about april laster
An Accomplished executive and serial entrepreneur making strides in the mental health and education fields. A decisive leader with a proven success of building and executing some of the most valued and innovative programs and services aiding in marginalized communities all over the world. Ms. Laster is one of the most sought out Speakers and Trainers in Southern CA. As a Certified Master Life Coach and top certified national trauma-informed and recovery specialist, Ms. Laster is just beginning in her endeavors to change the world thousands of hearts at a time.
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Business Consulting · Public Speaking · Training · Leadership Development · Team Building · Corporate Training · Life Coaching· Diversity & Inclusion · Career Development Coaching · Executive Coaching · Local and National Strategic Alliances· Key Partnership Development · Visionary Leadership · Tactical Planning· Risk Management · Public and Media Relations· Organizational Restructuring · Trauma Recovery Training
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BAPAC Female Millennial Leader of the Year, 2017
State of CA Millennial Leader for the 79th District, 2017
Congresswoman Susan Davis Recognition of Female Leadership and Entrepreneurship.
Inclusion 1st Ally Award, 2021
San Diego Black Chamber of Commerce 2021 Honoree Celebrating Women in Business.
Young Black & In Business Honoree 2019-2020, 2020-2021
San Diego Business Journal 2022 Honoree for Top 50 Black Leaders in San Diego
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Current Advisor to The Mayor of San Diego Black Advisory Board
Current Advisory Board Member Alliant International University School of Education, Counseling & Psychology.
Current Board Member National Small Business Association Leadership Council
Current Advisory Board Member-Southwestern College School of Business
Current Board Member Creating Coding Careers
CEO April Laster received the Open Heart Leaders Proclamation on May 24th, 2022. Open Heart Leaders Day can be celebrated countywide every May 24th during Mental Health Awareness Month.
my letter to you.
For so many years I always imagined a world filled with people that helped each other, whether through encouragement, resources, or just a listening ear. I realized it was these things that would have made a big difference for me while growing up in the inner city. Growing up was tough. I was trying to navigate through life with few tools, many questions without answers, and unaddressed trauma. Living in chaos became normal. I felt isolated in a world full of opportunities that seemed out of my reach. As I got older and started to experience life on my own I started to become an advocate for human rights, mental health, and social justice. As I continued to contemplate what advocacy and support look like for these situations, I asked myself “What would April have needed?” The answer to that question is what you will experience at Open Heart Leaders, and it is not your typical programs and services. These programs are designed with people like you in mind. The services center around what communities want, rather than what they are told they need.
We had to have the right people to support what communities needed, who were emotionally, physically, and mentally invested in us. That is why I sought out experienced team members and volunteers, who understand life has a way with everyone, and no one is in any position to judge. While building this organization, I realized it was not about what April would have needed back then, but what it is that I need now. Here is where my heart and head aligned, and through this synergy grew this wonderful organization, Open Heart Leaders. I open my heart to you and extend it to those of you who feel pieces of yours have been chipped away over time. I look forward to doing life with each and every one of you. With my deepest love and respect, welcome to the journey of changing your life.
