We recently connected with Javonia Smith and have shared our conversation below.

Javonia, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. If you had a defining moment that you feel really changed the trajectory of your career, we’d love to hear the story and details.

Since I can remember I have had experiences that shaped my personal and professional identity, values, and approach to helping others and this work. From moments of personal interrogation and reflection to breakthroughs with clients to the realization of the impact of what I do. Specifically my decade of direct service work with unhoused, disenfranchised, system impacted and aged-out foster care youth defined my passion and elevated my purpose. Becoming trauma-informed and learning the value of and how to cultivate brave and safe spaces was integral to how I do my work.

Javonia, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Founded in 2018, ReForum Consulting has emerged as lead facilitators and consultants, supporting corporations and communities seeking to reform their organizational culture and climate through curated conversations in various forums. ReForum’s mission is to support individuals, teams, and communities in developing their strengths, affirming differences, and cultivating a culture of emotional, physical, social, occupational, spiritual, intellectual, environmental, and financial wellness.

ReForum Consulting was conceptualized as a brave and safe space where change happens. In their personal and professional lives, the co-founders all witnessed a void of wellness and mental health support in their communities. Our suite of services covers topics like Mental Health and Wellness, Cultural Humility, Trauma, Diversity and Inclusion, and Team and Community Building. As a Black, women-led company, our team has successfully applied lived experiences to program development and execution, helping clients see themselves in the facilitators, see value in their emotions, and see a way forward for navigating life’s challenges as an informed and accountable global citizen.

Having worked with institutional and system-impacted individuals and groups and with various populations, we understand the importance of safe, open and accessible spaces, where conversations are engaging, educational, and culturally humble, and individuals are seen and heard. We are proud to have made the connection between intrinsic motivation and extrinsic productivity; and have curated an experience and platform that elevates it.

Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?

Aside from training and knowledge, developing a strong network and staying up-to-date with industry trends and advancements has greatly contributed to success in our business and field. We often tell the story of how we got started and we want to continue to elevate the value of social capital and relationships. Building relationships with colleagues, mentors, and industry leaders has provided valuable insights and opportunities. Additionally, we regularly seek out new information and skills through conferences, workshops, and online resources. Staying visible and present in the work has allowed us to stay collaborative, competitive and adaptable in a constantly evolving field.

Can you open up about how you managed the initial funding?

When we started our business in 2018, we had a vision and the skills but no money and no plan. Social capital was extremely valuable as the initial capital to start our business. Our relationships that we each cultivated both professionally and personally is how we started and how we continue to sustain our business – as we utilized our networks and relationships to obtain resources, information, and support. By tapping into our social connections, we were able to access what we needed to start ReForum – including branding and marketing support, brand merchandise, headshots and brand photos, website development, attendees at our first community workshops, business planning and so much more valuable support.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.reforumconsulting.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reforumconsulting/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/reforum-consulting/
• Other: linktr.ee/ReForumConsulting

Image Credits
https://www.peakaspectinc.com/