We recently connected with Sharrell Lordeus and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Sharrell, thanks for joining us today. Was there an experience or lesson you learned at a previous job that’s benefited your career afterwards?

One of the most important lessons I learned in my professional career was that the speed and efficiency of a team are determined by the pace set by its leader. I realized that paying attention to details and recognizing the value of every role within a business directly contributes to its success. My pervious boss taught me nothing regarding treating others with kindness and respect. Because I witnessed what she lacked, It was like God placed me there to be better than her as a future boss. Showing appreciation for employees, no matter the size of their tasks, fosters a positive work environment. I also learned that sharpening emotional intelligence is essential to becoming a leader people respect and enjoy working for. It’s not just about delegations, it’s about being in the trenches alongside your team, working towards a shared vision.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I am the Founder and CEO of Pretty Girl Progression, a community dedicated to helping Black women grow, evolve, and support one another through resources, tools, and shared experiences. But before Pretty Girl Progression became what it is today, my journey started with a whisper from God.

Back in 2012, while visiting Dubai, I heard God tell me that I would be doing something impactful with women around the world. At the time, I was working as a server at the Cleveland Hotel, living paycheck to paycheck, and had no idea what that whisper meant. But I held onto it. Over the years, I started building, brick by brick.

My first step was launching an app, simply because I wanted to create a space where women around the world could connect. That venture lasted a year, it was a learning experience, and honestly, it got expensive. From there, I pivoted to hosting events, starting with intimate bonfires in my uncle backyard, bringing men and women together for cocktails and deep conversations. These gatherings planted the seed for what would later become Pretty Girl Progression.

I knew I needed to niche down and align my purpose with what God called me to do. So, I fasted, prayed, and gained clarity: Pretty Girl Progression would be a dedicated space for Black women. A hub for community, accountability, and self-growth. Our core value is simple but powerful: take ownership of your journey and know that you have a team of women ready to support you.

At my core, I am committed to fulfilling that calling. My mission is to help women recognize their best selves, not just through inspiration but through action. I want every woman who encounters Pretty Girl Progression to know that she is seen, supported, and capable of transformation.

Putting training and knowledge aside, what else do you think really matters in terms of succeeding in your field?

Aside from training and knowledge, I believe authenticity is the most important factor in succeeding in my field. When I show up authentically, I get to show my real, unfiltered self. It’s relatable, genuine, and true to who I am. Whether people love it or not, authenticity is something that can’t be taught or trained; it comes from within. In my work podcasting and building a community for women being authentic creates deeper connections, foster trust, and allows other to feel seen and valued. Most important when I show up authentically i find that i attract my tribe.

How’d you meet your business partner?

I don’t have a traditional business partner… my business partner is God. Because of my relationship with Jesus, I’ve been able to pray over my business in a way that aligns with God’s will for my life and purpose. When I first heard that whisper in Dubai, telling me I would work with women, I knew that level of trust and vision could only come from the Most High. Some may see it as corny or cliche, but for me, it’s the foundation of everything I do. Every decision, every step, and every opportunity within Pretty Girl Progression is guided by faith.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.prettygirlprogression.com
• Instagram: @sharrell._
• Facebook: Sharrell Lordeus
• Youtube: Pretty Girl Progression
• Other: Pretty Girl Progression or Sharrell Lordeus on all platforms.