Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashleigh Pandora “AP” Montford
Hi Ashleigh Pandora “AP”, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My Journey: From Vision to Impact
My journey has been anything but linear, but every twist and turn has led me to where I am today. I started out with a passion for growth—both personal and professional. Early in my career, I found myself drawn to problem-solving, business development, and strategic planning, especially for individuals and organizations looking to scale. I realized that many people had powerful ideas but lacked the roadmap to bring them to life. That’s when I knew my purpose: to help others turn their visions into sustainable, impactful realities.
With that in mind, I founded The Opia Designs Company, a strategic growth agency specializing in grant writing, business development, and marketing. Through this venture, I’ve helped businesses, nonprofits, and entrepreneurs secure funding, build sustainable strategies, and amplify their missions. My work in grant writing has led to funding for initiatives ranging from STEM education and youth mentorship to nonprofit expansion and community development.
Beyond business, I’ve always been an advocate for empowerment and community building. My brand, Dynamic Powerhouse, serves as a platform where I share insights on self-growth, being a Black woman in America, and the power of resilience. I’ve expanded my reach through speaking engagements, consulting, and launching my blog, Powerhouse Perspectives.
Currently, I’m working on growing my impact in multiple ways—whether it’s mentoring entrepreneurs, launching a podcast, or advocating for funding opportunities that change lives. My goal has always been to create spaces where people—especially women and marginalized communities—can thrive, build wealth, and leave legacies.
This journey has been one of evolution, and I know I’m just getting started.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Absolutely not—but I wouldn’t change a thing. The road to where I am today has been full of challenges, but each obstacle has shaped me into the person and entrepreneur I am now.
One of the biggest struggles I faced was finding clarity in my path. When you’re multi-passionate, it’s easy to feel pulled in different directions. Early on, I knew I had the skills to help businesses grow, secure funding, and build sustainable models, but learning how to package my expertise into a structured, scalable business took time.
Another challenge was navigating entrepreneurship without a blueprint. As a Black woman in business, I had to carve out my own opportunities, build my own network, and continuously prove my value in spaces that weren’t always welcoming. There were moments of doubt, financial uncertainty, and times when I questioned whether I was on the right track.
Balancing growth with personal well-being has also been an ongoing challenge. As someone who is deeply invested in my clients’ success, I often put my own needs on the back burner. Learning how to set boundaries, delegate, and prioritize self-care has been a game-changer.
But through every setback, I’ve gained resilience, wisdom, and an unshakable belief in my mission. Each struggle has reinforced why I do what I do—helping others navigate their own journeys so they don’t have to figure it all out alone.
I’ve learned that challenges aren’t roadblocks; they’re stepping stones. And every difficult moment has brought me closer to my purpose.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
At my core, I am a strategist, builder, and advocate for growth. I help businesses, nonprofits, and entrepreneurs secure funding, develop strategic plans, and build sustainable brands that create real impact. Through my company, The Opia Designs Company, I specialize in grant writing, business development, and marketing—three pillars that drive organizations from vision to execution.
What I Do & Specialize In
My expertise lies in grant writing and funding strategy, where I help businesses and nonprofits secure the resources they need to grow. From small community initiatives to large-scale projects, I specialize in crafting compelling grant proposals and crowdfunding campaigns. In addition to securing funding, I focus on business development and strategic planning, working with startups and established businesses to build scalable models, launch new initiatives, and develop long-term strategies for success. Marketing and brand positioning are also key components of my work, ensuring that organizations communicate their value effectively through branding, storytelling, and audience engagement strategies.
What I’m Known For
I am known for making things happen—taking complex ideas and turning them into structured, actionable plans. My clients appreciate my ability to see the bigger picture while focusing on the details that drive success. Whether it’s securing funding, expanding a brand, or launching a new venture, I specialize in bringing clarity to chaos and helping organizations move forward with confidence.
What I’m Most Proud Of
One of my proudest accomplishments is helping nonprofits and small businesses secure funding that changes lives. I’ve worked on initiatives supporting STEM education, youth mentorship, community development, and economic empowerment, and knowing that my work directly impacts real people keeps me motivated. Additionally, I’m proud of the communities I’ve built—from my blog, Powerhouse Perspectives, to the upcoming launch of my podcast, Love, The Gworls. I’m creating spaces where people, especially Black women, can learn, grow, and thrive.
What Sets Me Apart?
What sets me apart is my holistic approach. I don’t just write grants or develop business plans; I build ecosystems that ensure long-term success. My work integrates funding, branding, and strategic growth into a sustainable framework for my clients. I am also innovative and impact-driven, focusing on creating real, lasting change, not just short-term wins. By blending creativity with strategy, I help organizations stand out and thrive in competitive spaces. Above all, authenticity and relatability define my approach. I bring my full self into my work, and that resonates with my clients. People work with me not just because I have the expertise, but because I truly care about their success.
At the end of the day, my mission is to help people and organizations unlock their full potential, secure the resources they need, and build legacies that last.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Creating impact and seeing growth—both in myself and others—is what truly makes me happy. I find joy in helping people and organizations turn their visions into reality, whether it’s securing funding for a nonprofit, launching a business, or building a strategy that sets someone up for long-term success. Seeing the direct impact of my work, knowing that I’ve helped someone take the next step toward their dreams, is incredibly fulfilling.
Beyond my work, I’m happiest when I’m in spaces that foster connection, empowerment, and authenticity. Whether it’s engaging in deep conversations, mentoring others, or creating content that inspires, I thrive in environments where ideas flow freely, and people feel seen and supported.
I also find happiness in creativity and self-expression. Writing, storytelling, and building brands allow me to channel my thoughts into something tangible. Whether it’s through my blog (Powerhouse Perspectives), my upcoming podcast (Love, The Gworls), or the strategic work I do with clients, I love bringing ideas to life in ways that resonate and inspire.
On a personal level, travel, music, and solitude bring me peace. Exploring new places, immersing myself in different cultures, and taking time to reflect allow me to reset and gain new perspectives. Music fuels my energy and creativity, and moments of solitude help me stay grounded.
Ultimately, happiness for me is about freedom—freedom to create, to impact, to explore, and to be my most authentic self while uplifting others along the way.
Pricing:
- Consultations are $175
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.theopiadesignscompanyllc.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theopiadesignscompany/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OpiaDesignsLLC
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/opiadesignscompany
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/dynamicpowerhouseap/
