A Note From Our Founder.

Holding Space Academy™ was born from both my professional experience and my personal understanding of what it means to need a safe, compassionate space. Throughout my journey as a social worker, educator, mother, leader, and woman committed to healing and growth, I have witnessed how profoundly people can change when they are met with empathy rather than judgment.

I created this Academy to equip educators, facilitators, and community leaders with more than information. My vision is to help develop compassionate leaders who know how to listen deeply, respond thoughtfully, establish emotional safety, and empower others without taking away their voice.

Holding space is not about having every answer. It is about being present, honoring another person’s humanity, and creating the conditions in which healing, learning, and transformation can occur.

My hope is that every person who enters Holding Space Academy™ leaves with practical tools, renewed purpose, and the confidence to create spaces where others feel seen, heard, valued, and empowered.

With purpose and compassion,
Hawa Sirleaf-Harris
Founder & Executive Director
Holding Space Academy™