Photo Credit: Stephanie Southard

Behind every great leader, there’s often a mentor—someone who sees their potential, even when they can’t see it themselves.

For Aang Lakey, founder and CEO of Increasing Consciousness, a decorated leadership coach, and recipient of the Army Commendation Medal, mentorship has been the defining force in their journey. With extensive experience in DEIAB (diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and belonging), executive leadership, and military training through the U.S. Army, Aang has become a trusted authority in the field of leadership.

From a childhood marked by poverty and instability to leading transformative programs for executives and organizations, Aang’s path has been shaped by those who stepped in to guide and advocate for them. These mentors not only helped Aang break cycles of trauma but also instilled in them the belief that leadership is about equipping others with the tools to grow and lead. Today, Aang channels that lesson into their work, mentoring some of today’s most influential leaders and empowering them to create meaningful, systemic change.

A Lifeline Amid Chaos

Aang Lakey’s early years were defined by instability and chaos—marked by poverty, frequent evictions, and the constant uncertainty of whether there would be food, water, or electricity. The flickering glow of candlelight often replaced working lights, and the sound of eviction notices being tacked to the door was a harsh reminder of a life teetering on the edge. With parents in and out of jail and battling substance abuse, Aang’s home life was anything but secure.

For many who grow up in similar circumstances, these cycles of poverty and trauma become inescapable, repeating across generations. The lack of stability and support often makes it nearly impossible to break free. But Aang’s story took a different turn, thanks to the intervention of a pivotal figure: their aunt.

Aang’s aunt became a lifeline, offering a safe space where Aang could focus on their education and dream of a different future. “She didn’t just support me financially; she gave me the emotional foundation I needed to believe there was more out there for me,” Aang recalls.

With her help navigating college applications and scholarships, Aang was able to attend Norwich University—a crucial step towards a brighter future.

From Uncertainty to Confidence

Aang’s journey to higher education marked a turning point, but their challenges didn’t end there. In graduate school, Aang found themselves in an unfamiliar environment of privilege, surrounded by peers whose experiences seemed worlds apart from their own. Theoretical concepts taught in the classroom felt disconnected from the real-world issues Aang was passionate about addressing. Struggling with self-doubt, they began questioning whether they belonged at all.

It was during this critical period that another mentor stepped in: Aang’s academic advisor. She saw something in Aang that they couldn’t yet see in themselves—a unique ability to translate abstract theories into practical, actionable solutions. “She reframed the way I saw myself,” Aang explains. “She helped me understand that my perspective was a strength, not a weakness.”

Her guidance encouraged Aang to bridge the gap between theory and practice, turning their struggles into a source of strength. This insight became a cornerstone of Aang’s leadership philosophy, emphasizing the importance of actionable strategies and real-world impact. The advisor’s mentorship not only restored Aang’s confidence but also gave them the tools to thrive in their studies and their subsequent career in leadership and advocacy.

Paying It Forward: Aang’s Leadership Legacy

Aang Lakey has transformed the challenges of their past into a mission of empowerment. As the founder of Increasing Consciousness and a renowned leadership coach, Aang works with executives, teams, and organizations to drive systemic change.

Aang credits much of their success to the mentors who guided them along the way. “Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” Aang reflects. This deep sense of gratitude fuels their passion for mentorship and underscores the belief that no leader achieves greatness alone.

In their work, Aang honors these mentors by paying it forward—helping today’s leaders not only recognize their own potential but also empower those around them. Their methodology goes beyond surface-level leadership training, delving into the core of what makes a leader truly impactful: self-awareness, intentionality, and the ability to inspire growth in others.

Aang is creating a ripple effect, equipping leaders to be catalysts for change. “Leadership is about more than making decisions,” Aang explains. “It’s about creating an environment where others can thrive and where meaningful, lasting change can take root.” By mentoring some of today’s most influential executives, Aang is helping to shape a new generation of leaders committed to equity, inclusion, and systemic transformation.

The Power of Mentorship

Aang’s story is a testament to the life-changing power of mentorship. For aspiring leaders, Aang’s journey offers a vital lesson: mentorship is not just a stepping stone—it’s a foundation. The right mentor can help you see beyond your limitations, unlock your potential, and guide you toward a future you might not yet envision.

“Find someone who believes in you and challenges you to grow,” Aang advises. “The impact of that relationship will extend in ways you can’t imagine.”