LEADERSHIP SPOTLIGHT ON: ONE-STAR DIRECTOR LAWANDA BAKER

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1. Where were you born and raised; current city; family; hobbies; past business highlights...
I was born and raised in Jackson, TN and currently live in Alabaster, AL. I work full time as a graphic designer and I have been in the industry now over 20 years. I am the single mom of one beautiful 14-year-old daughter. In my spare time I love to spend time with my daughter, draw, paint, and create just for the pure enjoyment and relaxation of it, and of course I love to TRAVEL!

2. How have you grown or personally developed since joining PlanNet?
There simply is not enough room on a page to express how PlanNet has helped me grow! In addition to the focus and mental toughness that I have developed, PlanNet has awakened that competitive spirit and leadership ability that I was unaware that I possessed. I love the personal and professional progress that I see in myself. I say this in great humility because I am still being Coached, Trained and Developed daily to become the best version of me. I look forward to seeing what that will look like in the years to come!

3. What drives you; what motivates you?
In two words…Laila Simone. This is my daughter, my heartbeat. Here in Alabama it is just us. I know she looks to me for guidance, support, inspiration, and the stability that all children deserve. I know that I have been given an awesome blessing and to whom much is given, much is required. I remember a time when I was forced to make a decision that while freeing us, put us in a position of financial lack. I remember looking at her not knowing what was next or where we would sleep that night and wondering if I would ever be in the position to be able to give her all that she deserved. I am driven to make sure we never find ourselves there again. I know that there are many who have been there and some that are still there and I am motivated to help those people win for their families.

4. Who would you consider a role model and why?
I consider my grandmother, Mama Helen, a role model because in a time where things were less than equal, she and her husband found a way to have something of their own. They opened and operated a small restaurant some time back in the late 50s, early 60s! I have always found that to be incredible, that against the unfair odds they were able to do that! As a little girl I can always remember Mama Helen telling me to make money but always "put a little away and make something of it." Her entrepreneurial spirit still lives in me today!

5. The three words that describe you best are:
Determined, Passionate, Authentic.

6. If you had some sound advice to give to anyone what would it be?
BE COACHABLE!!! We have a wealth of successful individuals and layers of leadership to learn and grow with. Mr. Bradley is our success coach and he has told us so many times that he created this opportunity so that ordinary people can win financially in an extraordinary way. He has put this vehicle in place and positioned dynamic leadership as well to teach us how to drive that vehicle! WATCH, LISTEN, LEARN, and DO! Get out of your own way. Lock in and go for it!

7. What does your life look like five years from now?
Five years from now, I will be earning well over six and rapidly approaching seven figures with the PlanNet Marketing opportunity. This vehicle will be a strong financial resource for a creative venture I am planning. I will also be helping my daughter turn her dream business, a clothing boutique, into a reality!