Women Who Lead Online Feature | Zoleka Sparks

Meet Zoleka Sparks

"I'd rather regret the risks that didn't work out than the chances I didn't take at all." -Simone Biles

Who or what has influenced you as a leader?

My father influenced me as a leader. I shadowed him from the age of 15 and became his assistant as he served as President of the Civic League in our area as well as a member of the NAACP until his passing.

What one book would you recommend to a young woman beginning her leadership journey? Why?

Lead from the Outside: How to Build Your Future and Make Real Change By Stacey Abrams

This book highlights how important? knowing your own passion is the key to your success, as she shares her experiences and exercises that can help young women hone their skills and realize your aspirations

In your opinion, what are three barriers or challenges women in leadership are still facing today?

Three challenges I feel women in leadership are still facing today are, unequal bias when it comes to men in leadership concerning pay and positions, staying mentally and physically healthy to take on a leadership role as a whole, and creating a viable network of business connections.

What is your "why"?

My Why is being able to empower women through giving of myself selflessly to assist others in achieving their goals. I believe as human beings we have a charge to consistently uplift and assist each other in every way possible. What we learn is not just to elevate us but to elevate others as well, and doing so keeps us grounded in who we are.

Please share your WORDS OF GRATITUDE for women who have come before you.?

Thank you for passing the torch and showing me what resilience and persistence look like and how much more powerful I can become by being consistent in applying them.?

Please share your WORDS OF WISDOM for those young women who will come behind you.

Loving yourself is the first major step to achieving success in your life and work life. Because loving yourself encompasses not just your physical being but who and what surrounds you. Create a support system that will not only encourage you but assist you as you climb your ladder of success.

About Zoleka Sparks

Zoleka Sparks is a Business Consultant & Strategist and is the CEO of Empowered Oasis Global LLC and the Boss Experience Worldwide LLC. She serves as Board President for Dress For Success Hampton Roads and Board president/Partner for Sisters Of The Circle Inc. Mrs. Sparks was born in Queens, New York but raised in Suffolk, Virginia.?

She earned an Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree in Small Business, a double major B.S. in Human Resources and Retail Administration, and an MBA in Public Administration holding eight certifications in various areas.

Community has always been dear to her and she has consistently volunteered with the unhoused, Blood banks, MS Association, and the Susan Komen Breast Cancer Association.

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