Kayla Crawford

I attribute my success first and foremost to God and Jesus Christ, whose guidance, grace, and faithfulness have sustained me through every season of growth, uncertainty, and perseverance. My faith is the foundation that grounds my purpose, shapes my values, and reminds me that this work is bigger than myself.

I am deeply grateful for my husband, Courtland Crawford, whose unwavering support, belief in me, and partnership have made it possible for me to pursue both my calling and my career. Our children, Ruari and Juniper, are my daily motivation and the reason I strive to build something meaningful, sustainable, and rooted in balance and integrity.

I also owe much of my success to my mother, Kimberly Kocian, and my sister, Emily Jackson, whose encouragement, strength, and constant presence have been a source of stability and inspiration throughout my journey.

Lastly, I am incredibly thankful for my mentors, Edith Johnston and Effua McGowan, who have poured wisdom, guidance, and perspective into my growth as a leader. Their mentorship has challenged me to think bigger, lead with intention, and remain grounded in service.

Together, this community of faith, family, and mentorship has shaped not only my success but the person and leader I continue to become.

The most meaningful career advice I’ve received came through the combined wisdom of my mentors, Effua McGowan and Edith Johnston. Effua has consistently emphasized the importance of inclusion, reminding me that every person brings value, even if that value is not immediately obvious. Her guidance taught me to look beyond traditional roles and titles and instead focus on discovering how individuals uniquely contribute to a greater whole.

Edith has inspired me to think beyond limitations and conventional paths. She encourages creative problem-solving and the belief that when we feel stuck or uncertain, there is always a way forward. If the path to success is not visible, then it is our responsibility to create it. Through her example, I’ve learned that success is not defined by winning a single moment, but by enduring over time.

Together, their advice has reshaped how I define success. It is not about strength alone, but about endurance, belief, and perseverance. True success is not winning the battle; it is winning the long journey, staying committed to purpose even when the path requires patience, resilience, and faith.

The advice I would give to young women entering this industry is to do what feels right in your heart. When your intentions are grounded in integrity and purpose, you are already on the right path. Success does not come from perfection, but from sincerity and a willingness to grow.

Stay humble and remember that no achievement is accomplished alone. Share credit freely, learn from those around you, and lift others as you rise. Leadership is not about standing above others; it is about standing alongside them.

Most importantly, do not fall into the trap of comparison. Never compete with others, only compete with yourself. If you wake up each day a little wiser, more confident, and more grounded than the day before, then you are winning. Progress, not pressure, is what creates lasting success.

One of the biggest challenges in this field is visibility. At times, it can feel incredibly difficult to find clients, not because your work lacks value, but because the right people simply don’t know that you exist yet. In a crowded and evolving market, talent alone is not enough, connection and presence matter just as much.

That challenge also presents a powerful opportunity. Success requires doing your own research, taking initiative, and showing up consistently. It means being willing to dig, learn, and put yourself in rooms where relationships are built. Networking is not optional, it is essential.

When you commit to that process and stay aligned with your purpose, the right clients do find you. And when you finally connect with your dream clients, they don’t just appreciate your work, they value the relationship, trust the partnership, and are grateful that you showed up when you did.

The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are honesty, encouragement, and strong faith. Honesty builds trust, and trust is the foundation of every meaningful relationship. I believe deeply in encouraging others and inspiring people to see what is possible, especially during seasons of growth or uncertainty.

Building genuine relationships and fostering teamwork are equally essential to how I lead and serve. No success is achieved alone, and I strive to create environments where collaboration, respect, and shared purpose thrive.

I also place great importance on finding passion in everything you do, even in the tasks or seasons that may feel challenging or less exciting. When approached with positivity and intention, every experience has the potential to teach, strengthen, and refine us.

Above all, my faith grounds these values and guides my decisions. It reminds me to lead with humility, compassion, and gratitude, and to remain focused on purpose rather than pressure.