Afiya Latham continues to be a rapidly rising star in the universe of Michigan’s Great Southwest. Her story is building by the day. Earlier this year she was named among the 40 Under 40 Young Professionals in Southwest Michigan and her company, Express Employment Professionals continues to make an impact in the world of work and employee recruitment. Her nominator writes of their admiration for Afiya’s ability to speak up for others, calling her an active bystander, championing the causes of diversity, equity and inclusion, but many will argue she is far more than an active bystander…she is directly engaged on a daily basis in that quest for equality, working endlessly to assure that every voice at the table is not only heard but appreciated. She has mentored both young employees and clients, working skillfully to help them become their very best selves. She has repeatedly exhibited courage, stepping out on faith when purchasing her business, unsure of what the future would hold, yet bold enough to push past the fear to develop an award-winning business. She also recently made her theatrical debut in a compelling lead role in the play “American Son” at Benton Harbor’s Ghostlight Theatre. Afiya Latham epitomizes the essence of a Bold Woman of Business in Southwest Michigan.
Name
Afiya Latham
Where do you live?
Berrien Springs, MI
Company or Organization
Express Employment Professionals
What is your job or role there?
Owner & Operator
How do you think that Bold Women of Business demonstrate being bold?
Bold Women in business always do THE RIGHT THING even if it doesn’t feel good or it’s unpopular. Bold Women in Business are flexible and creative, they are open to unconventional solutions to solve issues.
Bold women are often defined by a number of descriptors. Please choose from the following descriptors to produce the top three that you would say most exemplify your personality?
Risk Taker…Brave…Distinctive
Please provide an example of when you feel you were at your very best in taking action on the job or in your role.
I look back at my time during the heart of the pandemic and it was one of the times where I felt challenged as a leader. I had to consistently and quickly make crucial decisions to make sure we were in compliance with ever-changing COVID guidelines.
What’s the funniest thing that ever happened on your road to success?
Respondent skipped this question
Who most inspires your personal drive for success every day?
Bozoma Saint John is a marketing executive whom I’ve been following for years. She is an intelligent, educated, courageous, bold, and authentic woman. She inspires women/ me to show up in our professional walk as ourselves.
What is your best advice to women in Southwest Michigan looking to succeed, as you have, in business?
I would encourage all women as they’re growing and glowing to always stay close to the root of why they’re doing what they’re doing. Never forget why you started.
What does your selection to the first ever Bold Women of Business from Moody on the Market mean to you?
It’s always exciting to be the first. I’m honored and humbled to be nominated. I like the good pressure it puts on me to continue to strive to be Bad A**. I look forward to setting an example and supporting other women in business and those transitioning into entrepreneurship.
