History of SSFC

Why Step Forward?

In 2014, Elaine embarked on a simple yet profound mission: to serve God and others. Following a spiritual wrestling akin to Jacob’s (Genesis 32:22-32), she began seeking her true God-ordained purpose. By 2016, this journey led to the establishment of Transforming Love Ministries, aimed at empowering everyday women to pursue God-sized dreams. Elaine soon realized her calling extended beyond motivation; it encompassed encouraging, inspiring, and mentoring women to embrace visions greater than they could imagine (2 Corinthians 5:7). She now witnesses God raising up a new generation of female entrepreneurs and leaders, poised to carry out His work.

In 2019, She Steps Forward emerged as a small, community-focused conference. Its purpose was twofold: to create a gathering space for women to share their God-given visions and receive support in pursuing them, and to provide a platform for those who had already embarked on their God-sized dreams to share their faith journeys and practical insights. These women offered firsthand accounts of building their businesses, ministries, and nonprofits. Through this synergistic environment, Elaine aimed to demonstrate that with God, all things are possible (Matthew 19:26).

God’s faithfulness was evident from the inception of She Steps Forward, as the small, U.S.-based grassroots effort rapidly embraced an international calling. In 2020, doors opened for the inaugural She Steps Forward Africa conference in Nairobi, Kenya. This successful one-day event drew 60 women from five African countries, igniting a passionate flame overseas. Elaine finds herself humbled to work alongside African women eager to step into their destinies. Yet God’s vision extended further. During her time in Kenya, Elaine encountered various community outreaches led by resolute, faith-filled African women striving to uplift their communities. She Steps Forward now proudly maintains ongoing partnerships with these organizations, contributing to the betterment of lives for African women and children in Kenya.

Mid-2020 marked a pivotal expansion as God broadened Elaine’s vision, leading to the establishment of She Steps Forward International as a nonprofit. This move ensured the continuity and growth of the work both in the United States and Africa. Simultaneously, Transforming Love Ministries evolved into She Steps Forward Ministries, aligning the brand with its international counterpart.

The result was a powerful dual approach: She Steps Forward Ministries focused on empowering everyday women to pursue their God-sized dreams, while She Steps Forward International dedicated itself to equipping women to fulfill their God-given destinies. This strategic restructuring amplified the impact of Elaine’s original mission across both local and global spheres.

In late 2023, She Steps Forward Ministries underwent its final transformation, giving rise to She Steps Forward Coaching. This evolution marked the culmination of Elaine’s journey and the realization of her vision to provide comprehensive support to aspiring entrepreneurs.

She Steps Forward Coaching now offers a holistic coaching package designed to nurture those with God-sized dreams. This program focuses on three key areas: building confidence, creating strategic plans, and establishing sustainable paths for businesses, ministries, and nonprofits.

Elaine’s commitment goes beyond mere promotion of her God-given message—she embodies it. Her personal journey and the evolution of her organizations stand as testament to the power of pursuing divinely inspired visions.

If you would have told me back in 2014 what God was about to do in my life, I would have looked at you in complete disbelief. But our God is an all-powerful, wonder working God who proves Himself faithful over and over even when we don’t deserve it. I promise if you are wrestling with a dream God has given you, all you really need to do is take that step forward and He will lead you into exactly what you were created for. And I am here to cheer you on, provide you with resources, and welcome you into a loving community of women just like you! Join us for the journey and watch what God will do!”

Elaine

Why Step Forward?

In 2014, Elaine embarked on a simple yet profound mission: to serve God and others. Following a spiritual wrestling akin to Jacob’s (Genesis 32:22-32), she began seeking her true God-ordained purpose. By 2016, this journey led to the establishment of Transforming Love Ministries, aimed at empowering everyday women to pursue God-sized dreams. Elaine soon realized her calling extended beyond motivation; it encompassed encouraging, inspiring, and mentoring women to embrace visions greater than they could imagine (2 Corinthians 5:7). She now witnesses God raising up a new generation of female entrepreneurs and leaders, poised to carry out His work.

In 2019, She Steps Forward emerged as a small, community-focused conference. Its purpose was twofold: to create a gathering space for women to share their God-given visions and receive support in pursuing them, and to provide a platform for those who had already embarked on their God-sized dreams to share their faith journeys and practical insights. These women offered firsthand accounts of building their businesses, ministries, and nonprofits. Through this synergistic environment, Elaine aimed to demonstrate that with God, all things are possible (Matthew 19:26).

God’s faithfulness was evident from the inception of She Steps Forward, as the small, U.S.-based grassroots effort rapidly embraced an international calling. In 2020, doors opened for the inaugural She Steps Forward Africa conference in Nairobi, Kenya. This successful one-day event drew 60 women from five African countries, igniting a passionate flame overseas. Elaine finds herself humbled to work alongside African women eager to step into their destinies. Yet God’s vision extended further. During her time in Kenya, Elaine encountered various community outreaches led by resolute, faith-filled African women striving to uplift their communities. She Steps Forward now proudly maintains ongoing partnerships with these organizations, contributing to the betterment of lives for African women and children in Kenya.

Mid-2020 marked a pivotal expansion as God broadened Elaine’s vision, leading to the establishment of She Steps Forward International as a nonprofit. This move ensured the continuity and growth of the work both in the United States and Africa. Simultaneously, Transforming Love Ministries evolved into She Steps Forward Ministries, aligning the brand with its international counterpart.

The result was a powerful dual approach: She Steps Forward Ministries focused on empowering everyday women to pursue their God-sized dreams, while She Steps Forward International dedicated itself to equipping women to fulfill their God-given destinies. This strategic restructuring amplified the impact of Elaine’s original mission across both local and global spheres.

In late 2023, She Steps Forward Ministries underwent its final transformation, giving rise to She Steps Forward Coaching. This evolution marked the culmination of Elaine’s journey and the realization of her vision to provide comprehensive support to aspiring entrepreneurs.

She Steps Forward Coaching now offers a holistic coaching package designed to nurture those with God-sized dreams. This program focuses on three key areas: building confidence, creating strategic plans, and establishing sustainable paths for businesses, ministries, and nonprofits.

Elaine’s commitment goes beyond mere promotion of her God-given message—she embodies it. Her personal journey and the evolution of her organizations stand as testament to the power of pursuing divinely inspired visions.

If you would have told me back in 2014 what God was about to do in my life, I would have looked at you in complete disbelief. But our God is an all-powerful, wonder working God who proves Himself faithful over and over even when we don’t deserve it. I promise if you are wrestling with a dream God has given you, all you really need to do is take that step forward and He will lead you into exactly what you were created for. And I am here to cheer you on, provide you with resources, and welcome you into a loving community of women just like you! Join us for the journey and watch what God will do!”

Elaine

Elaine Lankford

Chief Empowerment Officer
​She Steps Forward Coaching

  • info@shestepsforwardcoaching.com
  • +1 757-809-0313

Elaine's Bio

Elaine is a passionate advocate for Christian female entrepreneurs, dedicated to helping them launch and grow successful businesses, ministries, and nonprofits. As the founder of She Steps Forward Coaching and She Steps Forward International, she empowers women to step confidently into their God-sized dreams.

Through She Steps Forward Coaching, Elaine offers targeted strategic planning and individualized support to aspiring female entrepreneurs. As a certified John Maxwell Team member, she brings expertise in speaking, writing, leadership development, and entrepreneurial coaching to her faith-based approach.

Expanding her vision globally, Elaine established She Steps Forward International (SSFI), a nonprofit organization that equips both American and African women to lead impactful ventures. SSFI’s flagship event, the She Steps Forward International Women’s Conference, unites like-minded female entrepreneurs annually – each March in the United States and May in Africa – fostering a global community of inspiration and shared wisdom.

SSFI’s commitment to nurturing new talent is evident in its Seed Money Grant program, which supports rising Christian female entrepreneurs in the U.S. and Africa. The organization also extends its reach by engaging in humanitarian work in Nairobi, Kenya.

Leadership development has been woven throughout Elaine’s personal and professional life. Prior to her current work, Elaine has held many leadership roles both within the church and in her professional life.

Elaine’s diverse background includes over 16 years in clinical nursing, where she held various leadership roles, including Pain Management Coordinator and nurse practitioner. She later transitioned to advisory roles in medical record documentation, coding, and auditing, showcasing her adaptability and commitment to excellence in healthcare.

Within the local church environment, she served for years as a small group leader, co-organized and co-lead missions trip, and ministered on a prayer team.

In 2023, Elaine obtained her Master of Arts in Theology degree from Jakes Divinity School (JDS) in partnership with Vanguard University. She also completed a Women in Leadership certificate program through JDS and received a 2022-2023 Outstanding Student Award. Toward the end of her studies, she was thrilled to be chosen to present at the 52nd Annual Meeting of the Society for Pentecostal Studies. She plans to continue her studies at JDS in the near future and aspires to complete a Doctor of Ministry (DMin) degree focused on Spirit-filled Global Leadership in the African Diaspora.

She self-published her first book, Love Echoed Back, in 2014 and plans to return to writing in the future. Her leadership articles have appeared in the Suffolk News Herald and Inside Business. She has been featured on several podcast shows including HER Talk Show, Love & Beloved, The Ella Ray Show, Be Inspired God’s Way, and Women Awakening.

A Virginia native, Elaine has been married to her husband, Darrell, for over 31 years. They have one son, Nicholas, and a beloved beagle named Apollo.

​By leveraging her faith, gifts, and experience, Elaine is fostering a new generation of Christian female leaders ready to make a positive impact in the marketplace and their communities.

Your Success is My Success! ~ Elaine

  • info@shestepsforwardcoaching.com
  • +1 757-809-0313

Elaine's Bio

Elaine is a passionate advocate for Christian female entrepreneurs, dedicated to helping them launch and grow successful businesses, ministries, and nonprofits. As the founder of She Steps Forward Coaching and She Steps Forward International, she empowers women to step confidently into their God-sized dreams.

Through She Steps Forward Coaching, Elaine offers targeted strategic planning and individualized support to aspiring female entrepreneurs. As a certified John Maxwell Team member, she brings expertise in speaking, writing, leadership development, and entrepreneurial coaching to her faith-based approach.

Expanding her vision globally, Elaine established She Steps Forward International (SSFI), a nonprofit organization that equips both American and African women to lead impactful ventures. SSFI’s flagship event, the She Steps Forward International Women’s Conference, unites like-minded female entrepreneurs annually – each March in the United States and May in Africa – fostering a global community of inspiration and shared wisdom.

SSFI’s commitment to nurturing new talent is evident in its Seed Money Grant program, which supports rising Christian female entrepreneurs in the U.S. and Africa. The organization also extends its reach by engaging in humanitarian work in Nairobi, Kenya.

Leadership development has been woven throughout Elaine’s personal and professional life. Prior to her current work, Elaine has held many leadership roles both within the church and in her professional life.

Elaine’s diverse background includes over 16 years in clinical nursing, where she held various leadership roles, including Pain Management Coordinator and nurse practitioner. She later transitioned to advisory roles in medical record documentation, coding, and auditing, showcasing her adaptability and commitment to excellence in healthcare.

Within the local church environment, she served for years as a small group leader, co-organized and co-lead missions trip, and ministered on a prayer team.

In 2023, Elaine obtained her Master of Arts in Theology degree from Jakes Divinity School (JDS) in partnership with Vanguard University. She also completed a Women in Leadership certificate program through JDS and received a 2022-2023 Outstanding Student Award. Toward the end of her studies, she was thrilled to be chosen to present at the 52nd Annual Meeting of the Society for Pentecostal Studies. She plans to continue her studies at JDS in the near future and aspires to complete a Doctor of Ministry (DMin) degree focused on Spirit-filled Global Leadership in the African Diaspora.

She self-published her first book, Love Echoed Back, in 2014 and plans to return to writing in the future. Her leadership articles have appeared in the Suffolk News Herald and Inside Business. She has been featured on several podcast shows including HER Talk Show, Love & Beloved, The Ella Ray Show, Be Inspired God’s Way, and Women Awakening.

A Virginia native, Elaine has been married to her husband, Darrell, for over 31 years. They have one son, Nicholas, and a beloved beagle named Apollo.

​By leveraging her faith, gifts, and experience, Elaine is fostering a new generation of Christian female leaders ready to make a positive impact in the marketplace and their communities.

Your Success is My Success!
~ Elaine

Cultivating a Vision: The She Steps Forward Nation Story

December 2024

By the end of 2024, SSFI completed its leadership team with 9 board members and 7 advisory board members representing various states across the United States.

​She Steps Forward Coaching launched the Called to Create: From Dreamer to Doer in 10 Steps Webinar, the SSFC Entrepreneurial Insights Package, and the Signature SSFC One-to-One Coaching Package.

November 2024

SSFI launched its first African (beta) cohort group online, assisting four aspiring Christian female entrepreneurs to realize their dreams of becoming business owners and nonprofit founders.

July 2024

SSFI launched its monthly online workshop series featuring talented, experienced female entrepreneurs/coaches from across the United States!

May 2024

The fourth She Steps Forward Africa Conference was held in Nairobi, Kenya. It drew a record-breaking attendance of approximately 300 women!

March 2024

2024 was dubbed the year of She Steps Forward with Expectation. In prep for 2025, SSFI began laying the foundation for an online workshop series to bridge learning gaps between annual conferences.

December 2023

She Steps Forward Ministries, LLC re-brands to She Steps Forward Coaching, offering one-to-one leadership development and entrepreneurial coaching to aspiring Christian female entrepreneurs ready to finally launch their business, parachurch ministry, or nonprofit.

September 2023

She Steps Forward Africa, LLC was founded in Nairobi, Kenya so that online coaching services and in-person entrepreneurial conferences can be offered to female African entrepreneurs.

May 2023

The third She Steps Forward Africa Conference was held in Nairobi, Kenya.

March 2023

The fourth annual She Steps Forward International Women's Conference, She Steps Forward without Fear, re-launched in-person!

May 2022

The second She Steps Forward Africa Conference was held in Nairobi, Kenya. This trip also marked the official start of an annual Kenya Missions Trip for those that desired to travel to Africa with SSF.

March 2022

The third She Steps Forward International Women's Conference, She Steps Forward in His Strength, was again held in an online format as we neared the end of U.S. COVID restrictions.

November 2021

Transforming Love Ministries, LLC becomes She Steps Forward Ministries, LLC.

September 2021

SSF was able to re-enter Kenya under lighter COVID restrictions and during this trip was introduced to the Ummoja Disability Center.

march 2021

The second She Steps Forward International Women's Conference, She Steps Forward with Grace, was held online as we continued to navigate COVID restrictions.

july 2020

She Steps Forward International, a nonprofit arm, was founded to equip everyday women to fulfill their God-given destinies and continue SSF's humanitarian work in both the United States and Kenya.

February 2020

The first She Steps Forward Africa conference was launched in Nairobi, Kenya. SSF was also introduced to the Neemaland Queens and Kings Center as well as the Moses Basket Initiative.

March 2019

The first She Steps Forward International Women's Conference, She Steps Forward into Destiny, was launched.

May 2016

Transforming Love Ministries, LLC was founded to empower everyday women to chase God-sized dreams.

Cultivating a Vision:
The She Steps Forward Nation Story

December 2024

By the end of 2024, SSFI completed its leadership team with 9 board members and 7 advisory board members representing various states across the United States.

​She Steps Forward Coaching launched the Called to Create: From Dreamer to Doer in 10 Steps Webinar, the SSFC Entrepreneurial Insights Package, and the Signature SSFC One-to-One Coaching Package.

November 2024

SSFI launched its first African (beta) cohort group online, assisting four aspiring Christian female entrepreneurs to realize their dreams of becoming business owners and nonprofit founders.

July 2024

SSFI launched its monthly online workshop series featuring talented, experienced female entrepreneurs/coaches from across the United States!

May 2024

The fourth She Steps Forward Africa Conference was held in Nairobi, Kenya. It drew a record-breaking attendance of approximately 300 women!

March 2024

2024 was dubbed the year of She Steps Forward with Expectation. In prep for 2025, SSFI began laying the foundation for an online workshop series to bridge learning gaps between annual conferences.

December 2023

She Steps Forward Ministries, LLC re-brands to She Steps Forward Coaching, offering one-to-one leadership development and entrepreneurial coaching to aspiring Christian female entrepreneurs ready to finally launch their business, parachurch ministry, or nonprofit.

September 2023

She Steps Forward Africa, LLC was founded in Nairobi, Kenya so that online coaching services and in-person entrepreneurial conferences can be offered to female African entrepreneurs.

May 2023

The third She Steps Forward Africa Conference was held in Nairobi, Kenya.

March 2023

The fourth annual She Steps Forward International Women's Conference, She Steps Forward without Fear, re-launched in-person!

May 2022

The second She Steps Forward Africa Conference was held in Nairobi, Kenya. This trip also marked the official start of an annual Kenya Missions Trip for those that desired to travel to Africa with SSF.

March 2022

The third She Steps Forward International Women's Conference, She Steps Forward in His Strength, was again held in an online format as we neared the end of U.S. COVID restrictions.

November 2021

Transforming Love Ministries, LLC becomes She Steps Forward Ministries, LLC.

September 2021

SSF was able to re-enter Kenya under lighter COVID restrictions and during this trip was introduced to the Ummoja Disability Center.

march 2021

The second She Steps Forward International Women's Conference, She Steps Forward with Grace, was held online as we continued to navigate COVID restrictions.

july 2020

She Steps Forward International, a nonprofit arm, was founded to equip everyday women to fulfill their God-given destinies and continue SSF's humanitarian work in both the United States and Kenya.

February 2020

The first She Steps Forward Africa conference was launched in Nairobi, Kenya. SSF was also introduced to the Neemaland Queens and Kings Center as well as the Moses Basket Initiative.

March 2019

The first She Steps Forward International Women's Conference, She Steps Forward into Destiny, was launched.

May 2016

Transforming Love Ministries, LLC was founded to empower everyday women to chase God-sized dreams.

She Steps Forward Coaching newsletter

Stay In The Loop​

​​

She Steps Forward Coaching newsletter

Stay In The Loop

BUILDING

One Business

Prepared to launch your business?
Let's craft a strategic plan that
establishes a solid foundation and
ensures long-term sustainability.

One Ministry

Sensing a calling to establish
a parachurch ministry?
Let's clarify your target audience
and define your unique offerings.

One Nonprofit

Drawn to nonprofit work?
Let's pinpoint the community issue
you're passionate about tackling
and develop strategies to rally support.

AT A TIME!

Launching confident, successful Christian female entrepreneurs with targeted strategic plans so they can build sustainable businesses, ministries, and nonprofits!

Let's connect!

  • 1-757-809-0313
  • info@shestepsforwardcoaching.com
  • P.O. Box 7173, Suffolk, VA 23437

SSFC Newsletter

Get Updates and Stay Connected!

Copyright © 2026 She Steps Forward Coaching. All rights reserved.
​She Steps Forward ® is a registered trademark of She Steps Forward Ministries, LLC, the parent company of She Steps Forward Coaching.