Dr. Wheda A. Carletos is an educator, leadership coach, and entrepreneur who has dedicated her life to empowering others—especially women and women of color—to embrace their authentic voice and leadership style. With a Ph.D. in leadership, a deep passion for coaching, and years of experience building schools and guiding leaders, her journey is one of resilience, boldness, and purpose. Humans of Fuzia is honored to feature Dr. Wheda and share her story with our global community of 5M+ changemakers working to uplift and support women across the world.
Q: What inspired you to begin your journey as an educator, coach, and entrepreneur?
Dr. Wheda: I am an educator turned coach and entrepreneur, and what inspires me most is working with women and women of color who are stepping into their authentic leadership. I’ve been blessed with incredible coaches and role models throughout my life, and their encouragement and wisdom inspire me to “pay it forward” by empowering others.
Q: What challenges did you face while establishing your path, and how did you overcome them?
Dr. Wheda: My challenges have been both internal and external. Internally, I often questioned, “Who’s going to listen to me?”—as a young Black woman in leadership. Externally, I was sometimes the only woman in the room and had to prove my knowledge and competence. I overcame this by reminding myself of my credentials and training, affirming my strengths, and boldly taking up space at the table rather than waiting to be invited.
Q: What are some of your proudest milestones so far?
Dr. Wheda: I’m proud to have founded and opened my own school, which impacted hundreds of lives as an educator. Today, I also work with leaders to help them open and transform schools, which brings me immense joy. Another milestone is writing my book on imposter syndrome, helping people embrace their authentic voice and strength. Watching it resonate with readers has been incredibly fulfilling.
Q: As an entrepreneur, do you work solo or with a team?
Dr. Wheda: Currently, I work solo, though I outsource tasks that are outside my strengths—particularly technology. I believe entrepreneurs shouldn’t waste energy on what holds them back; it’s far better to delegate those tasks and focus on what you truly do best.
Q: What is your perspective on women in leadership today?
Dr. Wheda: I may be biased, but I believe women make some of the best leaders because we lead with both head and heart. Our empathy, intuition, and decisiveness create powerful and impactful leadership.
Q: What message do you want to share with aspiring women leaders and entrepreneurs?
Dr. Wheda: Don’t be afraid to take up space. Don’t feel pressured to conform to traditional models of leadership—embrace your authentic style. There is room for you, and it’s important to make that space your own.
Q: What does success mean to you?
Dr. Wheda: Success is finding what you are uniquely designed to do and being able to live that out in your authentic way every single day. When you show up as your true self, the opportunities and abundance naturally follow.
Q: How do you deal with imposter syndrome?
Dr. Wheda: Imposter syndrome often stems from comparison. I anchor myself and my clients in self-awareness—understanding our strengths, gifts, and vision for our higher selves. Focusing on who I am and who I want to be in each moment helps me quiet the voice of doubt and fully embrace my authenticity.
“Don’t be afraid to take up space. Lead boldly, in your own authentic way—there is absolutely room for you.” – Dr. Wheda A. Carletos
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