Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to The Most Reverend Dr. A.louise Bonaparte. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, The Most Reverend Dr. A.Louise thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Do you think your parents have had a meaningful impact on you and your journey?
I was raised by my incredible mother and grandmother, both of whom played pivotal roles in shaping who I am today. Their unwavering commitment to education, entrepreneurship, and community has profoundly influenced my journey.
My grandmother, in particular, is a remarkable figure in my life. In the 1930s, she became a multimillionaire by owning several successful businesses at a time when such achievements were rare, especially for a Black woman. Her tenacity and vision laid the groundwork for our family legacy. I remember hearing stories of her navigating challenges, overcoming societal barriers, and building her businesses with grit and determination. These stories inspired me and instilled in me a belief that anything is possible with hard work and perseverance.
My mother, following in my grandmother’s footsteps, emphasized the importance of education and community involvement. She often organized programs that encouraged learning and personal development, ensuring we understood the value of lifting each other up. One specific memory that stands out for me is when she encouraged me to start a small community project. It not only honed my leadership skills but also deepened my understanding of the impact we can have on those around us.
Today, I am proud to serve as the CEO of our global family enterprise, which has thrived for nearly a century . The lessons I learned from both my mother and grandmother continue to guide me. Their legacy of resilience and entrepreneurship inspires me to lead with integrity and to prioritize the well-being of our employees and community.
Being a Black female in this position comes with its unique challenges, but my upbringing has equipped me with the confidence to navigate them. I strive to honor my grandmother’s and mother’s contributions by creating opportunities for others and advocating for diversity and equity in all aspects of our business.
In essence, the values instilled in me by my mother and grandmother form the foundation of my life and career. Their example of strength, leadership, and commitment to community is a constant reminder that we can break barriers and pave the way for future generations.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I am a 7th generation ordained minister and currently serve as a 2nd presiding bishop, serving under my mother’s tutelage Archbishop Dr. Eloisa Crawley-Bonaparte of the Temple of the Good Shepherd Ministries Worldwide, reaching 200 countries. My journey into ministry was deeply influenced by my family’s legacy of faith and service, which has instilled in me a profound sense of purpose and dedication.
In addition to my religious duties, I’m an entrepreneur and the CEO of Jabez Global Enterprise, a family-owned conglomerate with over 300 businesses across various sectors including lumber, oil, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, agriculture, fashion, and fast food franchises. Our operations span every continent, focusing on creating sustainable solutions and opportunities worldwide.
We offer a wide range of products and services designed to meet essential needs and improve quality of life. From high-quality healthcare and pharmaceuticals to sustainable agricultural practices and innovative fashion, our goal is to drive progress and foster well-being globally. What sets us apart is our commitment to ethical business practices and a holistic approach to problem-solving, integrating spiritual values into our enterprise.
I am most proud of the impact we’ve made through both our ministry and business ventures, especially in healthcare and education. Our work has been transformative for many communities. To our clients and followers, I emphasize our dedication to integrity, compassion, and excellence. We strive to uplift and empower individuals and communities, serving with innovation and a commitment to a better future for all.
I am also an accomplished author and am a retired surgical oncologist and scientific researcher.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
Throughout my journey as a Black female clergy, business owner, and medical doctor, resilience has been a cornerstone of my experience. One particular story stands out that truly illustrates this.
A few years ago, I was balancing the demands of being a Surgeon with my responsibilities as a Pastor and the CEO of a global enterprise . During that time, I faced significant challenges—both personally and professionally. I encountered skepticism from some who questioned my ability to juggle these roles effectively, particularly as a woman of color in fields that often lack representation.
One day, I received a call from a patient who was in crisis. She was a single mother struggling with a serious health issue and was feeling hopeless. I could hear the despair in her voice, and it struck a chord with me. I realized that her struggle was not just about her health; it was about the systemic barriers she faced as a Black woman in our community.
In that moment, I drew on my experiences as a clergy member. I offered her not just medical advice, but also emotional and spiritual support. I encouraged her to see the strength within herself, reminding her of the resilience we both shared as women of color navigating a world that often tries to undermine us.
After our conversation, I organized a community health workshop focused on empowering women and providing resources for mental and physical well-being. It was a small step, but it brought together women from various backgrounds, and we shared our stories, our struggles, and our triumphs.
This experience taught me that resilience isn’t just about enduring challenges; it’s about lifting others as you rise. It reinforced my commitment to serve my community holistically, blending my roles as a physician and a pastor. Through this journey, I learned that even when faced with adversity, we have the power to create spaces of healing and empowerment.
In the end, it’s not just my resilience that matters—it’s how I can inspire resilience in others, transforming challenges into opportunities for growth and connection.
Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?
In addition to training and knowledge, having faith and maintaining a lifestyle of prayer can be incredibly helpful for succeeding in my field. Faith provides a sense of purpose and resilience, allowing me to navigate challenges with a positive mindset. A lifestyle of prayer fosters inner peace and clarity, helping me stay grounded and focused on my goals. It can also cultivate a sense of community and support, as I connect with others who share similar values. This combination of faith and prayer enriches my journey, guiding my decisions and enhancing my ability to adapt and thrive in a constantly evolving landscape.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://revdralb.com
- Instagram: @dralb
- Facebook: @A Louise Bonaparte
- Linkedin: Rev. Dr. A. Louise Bonaparte M.D.
- Twitter: @DrALBonaparte
- Youtube: A.L.Bonaparte Ministries
- Other: https://TOTGSMW.ORG