Today we’d like to introduce you to Deidra Sandford.
Hi Deidra, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I am a wife of 11 years, Mother of two gorgeous girls, Worship Leader, up-and-coming artist, revivalist, and mentor.
I have been a Worship Leader in the church for about 18 years. Worship Leading is when a called, capable person has the ability to be in tune with God, sing, and encourage while simultaneously reaching the hearts of people and causing them to engage in praise and worship in a church service or program. I come from a family of singers and musicians and was brought up in church. My parents taught me about the faith, walking in humility and love, and overall, just being a good person to everyone. I feel that that foundation really molded me to be who I am today.
I have an earned Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting and also and earned Master’s Degree in Worship Leadership. I had every intention on being an Accountant when I graduated college. If I am honest, there was always a small thought in my mind, even while in college, that there was way more to me than being only an Accountant. Of course, I went through with it and it was one of the best things that I could do because little did I know, that experience was training me for the next season of my life. I got married and started singing more and more. Providing my voice and talent for background on albums and continuing to lead worship all at the same time. At this point, I am going to different cities and states and just doing what we do best!
After years of traveling and ministering through song, I felt like I was being pulled into a different avenue of fulfilling my purpose. There was a strong pull in the area of training, development, and community for singers and worship leaders that I had. In 2016, I started presenting a seminar for Worship Leaders, singers, musicians and whoever else was interested. I understand, yes, we are talented, we are called, we are creative, but I had to ask myself (and others) where is the community for us to be able to be transparent? Where is the community for us to be healed? If we are supposed to be equipped to do these things effectively, we should have more access, tools, and people to help us do that!
That was the birth of the Ascent: Worship 101 Community (Formerly The Ascent Worship Leader Seminar). Through this community of psalmist, musicians, and those who feel they are called to the gospel and world of music, there are opportunities to literally be yourself without being judged. It’s not a formal get-up. Many of us in this area of service believe that we have to be broken or suffer at all times in order to be effective in our call. We tend to personally feel like we don’t matter because our heart is set on leading people to God, and THAT is all that matters. Are there times where we are in a season of trying? Absolutely! But we have created a culture and belief that that is where God always wants us. Which couldn’t be further from the truth. How can we sing, play, and speak about freedom and expect someone to feel that through us when we aren’t free ourselves? The truth shall make us all free so I believe, a healed, intentional leader is much more effective than an insecure, broken one. That is truth. That is what the Ascent community is about. We’re here to glean from, and lean on each other!
We all have our own Pastors whom we are connected to, who care for, and who provide knowledge and wisdom. I personally believe my Pastors are two of the most equipped Pastors, EVER! (Liberate Church) They are graced for what they do and who they are called to. This is the way it should be for all of us who are in the Ministry of Music in any capacity. The Ascent has major added benefits of being able to come together with others who are like you, to a place that is catered to your calling!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I believe anything that you’re working toward will never be a walk in the park! You’ll get more no’s than you will a yes, that’s for sure! Building a business and even a community of like-minded people can get very difficult! I think it’s mainly because we, as people, can be wary of who we are transparent with. Due to past hurt and being taken advantage of, we use a lack of trust as a defense mechanism not to be hurt again. The process of working through all of that is not easy in the least, but it’s a great thing that I am called to this, so I am not giving up! I feel like one of the most important things a person who is looking to build community and safe spaces for people to heal and grow can do, is to be who you say you are. Whether you’re on stage, or off stage, in person or behind closed doors, there shouldn’t be any difference in character! No discrepancies. Walk-in grace and humility and have a heart to serve. This is what helps to build trust and gives way to trusted relationships, which in turn will assist in great momentum while building.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
In this current season, I am focused on building a brand as a Christian Artist and building this community of Worship Leaders, psalmists, musicians, and singers. It has been heavy on my heart for years to keep the Ascent community active and available to whoever wants to be a part.
In addition to building this community, I teach and mentor other Worship Leaders. I provide classes and courses sporadically and I host a conference yearly, which I am extremely proud of! Every year it is a success on different levels. The feedback and testimonies that are expressed are always mind-blowing and give hope and expectation for the next experience!
I have recorded music with my church, Liberate Church, a single called “He Is” (on all digital outlets). I co-wrote on this song, and will be releasing my own music soon!
I feel like what sets me part from others is I’d rather see you healed and prospering before I see anything else. I don’t need the money, accolades, notoriety, or anything. But what I do want to see is a person who needs help, get help in the area they are growing in. I am not intimidated by those who have a similar gift as me. I truly feel that we can all learn something from each other as long as we are humble enough to receive the information. Building requires healthy relationships!
How can people work with you, collaborate with you, or support you?
All of my social media handles are below, give me a follow!
Facebook:
@DeidraJSandford
@AscentWorship101
Instagram:
@DeidraJSandford
@AscentWorship101
Contact Info:
- Email: info@ascentworship101.com
- Website: www.ascentworship101.com
Image Credits
Domeanica Carter-Banks
