
Your journey towards success starts here!
You belong here, we’ve got your back.
Our community has what you need to succeed
COMMUNITY : Join a network of top entrepreneurs and industry pros.
COACHING : Learn from experienced mentors who are committed to your success.
EVENTS : Get access member-only workshops, summits, and networking events.
VISIBILITY : Access exclusive opportunities to showcase your brand and expertise.
PERSONAL GROWTH: Strengthen your business skills and leadership presence.
RESOURCES : Tap into the industry's top tools and expert resources.
Your success is our mission
The #1 Community for
Black professionals
in the pet industry.
ELEVATE is the space for entrepreneurs, leaders and creatives of color shaping the pet industry. Here, we pair bold ideas with real opportunities, blending culture, innovation, and excellence to open doors that have historically been closed. We'remore than a network, we're a movement.
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Through our expert-led workshops, dynamic accelerator programs, personalized mentorship, and powerful networking opportunities, we equip Black and underrepresented pet industry leaders with the tools, guidance, and community needed to grow with confidence, lead with purpose, and make a lasting impact.
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Join our community and rise into your next chapter of purpose and success!





Supported by the Industry's best.
ready to change your life?

We've got the tools and resources you need to grow!
Accelerator Programs
For entrepreneurs and professionals ready to scale their businesses or personal brands. Includes mentorship, workshops, and funding opportunities.
Business Coaching and counseling
Expert guidance on business development, leadership, finance, mental health and more.
Mentorship
1:1 and group coaching with industry leaders and experts who are committed to your success.
Networking Opportunities
From intimate dinners to national showcases. Connect like minded leaders who understand your journey.
Summits & Community Events
Build power, purpose, and visibility in a spaces created with you in mind.
Your dreams
are within reach!
MEMBERSHIP OPTIONS
Select a Membership That Moves You Forward.

Trailblazer - $150yr
Just getting started? This is your chance to tap into a real community that powerful community that sees you, understands your challenges, and is committed to helping you grow.
You’ll get access to in-person and virtual events, monthly grant opportunities, a library of resources made for us, a coaching session to help you move with intention—and so much more.

Icon - $600/yr
This is for the leaders who are ready to launch their careers to the next level—unapologetically!
Get everything in Trailblazer, plus VIP treatment at events, spotlight features, priority coaching, and powerful co-branding opportunities.
You’ve done the work—now it’s time to be seen, heard, and celebrated.

Hey there
I am Lashonda Geffrard,
Founder & Business Coach
This community is where passion fuels purpose, and leadership is boldly redefined. As a pet industry professional, advocate, and founder with over 20 years of experience in this industry, I’ve learned that real change happens when we come together.
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This community was built to empower bold dreamers and changemakers who are ready to lead and redefine what’s possible. I believe in the power of us—our stories, our purpose, and our collective rise.
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Here, we're building something bigger than ourselves.
GOT QUESTIONS?
The full answers to your questions
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Is this only for Black professionals?ELEVATE is unapologetically Black-centered and community-led, with a mission to create space for underrepresented voices in the pet and animal industry. While our focus is on uplifting Black professionals, we also welcome all underrepresented groups, along with allies and partners who are genuinely committed to equity, respect, and meaningful action.
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What makes ELEVATE different from other networks?We’re not just a network, we’re a movement! ELEVATE is rooted in community care, cultural relevance, and real results. This is a space made for us, by us—free from gatekeeping, performative allyship, or outdated models.
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Do I have to be in the pet industry to join?While ELEVATE centers the pet and animal space, we welcome adjacent industries too—think wellness, retail, tech, education, or sustainability. If your work touches pets, people, or planet, you're in the right place.
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How often do you host events or trainings?We offer virtual and in-person events year-round, including webinars, summits, pitch opportunities, and community meetups. There’s always something to plug into.
