A Launchpad for Success
The Certification Academy believes education should create opportunity, confidence, independence, and career growth. Our academy was built to empower individuals through affordable, accessible, and professional certification training designed for today’s workforce and tomorrow’s entrepreneurs.
Located in Columbia, South Carolina, The Certification Academy provides hands-on career developmentprograms, industry-based certifications, professional workshops, and business education in a modern andmotivational learning environment.
We are more than a training center — we are a community-driven academy focused on transforming lives through education, leadership, creativity, and opportunity.
Toya McLeod
Owner
A visionary leader dedicated to youth empowerment, Toya cultivates a luxury environment where education and community celebration meet to inspire growth.
Eric Moses
Manager
Eric ensures seamless operations, providing professional guidance and high-quality service to help every student and guest achieve their goals.
Nicole Weston
Owner & Instructor
With expert industry knowledge, Nicole leads hands-on training sessions, mentoring students to master professional skills and achieve financial independence.
Excellence
We provide clear instruction, organized policies, and professional standards that honor every learner.
Equity
We design accessible, affordable programs so opportunity reaches underserved learners consistently.
Empowerment
We focus on real-world skills that build confidence, income potential, and long-term independence.
Innovation, Education, and Elegance
The Certification Academy and Event Center in Columbia SC is a education and training hub that unites hands-on certification programs with a luxury event venue. Our academy grew out of a clear need for affordable, skill-based training that leads directly to income and opportunity. We provide youth and adults with workforce-focused courses, entrepreneurship education, and a polished environment where learning, connection, and celebration come together.
Our Mission To Empower Growth
Our mission is to provide high-quality certification programs that prepare students for real-world success while creating pathways toward financial independence, entrepreneurship, and professional advancement.
We strive to:
• Empower youth and adults through career training
• Provide affordable educational opportunities
• Build confidence through hands-on instruction
• Create a supportive and motivating learning environment
• Help students develop professional and entrepreneurial skills
What We Offer
The Certification Academy offers a variety of certification and professional development programs including:
• Pharmacy Technician Training
• Bartending Certification
• Entrepreneurship Courses
• Modeling Development Programs
• Beauty & Industry Refresher Courses
• Career Readiness Workshops
• Workforce Development Training
• Instructor-Led Certification Programs
Our programs are designed to be practical, flexible, and career-focused to help students gain valuable skills quickly and confidently.