Our Team
Managing Partner
Wale Forrester, MPA
Wale Forrester, a dynamic leader and innovative wellness consultant, specializes in guiding high-stress professionals, particularly emergency responders and hospital workers. His journey began at UC Berkeley, where he was not only involved in competitive football but also actively participated in various cultural clubs, fostering his appreciation for diversity and inclusivity from an early age.During his 15-year tenure with the Oakland Fire Department, Wale balanced his firefighting duties with academic pursuits, earning a Master’s degree in Public Administration. Wale's professional competencies and skills and leadership acumen helped him to quickly ascend to the position of lieutenant. In this role, he focused heavily on personnel development, implementing intensive mentorship and coaching programs for his crew. Wale’s expertise in holistic management and team development is complemented by his certification in Jon Gordon's leadership principles.Wale's passion for public service extends beyond the firehouse, to volunteering as a football coach and player mentor in the Bay Area and Los Angeles. He also serves as an Ambassador for the LA Mission and has also been involved in other various organizations to support their fundraising activities, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to community service.In addition to his expertise in organizational leadership and management, Wale embodies a strong entrepreneurial spirit, which is evident in his successful venture, Hustle Clean. Hustle Clean stands as a testament to his ability to innovate and lead in the business world. Similarly, Wale used his various leadership, management, and entrepreneurial skills to found “FreePlay,” a nonprofit dedicated to youth scholarships and character development. The organization’s partnership with Hustle Clean for the “Shower to the People” initiative brings essential supplies to those impacted by disasters and homelessness.Outside of work, Wale is an avid outdoorsman, enjoying surfing, hiking, and RV travel, which provides him with inspiration and a balanced lifestyle. He is a devoted family man, married to his college sweetheart, Kandace, and father to Abisola and Ayinde. Together with their loyal dog, Saint, they reside in West Los Angeles.Wale Forrester’s remarkable blend of professional expertise, commitment to mentorship, community involvement, and personal passions make him an exemplary figure in leadership and wellness consultancy. His life’s work, marked by service, innovation, and a deep understanding of diverse cultures, positions him as a leading figure in supporting and inspiring those in high-stress occupations.
Managing Partner
Kandace Forrester, PHD
Dr. Kandace Forrester is a distinguished leader in the fields of organizational leadership and holistic wellness, renowned for her expertise honed through her roles at California Institute for Educational Progress (CALIEP) and Restorative Equity Partnership (REP). With over 15 years of rich experience, she excels in driving transformative strategies that enhance workplace environments. Her extensive experience, particularly in understanding and applying psychosocial and cognitive development principles, positions her as an invaluable asset in diverse professional settings.
With an advanced educational background in human development and school psychology, focusing on socio-cultural development, Dr. Forrester is a luminary in the field of organizational development. In her work with various organizations, Dr. Forrester has demonstrated exceptional prowess in several key areas. For instance, her expertise in coaching and professional learning has enabled her to guide leaders and teams towards achieving their full potential. Her approach is not just about imparting knowledge, but also about fostering an environment where growth is continuous and sustainable.
Additionally, Dr. Forrester's skills in systems analysis and data-driven decision-making have been instrumental in helping organizations make informed, strategic decisions. By analyzing complex systems and interpreting data accurately and with a critically conscious lens, she provides insights that drive effective organizational change. Similarly, her work in conducting needs and readiness assessments is crucial for organizations seeking to understand their current state and prepare for future challenges. These evidence-based assessments provide a clear roadmap for development, ensuring that organizations are well-equipped to handle change. Her consultee-centered consultation approach ensures that the advice and strategies she provides are tailored to the unique needs and challenges of each organization. This personalized approach ensures that solutions are not only effective but also resonate with the specific context of the organization.
Furthermore, Dr. Forrester's experience in curriculum development has enabled her to design educational programs that are culturally relevant, engaging, and effective in achieving learning objectives. This skill is particularly valuable in organizational settings where continuous learning and development are key to success. Dr. Forrester is also adept at conducting culture and climate audits. These audits are essential for organizations looking to understand and improve their internal environment, making them more conducive to employee satisfaction and productivity. Her commitment to fostering a sense of belonging and joy in every environment she engages with is a testament to her belief in the power of positive organizational culture. Dr. Forrester's work in promoting culturally-affirming practices is particularly relevant in today's diverse workspaces, helping organizations build more inclusive and empathetic teams.
In addition to her professional achievements, Dr. Forrester is a passionate advocate for community engagement. She has traveled extensively throughout the United States and abroad, exploring and embracing different cultures and communities, which has enriched her understanding of diverse perspectives. Dr. Forrester’s approach to life and work is deeply holistic, blending her professional expertise with a personal commitment to wellness, equity and belonging, and community involvement.
As a Sacramento native, now residing in Los Angeles, Dr. Forrester balances her professional life with personal interests such as exploring the city's restaurant scene, hiking, and attending live concerts. Her most cherished moments are those spent with her loving and supportive husband, Wale, and their two incredible children, Abisola and Ayinde.
Dr. Kandace Forrester's unique blend of skills and experiences makes her an invaluable asset to organizations seeking to enhance their leadership and cultivate a culture of holistic wellness. Her work is characterized by a critical, conscious, and inclusive approach, making her a visionary in organizational development and wellness.
Managing Partner
Charleton Lightfoot Sr, MPA
Meet Charleton D. Lightfoot Sr., a seasoned leader and managing partner at the forefront of the Leadership and Wellness Partners Firm. With a remarkable 15-year career in the fire service, Charleton brings a wealth of expertise in executive administration, public information, operations, recruitment, and community engagement. His commitment extends to fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
As a trailblazer in the field, Charleton focuses on a holistic approach to leadership and organizational development. He is dedicated to raising awareness, providing education, and advocating for the creation of safe and healthy work environments, particularly for first responders. Drawing from extensive research in mind-body connections and occupational stress, Charleton empowers individuals, leaders, and organizations to transform their workplace dynamics.
What sets Charleton apart is not only his depth of experience but also his dedication to well-being. A living embodiment of his teachings, he maintains a disciplined yoga and meditation routine. His personal commitment to self-advocacy and empowerment underscores his passion for creating positive spaces in all engagements.
Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology with a focus on occupational stress at Liberty University, Charleton's scholarly pursuits further enhance his ability to support leadership effectively. His academic endeavors and practical insights converge to amplify the relevance of our consultancy in empowering both leaders and their teams.
In every aspect of his life, Charleton Lightfoot Sr. exemplifies the principles he imparts, making him an invaluable asset to those seeking leadership and wellness consultancy.