The Fayetteville Observer's 40 Under 40 Class of 2023: Meet Labecca Lesane
Labecca Lesane, 39, of Lumberton, is the CEO, owner and founder of Leaders and Achievers NC.
She was nominated for 40 Under 40 because she "is the current Mrs. Lumberton Plus America 2023 (Editor's note: She went on to win and is now Mrs. North Carolina Plus America) with a platform entitled, 'Disability Awareness — Changing Perspectives,'" a nominator writes. "She traveled to Tanglewood Elementary School to read books to the Exceptional Children classes, fed the homeless and distributed clothing to the homeless with The Real Life Church of North Carolina, distributed stuffed bears to residents at HarborView Nursing Facility, and traveled to Lumberton Senior High School to speak with students with special needs. At Lumberton Senior High School, she provided information on self-advocacy skills and pre-employment preparedness. Mrs. Lesane has contributed a great deal of time throughout the years to provide service to her community."
Here's what else you should know about this member of The Fayetteville Observer's 40 Under 40 Class of 2023.
Who are your immediate family members?
My immediate family members include my husband, my mother and two fur babies (Rocky and Midnight). They are my biggest supporters.
What does your job entail?
I advocate for individuals with disabilities to improve their quality of life through teaching self-advocacy, pre-employment, and leadership skills. I manage my company's overall operations and set strategic goals.
Where did you receive your education?
Fayetteville State University, Bachelor of Science in psychology and Bachelor of Arts in sociology; Webster University, Master of Arts in counseling; and Capella University, Master of Science in psychology.
What community and professional groups are you affiliated with?
Former: Mayor’s Committee for Persons with Disabilities — City of Lumberton; and Robeson County Partnership for Children Board of Directors
Current: Disability awareness advocate; founder of the Leaders and Achievers Scholarship Fund; Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.; and Fayetteville Women for Good.
How do you volunteer your time in the community?
As Mrs. North Carolina Plus America 2023-2024, I spend a great deal of time traveling the great state of North Carolina to advocate for disability awareness. Also, I volunteer with nonprofit organizations to give back to my community. I love to serve!
What is one thing you wish people knew or understood better about your profession?
A CEO must stay on top of the ever-changing business landscape, along with making strategic decisions that drive growth. One must be able to adapt quickly to changes in technology and customer needs.
What's the best advice you've ever received and/or the worst advice you've ever followed?
"Success is never final, but neither is failure unless you accept it." — Ms. Nanette Weeks
What goal have you already achieved and how did you make it happen?
Since March 2023, I have lost 54 pounds. Improving my overall quality of life through exercise and adopting a healthier lifestyle has been a life-changing experience.
What are five things (not people or pets) you can't live without?
My Bible, electronic devices, cheese popcorn (my favorite), Netflix and fresh flowers.
What's something you do outside of work to enrich yourself?
I enjoy taking road trips with my husband. We enjoy sightseeing and trying a variety of foods while on the road. We are foodies!!
Some responses may have been edited for style and grammar.
This article originally appeared on The Fayetteville Observer: 40 Under 40: Labecca Lesane, Leaders and Achievers NC
