The Strength That Holds Us Together: Oveda Taylor Richard

Some people leave an impression on your life before you even realize how important that moment will become. For me, Oveda Taylor Richard is one of those people.

When I think about the early moments that helped shape my passion for working with children and serving my community, I always come back to the opportunity she gave me. Oveda gave me my first job in childcare at her original location, Sunrise Country Preschool. At the time, I did not fully realize how important that experience would be, but looking back now I can clearly see how that foundation helped shape my path.

Working with Oveda taught me the difference between watching children the way you might watch your cousins and truly supervising and caring for other people’s children. There is a responsibility that comes with that role, and she helped me understand it early on.

A Woman Who Built Her Vision

Oveda was one of the first woman entrepreneurs I personally knew and watched grow over time. I saw what it looked like to build something from the ground up with determination and vision.

She began with one school. Then it grew to two. Then three. Before long she took another bold step and purchased land so that all three schools could operate together in one location. Watching that kind of growth was inspiring because it showed what can happen when someone truly believes in the work they are doing.

Her success was not just about expanding a business. It was about expanding opportunities for families and children within the community.

Mentorship That Lasts for Years

One of the things that has always stood out about Oveda is her willingness to show up for others. Over the years she has continued to support programs and initiatives that uplift young people and encourage leadership.

She once joined me as a speaker on a panel at Westgate K8 for a SMART Girls activity during Women’s History Month. Seeing her share her knowledge and experiences with young girls was powerful because it showed them what leadership and entrepreneurship can look like in real life.

Moments like that matter. Young people need to see examples of what is possible.

From First Job to Leadership

My journey with Oveda did not end with that first job. Over time our connection continued to grow.

I went from working my first job in childcare with her to eventually having the opportunity to serve as a board member. Today I am a trustee on the board for her nonprofit organization, Humble Beginnings.

To go from learning under someone to eventually helping support their mission in a leadership role is something that means a great deal to me.

It shows the kind of lasting impact mentorship can have.

The Strength That Holds Us Together

The Strength That Holds Us Together is often found in people who quietly shape the lives of others through opportunity and guidance.

Oveda Taylor Richard has done exactly that.

Through her work in childcare, her success as an entrepreneur, and her continued dedication to helping others grow, she has influenced countless families and young professionals who have crossed her path.

For me, she will always be someone who believed in my potential early on.

And sometimes that belief is all it takes to change the direction of someone’s life.