By Alena Wiese

In the heart of Atlanta, LaWanna Bradford reflects on a journey that has touched lives and shaped futures. Eighteen years ago, she joined The Bradford Group, LLC, with a vision to empower individuals, families, and businesses to achieve their financial dreams. What began as a small family venture has evolved into a powerhouse in the mortgage industry, helping clients secure over $100 million in financing and creating opportunities that ripple across generations.

“Our mission has always been about more than loans,” LaWanna shares. “It’s about giving people the tools, knowledge, and confidence to take control of their financial futures. Every mortgage we help secure is a step toward making the American dream a reality.”

As the company celebrates 18 years of service in 2024, LaWanna remains deeply committed to her clients and community, transforming challenges into opportunities and turning visions into legacies.

A Vision Rooted in Excellence

The Bradford Group was founded with a mission to break barriers in the mortgage industry. A minority- and woman-owned brokerage, the firm has become a trusted partner for clients navigating complex commercial and investment mortgage landscapes. Offering innovative solutions like debt-service coverage ratio, bridge, private equity, and hard money options., The Bradford Group caters to a diverse clientele, including self-employed borrowers, commercial business entities, and seasoned investors.

“What sets us apart is our ability to adapt,” LaWanna explains. “We understand that every client’s journey is different, and we craft solutions to meet those unique needs.”
One Atlanta entrepreneur shares her experience:
“After being turned down by multiple banks, I was ready to give up. LaWanna and her team not only secured my loan but also gave me the confidence to expand my business. Today, I’ve created jobs and built a legacy for my family.”

These stories of triumph are a testament to The Bradford Group’s commitment to customer-focused excellence and its ability to create innovative solutions where others see roadblocks.

Resilience in the Face of Adversity

The 2008 financial crisis was a defining moment for The Bradford Group and LaWanna Bradford. With the mortgage industry in upheaval and her sibling and co-founder stepping away, LaWanna took sole leadership of the company, navigating uncharted waters with determination and creativity.

“That period taught me that challenges are opportunities in disguise,” she reflects. “It forced us to be more innovative and more committed to serving our clients.”

Through her leadership, The Bradford Group emerged stronger, offering flexible solutions tailored to clients’ evolving needs. The crisis also cemented LaWanna’s reputation as a resilient and visionary leader who thrives under pressure.
 
Empowering Communities Through Financial Wellness

Beyond mortgages, LaWanna’s passion lies in financial empowerment. Recognizing the systemic barriers many individuals face—particularly women and underserved communities—she has championed financial wellness as a cornerstone of her work. Her workshops and one-on-one consultations are designed to equip clients with the knowledge and tools to create financial sustainability and build generational wealth.

“Informed clients are empowered clients,” she says. “Financial wellness isn’t just about numbers—it’s about creating opportunities and building legacies.”

In 2025, The Bradford Group plans to host a series of free workshops in Atlanta, focusing on wealth-building strategies for women entrepreneurs and families. These efforts align with LaWanna’s vision of creating stronger, more resilient communities.

Amplifying Voices Through Media

LaWanna’s impact extends far beyond the financial world. As the host of three e360TV shows – Business and Financial Raw Talk, Choose to Challenge, and Power of the Pen, she uses media to inspire and educate. Her shows reach thousands of viewers globally, offering actionable strategies and amplifying the voices of changemakers in finance, entrepreneurship, and personal development.

“Media is a way to connect,” LaWanna explains. “It’s about breaking down complex topics and giving people the tools to succeed.”

Her influence in media has also led to high-profile appearances on platforms like Cyrus Webb Presents and The Mortgage Voice, where she shares insights on resilience, leadership, and financial strategies.

Recognition and Volunteerism

LaWanna’s contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including the 2023 NextGen Entrepreneur of the Year and the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award for over 4,000 hours of volunteer service to women in the community. She co-founded Celebrate You Embracing HER Wellness, an international movement empowering woman to embrace their full potential through mentorship, wellness programs, and community outreach.

“Service is the heartbeat of everything I do,” she shares. “Empowering others to rise is the greatest reward.”

A Vision for the Future

As The Bradford Group approaches its 20th anniversary in 2026, LaWanna is leading the company into a new era. Plans include:

•  Expanding loan programs to reach more underserved communities.
• Hosting client appreciation events that celebrate success stories.
•  Launching a mentorship initiative to support aspiring entrepreneurs

“Our goal is to be more than a commercial mortgage company,” she says. “We want to be a resource, a partner, and a catalyst for change – a vehicle that helps to build sustainable communities around the globe.”

Her future vision also includes publishing two books in 2025: a memoir co-written with her father, US Army SGM (ret) Harlan L. Bradford, Sr., and a guide to thriving in uncertain markets using her proprietary R3 System ©.

Leading with Purpose

LaWanna’s leadership style is grounded in resilience and optimism. Her team describes her as a visionary who sees opportunity where others see obstacles.

“She has this incredible ability to inspire confidence,” says one team member. “Her energy pushes us all to aim higher and do better.”

Balancing her professional responsibilities with personal reflection, LaWanna credits journaling and meditation for keeping her aligned with her purpose.

“Reflection is key,” she says. “It helps me stay grounded and focused on what truly matters.”

 Take the First Step Toward Financial Empowerment

As The Bradford Group celebrates its 19th anniversary, LaWanna Bradford invites you to turn financial obstacles into opportunities. Whether you’re navigating the complexities of commercial lending or planning for your family’s future, The Bradford Group offers innovative solutions and personalized guidance to help you succeed.

Visit www.bradfordgroupmtg.com or tune into Business and Financial Raw Talk on e360TV.com  to learn more about LaWanna’s journey and expertise.

The Bradford Group, LLC
400 West Peachtree Street, Suite #4-529
Atlanta, GA 30308
Phone: (404) 618-2824
Fax: (404) 795-0655
Email: info@bradfordgroupmtg.com

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