Brandy Michelle Matthews is the founder of LeadHer Initiative, a leadership and service-based program designed to empower high school girls to become confident leaders, engaged community members, and future changemakers.

​

With a career dedicated to education, mentorship, leadership development, and community engagement, Brandy has spent decades working with young people across multiple age groups, from pre-kindergarten through high school. Her passion for helping students discover their strengths and reach their full potential has been the driving force behind much of her professional and volunteer work.

​

Throughout her career, Brandy has served in a variety of educational leadership roles. She has worked as an instructor, department director, program manager, and youth program leader, gaining extensive experience in both academic and personal development settings. She previously served as Director of Business Administration and Director of Early Childhood Education programs, where she provided leadership, curriculum oversight, student support, and faculty guidance while also teaching courses within both departments.

​

Brandy also served as Program Manager for a Continuing and Professional Education department at a university, where she oversaw educational programming and workforce development initiatives designed to support lifelong learning and career advancement. Her experience extends beyond higher education into youth enrichment programming, where she managed after-school programs and summer camps serving elementary-aged students, creating safe, engaging environments that promoted learning, leadership, and personal growth.

​

Brandy holds a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education and a Master of Business Administration (MBA), combining a strong foundation in education with leadership, management, and organizational development expertise. Her unique blend of educational and business experience allows her to create programs that are both impactful and sustainable while keeping the needs of young people at the center of the mission.

​

In addition to her professional experience, Brandy is a United States Army veteran and an active community leader committed to serving others. She currently serves as President of the Board of Directors for Her Haven, an organization dedicated to supporting young women aging out of foster care, and remains actively involved in community service and youth-focused initiatives throughout the region.

​

Beyond her professional roles, Brandy is committed to civic engagement and community service. She is a member of the Junior League of Columbus and the National Council of Negro Women, organizations dedicated to leadership, volunteerism, advocacy, and strengthening communities. These experiences continue to reinforce her belief that service, mentorship, and leadership can create lasting change for future generations.

​

LeadHer Initiative was born from Brandy's belief that every girl deserves access to positive mentorship, leadership opportunities, and experiences that help her discover her voice and build confidence. Through workshops, service projects, guest speakers, mentorship, and leadership development activities, LeadHer Initiative provides young women with opportunities to grow personally, serve their communities, and prepare for future success.

​

Brandy believes leadership is not defined by a title, but by character, service, integrity, and the willingness to positively impact others. Through LeadHer Initiative, her goal is to help young women recognize their value, embrace their potential, and develop the confidence to lead with purpose.