Leadership Development Spotlight: Meet Brianna Horseman of Circles Scott County
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
At Circles, we know that leadership is more than a natural talent or a paid professional role. It’s the cumulative process of weaving each setback and success we meet into a consistent, goal-focused practice that benefits the whole collective. The more deeply we root our identity in service to our families, chapters, and communities, the more we distinguish ourselves as leaders within these groups striving to move from surviving to thriving.
Circles USA’s new Leadership Development Spotlight series spotlights graduated Circle Leaders who have stepped into challenging service roles at the chapter, regional, and even national levels. Among the most skilled, dedicated participants in the Circles network, these big-L Leaders’ stories offer insights and hard-won lessons guaranteed to inspire us all in our shared mission of building community to end poverty.
Hi! Please share your name, where you’re based, and your past and current roles with Circles.
My name is Brianna Horseman. I was a Circle Leader [with Circles Scott County, Georgetown, KY] and graduated on April 21, 2026. I am currently a Resource Team Member serving in the following areas: Pre-Circles Co-Facilitator, Circle Leader Training Co-Facilitator, Circle Leader Support Facilitator (Sub), and Orientation Co-Presenter. I will also be speaking at our Annual Celebration Fundraiser.
Brianna, how did you become involved with Circles?
I learned about the Circles program after getting assistance through Transform Scott County’s “Blessing Bridge” program. [Poverty Alleviation Coordinator] Jennifer Lay told me all about the program and I was very excited to join.
What have you learned in your time with Circles, and how has your relationship with your Circles community changed your perspectives on poverty?
I have been part of the Circles program for over two years now. During this time, I have learned about so many things. I have learned about emotional spending, taking care of finances, different types of bank accounts, going back to school, resources in the community, and so much more. My biggest takeaway from this program has been the relationships I have built. When I first came to this program, I did not trust anyone; I was very closed off. Now I have opened my heart up to those around me and consider my Circles community as my family.
I used to view poverty simply as “people who struggled financially and lived off government assistance.” What I have learned is that, many times, people who live in poverty have not been taught what some would consider basic life skills. With that, there is also the benefits cliff. People who receive government assistance will try to better their lives, but are fearful of what happens when they lose their assistance. I have also learned that a significant amount of people who live in poverty lack a support system. Their social capital is minimal. Without being taught basic life skills—and having no way of gaining the awareness that you lack those life skills—you are essentially chasing your tail.
That is what makes Circles so incredible to me. Not only are you taught life skills, but you also gain significant social capital. You have people in your life who will point out to you that there are opportunities or resources that can make navigating situations in your life manageable. You gain people in your life who understand and support you, which is huge if you haven’t had that.
When I first came to this program, I did not trust anyone; I was very closed off. Now I have opened my heart up to those around me and consider my Circles community as my family.
What were your goals when you started out as a Circle Leader, and how have they evolved in your time with Circles?
My goals were to become financially stable and move out of public housing. That was May of 2024, and I moved out of public housing in October 2024. My husband and I own our home and we are [now] able to effectively manage our finances without going into debt.
Once I moved out of public housing and found a money management system that worked for me, I began working toward more personal goals. So I am currently enrolled at Eastern Kentucky University, getting my bachelors degree in Business Management. I will be graduating in 2027.
I have also focused more on my business, Timeless Grace Co & Photography LLC, which became official in March 2026; and I have opened a studio in Lawrenceburg, KY.
Other than that, my goals have been to save money, travel with my family, and better my mental and physical health. I would say those goals have remained the same throughout my time with Circles and they will continue to be high priorities for me.
What would you say to a newer staff member, volunteer, or Ally who is doubting themselves, or their ability to help their Circle Leader(s) move out of poverty?
I would say to take a step back, take a deep breath, and pray for guidance. I would also say that when you try to take on the responsibility of helping someone move out of poverty, you may be putting too much pressure on yourself. The biggest part of being an Ally [or volunteer] is serving as a source of support and guidance. You can't make anyone change; they must want it for themselves. All you can do is offer love, support, and compassion.
Read the other installments in our Leadership Development Spotlight series:
Leadership Development Spotlight: ALLIES AND VOLUNTEERS!
Michelle Crawford: Volunteer to Executive Director | Circles Salt Lake
Building Community to End Poverty in 25 States
