Through my years of service in leadership of the Greater Raleigh Chapter for the National Association of Women Business Owners (or NAWBO), I learned first-hand how we live out our mission to “propel women entrepreneurs into economic, social and political spheres of power worldwide”, but it is by working alongside incredible women like Carletha Ward that I see how each female powerhouse can use her own shine as a lighthouse to spotlight others. Carletha lives and breathes the words of Susan Hager (one of NAWBO’s founders) when Susan said, “Get a seat at the table or build your own table, and make sure to include other women.” Whether it be as Founder and CEO of Legacy Life Coaching & Consulting, LLC, as an ordained minister, as an active citizen in her community or as a loving family member and friend, Carletha gives so generously. Her calming spirit continues the advocacy of folks like Susan Hager and Shirley Chisholm all the way through to NAWBO’s current CEO, Jen Earle, and we are all better for how the Holy Spirit works through Carletha’s spirit to empower each of us to evolve into greater joy and fulfillment. Plus, she shares my love of continual learning and growth, which helps make life carry more breadth and depth every single day. Enjoy this peek inside the mind and heart of this absolute rock star!

First Friday Female Founder Feature:

Carletha Ward

How would you describe the company you founded and its products?

When I started my company, my focus was to help women discover their purpose in life, to discover what they wanted and to help them develop a plan of execution to get there. However, as some time has passed, I have come to realize that there is a deeper need among women that has to be addressed.

There are seasons in life when our faith feels heavy, our hope feels distant, and healing feels out of reach. Many women silently carry the weight of divorce, broken relationships, domestic hardship, disappointment, and spiritual weariness—while still trying to appear strong for everyone else. That was the woman that I was, and, to some extent, I must still “coach” myself through. I lost my son in 2024 and experienced a journey toward wholeness that I am still working through.

But, to answer the question, today, I would describe my company as a ministry geared toward supporting women who are seeking to deepen their faith, navigate life's challenges, or simply grow closer to God.

Why did you start your company?

I started my company out of a desire to support women who are stymied in their lives, uncertain of their worth, who know that there is greatness within themselves, but who lacked support, direction and the self-esteem to forge ahead. I wanted to speak to women who have dealt with, or are dealing with, some of the same issues I experienced. I wanted them to know that their dreams are possible.

What has been the most rewarding part of your journey in founding this company?

There is something deeply fulfilling about walking alongside a woman who feels stuck, discouraged, or uncertain and watching her begin to see herself differently—to recognize her worth, rediscover her voice, trust God again, and believe that she still has a future.

About what are you most proud?

I'm proud that, after everything I've been through, I'm still standing, still growing, still serving, and still saying “Yes” to what God has for me.

Are you naturally organized, was it a skill you learned or is it something with which you regularly struggle, and what tips or tools do you use to stay your most organized?

I am not naturally organized when I think of the pure definition of the word. As a matter of fact, I would describe my situation as “organized chaos.” It’s one of those comedic examples of a messy desk, but I can always put my hands on what I need.

Who’s the one person who changed. your life and why?

From a personal perspective, the person who has had the most impact on my life is my mother, Bessie Jenkins. She was full of life and always believed in herself and in her dreams. She was not what we would call “well-educated,” but she had wit and determination. And I must mention the impact that my Pastor has had on my life. He is a true man of God, and it is through his preaching and teaching of the word of God that I have come to see that, despite many of life’s adversities (divorce; domestic violence), God’s plan for my life is still good.

What words of wisdom would you have for someone who is overwhelmed with staying organized and / or productive?

Contact Emily Parks.

Do you use technology to help stay productive or organized? If so, what’s your favorite program, app or tech tool?

I do use technology to help keep me on track in certain specific areas. To stay organized for school work (I’m currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry Degree) and for ministry and coaching, I use email folders, Dropbox and Canva.

How do you feel about work / life efficiency or integration in your life, including any tips or challenges for managing the personal and professional commitments in your life?

At this stage of my life, I think about work-life integration more than work-life balance. My work, ministry, coaching, and personal life are all connected to who I am and what I believe God has called me to do. That is rewarding but must be managed. My tip would be to establish priorities, create boundaries around your time, and be intentional about scheduling time for yourself.

About what causes are you most passionate?

I am most passionate about causes related to helping women rise and thrive in their lives. Dress for Success Triangle NC is one such organization.

What have you found to be the most effective way to relax after a long day or super long week?

My most effective way to relax is to just relax; put my feet up with a cup of coffee. At this stage of my life, I’ve learned to really appreciate having moments when I don’t have to be ‘on’ or have to accomplish anything.

What is your favorite author / book?

My favorite book is “The Dream Giver” by Bruce Wilkinson. This book is about how to believe in, and follow, what God has for your life. It was recommended to me years ago, and it has certainly impacted my life. I have given copies of this book to so many women who have likewise been impacted.

What is your favorite inspirational quote?

“This I know, God is for me.” (Psalm 56:9)

What is your go-to accessory?

My go-to accessory is earrings. It’s rare that I’m not wearing these.

What are the fundamentals of your beauty routine?

Clean skin, serums, moisturizer and eyeliner.

What is your favorite food?

My favorite food is authentic Italian.

What movie could you watch on endless loop?

“Baby Boom” starring Diane Keaton. Great depiction of the competitive world of corporate life, and it is sooooo funny. When I need a good laugh, this movie is one that brings it.

What is your favorite place that you have visited?

Israel is my favorite place; Jerusalem in particular.

Of the locally-owned and -operated establishments in the place you currently live, which are your top 3 favorites and why?

Daniel’s Casual Fine Dining – Great atmosphere and delicious food. Fabulous blue cheese and apple salad.

Marty’s BBQ – The best fried chicken.

The Beefmastor Inn – When you are in the mood for a great steak!

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

The superpower that I would choose is to be able to speak healing and wholeness, or life, into the lives of people who carry silent brokenness, guilt and shame as residue from some of life’s challenges. They smile and carry on, but the pain is real. (Been there, done that!)

What advice would you give your 21-year old self?

“Baby girl, there is so much life ahead of you. Follow your dreams. When challenges come, and they will, remember this: what feels like the end is only the beginning of something you cannot yet see. Be assured, God is for you.”

If you could have lunch with anyone (living or deceased), who would it be and why?

I would love to have lunch with Lisa Victoria Fields, an African American Christian apologist, who is the Founder of “Jude 3 Project.” She is a Millennial. (I’m a Boomer.) I appreciate the way she creates space for individuals to be honest about the questions, disappointments, and doubts they sometimes carry, while still loving God and remaining connected to their faith. I think we would have a meaningful conversation about living the Christian experience, even in the presence of shame, doubt, weak faith, and what it means to give women permission to be honest about where they are while yet encouraging them to keep growing in their relationship with God. Also, she could teach me so much about how to connect with her peers about how God wants to show up in their lives.

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