LaVada English, MBA

LaVada English is a passionate educator with a sincere belief in the potential of humankind. She is the founder and CEO of Bright Places, Inc., a strategic coaching firm focused on leadership development and equity and inclusion.

LaVada has worked in this field for over two decades, and she’s just getting started! As a certified “Intercultural Capacity” coach, LaVada has impacted the mindsets of decision-makers within private, corporate, and government sectors.

Born and raised in Philadelphia, PA, she was educated at Arcadia University in Pennsylvania and holds a BA in communication and journalism and an MBA in human resource management.

LaVada is the president for the National Association of Business Owners of Ventura County, Ca., She is an alumnus of the African American Board Leadership Institute and the Los Angeles African American Women’s Public Policy Institute (LAAAWPPI.) She is also a Los Angeles Business Journal Women’s Summit nominee, participates in additional community initiatives, and has received recognition for her contributions.

LaVada and her team co-author the Bright Places Blog, featuring valuable leadership advice, and she is set to release her first children’s book Kyla Believes, a journey into the limitless potential of a child. Even without mentioning education, titles, or accolades, LaVada knows she is enough and kicks “IMPOSTER SYNDROME” to the curb! She brings a contagious enthusiasm to her work and most values her position as a mom to Lauryn, Leah, and Laila, a friend to many, and an advocate for change in the world.