The path to success in leadership development involves helping organizations navigate the complexities of their leadership and business infrastructure. These leaders must improve their own performance while inspiring growth in others.
Arloishia R. Israel, PhD, has spent more than 20 years working with individuals and organizations to help them realize their potential. As the chief executive officer of Stepping Stone Consulting Global Firm, Israel has become an expert in leadership development, guiding nonprofit organizations, business owners, and chief executive officers in their professional growth.
Building a Career from Adversity
Israel’s journey to success has been marked by her ability to overcome obstacles. “I did not let anything stop me,” she says. Her passion for leadership development grew from a personal struggle. “When I was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease and couldn’t walk for three months, I felt like my career was reaching a peak,” she shares.
However, this setback pushed Israel to focus on creating something impactful. As she recovered, she founded Stepping Stone Consulting, through which she planned to help leaders become the best versions of themselves.
Israel attributes her determination to her parents, Dora Copeland and Philemon Everson. “My parents instilled in me humility, grace and integrity.” These values have guided her throughout her career and remain at the core of her leadership philosophy.
Expanding Global Reach with Stepping Stone Consulting Global Firm
Stepping Stone Consulting has grown significantly since its inception, expanding to international markets such as the Caribbean, China, and Mexico. Israel rebranded the business in 2020 to reflect this global reach. “Stepping Stone Consulting started with a vision to help people grow, but as my client base expanded, I knew I needed to reach beyond the US,” she explains. She now helps clients across borders with strategic planning, leadership development, and nonprofit consulting.
Understanding that every client is in a unique place in their business journey, Israel’s approach to leadership is tailored and personal. She works with clients to develop the skills to be a better leader and strategies to enhance organizational infrastructure. “I break down what needs to be improved, help them network and build a strategic plan to grow,” she says.
A Legacy of Success and Impact
Israel has had a lasting impact on the mental health sector. She founded the first residential treatment facility for at-risk youth in Stanly County, North Carolina. Her efforts led to the facility becoming the state’s No. 1 girls’ residential treatment center. It was a crowning achievement for her: “That was my standout moment. I saw firsthand how leadership could change lives.”
She has also worked with more than 600 youths, many of whom have gone on to become counselors and social workers. “I’m still in contact with about 180 of them and they continue to reach out for advice and guidance,” Israel shares.
Looking Forward: Expanding Services and Empowering Future Leaders
In the future, Israel intends to expand her firm further internationally. She also wants to share her expertise by continuing to mentor the next generation of leaders: “Leadership is not just about the job, it’s about the impact you have on others.”
Israel’s dedication to leadership development and commitment to helping others achieve their goals have made her a revered figure in her field.
