Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Dr. Shakari Hood. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Dr. Shakari, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
I found my purpose through my journey of resilience and empowerment in the face of adversity. Despite facing racism, bias, and disparities as a single mom of three children (during my 20’s), I refused to be defined by those challenges. Instead, I used them as fuel to propel myself forward, discovering my inner strength and determination along the way. Through my lived experiences, I recognized the systemic injustices that disproportionately affect black communities, particularly single mothers, and I felt compelled to take action. My purpose emerged from a deep sense of empathy and a desire to create positive change, not only for myself but for others facing similar obstacles. I learned to become a beacon of hope and inspiration, showing others that it’s possible to overcome adversity and achieve greatness. In advocating for equity and justice, I found my calling and embraced my role as a leader and advocate for empowerment and social change in my community.
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?
I was born and raised in Richmond, Indiana where I began my collegiate studies. I am an alumnus of Ivy Tech Community College, Indiana University, and Indiana Wesleyan University. I obtained my master’s degree in human resource management while in Indiana and relocated to Colorado in 2019 to finish my doctorate in Business Administration with a focus in Healthcare Administration. While in Colorado, I worked with a local Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) to complete my doctoral dissertation by assessing the organization’s financial status and sustainability. I was able to identify diversified targeted revenue streams that would not only aid in closing the uncompensated care gap but provide culturally sensitive health services to the underserved populations, while meeting the needs of each individual patient.
I now reside in Aurora, Colorado with my husband, three children, and two dogs. I have always had a passion for serving others with a commitment to making a difference in the communities of Colorado and surrounding areas. I hope to combine my educational background, personal experiences, and previous work in the non-profit and healthcare industry to provide the underserved, marginalized, and minority communities with equitable outcomes through the deliverance of advocacy, resources, frameworks, and tools to overcome social determinants of health, racism, and bias.
As a trailblazing Black woman who is devoted to changing the stigma surrounding underserved communities, I stand for resilience, empowerment, and representation. I understand the intersecting challenges faced by marginalized groups, particularly within black and underserved communities, and recognize the importance of addressing systemic inequities. I am committed to using my platform, expertise, and lived experiences to advocate for change, amplify marginalized voices, and challenge stereotypes and misconceptions.
This work is important to me because I have personally navigated barriers and discrimination, and I am determined to create a more just and equitable society for future generations. I see my achievements as a testament to the potential within underserved communities and I aim to inspire others to pursue education, leadership, and advocacy, knowing that systemic change is essential for breaking down barriers and uplifting underserved communities.
I envision a future where communities have equitable access to comprehensive health services, where disparities in health outcomes are eliminated, and where awareness and education empower individuals to take control of their well-being. I aspire to create lasting change and a positive legacy by building community resilience, empowering individuals to become advocates for their own health, and inspiring future.
It is my children, Sariah, Jaili, and SS that inspire me to do this work. It is their unwavering adoration, strength, and encouragement that allow me to prosper. I wanted to demonstrate to my children that anything is imaginable if you follow your heart, work hard, and trust in God. As African American children that live during unprecedented times, they will face impediments, judgments, and distresses that will try to prevent their success. Statistics indicate that they will collapse, and I want to display to them that they are full of prominence and can make a difference in this world. I have always devoted my journey to my children, and I dedicate all my achievement to them. I want them to know that I am honored to be their mother and that I will always eternally love them. I hope that their wealth of light, robustness, and amity not only shines upon me but within this world that so desperately needs it.
I want the people to know that the power of collective action and the importance of inclusive leadership can lead to transformational change. It is important that readers understand that our approaches demonstrate that meaningful change requires collaboration, empathy, and a commitment to amplifying the voices and needs of those most affected by systemic inequities. The readers have the capacity to use their influence and platform to leverage and advocate for underserved communities, and not only address immediate needs but also challenging the root causes of injustice and inequality. Every individual has a role to play in creating a more just and equitable society, and that true impact is achieved when we work together towards a common goal.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Resilience: Despite facing numerous obstacles and systemic barriers, I have demonstrated resilience by persistently overcoming challenges and continuing to advocate for change. I have refused to be deterred by setbacks, drawing strength from my experiences to fuel my determination and perseverance.
Empathy: I possess a deep sense of empathy, understanding the struggles and experiences of those I seek to uplift and empower. This empathy drives me to actively listen to the voices of the Black community, centering their needs and perspectives in my advocacy efforts.
Visionary Leadership: I exhibit visionary leadership by envisioning a future where systemic injustices are eradicated, and all individuals have equal opportunities to thrive. I inspire others through my bold ideas and innovative solutions, motivating people to join me in working towards a more just and equitable society.
Developing Resilience:
Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth – View obstacles as chances to learn and develop new skills.
Cultivate a growth mindset –
Believe in your ability to adapt and bounce back from setbacks.
Practice self-care –
Prioritize your physical, mental, and emotional well-being to build the strength needed to persevere through tough times.
Seek support – Surround yourself with a supportive network of friends, family, and mentors who can offer guidance and encouragement during difficult times.
Cultivating Empathy:
Listen actively-
Practice truly listening to others without judgment, seeking to understand their perspectives and experiences.
Practice perspective-taking –
Put yourself in others’ shoes to better understand their emotions, motivations, and challenges.
Volunteer and engage with diverse communities –
Engaging with people from different backgrounds can broaden your understanding and empathy.
Reflect on your own experiences –
Reflect on your own struggles and how they have shaped your empathy towards others facing similar challenges.
Fostering Visionary Leadership:
Clarify your values and purpose –
Identify what drives you and the change you want to see in the world.
Set ambitious goals –
Develop a clear vision of the future you want to create and set goals that align with that vision.
Take calculated risks –
Be willing to step outside your comfort zone and take risks in pursuit of your vision.
Collaborate and inspire others –
Build relationships with others who share your vision and inspire them to join you in working towards common goals.
Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
My brother, Duvall Lee (PMHNP) has played a pivotal role in my journey of overcoming challenges and developing essential skills for success. He is able to navigate life’s challenges with unwavering determination and strength, serving as a source of inspiration for me and countless others. His relentless pursuit of excellence and his commitment to his goals are truly admirable, reflecting his innate drive and passion for success. Through his actions and example, he has pushed me to reach beyond my perceived limits, encouraging me to tap into my own potential and strive for greatness. His support and encouragement has been instrumental throughout my journey in life. Being able to witness his resilience and strength in the face of adversity has inspired me to persevere and thrive despite obstacles.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.coloradoblackhealth.org
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrShakariHood/
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/drshakarihood
