Vanessa Sweet
Vanessa Sweet is the founder and Executive Director of the Breakthrough Leadership Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals from low- to moderate-income backgrounds through skill development, entrepreneurship support, and community engagement. Since establishing the foundation in 2016, Vanessa has guided initiatives that help entrepreneurs overcome barriers to success, including housing and access to basic necessities, while connecting them with employers to address staffing and training needs. Her leadership emphasizes collaboration with over 20 nonprofit partners and educational institutions, focusing on developing soft skills, leadership capabilities, and career readiness to cultivate untapped talent in the community.
Vanessa holds a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership from Asbury Theological Seminary and a Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Memphis, along with certifications in Community Receivership and Project Execution from Google. She leverages her extensive background in accounting, business administration, and community service to strengthen the foundation’s programs and strategic initiatives. Her expertise combines executive leadership, nonprofit management, and workforce development, allowing her to mentor emerging leaders and create sustainable, community-focused solutions.
Outside of her professional work, Vanessa is deeply committed to community service and personal enrichment. She approaches life with intentionality, balancing professional responsibilities with personal pursuits such as gardening, volunteering, and cultivating meaningful relationships. Vanessa attributes her success to lifelong learning, drawing lessons from both positive and challenging experiences, and fostering compassion and connection in all that she does. Her work reflects a dedication to leadership, community empowerment, and creating opportunities for growth, both professionally and personally.
• Community Receivership
• Project Execution: Running the Project
• Project Initiation: Starting a Successful Project
• Management & Leadership Certified
• Foundations of Project Management
• Asbury Theological Seminary - MSOL
• University of Memphis - MPA
• Bethel University - BBA
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to live within your capacity and take the time to celebrate even the small wins. I believe success comes not just from hard work, but also from finding joy in the process and recognizing your accomplishments along the way. Outside of work, I approach life with the same mindset finding balance, having fun, and embracing activities that bring me joy, which ultimately enriches both my personal and professional life.