Redefining Leadership for Women: Yeve Chitiga’s Journey of Empowerment

Yevedzo Chitiga, Founder & Chief Empower Officer at Yevedzo Coaching & Consulting, an executive leadership practice

Yeve Chitiga is the dynamic speaker and CEO of Yevedzo Coaching and Consulting, known for her unique approach to executive leadership. With nearly two decades of experience in internal audit and law, she’s mastered the art of uncovering hidden insights and reading between the lines. Often calling herself, “a personal trainer for the heart, mind, and soul,” Yeve blends humor and warmth to deliver captivating speeches that resonate widely. As a published children’s book author and skilled moderator, she excels at creating memorable conversations and content.

We were able to explore with Yeve the insights that have shaped her distinctive leadership style.

What advice would you give your younger self?

You are enough. You have everything you need within. I see you. I am so thankful for your resilience, unwavering faith, heart and passion. Don’t change who you are—just grow more into who you are meant to be. 

You inspire women through your leadership and fearlessness. Where did that come from? Who was your inspiration and why? 

Undoubtedly, my mother and my faith. My mother is the most inspiring and brave woman I know. As a single mom, she reached the heights of career success and exposed me to a world of infinite possibilities growing up. Additionally, my faith allows me to move in the direction of my dreams with confidence and hope. 

What advice do you give to someone who says, “I could never do that”?  

I would say that you’d never know until you tried. If you fail, then you have the benefit of experience and of taking a bold step forward. I would also challenge the person to think about accomplishments in their life that once seemed impossible. We’d explore the ways in which they worked through self-doubt and inexperience to achieve that goal. Ultimately, I would help them see that if they got out of their own way, they might discover untapped potential from within.

Whether I’m speaking or coaching, I love to see people experience “light bulb” moments—when something clicks for them and they unlock a new level of understanding or awareness. It’s the best feeling. Ultimately, I want to empower my clients or audience to unleash their potential and move confidently in the direction of their dreams. The biggest reward of coaching and speaking to audiences is helping someone reach a new level of enlightenment about themselves and their ability.

What would you say to help others get started on their journey and achieve success?

My journey is non-traditional and non-linear because I’m a multi-passionate, creative person. Not everyone understands my passions and talents. I’m a seasoned attorney, published children’s book author, coach, and speaker. And I’m just getting started. My advice is for you to take up space and use your voice because the world needs what you have. And, if, like me, you’ve found yourself doubting your dreams and questioning yourself, then I just want to ask you one question. What if everything you dreamed of worked out beyond your wildest dreams?

How do you stay motivated to keep going once you’ve met your goals? (Your energy is contagious. We want to bottle that!) 

I’m in a season of life where I’m trying to balance being ambitious with being present and fully appreciating where I am. So after I accomplish my goals, I’m learning to pause, take stock of my accomplishments, and soak it all in. Only then will I see new goals and move forward toward those. 

Do you have a mantra or words you live by that have helped you through tough times and kept you going? 

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13)

Anything else we haven’t already asked—your secret to success or advice/tips you love to share with others? 

Give yourself grace and remind yourself as you embark on new things that this is your first time in that moment. I’m a firm believer that everything happens for a reason. Everything I’ve experienced in my life has led me to where I am today. That said, if I could go back in time and change something, I would go back to younger me and shower her with grace and encouragement as she was experiencing really difficult times. There were numerous times when I felt like I was disappointing myself and my family. Specifically, when I didn’t achieve something or something didn’t turn out the way I had planned or hoped. Thankfully, I now have the benefit of hindsight and being a mom to a young daughter. I would have been kinder to myself in those moments and reminded myself of how much I have overcome despite the odds.