Today we’d like to introduce you to Leah Forney.
Hi Leah, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’m Leah M. Forney, also known as the Culture Doctor, a sexual assault survivor, advocate, and activist dedicated to supporting survivors of color and transforming the way communities and organizations approach sexual violence prevention, response, and recovery. My work is deeply rooted in my own lived experience as a survivor of color, which gives me a unique perspective on the barriers survivors face and the culturally responsive solutions they need to heal and thrive.
I provide education, training, and consulting for service providers, organizations, and communities focused on sexual violence, sexual health, and survivor support. I also create resources and experiences designed to empower survivors directly, including immersive events like the Courage Couture Gala, which builds community, celebrates resilience, and provides survivors of color and allies with safe spaces to connect and be seen.
What sets me apart is my ability to combine lived experience with professional expertise in culturally informed, trauma-sensitive approaches. I help organizations and communities rethink traditional models of support and advocacy, prioritizing equity, accessibility, and empowerment. I’m most proud of creating spaces and programs where survivors feel heard, validated, and supported, while also equipping organizations and professionals with tools to better serve marginalized communities.
For anyone connecting with my work, I want them to know that my mission is rooted in courage, action, and cultural relevance. I help people and organizations move beyond awareness to meaningful impact, ensuring survivors feel empowered to reclaim their voice, heal, and thrive.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Absolutely not! I’ve had to pivot my business three times over the course of my eight years as an entrepreneur. I started out in 2017 as a first-time published author and became a book writing coach. While I made some money, it wasn’t fulfilling, so I pivoted to clarity coaching. Again, I found financial success but not the deeper satisfaction I was seeking. My next pivot was into public relations, where I focused on audience attraction, visibility, storytelling, podcasting, and media pitching. This brought both financial rewards and professional recognition, but it still didn’t feel like my true calling. Finally, in 2023, I felt God calling me to pivot fully into the sexual violence space, helping service providers better serve survivors, particularly survivors of color. This pivot has been transformative — it shifted me from a business-to-consumer model to business-to-business, opened doors for partnerships, expanded my client base, and allowed me to make a meaningful impact in the field. The lesson I’d share with others is simple: don’t be afraid to pivot. Each shift brought me closer to where I’m meant to show up and the work I’m truly passionate about.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Purposely Faithfull, LLC ?
As the founder and CEO of Purposely Faithfull LLC, Leah equips organizations and institutions with culturally responsive, trauma-informed, survivor-centered strategies that move beyond performative allyship and into meaningful, lasting change. Her approach is rooted in lived experience, professional expertise, and an unwavering commitment to justice, healing, and equity.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
The advice I would give someone starting out in business is to embrace the journey with courage, curiosity, and resilience, and to never be afraid to pivot when something isn’t fulfilling or aligned with your purpose. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of building relationship capital cultivating a network of mentors, peers, collaborators, and supporters who can guide you, inspire you, and open doors you can’t reach alone. I would also tell them to trust their instincts, lean into their unique strengths, and be willing to take risks, even when it feels uncomfortable. Most importantly, I’d remind them that success isn’t just about money or recognition; it’s about impact, consistency, and showing up as your authentic self. If I could go back, I would tell my younger self not to fear the unknown, not to settle for what’s easy, and to honor her vision, even when it means stepping boldly into uncharted territory.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.leahmforney.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leah_m_forney/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leah.m.forney
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leah-forney-3b089814/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@saavememovement
