Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Lekesha Attuquayefio.
Hi Dr. Lekesha, 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 have always been involved in some form of service to organizations and leadership in my school or community. Through church groups, college campus ministry and para-church work I found a profound sense of purpose that eventually became my vocation. In 2001 I moved back to Houston with a seminary degree and started working full-time in ministry. After a few years of learning the demands of leadership and navigating dynamic change it was clear that more women, pastors and emerging leaders needed support. My own experience as a “trailblazer” (identified as such by New Faith Church) gave me a unique perspective into the challenges of leading through transitions.
Essentials Intensified Consulting (EIC) was created to offer insight, strategies and results for Christian organizations. However, the passion and vision grew with the development of social media. When Facebook and YouTube gained popularity as a medium for engaging an audience I acted on the advice of others who encouraged me to take my message online. My first vlog was in October of 2011 from my kitchen table. There have been a few resets along the way but the pandemic of 2020 was pivotal for realigning with a call to take the intensified life message global.
I will always be a Christian minister in a local church. Now the inspiration and instruction may be shared in print through a book I’ve written, coaching, a consultation, a workshop or a video. The brand message is clearer than ever. I am a champion of the intensified life!
The intensified lifestyle enfolds a spiritual formation focus, the relationship lessons learned with my husband as well as hobbies, such as travel, dancing and modeling.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Being analytical, contemplative and busy can be a bad combination. I never wanted to do what I do just because it was gaining popularity. My motivation is from a deep spiritual place to live out my purpose and I regularly reevaluate goals to avoid the trappings of popular opinion.
Earlier in my career as a young woman in ministry it was a struggle to find community and safe spaces for sharing my concerns. It’s one of the reasons I created a network for women in ministry. More recently, as I’ve moved into the “mature” age, I find the same reality. However, now those distractions are not as relevant.
It’s hard for people like me to find a niche because we are not fulfilled limiting ourselves to one role. It’s disheartening to be limited to one avenue of work when multiple lanes fulfill a different aspect of my passion for serving and empowering others.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
This is a challenge to answer because I do a lot. It’s difficult to identify one specialization I’m known for because it depends on the context. My calling as a minister permeates multiple roles and titles. The standard aspects of my purpose include inspiration, personal and organizational growth. By providing clarity of vision, consultation and spiritual direction my work with individuals and organizations has been very rewarding.
I’ve held different roles that allowed me to shine and be fulfilled, for almost 20 years. If I’m only known by my title as a staff minister then I’m probably identified as a speaker, leader, intercessor, mentor. I think of myself as minister with a transformative message that may be shared various ways. It may be through writing, which is why I published three books, or the message might be a lesson or podcast on my YouTube channel.
My work as a minister is unique in how aspects of psychology, the arts, wellness and recreation are explored to develop a plan for individuals to experience a more abundant lifestyle. My own experience has shaped a philosophy for life. When I learned to prioritize self-care, dancing, painting, modeling and physical well-being became part of the rhythm of my life. Now I look for ways to assist others in creating their own intensified life rhythm.
There are a few hashtags I use frequently to describe what sets me apart: #theintensifiedlife #adventureswithGod #theworldismypulpit. They best reflect what my life’s purpose is and how my work is motivated.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
Houston, Texas is home and will always have a special place in my heart. I absolutely love that it is diverse and flavorful with rich visual, cultural and culinary expressions from around the world. I continually discover new spaces in a city that is ever evolving. There is something for everyone and it’s so easy to travel to anywhere in the world from here.
Unfortunately, as an ever evolving city we are also growing so fast that traffic is a nightmare at times. Besides the intense heat of Summer and hurricanes, I think it’s the best place to live.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.theintensifiedlife.com
- Instagram: DrLekesha_intensifiedlife
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/DrLekeshaRA
- Youtube: @intensifiedlifetvwithdr.le7963
