and the transformative journey that unfolds when we operate from a place of genuine passion and purpose.
Can you share a pivotal moment in your career that significantly influenced your path to leadership?
One pivotal moment in my career that significantly shaped my path to leadership occurred when I found myself unexpectedly leading a large team at a relatively young age. As a natural leader, I had always approached leadership through nurturing and fostering excellence in my own work. Interestingly, my earlier leadership roles often arose through the recommendations of those around me, typically a manager who recognized my dedication and ability to master tasks efficiently.
I recall feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension when I was first entrusted with managing a large team. Despite my confidence in my abilities, I questioned whether I was truly prepared for such a responsibility at my age. However, I soon realized that my leadership style, rooted in a commitment to excellence and a genuine desire to support and empower others, transcended any concerns about titles or formal authority. Through this experience, I learned that true leadership isn’t about being “in charge” but rather about inspiring and guiding others towards success. It reinforced the notion that leadership is not defined by age or title, but by one’s ability to lead by example, foster collaboration, and empower others to put their best foot forward. This pivotal moment not only challenged me to step into a leadership role with confidence but also affirmed my belief in the power of leading with excellence (not perfection) and empathy.
None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are? Can you share a story about that?
Certainly, there are several individuals to whom I am deeply grateful for their contributions to my journey. Each of them played a unique role in fueling different aspects of my growth and development.
One person who has had a profound influence on me is the renowned spiritual teacher, Iyanla Vanzant. Her teachings opened a new window of awareness for me, guiding me towards a deeper understanding of myself and the world around me. Through her wisdom, I gained valuable insights that have shaped my perspective and guided me on my path to personal and internal growth.
Another individual who significantly impacted my journey is my first business coach. Witnessing an African American woman build a multi-million-dollar business was incredibly inspiring. Working closely with her gave me a front-row seat to her journey and it reshaped my mindset about abundance and what is possible. Her success will always be a powerful example of what can be achieved through hard work, determination, and resilience.
Lastly, I am eternally grateful for the example of resilience set by my grandfather. As I embarked on the journey of building my own business, I was filled with nerves and uncertainty. However, I drew strength from his unwavering determination and herculean strength in the face of adversity. His legacy shows that success is not determined by the absence of challenges but by our ability to persevere and push past discomfort.
Is there a particular book that made a significant impact on you? Can you share a story or explain why it resonated with you so much?
One book that made a significant impact on me is “Living a Beautiful Life” by Alexandra Stoddard. What resonated with me the most from this book is Stoddard’s emphasis on the concept of “15 minutes.” She illustrates how investing just 15 minutes here and there can have a profound impact on our lives.
Stoddard suggests simple yet transformative practices, such as waking up 15 minutes before everyone else in your home to savor some quiet solitude or staying up an extra 15 minutes at night to reflect and unwind. These seemingly small pockets of time, when used intentionally, can add up to major improvements in our well-being and quality of life.
This concept is important to me because it highlights the importance of mindfulness and intentionality in our daily routines. In a world that often feels chaotic and fast-paced, it’s easy to neglect our own needs and overlook the value of small moments. Stoddard’s advice essentially tells us to slow down, savor the present, and prioritize self-care in the busyness of life.
Do you have a favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Do you have a story about how that was relevant in your life or your work?
One of my favorite life lesson quotes comes from the late Kobe Bryant: “To sum up what mamba mentality is, it means to be able to constantly try to be the best version of yourself.” This quote resonates with me deeply because it’s a clear call to emphasize the importance of personal growth and self-improvement.
Throughout my life and career, I’ve always strived to embody this mentality of continuous self-improvement. Regardless of the title or role I find myself in, my ultimate goal remains the same: to become the best version of Chenadra. This focus on bettering myself has been a game changer for me and people are always amazed by commitment to this. I remember a time in my career when I was faced with managing a team and a process that I knew nothing about. It was a daunting challenge, and I felt completely out of my league. However, I recalled Kobe Bryant’s quote and it served as a source of inspiration and motivation. It was time to step in the zone and see the finish line before I even knew the next steps.
Despite my lack of experience in this particular area, I approached the task with determination and a willingness to learn. I sought guidance from colleagues, dove into research, and embraced every opportunity to acquire new knowledge and skills. While the journey was filled with ups and downs, I remained committed to the goal of becoming the best leader I could be. Looking back, I realized that it was this mindset of continuous growth and improvement that propelled me forward and helped me overcome obstacles that once seemed insurmountable.
How have you used your success to make the world a better place?
I believe that true success is not just about personal achievement but also about making a positive impact on the world around us. Throughout my journey, I’ve experienced both highs and lows, and I’ve learned valuable lessons along the way. These experiences have transformed me and shaped my perspective, and I’m passionate about sharing these insights to inspire and uplift others.
One of the key ways I’ve used my success to make the world a better place is through teaching and mentorship. By sharing my own journey, including the challenges and triumphs, I aim to provide guidance and encouragement to others, especially during times when the tides of life are high. Sometimes people need that extra push especially when they can’t see themselves out. Through support and wisdom, my goal is to help individuals keep moving forward and navigate through life’s obstacles with resilience and grace.
My success is meant to be a ripple effect, inspiring and empowering others to step into their own greatness. I am a lead by example kind of girl, demonstrating you have the power to define what success looks like for you. My hope is to encourage others to embrace their unique gifts and talents, and never to shy away from who they are meant to be.
Ok, thank you for that. Let’s now jump to the primary focus of our interview. According to this report, only about 31.7% of top executive positions across industries are held by women. This reflects great historical progress, but it also shows that more work still has to be done to empower women. In your opinion and experience what is currently holding back women from leadership and management?
In my opinion and experience, what’s currently holding women back from leadership and management roles, particularly women of color, is a lack of support from decision-makers and those who have the power to make a difference. Systemic biases and discrimination create intersecting challenges, exacerbating the barrier to leadership.
These biases often result in limited access to opportunities, mentorship, and sponsorship, hindering their ability to advance in their careers. Despite their readiness to take on leadership roles, women, especially those from underrepresented groups, encounter additional hurdles such as microaggressions, stereotype threat, and isolation. Without the necessary support and advocacy, many talented individuals are unable to fulfill their potential and contribute fully in leadership positions. Addressing these systemic barriers and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives are crucial steps toward creating more equitable opportunities for women in leadership and management roles.
This might be intuitive to you but I think it will be helpful to spell this out. Can you share a few reasons why more women should become leaders and managers?
Certainly, there are several compelling reasons why more women should become leaders and managers.
Firstly, from my own experience, I’ve observed a distinct difference in community building efforts among women compared to men. In my former career in financial services, where I managed a predominantly male team, and now transitioning to serving a client base consisting primarily of women, I’ve noticed that women tend to excel in fostering a sense of community within teams. This strong sense of community not only enhances team dynamics but also contributes to more effective communication and collaboration.
Secondly, women often demonstrate exceptional empathy. Empathy is a critical leadership trait that allows leaders to understand and connect with their team members on a deeper level. Women’s natural ability to empathize with others enables them to create inclusive environments where team members feel valued, heard, and supported.
Lastly, women are incredibly resourceful. In various professional settings, I’ve witnessed women navigate challenges with ingenuity and resilience, often finding innovative solutions to complex problems. This resourcefulness is a valuable asset in leadership and management roles, where adaptability and creative problem-solving are essential for driving growth and success.
Can you please share “5 Things We Need To Increase Women’s Engagement in Leadership and Management?”
1 . Create the opportunity: It’s crucial to provide women with genuine opportunities for leadership roles. I vividly remember a time when I was presented with an opportunity for a senior leadership position, only to have it taken away without any communication or explanation. The sudden disconnection left me feeling disheartened and undervalued. Organizations must ensure that opportunities are not just offered as options but are followed through with clear communication and support.
2 . Culture check: It’s essential to assess and cultivate a company culture that is conducive to women leaders. In my own experience, although I held a leadership role in an organization, I often felt like I wasn’t perceived as a leader in the eyes of others due to the prevailing culture. Leaders must examine their company culture to ensure that it fosters an environment where women feel valued, respected, and empowered in leadership roles.
3 . Continuous and tailored professional development: Professional development programs should be tailored to meet the specific needs of women leaders. From my personal experience, I found that I particularly needed support from a black woman in leadership who could provide mentorship and guidance tailored to my unique experiences and challenges. Organizations should invest in programs that offer tailored support and development opportunities for women leaders from diverse backgrounds.
4 . Be your own cheerleader: Women leaders must advocate for themselves and actively seek opportunities for growth and advancement. I recall a time when I felt like all I had was myself to rely on for support and encouragement. Women must take ownership of their career paths and actively promote their achievements and capabilities. By becoming their own cheerleaders, women can cultivate confidence and resilience.
5 . Add a pourer: It’s essential for women leaders to have mentors, sponsors, or “pourers” who can provide support, guidance, and mentorship. Having someone who believes in you and invests in your development can make a significant difference in your leadership journey. Whether it’s a formal mentorship program or a trusted colleague or advisor, having a pourer can offer support and perspective as women navigate the complexities of leadership. I personally invest in coaching, education, and mentorship and understand the transformative power it provides.
In your opinion, what systemic changes are needed to facilitate more equitable access for women to leadership roles?
In my opinion, several systemic changes are needed to facilitate more equitable access for women to leadership roles, especially considering the persistently low representation of women in such positions.
Firstly, there must be a concerted effort to address the systemic biases and barriers that hinder women’s advancement in leadership. This includes actively challenging stereotypes and discriminatory practices that perpetuate gender inequality in the workplace.
Secondly, organizations need to implement proactive measures to promote gender diversity and inclusion in leadership roles. This may involve setting targets or quotas for the representation of women in leadership positions and holding leaders accountable for achieving these goals.
There should be robust equity checks in place to ensure that women are not only provided with opportunities for leadership but also positioned to succeed in these roles. This includes addressing pay disparities, providing access to mentorship and sponsorship programs, and offering support for work-life balance.
Additionally, there needs to be accountability and enforceability mechanisms to ensure that organizations follow through on their commitments to gender diversity and inclusion. This may involve implementing policies and procedures to monitor progress, conducting regular reviews to assess the impact of diversity initiatives, and holding leaders accountable for creating inclusive environments.
What strategies have you found most effective in mentoring and supporting other women to pursue leadership positions?
Introspection plays a crucial role in helping women understand their strengths, weaknesses, and aspirations. By encouraging self-reflection and introspection, I help women identify their unique talents and capabilities, as well as any barriers or challenges they may face. This self-awareness is essential for building confidence and resilience in leadership roles.
Secondly, confidence building is key to empowering women to pursue leadership positions with conviction and assertiveness. Many women struggle with self-doubt and imposter syndrome, particularly in male-dominated industries or environments. Through coaching and mentorship, I work with women to cultivate confidence in their abilities, challenge limiting beliefs, and overcome self-doubt.
Additionally, I emphasize the importance of keeping track of one’s wins and accomplishments. Women often downplay their achievements or fail to recognize their own value and contributions. By helping women acknowledge and celebrate their successes, I empower them to leverage their strengths and achievements to pursue new opportunities and advance in their careers. This involves teaching women how to effectively communicate their accomplishments and position themselves for growth and advancement.
How would you advise a woman leader about how to navigate the challenges of being a woman in a leadership role within a male-dominated industry?
As a woman who spent 13 years in financial services, I understand the challenges of being in a male-dominated industry. Here are some pieces of advice I would offer to a woman leader navigating these challenges:
- Develop and strengthen your voice: It’s essential for women leaders to assert themselves and make their voices heard. This involves speaking up confidently, sharing your ideas and perspectives, and advocating for yourself and your team.
- Cultivate resilience and perseverance: Recognize that progress may be gradual and that setbacks are not indicative of failure but opportunities for growth and learning. Stay focused on your goals, and don’t be afraid to adapt and pivot as needed to navigate obstacles and seize opportunities.
- Embrace your uniqueness and authenticity: Your unique perspective, experiences, and strengths can be powerful assets. Don’t feel pressured to conform to traditional leadership stereotypes or norms.
- Find and connect with allies: Building a support network of allies, both within and outside the organization, can be huge for navigating the challenges of being a woman leader in a male-dominated industry.
How do you balance the demand for authoritative leadership with the stereotypical expectations of female behavior in professional settings?
Balancing the demand for authoritative leadership with stereotypical expectations of female behavior in professional settings can be challenging, but it’s essential to stay true to oneself and one’s leadership style. As a natural nurturer, I chose to put aside stereotypes and embrace my authentic leadership style. While I prioritized building a sense of community and fostering collaboration within my team, I also recognized the importance of assertiveness and making tough decisions when necessary.
It’s not about conforming to everyone else’s depiction of what a leader should be or adhering to a specific style of leadership deemed as “best.” Instead, it’s about embracing unique strengths and qualities as a leader. When I started my own business, I took a deep dive into my favorite aspects of my leadership style and maximized them to create a leadership approach that felt genuine and effective.
You are a person of great influence. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good for the greatest number of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger.
If I could inspire a movement, it would be centered around the idea of letting your light shine without dimming anyone else’s. Too often, people feel pressured to compete or compare themselves to others, leading to a culture of comparison and scarcity.
Instead, this movement would promote a mindset of abundance, collaboration, and celebration of diversity. It would encourage individuals to recognize that there is enough space for everyone to shine brightly and that by supporting each other, we can collectively illuminate the world in beautiful, colorful, and diverse ways.
How can our readers further follow your work online?
Please feel free to stay connected with insights, events, and information using the following channels:
Website: www.blackorchidspr.com
Social Media:
Facebook: Black Orchids PR
LinkedIn: Chenadra Washington
Thank you for these fantastic insights. We greatly appreciate the time you spent on this.
About The Interviewer: Vanessa Ogle is a mom, entrepreneur, inventor, writer, and singer/songwriter. Vanessa’s talent in building world-class leadership teams focused on diversity, a culture of service, and innovation through inclusion allowed her to be one of the most acclaimed Latina CEO’s in the last 30 years. She collaborated with the world’s leading technology and content companies such as Netflix, Amazon, HBO, and Broadcom to bring innovative solutions to travelers and hotels around the world. Vanessa is the lead inventor on 120+ U.S. Patents. Accolades include: FAST 100, Entrepreneur 360 Best Companies, Inc. 500 and then another six times on the Inc. 5000. Vanessa was personally honored with Inc. 100 Female Founder’s Award, Ernst and Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year Award, and Enterprising Women of the Year among others. Vanessa now spends her time sharing stories to inspire and give hope through articles, speaking engagements and music. In her spare time she writes and plays music in the Amazon best selling new band HigherHill, teaches surfing clinics, trains dogs, and cheers on her children.
Please connect with Vanessa here on linkedin and subscribe to her newsletter Unplugged as well as follow her on Substack, Instagram, Facebook, and X and of course on her website VanessaOgle.
Chenadra Washington Of Black Orchids On How We Can Increase Women’s Engagement in Leadership and… was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.