Today we’d like to introduce you to Lawanda Horton.

Hi Lawanda , can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?

I started my business in 2008. After experiencing heavy workplace discrimination in the nonprofit sector, I decided to venture off in my own empowering organizations run by people of color with strategy and fundraising support.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?

Entrepreneurship is not for the weak or inpatient. No one tells you that- that incredible business idea you have will cost you more than it brings to you in those early days. No one tells you that no one around you will see your vision and that you will doubt yourself most of the way there. If you want it more than you want anything you’ve ever wanted and if you’re willing to silence everything and everyone else- you’re halfway there.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?

My work is a trifecta of all of the things I’ve studied and am passionate about. My Associates is in political science- that informs much of my work around advocacy/lobbying/activism/ voter education and engagement. My Bachelors is in Theatre- and it taught me to be a jack of all trades. I use this to develop creative community programming and arts activism events. my Masters is in Nonprofit Management and that where all the the planning, strategy, writing, and project management theory and consulting comes in. I’m really grateful to have found a way to utilize all of the things I’ve learned in a way that makes sense.

Can you share something surprising about yourself?

Half of the people in my life have no idea who this paperwork lady is- they only know me as an artist, the other half have no idea who this artist person is and are shocked that I have some creative abilities. The whole thing is pretty humorous to me. You do know people can be multifaceted right? I think we have gotten so use to such a polarizing environment that we can’t imagine someone who isn’t just black and white. I was born and raised in New York- A technicolor dream coat! Lol!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Www.missionincdevelopment.com
• Instagram: @realmissioninc
• Facebook: Mission Business Development Inc