Embracing Change, Resilience, and Legacy with Melva LaJoy LeGrand

Badass Women in Business

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In this episode, Melva LaJoy LeGrand, founder of LaJoy Plans, shares her deeply personal story of resilience, legacy, and self-discovery. Melva opens up about her journey from academia to event planning, her challenges with self-identity, and the profound impact of her parents on her life’s path. She dives into her commitment to advocating for women of color in business, the empowering role of mentorship, and her inspiring message to live authentically. Melva’s reflections encourage us to value the power of our personal stories and to push beyond the traditional boundaries set by society.

Show Notes

• Introduction: Melva LaJoy LeGrand, founder of LaJoy Plans, discusses her journey of resilience, guided by love, joy, and the legacy of her parents.
• Path to LaJoy Plans: Starting from an academic career, Melva found her calling in storytelling and event planning, using her skills to connect people and create meaningful experiences.
• Personal Growth: She shares insights on navigating self-esteem issues, overcoming trauma, and embracing her unique identity as a Black woman.
• Business Resilience during COVID: Melva opens up about the loss of her business contracts during the pandemic, the period of grief that followed, and the eventual pivot that helped her rebuild.
• Advocacy for BIPOC Women: Melva’s work emphasizes equal access and the importance of mentoring women of color, aiming to bridge the wage gap and broaden the definition of excellence.
• Mondays with Melva: A video series Melva created as a love letter to herself and other women, focusing on topics like fear management, purpose, and self-growth.
• Future Vision: Melva envisions furthering her creative storytelling projects, advocating for social issues, and fostering community connections.

Connect with Melva:

• Website: LaJoy Plans
• LinkedIn: Melva LaJoy LeGrand
• Instagram: @belajoyful
• YouTube: LaJoy Plans on YouTube

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