Creating Your Supporting Village Beyond Motherhood

Hi Friend,

How are you doing? Last Thursday, I attended two mentorship events. While I played the mentor role, I also met with two of my mentors and a sponsor. The mentor conversations were about guidance for my next steps, pointing me in a few directions I could explore, while the sponsor conversation was more like, "Let’s get you set up to speak at our association event when your book comes out." That got me thinking about the power of having a supporting village—not just for motherhood, but for life.

We often hear about the importance of a village for mothers, but what about the village you need before motherhood? Your personal supporting village — beyond motherhood — is made up of people who provide insightful advice, emotional support, and actively advocate for your personal and professional growth. As I worked toward my vision of success—and as I continue to pursue new goals today—I realized how intentionally surrounding myself with the right people was and has been critical to my personal transformation. The group of trusted people in my supporting village helped me become the Wall Street Vice President I was years ago, and they continue to support me today as I transition into my role as an aspiring book author.

Mentors provide guidance and advice, while sponsors take it a step further—they actively advocate for you and create opportunities for your career growth. Both were crucial parts of my supporting village then, and they remain vital in my journey now. A supporting village is essential for achieving your vision for yourself in the years to come.

So, how do you build your supporting village? In my upcoming book launching this Fall, I introduce the "Supporting Village Vision Board"— an approach for intentionally connecting with people who will inspire you, guide you, empower you, and support you - a mentor, a sponsor, a connector and the list goes on.

Take a moment to reflect: Do you have mentors and sponsors in your life? Do you intentionally connect with a group of trusted people you can rely on for insightful guidance and emotional support, personally and professionally? Do you have those who will advocate for you and assist you with ascending in your career? In my book, I dive deeper into this layered support system that has helped me thrive throughout my journey.

I hope that by sharing my story, I can inspire you to create your own Supporting Village Vision Board.

Let's continue growing together! Let's create your supporting village together. And, stay tuned for the upcoming book launch date.

Feel free to connect via my website, Instagram, or LinkedIn.

With love,
Ladyane