Aang Lakey (they/them) is a coach, advocate, and international speaker committed to increasing consciousness to facilitate global equity. As the founder of Increasing Consciousness, they empower leaders to navigate complexity with clarity, fostering equitable workplaces and communities. Their work integrates social work, leadership development, and organizational consulting to help individuals and organizations bridge the gap between awareness and action. Shaped by adversity, resilience, and a deep commitment to equity, Aang has dedicated their life to transforming leadership practices that create lasting social change.
Could you elaborate on the nature of your business, highlighting its purpose and the ways it benefits people?
Increasing Consciousness is dedicated to transforming leadership by integrating consciousness, equity, and practical application. I work with leaders and organizations to develop reflexivity, intentionality, and congruence—essential skills for fostering inclusive, psychologically safe environments. My work helps people step into difficult conversations with confidence, break free from limiting beliefs, and create workplaces where belonging, fairness, and collaboration thrive. Through coaching, consulting, and speaking engagements, I help leaders embody equity in their actions, ensuring that diversity and inclusion are not just policies but lived experiences.
What inspired you to start your journey as a coach and entrepreneur? Were there any specific events, challenges, or people that motivated you to take this path?
Having worked across multiple disciplines, I often encountered siloed approaches that failed to address leadership and organizational challenges holistically. I realized that I couldn’t fully integrate the principles of consciousness, equity, and leadership development within existing structures. This frustration, coupled with my own lived experiences of overcoming adversity, led me to create my own company—one that embraces a transdisciplinary, holistic approach to leadership and social change. By founding Increasing Consciousness, I was able to merge the aspects of my work that I loved into a cohesive, transformative practice.
Looking back at the beginning of your career, what were the major challenges you faced when establishing yourself as a leader/coach? How did you overcome those obstacles?
One of my biggest challenges was shifting my mindset around professional success and entrepreneurship. Coming from a background with limited access to traditional business mentorship, I had to navigate uncharted territory. I lacked the networks and business development skills needed to expand. To overcome this, I sought out conferences, retreats, and events where I could learn from experts, develop my weaknesses, and build a strong network. Over time, this exposure and continuous learning allowed me to step confidently into my role as a leader.
Would you like to share any remarkable achievements?
The achievement that I am most proud of is having the courage to build and expand my business. Creating something from the ground up, especially in the leadership and equity space, required resilience and trust in my vision. The impact of my work—helping leaders transform their approach and seeing organizations shift toward greater consciousness and equity—has been deeply fulfilling.
Women are a growing force in workplaces worldwide, standing shoulder to shoulder with their male counterparts. What are your thoughts about women in leadership today?
Women in leadership are redefining what it means to lead. They bring emotional intelligence, adaptability, and a deep sense of interconnectedness to leadership spaces, which challenges outdated, hierarchical models. As more women step into leadership, we see a shift toward inclusivity, collaboration, and a more holistic approach to success. This evolution is paving the way for workplaces that prioritize human-centered leadership and long-term impact over short-term gains.
What message/advice would you have for future women leaders and aspiring entrepreneurs?
Don’t be afraid to take the next step. Whether you’re just starting out or expanding your vision, have the courage to follow where life leads you. Growth requires discomfort, but each challenge is an opportunity to refine your leadership and impact. Surround yourself with people who challenge and uplift you, and trust that your vision is worth pursuing.
Please insert website or social media links (if any):
- Aang Lakey: https://www.aanglakey.com/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CoachAang
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aang-lakey/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/increasing_consciousness/
- Increasing Consciousness: https://www.increasingconsciousness.org/
- Brainz: https://www.brainzmagazine.com/executive-contributor/aang-lakey
- Awakened: https://awakenedmagazine.com/aang-lakey/
- Amazon Author: https://amazon.com/author/aang-lakey
- Member Portal: https://increasingconsciousness.passion.io/app/products
- Udemy: https://www.udemy.com/user/aang-lakey/
