Joan Rudder-Ward, MBA, Certified Professional Photographer (CPP), is the CEO of the Image Maker, a visual communications company she started in 1985. An expert in harnessing the power of the visual image she is an award-winning television producer, photographic artist, and filmmaker.
Joan has earned the Certified Professional Photographer designation from the Professional Photographic Certification Commission. She accomplished this after meeting rigorous requirements measuring her artistic, technical, ethical, and business competence. The certified designation is held by fewer than 2,500 photographers worldwide.
She is also the founder of the Positive Image Network – a 501c3 organization with the mission to provide resources to support parents, guardians, and mentors in nurturing the personal development of adolescent/teen girls and young women.
She has been published in magazines and newspapers, and is the recipient of numerous awards for her service to the community through her photography programs, as well as awards for her producer and photographic expertise.
Additionally Joan serves on the board of several organizations that work for the benefit of women and children. She is a sought after speaker for conferences that promote the welfare and well-being of children and girls/young women in our society.
Doors of opportunity are open to me! That’s what this photo represents. Though in my life growing up in foster care, I may have felt the walls were closed in on me and I couldn’t get out, but, I now know that good things are ahead, as wonderful doors have opened for me. This workshop has helped me to see that!
One thing I've learned through the workshops is It’s okay to be myself. I am lovable the way I am. I won’t let others get me down. I will make changes that I can make. I will talk more positively about myself, because I am a valuable young woman.
The girls from our foster care agency thoroughly enjoyed the workshop and want to continue with more classes!
Working with Joan and all of her amazing lifestyle development programs has been life-changing. As a young adult taking her classes, I learned how to apply grace and kindness towards myself and others. Joan planted the seeds of love in my heart and gave me the tools to help them grow. Now I am a life coach and entrepreneur in the health and wellness spectrum. Thank you, Joan and thank you, Lord for putting her in my path.