Meet Effua McGowan | Human Capital and Corporate Operations Strategist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Effua McGowan and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Effua, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
When I decided to launch my business, I was in search of independence and a space to personalize what I had learned from several years of traditional and corporate learning experiences. I also knew that I wanted the opportunity to contribute to my communities in a way that was culturally relevant and achievable, while being both self-paced and competitive. In a way, I wanted to show that we can chase our dreams at any age. There was never a sense of needing to validate, rather, it was more about becoming the person I knew I was meant to be. Share , learn and serve with generosity. I authored a book, “The ABC’s of Leadership” in 2020. I have a kids’ edition in English, Spanish and Swahili.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Amazing You, LLC has been in existence since 2016, after the transitioning of my beloved mother, the late Cecelia Dede Ajavon Thompson. Her passing reminded me that we have a responsibility to live our purpose. My organization is registered in the United States, Liberia and Tanzania and our focus is centered on developing the capacity of people and communities globally. We have partnerships with universities, colleges, schools, organizations, churches, community groups, etc. As a certified organizational development coach, I have also had the privilege of conducting individualized coaching sessions for executive leaders, board members, coaches and managers. I am an executive coach for Uongozi Institute based in Tanzania. This esteemed organization is an intellect think-tank whose primary focus is the development of executive leadership in Africa. The key to succeeding in the people development business is effective networking and piloting programs in diverse arenas. In doing these proof of concept initiatives, one learns better strategies in developing culturally-relevant content. It also allows for the development of growth-centered content. Amazing You, LLC is a fierce collaborator in progress. We have recently partnered to form Transformation Companions with two incredible leaders, to allow for our expansion into schools and communities. My story is one of resilience, growth and the ability to customize materials which transforms and produce the desired end result.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love water, it gives me a sense of peace and calm. I would start with visiting San Antonio Riverwalk and let my bestie experience the history and culture of Texas. We would then swing by Austin and select a small winery in the environs to toast to our friendship. Plus, nothing beats trying locally made wines made by small producers. We would then enjoy the bayou sounds of Houston, The music and nightlife of the most diverse city in the USA. With each stop, there would be plenty of reflection and laughter and possibly some girlie silliness.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
A “whole village” of family, friends, well-wishers, bosses, etc., have been pivotal in my growth, and affected me the opportunity for both experience and exposure to initiatives that challenged and stretched me personally and professionally. However, my “leaf of faith” and “JUMP” process was supported by my dear friend and transitional mentor/coach, Dr. Matteel Knowles, who coached me through the challenges and journey to take the “exciting and scary walk to endless possibilities.”

Website: www.amazingyoullc.com

Instagram: @amazingyou

Linkedin: @effuamcgowan

Facebook: effuamcgowan

Image Credits
Thanks to Kai Dunna, of FOTO54 Creatives., Houston, Texas.