Velma Knowles, Founder and CEO of Leaders Pathway is a Bahamian-American Author, Speaker and Trainer. Born and raised in the city of Nassau, Bahamas, she came to the United States after launching a successful $100,000 personal college fundraising campaign.
She received her first degree from Webber International University in Babson Park, Florida. Moving to the west coast of Florida, Velma earned an MBA from the University of Tampa. Her education also includes advanced executive training from The University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business, Bradley University, Disney Institute, and both the American Management Association and the American Marketing Association.
Velma is a former membership and marketing association executive with over two decades of national and international experience, including Vice President of Member Experience with the American Automobile Association (AAA). She is a graduate trainer and coach for Dale Carnegie; and a certified speaker, trainer, and coach for the John Maxwell Team. Velma has served on Boards in various capacities including as Vice President of Membership for the American Marketing Association, Vice President, Membership and Area Director for Toastmasters International.
As an international keynote speaker Velma has presented in Australia, Canada, the Bahamas, and across the United States to a wide variety of audiences. Her expertise includes communication, leadership, team performance, marketing, and membership growth. When she is not helping leaders and organizations grow and discover their value, you can find her enjoying nature, watching birds, and photographing memorable moments. She is currently working on her second book in the Valuable Leader series.