Grateful Connections is a professional development community for women who are ready to grow in their work, in their confidence, and in their relationships with other women who get it.
This isn’t about handing out business cards or showing up just to be seen. It’s about building something together. Whether you’re just starting out or have been doing your thing for years- if you’re looking to grow with purpose and connection, this is your space.
About Grateful Connections
Founder
Malinda Leonard
Hi, I’m Malinda — founder of Grateful Connections, lifelong connector, and professional cheerleader for women in business and beyond.
As a true extrovert, when I decided to launch my personal branding photography business, I couldn’t wait to get out of the house and start networking. But I quickly realized most networking groups were super exclusive- they only allowing ONE member per business category. And since there are plenty of photographers nearby (and every group already had one), I thought… “Hey, I’ll just create my own!” That’s where my mission of collaboration over competition was born.
Once I started bringing women together, I realized this is where my heart truly lives. While my photography is still a part of my heart- now through Branding Connections, small-group days where women get great photos and real conversation at once- nothing fills my soul like creating a space where women feel genuinely connected, supported, and seen. Grateful Connections goes beyond surface-level connection- it’s an all-inclusive community for women in business (every business category welcome- even more photographers!) with intentional gatherings, guided conversation, and meaningful education so no woman has to build her business alone.
I look forward to building a relationship and connection with you. Don’t hesitate to connect on social media, or message me here to schedule a call and learn more!
Our Community Focus Areas
Grateful Connections is built around intentional growth- for your business, your confidence, and your relationships. Everything we do- gatherings, workshops, speaker topics, Circle Conversations, or Branding Connections- is rooted in one simple journey: Comfort, Connection, and Confidence.
Comfort- Feeling safe enough to show up as you are- no performing, no pressure, and zero judgment for wherever you are in your journey.
Connection- Real relationships with women who get it- built through gatherings, guided conversations, and a community that celebrates your wins, not just collecting business cards.
Confidence- The business know-how and words to match your skill- through professional development, hands-on workshops, and (coming soon) sales and network training to help you speak up about what you do with real confidence.
Through it all- gratitude, giving back, and purpose-driven success is woven into everything we do!
A Moment of Connection
A thoughtful note from Grateful Connections, shared weekly, with tips, reflections, upcoming events, podcast updates, and community news.
Let’s grow together.
Whether you’re here to connect, to learn, to be inspired - or all of the above - I hope you’ll find what you need inside this community.