Meet Freda Marshall

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Freda Marshall. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Freda below.

Freda, 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?

As the Executive Director of the Dunbar Pavilion and a 53-year-old black woman who has faced and overcome numerous life challenges, I have a unique perspective on leadership and resilience. Putting myself through school while balancing life’s demands was not easy, but it taught me invaluable lessons about perseverance, determination, and the importance of self-belief.

In my journey to leadership, I’ve encountered and conquered many obstacles that could have easily derailed my ambitions. From financial struggles to societal biases, every challenge strengthened my resolve to succeed. These experiences have not only shaped my leadership style but also deepened my commitment to empowering other black women to pursue their dreams and achieve their full potential.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

As the founder of Heart and Mynd, I am deeply passionate about empowering black women in leadership through a comprehensive online platform that offers leadership development courses, coaching, and inspirational support. My mission is to create a nurturing and inspiring environment where black women can thrive, break barriers, and achieve their highest potential.

Heart and Mynd:
Heart and Mynd is dedicated to the empowerment and elevation of black women in leadership. Our platform provides exclusive leadership training programs tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities that black women face. With a focus on cultural relevance, our courses offer a unique and supportive learning environment, designed to provide the tools and insights needed to excel in various stages of leadership.

Our Offerings:

Leadership Development Courses: These courses are crafted to enhance confidence, provide access to exclusive resources, and equip women with the necessary skills to shine in their careers. Each program is designed with a deep understanding of the cultural and professional nuances specific to black women in leadership.

1-on-1 Coaching and Mentoring: Our coaching programs are more than just training sessions—they are journeys towards self-discovery, empowerment, and professional excellence. We offer personalized guidance to help women navigate their leadership paths with precision and care.

Community and Support: At Heart and Mynd, we foster an exclusive community where growth and success are at the forefront. Our supportive environment encourages black women to pursue their purpose and redefine their impact in the workplace, surrounded by like-minded individuals who share their aspirations and challenges.

Why I am Passionate:

I am passionate about this work because I believe in the power of a strong, empowered presence. Seeing black women succeed and lead with confidence and authenticity drives me. My vision for Heart and Mynd is to provide a space where black women can access the resources, support, and inspiration they need to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals both personally and professionally​ (www.heartandmynd.com)​​

Whether you are just starting your leadership journey or looking to enhance your skills, Heart and Mynd is here to support you every step of the way. Join us and become part of a community committed to helping you shine brightly in all areas of your life.

Now as the Executive Director of the Dunbar Pavilion, I strive to create a nurturing environment where we celebrate our cultural heritage and foster community growth. I believe that true leadership is about uplifting others, and I am passionate about providing opportunities for personal and professional development. My goal is to inspire others through my story, showing that with hard work, resilience, and unwavering faith, we can overcome any hurdle and achieve greatness.

About the Dunbar Pavilion:
The Dunbar Pavilion is a beacon of culture, history, and community empowerment in Tucson. Our mission is to honor the legacy of the historic Dunbar School by fostering a vibrant community space that celebrates African American culture and provides opportunities for education, creativity, and growth.

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?

Looking back on my journey, three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in my journey were resilience, empathy, and strategic thinking.

Resilience:
Losing my parents as a teenager and facing numerous family and relational disappointments could have easily shattered my spirit. However, resilience became my cornerstone. It allowed me to push through the toughest times, to rise after every fall, and to keep moving forward despite the odds stacked against me. Resilience is not just about enduring hardship but about learning and growing stronger from every experience.

Empathy:
Experiencing profound loss and navigating through personal and professional challenges taught me the power of empathy. Understanding and connecting with others on a deep, emotional level has been essential in my role as a leader. Empathy allows me to build strong, trusting relationships, to support others in their struggles, and to create an inclusive and supportive environment where everyone feels valued and heard.

Strategic Thinking:
Fighting to be seen and recognized as a leader because of my race and gender required not only determination but also strategic thinking. This skill helped me navigate complex systems, anticipate challenges, and devise effective plans to achieve my goals. Strategic thinking has been crucial in making informed decisions, identifying opportunities, and driving progress in my leadership roles.

Advice for those early in their journey:

Cultivate Resilience:
Life will present you with challenges, but your ability to bounce back and persevere will define your path. Build resilience by setting small, achievable goals, celebrating your successes, and learning from your setbacks. Surround yourself with supportive people who believe in your potential.

Develop Empathy:
Empathy is a powerful tool in building meaningful connections and fostering a positive environment. Practice active listening, seek to understand others’ perspectives, and show genuine concern for their well-being. Empathy will not only make you a better leader but also a better human being.

Hone Strategic Thinking:
Being strategic is essential for navigating through life’s complexities. Continuously educate yourself, seek mentors, and stay informed about your field and the broader world. Practice thinking ahead, considering various scenarios, and planning accordingly. Strategic thinking will enable you to make better decisions and achieve your long-term goals.

Remember, your journey is unique, and every experience, whether positive or negative, contributes to your growth. Embrace your path with courage and confidence, and never stop believing in your ability to make a difference.

Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?

First and foremost, my faith in God has been my anchor. In the darkest times, my faith gave me the strength to persevere and the hope to envision a brighter future. My relationship with God has been a source of comfort, guidance, and unwavering support throughout my life.

Throughout my journey, several individuals have played pivotal roles in helping me overcome challenges and develop the essential skills, qualities, and knowledge needed for success. However, if I had to pinpoint one person who has been most helpful, it would be my undergraduate psychology professor at Wilberforce University, Dr. Eugenia Shittu.

Dr. Eugenia Shittu saw potential in me when I struggled to see it in myself. She provided unwavering support and guidance during my most challenging times. Her wisdom, experience, and genuine belief in my abilities gave me the confidence to push forward. She taught me the importance of resilience, helping me to understand that every setback is an opportunity for growth and learning.

Moreover, Dr. Shittu embodied empathy in her leadership, showing me the power of understanding and compassion in building strong, supportive relationships. She demonstrated how to listen actively, connect with others, and lead with kindness and integrity. Her example has been instrumental in shaping my own leadership style.

Lastly, she emphasized the importance of strategic thinking. She challenged me to think ahead, plan meticulously, and always stay informed. Her insights and advice were invaluable in helping me navigate complex situations and make sound decisions that propelled my career forward.

For those early in their journey, I would advise seeking out mentors who inspire and challenge you. Find individuals who believe in your potential and are willing to invest in your growth. The right mentor, combined with a strong faith in God, can make a profound difference in your life, offering guidance, support, and the encouragement needed to overcome any obstacle and achieve your goals.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.heartandmynd.com
• Instagram: I_AM_FredaMarshall

Image Credits

Joe Jackson
Tayo Faminu