GINA WORTHEY
Gina Worthey is a dynamic leader, internationally recognised speaker and the Founder/CEO of Worthey Solutions International.
With over two decades of experience, Gina has built a reputation for empowering organizations and individuals to achieve their full potential. Her Washington, DC-based consulting firm specialises in delivering project management, leadership training, and executive coaching to senior-level clients across government, non-profit, and Fortune 500 companies.
A graduate of the University of Delaware’s Biden School of Public Policy and Administration with a Master’s in Urban Affairs and Public Policy, Gina also holds an Executive Education certificate from the prestigious Saïd Business School at the University of Oxford. As an alumnus and facilitator for Oxford’s Women Transforming Leadershipprogramme, she has fostered connections and transformative growth among global women leaders. Her commitment to creating meaningful change is evident in her work with organisations like Vital Voices founded by Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, where she advocates for women’s leadership and advancement.
Gina’s professional journey includesKeynote Speaker for Shell Corporation-Brasil’s Black Employee Network, Executive Coach for the FDA, a Project Management Consultant for the U.S. Department of Labour, and a trainer for numerous high-impact initiatives. She is known for her innovative approach to workforce development, having led ground-breaking projects for the National Office of Job Corps and the U.S. Department of Justice Partners for Re-entry Opportunities in Workforce Development(PROWD). Her expertise spans strategic planning, organisational change management, policy development and community empowerment.
Beyond her professional achievements, Gina has made significant contributions to her local community in Annapolis, Maryland. As Vice-Chair of the Anne Arundel County Commission for Women, she advises on policies and initiatives that enhance women’s quality of life. Her leadership extends to her role as a DC Council Member for Vital Voices, an international women’s advocacy group.
A passionate advocate for marginalised communities, Gina’s efforts have earned her recognition, including Governor’s Citations for her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic. She has also provided training and technical assistance for the National Science Foundation and partnered with the University of the Virgin Islands to drive impactful programs.
With over two decades of experience, Gina has built a reputation for empowering organizations and individuals to achieve their full potential. Her Washington, DC-based consulting firm specialises in delivering project management, leadership training, and executive coaching to senior-level clients across government, non-profit, and Fortune 500 companies.
In her personal life, Gina enjoys traveling the globe, spending time with her family, and participating in endurance races, including triathlons and 5K runs. Her adventurous spirit and dedication to self-growth reflect her belief in the power of perseverance and transformation.
Gina Worthey embodies the essence of empowerment, inspiring others to dream big, break barriers, and create lasting impact.
All information and links were correct at the date of original publication on
16 Jan 2025
What inspired you to start Worthey Solutions International?
I started Worthey Solutions International inspired by the incredible example set by my mom, a single parent who taught me the power of resilience and entrepreneurship. She took non-conventional jobs to care for us and later began buying and selling our furniture to pay the bills—a hustle that eventually grew into her antique resale business. Watching her showed me that there are countless ways to make a living, and business can be a way to choose your own adventure. That perspective opened my eyes to possibilities and planted the seed for my own entrepreneurial journey.
Growing up, I also realized I’ve always loved helping people and being the one who could “fix” things—whether it was solving problems, untangling complicated situations, or understanding people’s gifts and talents. It’s something I’ve carried with me through every stage of my life, and it became the foundation for my company. During my university years, I started doing contract work, finding ways to use my skills to make a difference while earning income.
By the time I finished graduate school, it was clear to me: I wanted to build a business that would empower others while leveraging my passion for leadership, problem-solving, and community impact. That’s how Worthey Solutions International was born—a firm grounded in purpose, designed to help people and organizations realize their full potential.
You’ve been a facilitator for Oxford’s Women Transforming Leadership programme. How has this experience shaped your approach to leadership and advocacy?
Facilitating the Women Transforming Leadership programme at Oxford was a game-changer for me. It wasn’t just about facilitating—it was about connecting with phenomenal women from around the world and learning as much from them as they learned from me. That experience reminded me how powerful it is when women come together to share experiences, break barriers, and push themselves to transform into the next iteration of themselves. It deepened my commitment to challenging the old-school, one-size-fits-all leadership paradigms and advocating for leadership that’s rooted in inclusivity, equity, and authenticity. It’s about creating spaces where everyone’s voice matters and where women can lead unapologetically as their full, brilliant selves.
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As Vice-Chair of the Anne Arundel County Commission for Women, what are some key initiatives you are currently championing?
As Vice-Chair of the Anne Arundel County Commission for Women, I’m all about driving initiatives that truly make a difference in the lives of women in our community. For me, it’s about ensuring women and girls have equitable access to the resources they need to thrive—whether that’s in their career development,safety from sex trafficking or bodily autonomy at a time when it’s being attacked. I’m passionate about advocating for policies that tackle systemic challenges head-on. From amplifying women’s voices to addressing issues like economic equity and safety, my focus is on making sure we’re building a community where all women can be and live their best lives.
Your career highlights include leading large-scale workforce development programmes. What do you believe is the key to creating impactful workforce solutions?
The key to creating impactful workforce solutions lies in innovation, strategic planning, and centering the lived experiences of the communities we serve. Leading the project managementfor the U.S. Department of Justice’s Partners for Re-entry Opportunities in Workforce Development (PROWD) has reinforced for me that real success happens when we provide capacity building to the grassroots organizations that support the alignment of employment services with the labor market needs of the communities where people are returning. PROWD exemplified this by blending comprehensive training, peer mentoring, and supportive services to improve employment outcomes for returning citizens while enhancing public safety for all. It’s about designing programs that are intentional, inclusive, and responsive—meeting people where they are and giving them the tools to not just rebuild their lives but thrive in meaningful ways. This kind of holistic approach transforms individuals, families, and entire communities.
You are an advocate for marginalized communities. How do you ensure that your projects and initiatives address systemic challenges effectively?
Addressing systemic challenges starts with a deep understanding that real change isn’t about doing something for the community but working with the community. It’s about listening, collaborating, and ensuring that the voices of those directly impacted are leading the conversation. In my work—whether it’s with PROWD or organizations like Vital Voices—I focus on holistic approaches that blend policy advocacy, diverse representation, and inclusive engagement. For example, PROWD’s alignment of employment services with the labor market needs of returning citizens’ communities isn’t just innovative—it’s intentional. It recognizes that systemic challenges require solutions designed to meet people where they are while addressing structural barriers. By leveraging partnerships and centering grassroots efforts, we can develop initiatives that don’t just elevate marginalized communities but truly empower them to thrive on their terms. It’s about impact that lasts.
With your expertise in executive coaching, what advice would you give to women leaders looking to thrive in male-dominated fields?
My advice to women leaders thriving in male-dominated fields? Own your magic and lead with your unique strengths—that’s yoursuper power. At the same time, never stop investing in yourself. Continuous self-development is a game-changer, and it’s why I created the online training platformHer LeaderLab, a space where women can upskill, connect, and grow together. Building strong networks of support is non-negotiable; having people who see you, celebrate you, and hold you accountable makes all the difference.
You also need to cultivate resilience—because let’s be honest, the journey isn’t always easy—and learn the art of self-advocacy. Speak up for what you need, deserve, and bring to the table. And don’t forget to reach back and uplift other women along the way.
You’ve participated in and facilitated global leadership programmes. What cultural insights have you gained that inform your work today?
Participating in and facilitating global leadership programs has been a masterclass in cultural humility, particularly as an American. It’s taught me that real leadership starts with listening—truly listening—to understand diverse perspectives and experiences. These moments have reminded me that no one has all the answers and that our differences are where the beauty of humanity happens.
These insights guide the what, how, and why of everything I do, from crafting inclusive strategies to building adaptable solutions that honor cultural nuances. Leadership isn’t about a one-size-fits-all approach; it’s about creating spaces where everyone feels seen, valued, and empowered to bring their full selves to the table. It’s a lesson in leading with intention, respect, and an openness to learning from everyone around you.
Balancing professional achievements with personal passions can be challenging. How do you stay motivated and maintain work-life harmony?
Balancing professional achievements with personal passions takes intention and a whole lot of grace. For me, it’s about understanding that I can’t pour from an empty cup, so I make self-care a non-negotiable. That means carving out time to reflect, journal, and step away from the grind to recharge. It’s in those quiet moments that I realign with my purpose and get clarity on what really matters.
Traveling, spending time with family, and even pushing myself through endurance races are my ways of staying grounded and motivated. These are the spaces where I feel most alive and connected to my "why." But more than anything, it’s about making sure the work I do aligns with my values and fills my cup, not just my calendar.
What advice would you offer to aspiring entrepreneurs and leaders aiming to make a meaningful difference in their communities?
My advice to aspiring entrepreneurs and leaders? Dream big—like, scary big—the kind of big that gets you out of your comfort zone, because that’s where an amazing life happens. When you push past what feels safe and familiar, you unlock new possibilities, discover strengths you didn’t know you had, and open doors to opportunities that can change the trajectory of your life. Playing small doesn’t serve you or the world—those bold, audacious dreams are what create real impact.