As we continue to spend Women’s History Month highlighting the women making history today, we’re excited to introduce you to LaTeasha Gaither-Davis, CEO and founder of Therapeutic Focus in West Memphis. Keep scrolling to read our Q&A with LaTeasha as she shares insights from her journey, illuminating her challenges, triumphs and future goals for women in Arkansas.
How do you believe historical struggles or achievements by women have impacted your field or career path?
As a first-generation Black female entrepreneur from Arkansas, I believe that historical struggles and achievements by women have impacted my field and career path. The struggles of women throughout history, particularly Black women, have opened doors for me to pursue my dreams and break down barriers in my industry. The achievements of these women have inspired me to work hard and strive for excellence. I am grateful for the contributions of those who have come before me.
In what ways do you see yourself as a trailblazer for women and girls in Arkansas, and what motivates you to continue breaking barriers?
As a trailblazer for women and girls in Arkansas, I see myself as a role model and inspiration for those who may feel limited by their background, gender or circumstances. I have broken barriers in my own field by becoming a successful entrepreneur and mentor, and I hope to inspire others to do the same. My motivation to continue breaking barriers comes from the knowledge that I am paving the way for future generations of women and girls in Arkansas and that my success can serve as a beacon of hope for those who may feel marginalized or overlooked. I am driven by the belief that all women and girls deserve the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Reflecting on your own experiences, what challenges have you faced as a woman in your industry, and how have you overcome them?
One of the earliest challenges I faced as a woman in my industry was securing a space to launch my pediatric therapy practice. Despite my enthusiasm and qualifications, I was denied by multiple individuals with rental space available in my community. However, I was fortunate to find a fellow female entrepreneur who owned several properties and had space available for lease. She believed in me and understood the unique challenges that women face in the business world. With her support, I was able to rent the space I needed and eventually build my own building. Throughout the process, she remained a steadfast ally, offering encouragement and reminding me that I could achieve anything I set my mind to.
How do you prioritize mentorship and supporting the next generation of women in your profession?
Over the past six years, I have been dedicated to mentoring women entrepreneurs in Arkansas and Tennessee, building on the foundation established by my mentor, who believed in me and connected me with other female professionals in the state. Her guidance and support inspired me to pay it forward and mentor others, continuing the cycle of empowerment and growth for women in my community.
Looking ahead, what changes or advancements do you hope to see for women and girls in Arkansas, and how do you envision playing a role in making those changes a reality?
I envision a future where women and girls in Arkansas have equal access to opportunities, resources and representation. I hope to see more young women pursuing their dreams and reaching their full potential without facing the barriers that have held previous generations back. To make this vision a reality, I plan to continue mentoring and empowering young women, advocating for gender equality, and inspiring other female leaders to join me in this effort. Together, we can create a brighter future for all women and girls in Arkansas.
LaTeasha Gaither-Davis is a member of the Women’s Foundation of Arkansas board of directors and was a participant of the first cohort of the Women’s Economic Mobility Hub. LaTeasha now volunteers to support the program, and shares her entrepreneurship experience across Arkansas and nationally. She presented to the Arkansas Women’s Commission at the State Capitol in 2022 to inform the Commission’s report analyzing the role of women in the labor market and economy.