Simon’e Lightfoot is Navigating Leadership and Diversity in Columbus
Name: Simon’e Lightfoot, M.B.A
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Age: 41
Profession: Chief Operating Officer at Agape Care, Administrator at Simply Plated Catering
Neighborhood: Minerva Park
Education: Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness & Applied Economics, Bachelor of Arts in African American & African Studies, Master’s degree in Business Administration concentration in Strategic Leadership
Community Involvement: Ohio Dominican University Alumni Council, National Black MBA Association, Fashion Week Columbus Style Team
Motto: In life and business…. “I am the Scottie Pippen to your Michael Jordan in the 90’s, because I’m always coming through with a righteous assist for the WIN!”
Connect: LinkedIn
Meet Simon’e Lightfoot, a dynamic professional at the helm of multiple roles in Columbus. At 41, Simon’e serves as the Chief Operating Officer at Agape Care and simultaneously manages the role of Administrator at Simply Plated Catering. A proud resident of Minerva Park, Simon’e holds an impressive educational background, including a Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness & Applied Economics, a Bachelor of Arts in African American & African Studies, and a Master’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Strategic Leadership.
Simon’e’s journey started at The Ohio State University in 2006, leading to a career in government until 2016. Leaving the public sector, she ventured into entrepreneurship, launching The Phoenix Collection, an e-commerce clothing business, in 2017. In 2022, she took on her current leadership roles.
Family is Simon’e’s morning motivator, and the thought of supporting women entrepreneurs propels her through the workweek. Guided by mentors and inspired by Beyoncé’s advice, she embraces authenticity and continuous learning.
To unwind, Simon’e enjoys travel, quality time with loved ones, and content creation. Her favorite local spots in Columbus include Upper Cup Coffee, Marvin’s Restaurant & Lounge, and Zora’s House. As a child, her aspirations shifted from architect to doctor, but her ultimate goal was always happiness.
Currently engaged with podcasts like Know for Sure and Deadass, Simon’e finds inspiration and entertainment in the world of audio. Being chosen for the Next Up Columbus award is a confirmation of her purpose, reinforcing that she’s on the right path.
For Simon’e, the “pulse” of Columbus is its vibrant diversity. Having grown up in Dayton with limited exposure to diversity, her move to Columbus in 2001 opened her eyes to a whole new world, making the city’s diverse fabric a defining aspect of its pulse.
The Next Up Columbus Awards highlight emerging leaders who are connectors and ambassadors in central Ohio and who are making a positive impact on the future of Columbus. The Columbus Young Professionals Club would like to offer special thanks to our 2023 co-presenters, Discover Financial, Ohio Dominican University and Quantum Health for their support of this year’s awards program. Meet the entire “Class of 2023” »
MORE PEOPLE
