Influential Woman · Nonprofit
Elisha Weatherton
Founder & Executive Director, Lovie's Pearls
Houston, TX 77060
Her Story
About Elisha
Elisha Weatherton is the founder and executive director of Lovey’s Pearls, a Houston-based nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering teen moms through education, life-skills development, workforce preparation, and community support. She began the organization’s legal formation in 2012, with hands-on programming launching in 2019. Through Lovie’s Pearls, Weatherton provides workshops focused on financial literacy, parenting, healthy relationships, CPR training, self-care, and personal development, while also offering a scholarship program that has awarded more than $17,000 to support young mothers pursuing their goals. Before transitioning into nonprofit leadership, Weatherton spent a decade in the telecom wireless industry, gaining valuable experience in project coordination, operations, and business management. She now applies those skills to growing Lovie’s Pearls and creating meaningful opportunities for teen mothers to become self-sufficient and successful. The organization supports workforce development through career pathways such as CNA and medical assistant programs, while also working to expand resources and partnerships that strengthen families and communities. Weatherton attributes her success to faith, passion, perseverance, and the guidance of supportive mentors who encouraged her to think creatively and remain committed to her vision. She is an active member of the Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce and continues to serve her community through volunteer work at her church and participation in the choir. Guided by values of compassion, service, and empowerment, Weatherton believes that when young mothers are provided with the right resources and encouragement, they can build brighter futures for themselves, their children, and their communities.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Elisha
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my faith, passion, perseverance, and the support of the mentors and community members who have believed in my vision. I believe God gave me the vision for Lovie’s Pearls, and my purpose is rooted in helping young women recognize their potential and pursue their goals. I also credit my ability to remain flexible, creative, and resilient, especially during challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic when, advised by my mentor, I adapted our programming to a virtual format to continue serving our community.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have received is to remain creative, open to change, and committed to finding solutions. Mentors like Miko Thomas Tisdale encouraged me to think differently and helped me successfully transition Lovie’s Pearls to virtual programming during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Pamela Ogletree also provided a meaningful opportunity for me to share our program directly with teen moms, helping us expand our reach and strengthen our mission. These experiences showed me the importance of building relationships, embracing opportunities, and staying focused on the impact we want to create.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to women entering nonprofit work is to make sure they are truly passionate about the mission they are serving. This work requires dedication, resilience, and a genuine commitment to making a difference. Surround yourself with supportive people, build strong partnerships, remain adaptable, and keep the needs of the community at the center of everything you do. Passion, preparation, faith, and persistence are essential for creating lasting impact.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest challenges in nonprofit work is securing consistent funding and helping others understand the importance of the mission being served. At the same time, there are many opportunities to expand impact through stronger school partnerships, community collaborations, scholarship opportunities, workforce development programs, and initiatives like a citywide teen parent summit. By working together, we can create more resources and opportunities for young parents and their families.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me most are faith, compassion, service, empowerment, integrity, and personal responsibility. I am committed to helping young women understand that becoming a parent does not mean their dreams have to end—it can be part of a journey toward growth and success. I also value family, meaningful friendships, and serving others through my church and community. These values shape how I lead, support others, and continue pursuing the mission of Lovie’s Pearls.
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