Today we’d like to introduce you to Priscilla Dames Blake.
It’s an honor to speak with you today. Why don’t you give us some details about you and your story. How did you get to where you are today?
Community activism is where my heart is. I began in Indiana and after college and moving to Florida, I continued. Dr. Barbara Shuler and Athalie Range appointed me to the Miami-Dade Black Affairs Advisory Board whose responsibility was to advise the mayor and county commissioners on behalf of the Black community. I went on to become Chairperson of that board. Simultaneously, the Anti-Defamation League invited me to become a trainer/consultant, sending me to racially tense situations throughout Florida. Diversity and conflict had become my topics of choice. Eventually I became a full-time trainer for Miami-Dade Public Schools while working on my doctorate in Conflict Analysis and Resolution.
I have been invited to be part of several national and international teams. My dream job was realized. I trained ex-militants in Kingian Transformational Non-Violence in the Nigerian Amnesty Program in Nigeria, Africa. What initially a two week job led to an eighteen month experience. Mayor Carlos Gimenez and the Miami Dade Commissioners named April 12th Priscilla Dames Blake Day in my honor.
After training and being a community activist for 45 years, I thought it time to try other things I enjoy. I’ve decided to write and speak more. This decision led to intentional transformation. I have been traveling and having more time for ‘silly fun.’ I presently have a book I co-authored with Kim Coles, Wisdom G.I.F.T.S. that has hit best seller status. Too, I have been invited to be the keynote speaker at an International Women’s Day event in Belize.
I’m sure your success has not come easily. What challenges have you had to overcome along the way?
When I began, decades ago, there were few credentialed competitors involved in conflict resolution. I believe my biggest challenge has been me. I tend to spread myself too thin with activities, especially since there is always so much advocacy work needed in the community. Too, self-doubt and not relying on my support system more often has caused roadblocks. After some research and a lot of ‘jacking myself up,’ I’ve learned during this transformation process to rely on coaches to help guide me through my goals. Having success with the initial goal of hosting an international summit propelled me to another level of mindset mastery. That, and the selection of the right coaches and support system helped me to have the right growth mindset. I began to focus on ME, improving rather than proving,
Let’s talk about the work you do. What do you specialize in and why should someone work with you over the competition?
My specialty is training in conflict resolution and Wingspan’s byline for many years has been strengthening relationships while creating a safe environment. With my years of experience being a strength, I am also from the world of academia. That created a belief in continuous learning and certifications on topics I present. During the past three years, as I moved closer to the age of seventy, I’ve added intentional transformation to my training. I am able to show that not only do I have experience, but I have as I like to say in each area I have transformed, I knocked the goal ‘out the park’. I not only reached the goal but was able to accomplish an additional benchmark in that same area. Those transformation goals were business, personal and health. The business goal was to host an international summit. The Wings on Women (WOW) Summit in Belize was a success with a delegation from Florida and me being on the number one morning show prior to the summit. I have taken control of my personal life by adding a self-care time block every morning and more enjoyment with activities that enhance my life. This leads me to my health, which is the most important. It’s not just the weight lost, but the overall healthier habits. I realize I’m a better me and can share my learnings even more passionately because I’ve been on this journey,
What’s your best piece of advice for readers who desire to find success in their life?
Focus as you’re being intentional with your plans and time. Also, incorporate self-care daily in all that you do.
Speaking of success, what does the word mean to you?
Letting go to laugh more. If I’m including having ‘silly fun’ while I work my business, I am good.
What’s next for you?
As I have turned 70 now, I’ve moved on to maintenance and accountability, the next level in my own transformation.
On a personal note, during this journey, I’m spending more time with my mother and adult children and siblings all of which live out of state. AND making sure I have more fun with my husband. As far as business, I’ve already taken strides in tying in my audiences to intentionality. As you become more focused on your purpose and time, you are happier and more content. Two things in my plans as I continue forward with business:
- Talking to senior women more often to let them know our lives are not over. Pivot! Transform! Being intentional can lead their lives into a whole new realm of health, exploration and adventure.
- Look for my next book about my intentional transformation to be released this summer, Then writing for enjoyment about the things I love, like my artifacts.
Finally, how can people connect with you if they want to learn more?
My website is the best place if the readers would like to know more or contact me. It is www.wingspanseminars.net
Social media:
https://www.facebook.com/priscilla.dames
https://www.linkedin.com/in/priscilladamesblake
https://www.instagram.com/priscilladamesblake