How It All Started

After spending years in Human Resources, GFC Founder, Jada Willis saw first-hand the lack of support and authentic connection that women at all levels were experiencing. She has always had a natural ability to solve problems and matchmake like-minded people.

Jada was reminded of the power of relationships in 2021 when she was going through her own divorce. She picked four of her female friends that didn’t know each other, put them into a group text and called them the, “Crisis Crew.” From that day on, this group of women rallied around each other in challenging times, celebrated each other’s win’s, prayed for each other, gave advice, drank too much wine, traveled, and even supported each other’s careers.

Even on the bad days, Jada’s love for encouraging, supporting, and uplifting people shines through.

Recognizing the universal need for a personal “Crisis Crew” and a nurturing space for authentic relationships across life’s various seasons, she envisioned the Grow Forward Community.

The Grow Forward Community is a haven that:

Guides individuals through high-stakes decision-making.
Empowers every woman to aspire for better, acknowledging that better is possible.
Provides opportunities for learning and growth without imposing expectations or judgment.
Ensures that each woman feels seen, heard, and valued.

GFC stands out as a unique sanctuary where professional women can set aside their capes, fostering a sense of belonging and ensuring they never face their battles alone again.

Jada’s Crisis Crew

Meet Our Team

Jada Willis

Founder & Chief Growth Instigator

Jada Willis is a true innovator, constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with her creativity and resourcefulness.

After building a successful HR consulting firm and spending over 18 years in Human Resources, Jada found herself walking away from most networking and professional development groups feeling unfulfilled. She faced unique challenges as a woman in business—balancing a demanding professional life with family commitments, constantly battling imposter syndrome, feeling as if there was a constant need to prove herself, navigating criticism for being too driven, and struggling to find networking events that weren’t draining and ineffective.

Jada’s extensive experience across Fortune 100 companies, small businesses, and nonprofits revealed a disheartening truth: there simply weren’t enough spaces offering women quality education and networking opportunities they needed to thrive both professionally and personally.

In 2023, Jada sold her thriving HR consulting firm and embarked on a new, passion-driven journey. She now dedicates herself to providing executive coaching and leadership development for female CEOs and Executive Directors. True to her trailblazing entrepreneurial spirit, she started the Grow Forward Community specifically for high-performing women.

GFC is for all women, encouraging diversity of race, age, sexual orientation, religion, and socio-economic background. Jada has a true heart for high-achieving underdogs that have the courage and grit to go after their goals.
If you want to learn more about Jada’s background, visit www.jadawillis.com.

Rebekah Gawiniski

Growth & Community Expert

Rebekah, a true dynamo, presently holds the position of Chief Operating Officer and Co-Owner at Southern Edge Tile, headquartered in Columbia, SC. Her remarkable journey is a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit, forged through a multifaceted background encompassing professional athleticism and a thriving career in sales and operational management.

Rebekah’s remarkable sporting journey saw her representing the University of South Carolina in the realm of golf, eventually propelling her into a successful professional golf career.

When not busy delivering exceptional flooring, deck, and tile services alongside her husband, Tom, Rebekah remains deeply committed to their roles in a local nonprofit organization, Range Fore Hope. Her heart beats for uplifting others, forging meaningful connections, and contributing to the creation of stronger and more vibrant communities.

Carolynn McAdams

Operations Coordinator

Carolynn is the glue that holds everything together. With a background in retail and business management, she has finely tuned her operational and customer service skills. As the mastermind behind the inner workings of our online community and app, Carolynn’s exceptional problem-solving abilities have earned her the well-deserved title of “wizard.”

A high-performing professional and mother of five, Carolynn understands the unique challenges faced by ambitious women. Her experience has made her incredibly efficient, with a sharp wit to match.

In her free time, she enjoys writing, gardening, and nurturing her own personal growth.

MaryAddison Yates

Empowerment Coach

MaryAddison is an ICF-Certified Life Coach dedicated to helping high-achieving women explore and transform the beliefs, values, and perspectives that shape their behaviors. She guides them in overcoming limitations and creating a life beyond their expectations. As the leader of our monthly Women’s Circle, MaryAddison fosters a space where real conversations thrive, emotions are embraced, and practical support is provided.

Her greatest aspiration is for women to move beyond seeking external validation and instead find self-affirmation and self-love. MaryAddison is committed to helping women embrace their truth, happiness, and inner peace, free from any obstacles.

“If you want to go fast, go alone.
If you want to go far, go together."

African Proverb

Building a community truly takes a village.

There are several individuals who contribute in great ways to the success of each member and the ongoing sustainability of the Grow Forward Community.

If you ever have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out. We are here for YOU!