We recently connected with Shemecka McNeil and have shared our conversation below.
Shemecka, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
In a realm often dominated by academic prowess and professional expertise, carving out a unique space can seem daunting. As the youngest in rooms filled with esteemed PhDs and MDs, my journey has been one of profound personal and professional evolution. Initially, this distinction felt like a barrier, but it has transformed into a platform for showcasing the diverse skills and perspectives I bring, particularly from my experiences as a healthcare professional, chef, farmer, and educator.
The sense of being an outlier, while challenging, compelled me to leverage my unique position. Education, training, and invaluable mentorship paved the way for this transformation. Mentors, recognizing my potential, encouraged me not to “downplay my smarts,” affirming that my youth and fresh perspectives were assets, not hindrances. Their guidance helped me to see the value in my unconventional blend of expertise.
In professional settings where accolades and age are often seen as proxies for wisdom, I introduced a new dimension to problem-solving and communication. My youthful insight, coupled with my diverse background, was not just accepted but eagerly embraced. I found myself not only contributing but also leading discussions on complex issues from a refreshingly different viewpoint.
My unique contribution lies at the intersection of healthcare, nutrition, and sustainable living. As a healthcare professional, chef, and farmer, I possess a holistic understanding of how food systems impact health and the environment. This knowledge has empowered me to be a translator of complex problems, simplifying intricate concepts for the community. Whether it’s discussing the nuances of the Inflation Reduction Act, explaining Community Change Grants, or demystifying energy transformation and climate initiatives, I bridge the gap between high-level policies and their tangible effects on everyday lives.
A recent focus has been on elucidating President Biden’s Justice40 order, highlighting its significance in promoting environmental justice and sustainability. My role extends beyond mere translation; it involves teaching about the diversity of food and its central role in sustainable health and environmental practices. By drawing from my experiences across healthcare, culinary arts, and agriculture, I’ve been able to educate others on the importance of diversity in food systems as the heart of sustainable living.
This multifaceted approach not only enriches discussions but also fosters a deeper understanding of how interconnected our food, health, and environment truly are. It underscores the importance of embracing our unique backgrounds and experiences to contribute meaningfully to complex conversations.
Reflecting on this journey, the lesson is clear: being the only one in the room who looks like you is not a limitation but a profound opportunity. It’s a chance to introduce novel ideas, challenge conventional wisdom, and enrich dialogues with diverse perspectives. My journey—from feeling out of place as the youngest in the room to recognizing my diverse roles as strengths—illustrates the power of resilience, the impact of mentorship, and the transformative potential of viewing challenges as opportunities for growth and contribution.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Multi-talented individual with a deep understanding of the relationship between food and health. Growing up in a family with a long history of preventable health conditions, she developed a passion for promoting good health through a nutritious diet.
With over a decade of experience in the health sector, I am well-versed in the importance of healthy eating for overall well-being. I founded SLICE 325, a non-profit organization dedicated to educating low-income individuals and families on how to create healthy meals using affordable ingredients.
My expertise extends beyond health education – I am also trained chef, healthcare professional, and farmer. My unique skill set allows me to approach health and nutrition from a variety of angles, making me a valuable resource for anyone seeking to improve their eating habits and overall health.
As the Executive Director of SLICE 325, I am committed to making a difference in the lives of others, one meal at a time. I firmly believe that every family is unique and that there are countless creative ways to prepare healthy meals that are both delicious and affordable.
Shemecka’s dedication to promoting health and wellness has earned her recognition as a PSA Grower and a Paul Harris Award Fellow. She is an inspiration to those around her and a true advocate for healthy living.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Adaptability In a world where the only constant is change, adaptability has been my compass. Being the youngest in the room, navigating diverse professional landscapes, and bridging varied fields like healthcare, culinary arts, and agriculture, demanded a high degree of flexibility and openness to learning.
Advice: Cultivate adaptability by stepping out of your comfort zone regularly. Embrace new experiences, be open to feedback, and view failures as lessons rather than setbacks. Adaptability grows from a mindset that welcomes change as an opportunity for growth.
Interdisciplinary Knowledge
My unique contributions stem from blending insights across healthcare, nutrition, and environmental sustainability. This interdisciplinary approach has allowed me to see connections that others might miss, enhancing my problem-solving skills and innovative capacity.
Advice: Pursue a broad base of knowledge. Don’t be afraid to explore fields outside your primary area of interest. Look for opportunities to learn through courses, workshops, or even hobbies that differ from your main focus. This diversity in knowledge not only enriches your perspective but also makes you a more versatile and innovative thinker.
Effective Communication
The ability to translate complex concepts into understandable and relatable information has been key. This skill has made me valuable in rooms full of experts and to the communities we aim to serve. Being a bridge between complex scientific ideas and practical applications has been my superpower.
Advice: Develop your communication skills by practicing in diverse settings and with varied audiences. Engage in public speaking, writing, or teaching opportunities. Listening is as important as speaking; understanding your audience’s needs and perspectives can significantly enhance your communication effectiveness.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
The most impactful gift my parents bestowed upon me was the combination of their unshakable faith in my abilities and the liberty to pursue my interests, no matter how diverse or unconventional. This dual approach nurtured an environment where failure was not feared but seen as a stepping stone to greater understanding and success.
Encouragement and Belief: From a young age, they instilled in me the confidence that I could achieve anything I set my mind to. Their words and actions consistently reinforced the idea that my dreams were valid and achievable. “don’t just say it do it” This belief in my potential has been the bedrock of my resilience, pushing me to strive for excellence even when faced with challenges.
Freedom to Explore: My parents understood the value of exploration in finding one’s passion. They provided me with the resources and support to delve into various interests, from academic pursuits to creative endeavors. This freedom to explore led me to discover my passions and, ultimately, to carve out a unique career path that blends my diverse interests. As my mom would say “Mecka just being Mecka!”
Advice for Others: For those fortunate enough to influence the lives of young individuals, whether as parents, mentors, or educators, the greatest gift you can offer is your unwavering support and the freedom for them to pursue their passions. Encourage exploration and be a steadfast believer in their potential. The confidence and resilience these nurtures in a young person are invaluable assets that will serve them throughout their journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://slice325.org/our-founder-leader/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slice325/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Slice325
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shemecka-mcneil-a83941198/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SLICE325
