Meet Tonya Bolden-Ball | Speaker, Life Coach, and Community Strategist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Tonya Bolden-Ball and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tonya, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?

One assumption people think is that professional speakers (Keynotes, Moderators, Emcees ,etc.) do not have to put much prep/cultivation time into their presentations and craft. That is so far from the truth. I have spent years cultivating my skill by way of education, certifications, and tons of research. Another assumption is that anyone can handle a microphone and motivate. Preparation and cultivation must be fueled by a passion for planting seeds of empowerment and hope.

Another assumption is that public speaking can solely be catapulted from education alone. This is definitely an untruth. Passion, faith, and perseverance are three constant companions who have been right by my side during this journey. Passion reminds me of my why. Faith allows me to see the why unfold, and perseverance continues to push me into unimaginable conversations and unprecedented opportunities.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.

I hold a Master of Science in Leadership from Grand Canyon University and a Bachelor of General Studies from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. In addition, I also earned a graduate life coaching certificate from Grand Canyon University and completed Cornell University and the University of South Florida Diversity and Inclusion certificate programs. I am also a certified John C. Maxwell Coach, Trainer, and Speaker.

I’m the owner of the TBB Collective and currently serve as the Regional Director of Diversity and Inclusion for Ochsner Lafayette General. Some of my awards and recognitions include the Louisiana Association of Educator’s Human and Civil Rights Trailblazer Honoree, Acadiana Lifestyle Magazine’s Women Making A Difference Honoree, the Daily Advertiser/705 Top 20 under 40 Leadership Award, National Association of University Women (Lafayette Branch) Tribute to Excellence Honoree and the Kiwanis Southwest Citizen of the Year.

My community and volunteer involvement span over 18 years in the Lafayette community. I serve as the mentor for the University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s Black Women Leadership Association and one of the mentors for the University of Louisiana at Lafayette Women’s Basketball Team. I currently serve on the Acadiana Boys and Girls Club Board of Directors and currently serve as the President of the Lafayette Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. I completed the Leadership Institute of Lafayette and the Leadership Louisiana leadership programs. Finally, this year will mark the 10th anniversary of my Love Thy Neighbor Holiday Care Package Supply Drive.

Accomplishing those mentioned above was not easy. However, I am grateful to God for always keeping me covered even during my most trying times. I have dealt with many microaggressions over the years, including being labeled as the “Angry Black Woman who is too confident.” One of the biggest lessons learned is one must possess a spirit of boldness and an unapologetic faith. Boldness and faith are needed, especially when opportunities aren’t visible. Another lesson I keep close to my heart is the importance of extending kindness and support. Nothing in life is guaranteed, but I rather have peace of mind by at least trying.

I want my brand and legacy to be known for how I have helped people become their best selves through my speaking, coaching, and consulting. In addition, becoming a mom at 18 has allowed me to learn some of life’s biggest lessons from life. These lessons have given me some of my most significant professional opportunities, including speaking at the 2019 Essence Festival, presenting at national conferences, and participating in national, state, and local leadership programs.

Life is a song that affords everyone the opportunity to dance, but we must be willing to step onto the dance floor.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?

Some of my favorite spots in my city include but are limited to, the Benoit Art Gallery, where one would engage in some great conversation with the owners as well as have the opportunity to check out some great art. My favorite bakery is Sweet Envie LLC, and their famous glazed beignets will make your heart smile. In addition, my city has some great restaurants and food trucks, such as the famous Laura’s and Veronica’s Café (located in the neighboring city) and one of my favorite food trucks, Southern Creole. Now, if shopping is on your mind and you are a fan of statement pieces like myself, The Attakapas Collective, and J. Elise Boutique, add them to your list! This definitely is not an exhaustive list.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?

The biggest shoutout goes to my support system: my family (husband, children, parents, sister, brother-in-law, and niece), my strong circle of sister-friends, family, sorority sisters, church family, and community. I also owe a huge thanks to Dr. Phebe Hayes, one of my biggest mentors during my undergrad journey at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. I was a single parent, but she was committed to providing consistent encouragement and support. She was instrumental in my considering attending graduate school. In addition, Dr. Hayes gave me my first and most significant speaking opportunity: being invited to serve as the commencement speaker at my college alma mater’s graduation. During this moment, I witnessed how much of a powerful tool the microphone was, and I could use it to transform lives.

My church was also instrumental in assisting me with discovering my passion for public speaking and leadership by providing me with numerous opportunities as a youth to do so. Learning in real-time and beyond textbooks is priceless.

Website: www.tonyabball.com

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Image Credits
Khaelyn Jackson