Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Leah Forney. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Leah, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.

The biggest risk I’ve taken recently was creating and leading my very first event, the Courage Couture Gala. The inspiration actually came from watching a reality show about fundraising events in fashion, and God dropped it in my spirit that I could do something similar for my business and the work I do supporting survivors of color who have experienced sexual violence. I knew many survivors lacked community and safe spaces to connect, be seen, heard, and validated, so I felt called to create that space. Early on, the biggest fear I faced was financial. I kept asking myself, “Who’s going to pay for this?” I didn’t want to spend my own money, so figuring out sponsorships and support felt daunting. Beyond that, I had to ask myself if I was even capable of leading a team because, up until that point, I had always done things solo. One of the biggest obstacles I faced was building a team out of my friendship network and navigating the balance between friendship and business. I started with twelve people, but had to reduce the team to five who matched the energy, work ethic, and commitment I needed. That process taught me the value of delegation, repetition, clear expectations, and setting boundaries which are all essential leadership lessons I hadn’t fully embraced before. What surprised me most was learning to trust my team and rely on them to execute, which allowed me to focus on vision and strategy rather than control every detail. Although the gala was originally scheduled for October 2025, the government shutdown required us to pivot to April 2026, giving us extra time to elevate the experience. We expanded our reach to include all survivors of gender-based violence, as well as service providers, advocates, and allies. With almost 50 tickets sold so far, and a nearly sold-out event anticipated, I feel proud of what we’re building which is a courageous, empowering, and community-centered experience that honors survivors of color and proves that taking risks, trusting your team, and leading with intention can create something truly transformative.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I’m Leah M. Forney, also known as the Culture Doctor, a sexual assault survivor, advocate, and activist dedicated to supporting survivors of color and transforming the way communities and organizations approach sexual violence prevention, response, and recovery. My work is deeply rooted in my own lived experience as a survivor of color, which gives me a unique perspective on the barriers survivors face and the culturally responsive solutions they need to heal and thrive.

I provide education, training, and consulting for service providers, organizations, and communities focused on sexual violence, sexual health, and survivor support. I also create resources and experiences designed to empower survivors directly, including immersive events like the Courage Couture Gala, which builds community, celebrates resilience, and provides survivors of color and allies with safe spaces to connect and be seen.

What sets me apart is my ability to combine lived experience with professional expertise in culturally informed, trauma-sensitive approaches. I help organizations and communities rethink traditional models of support and advocacy, prioritizing equity, accessibility, and empowerment. I’m most proud of creating spaces and programs where survivors feel heard, validated, and supported, while also equipping organizations and professionals with tools to better serve marginalized communities.

For anyone connecting with my work, I want them to know that my mission is rooted in courage, action, and cultural relevance. I help people and organizations move beyond awareness to meaningful impact, ensuring survivors feel empowered to reclaim their voice, heal, and thrive.

Training and knowledge matter of course, but beyond that what do you think matters most in terms of succeeding in your field?

Other than training and knowledge, the most important factor for succeeding in my field is having a strong network or what I call relationship capital. You need people. Not just clients, but mentors, colleagues, peers, and individuals who can inspire you, refer opportunities, and help you grow. Building these connections is essential for advancing in your expertise and reaching the next level in your career. Don’t be afraid to connect with others, to network intentionally, or even to reach out to someone whose level of experience or success you aspire to and ask for mentorship. In this field, who you know and the relationships you cultivate can be just as critical as what you know.

Have you ever had to pivot?

I’ve had to pivot my business three times over the course of my eight years as an entrepreneur. I started out in 2017 as a first-time published author and became a book writing coach. While I made some money, it wasn’t fulfilling, so I pivoted to clarity coaching. Again, I found financial success but not the deeper satisfaction I was seeking. My next pivot was into public relations, where I focused on audience attraction, visibility, storytelling, podcasting, and media pitching. This brought both financial rewards and professional recognition, but it still didn’t feel like my true calling. Finally, in 2023, I felt God calling me to pivot fully into the sexual violence space, helping service providers better serve survivors, particularly survivors of color. This pivot has been transformative. it shifted me from a business-to-consumer model to business-to-business, opened doors for partnerships, expanded my client base, and allowed me to make a meaningful impact in the field. The lesson I’d share with others is simple: don’t be afraid to pivot. Each shift brought me closer to where I’m meant to show up and the work I’m truly passionate about.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.leahmforney.com
• Instagram: @leah_m_forney
• Facebook: @leahmforney
• Linkedin: @leahforney
• Youtube: @saavememovement