Denise Buchanan
Dr. Denise Buchanan is a globally recognized entrepreneur, educator, and human rights advocate dedicated to transforming individuals, communities, and systems. With dual Ph.D. degrees in Psychoneurology and Integrative Health, along with master’s degrees in Spiritual Psychology and Landscape Architecture, she operates at the intersection of healing, leadership, and regenerative design. Her work reflects a deep commitment to the principle that how we treat one another is inseparable from how we treat our environment, guiding initiatives that foster wellbeing, sustainability, and empowerment.
As Founder and CEO of Faith Has Feet™, Dr. Buchanan develops trauma-informed entrepreneurship, safeguarding, and skills-building programs that empower youth and underserved communities across the U.S., Africa, and the Caribbean. She is also the Founder of Sacred Garden Designs™, where she pioneers neurogardening and regenerative landscapes that promote emotional healing and community cohesion. Across these ventures, she excels at leading cross-functional teams, creating cultures of accountability and compassion, and leveraging technology to deliver accessible, impactful programs.
A certified Human Rights Consultant and co-founder of ECA: Ending Clergy Abuse, Dr. Buchanan advocates globally for child protection, survivor-centered policies, and institutional accountability. An award-winning international speaker and author, she has addressed audiences at the United Nations, Vatican, G20 forums, and global development summits. Across all her work, she is known for her compassionate leadership and her ability to cultivate safe, thriving, purpose-driven organizations where people and nature flourish together, making healing the foundation for leadership, innovation, and sustainable transformation.
• Protecting the Rights of the Child in Humanitarian Situations
• Sustainable Business Strategy
• University of Guelph
• Beurin University
• Greater Los Angeles African American Chamber- GLAAAC
• National Association of Minority Contractors
• ECA Ending Clergy Abuse
• Faith Has Feet
• The Brave Movement
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my life experiences. Each challenge and opportunity has shaped my perspective, strengthened my resilience, and guided me in making an impact through my work and leadership.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to follow your passion. No matter the challenges or circumstances around you, find a way to do what you love and let that drive your growth and success.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are joy, creativity, and balance. As a Zumba instructor, I bring energy and positivity to every class, and I carry that same enthusiasm into my personal passions for dancing, gardening, and traveling—activities that nourish my mind, body, and spirit.