Client Spotlight: LaKendria Robinson, Founder and CEO of The Orenda Collective and The Orenda Foundation, Inc.
What is some quick history or are some fun facts about your company?
I moved to the Tampa Bay area in 2013 and have since been involved in creating initiatives that support the growth of diverse-owned businesses. More than 10 years ago, I discovered my passion for creating pathways to success and sustainability for minority firms through the Tampa Hillsborough Action Plan (THAP) 5508 Initiative. Since then, I’ve launched the Tampa Bay Chamber’s Minority Business Accelerator program and served as its inaugural director. I’ve also worked as the Business Connect & Community Outreach Director for Tampa Bay Super Bowl 55, where I facilitated connections between diverse businesses and contract opportunities tied to the “Big Game.”
All of these experiences led me to create The Orenda Collective, an agency that is dedicated to driving social change. Our team has implemented innovative social impact initiatives for notable organizations such as the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, Visit Tampa Bay, Tampa Bay Partnership, Fifth Third Bank, and the Beck Group.
In 2022, I founded The Orenda Foundation, Inc., which is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that aims to remove obstacles faced by diverse business owners in their journey to start and grow their businesses. The foundation’s signature event, The OC Emporium, has become a community favorite and valuable resource. It provides a platform for executives to directly engage with skilled minority, women, veterans, and LGBT-owned businesses in Tampa Bay.
What are you/your company’s core values?
- Intentionality: At The Orenda Collective, intentionality is the guiding force behind our decisions and actions. We purposefully align every strategy and initiative with our mission, ensuring a deliberate focus on driving positive and lasting social change.
- Collaboration: We cultivate a culture of open communication and collective problem-solving, fostering collaboration at The Orenda Collective. Diverse perspectives come together, creating a synergy that leads to impactful solutions both internally and externally.
- Transparency: Valuing transparent communication, The Orenda Collective provides stakeholders with clear insights into our processes, decisions, and the real-world impact of our initiatives. This commitment to openness builds trust and authenticity.
- Innovation: Embracing a mindset of continual improvement, creativity, and fresh thinking permeates every level at The Orenda Collective. Our dedication to innovation propels us forward in our social impact endeavors, ensuring we remain at the forefront of positive change.
- Measured Impact: With a focus on data-backed metrics, we rigorously assess and quantify the impact of our programs at The Orenda Collective. Every effort is meticulously measured to ensure it contributes meaningfully to our broader goals of positive social change.
- Excellence: At The Orenda Collective, we set and uphold high standards for ourselves. We strive for excellence in every aspect of our work, ensuring the quality and effectiveness of our social impact strategies. This commitment defines our approach to achieving meaningful and sustainable outcomes.
What is your role within the community, or how does you/your company support the community?
Beyond my professional commitments, I am involved in the Tampa Bay community in a way that helps expand my work. I serve as Vice Chair of the board of Directors for Community Tampa Bay, an anti-discrimination organization that builds world leaders through cross-cultural dialogue. I am the Co-Chair of the Social Impact Committee of Women in Sports and Events Tampa Bay (WISE), a national organization that empowers women to succeed in the business of sports. Finally, I serve as the Vice Chair of the Board Development Committee for Girls Scouts of West Central Florida where I help the organization support and empower young girls to change the world through courage, confidence, and character.
How was the relationship between you/your company and Livy O’s started?
In 2016, I met Lennise at a small business networking event hosted by THAP’s 5508 team, where she introduced me to her catering company. At that time, I was planning a birthday party for my husband and had already hired a catering company that I was not satisfied with. However, after talking with Lennise, I was impressed and decided to hire Livy O’s instead. On the day of the party, just as Omar (Lennise’s husband) was delivering the catering order, there was a sudden torrential downpour (did I mention the party was outside?!). While I stood in disbelief at all my hard work being washed away, Omar promptly took charge and helped me reorganize the entire party setup! I was so grateful for his support, and that night, I promised Lennise and Omar that I would always support Livy O’s in any way that I could. And I’d like to think I’ve kept that promise.
What advice can you give to anyone reading this article?
Whatever you do, do it with intention. Intentionality is the cornerstone of a purpose-driven and fulfilling life. It calls you to live deliberately and authentically. It involves consciously making choices and taking actions that align with your values, goals, and aspirations. When you approach your endeavors with intention, you bring a heightened awareness and mindfulness to your actions, transforming them from mere tasks into meaningful experiences.
HORUS Academy
We got to kick off the first buffet-style banquet of the year with HORUS Academy at the J.C. Newman Cigar Company. They hosted a lavish bourbon and tequila showcase that also highlighted their sponsors and their impact to over 4500 students nationally. The event also provided the opportunity for attendees to network while enjoying the flavors of various brands of bourbon and tequila.
Envision
During the Livy O’s management leadership retreat, the team took a field trip to visit Envision, a local company that specializes in commercial construction management. Ariana Greene and Gabrielle Howard gave us a tour of their beautifully constructed facility and shared their impactful story of their journey.
Livy O’s Superhero Spotlight: Jaden Patrick
Congratulations to Jaden Patrick, our February 2024 Superhero at Livy O’s! Jaden, who initially joined as a summer intern at 15 in 2021, returned in November 2022. As a banquet server, prep cook, and warehouse assistant, Jaden showcases versatility and dedication.
In a written interview, Jaden highlighted his passion for events and connecting with people. He enjoys making guests laugh and has learned the art of table setting, emphasizing his commitment to creating memorable dining experiences.
Jaden’s positive attitude, dedication, and eagerness to learn make him a standout team member. We’re thrilled to recognize him for his outstanding contributions to Livy O’s. Congratulations again, Jaden Patrick!
Recipe of the Month: Seafood Deviled Eggs
