We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Dr. Shenequa Pierre. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Dr. Shenequa below.
Dr. Shenequa, 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?
Millions of years ago, Black women birthed the human race, and they have instinctively been getting things done and keeping us from self-destruction ever since. When I analyze the experiences of the women in my family, the hundreds of women who I have grown up with, worked, and studied with, the sheroes who I have learned from and been inspired by, from Cleopatra to Michelle Obama, I always conclude that there is no better model for who we should strive to be as human beings than black women.
I am so excited to live and be a part of the generation that finally says, “This ends now.” Gone are the days of us holding humanity together in the shadows. And lest we fall into the traps of tokenism, let’s acknowledge that there are millions of black women (EVERYWHERE on this Earth) just like her revolutionizing their chosen fields, fighting for change despite the oppression and erasure that they experience.
Navigating a space where you are the only one who looks like you can be challenging and empowering. Here are some strategies that individuals often find helpful in being effective and successful in such situations:
1. Confidence in Your Unique Perspective:
• Embrace your uniqueness and recognize the value of your diverse perspective. Your experiences, background, and insights contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of issues.
2. Educate and Advocate:
• Take opportunities to educate others about your culture, experiences, and perspectives. Advocate for diversity and inclusion by fostering open conversations and promoting awareness within the workplace.
3. Be Proactive in Communication:
• Communicate your ideas, contributions, and achievements. Ensure that your voice is heard in meetings and discussions. Proactively share your insights and expertise to demonstrate your value.
4. Embrace Challenges as Opportunities:
• View challenges as opportunities for growth. Overcoming obstacles can build resilience and demonstrate your ability to thrive in diverse situations.
5. Self-Advocacy:
• Advocate for yourself by expressing your career goals, expectations, and the support you need. Communicate how your skills and experiences contribute to the success of the organization.
6. Celebrate Successes:
• Acknowledge and celebrate your successes. Recognize your achievements and contributions, and don’t shy away from highlighting your accomplishments.
Abrams once said, “LIKE MOST WHO ARE UNDERESTIMATED, I HAVE LEARNED TO OVER-PERFORM AND FIND SOFT BUT KEYWAYS TO TAKE CREDIT. BECAUSE ULTIMATELY, LEADERSHIP AND POWER REQUIRE THE CONFIDENCE TO EFFECTIVELY WEILD BOTH.” I have never read a sentence that more accurately describes the experience of women of color as we strive to ascend the echelons of leadership. I hope we are ushering into an era when we no longer need to be “soft” in taking credit for what we’ve done. I am excited to raise, nurture, and cultivate young ladies who will see that not only can they change the world like their maternal ancestors have always done, but they can also take up space and demand the recognition, the accolades, and the positional and financial power that they have earned.
Remember, the goal is not to assimilate but to bring your authentic self to all aspects of your world. Your unique perspective is an asset, and by embracing it, you contribute to a more diverse, inclusive, and thriving organizational culture.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
Dr. Shenequa Pierre here! I am an innovative, unapologetic leader serving at the intersection of Education, Authentic Impact, and Social Justice. I currently serve in many roles strategically focused on cultivating excellent education, equipping for justice, and community empowerment. Education is a powerful tool to shift prejudice, biases, and misrepresentation of diverse groups. With over sixteen years of experience in pedagogical strength, I look forward to curating and uplifting meaningful exchanges that will forge the legacy for now and the future.
As an innovative and transformative leader in school culture and development, I have trained educational organizations to learn the necessary tools that propel their impact by working to improve education policy, D.E.I., and effective educational practices. I have partnered to develop over 5,500 students and teachers along the East Coast. I have served as an Assistant Principal, Adjunct Professor, and Community Organizer in Miami-Dade, Broward, Duval County, and across boroughs of New York. My contribution towards this mission is the development of my nonprofit. In 2018, I founded G.E.M.S. Inc., a value-driven intergenerational ecosystem for underserved students to become emerging leaders for the future. I also envision a world in which race, ethnicity, and income no longer predict student opportunities.
I founded G.E.M.S., Inc. (Girls Empowered and Motivated to Succeed) to offer the support girls need to step into their roles as our world’s future leaders with vision, direction, and purpose. We enrich and empower their lives through leadership development and character-building activities.
I recently published a workbook promoting entrepreneurship, pro-social friendships, and character development by completing exercises encouraging high awareness, accountability, and action!
Thank you in advance for joining us to invest in the next generation of women leaders by helping girls unlock their purpose and maximize their full potential!
You can purchase your copy below:
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
One of the qualities I pride myself in is finding solutions to complex problems that fully satisfy multiple parties. This is a situation where no matter what I do, someone will not be pleased. Whenever I encounter difficult situations, I revert to the adage, “The truth shall set you free.” I don’t pretend to have all the answers or be infallible. Through honest conversation, we can navigate this narrowest of channels safely. Challenging moments can be experiences that divide us or help us form unbreakable bonds. I believe in critically using our collective wisdom and intelligence to devise solutions for our benefit.
Even when the world is falling apart, show up. When you don’t know what’s happening when there’s no precedent for the right or the wrong decision, allow your values to guide the way, and you show up. Continue to provide stability, consistency, and love every day in every moment by showing up. When people’s actions and words land like daggers in your heart, take a deep breath, pull them out, and show up. And on the days when you can barely muster the energy to put your feet over the side of the bed, allow others to show up for you.
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?
Growing up with a single mother greatly influenced my values and personality: She taught me to be self-motivated and disciplined. Her resilience and support have helped me persevere despite insurmountable obstacles. Her unwavering support has been the bedrock of my journey, and I am continually inspired by her resilience, wisdom, and boundless love. My mother’s guidance during challenging times has been a steady source of strength, giving me the courage to face obstacles head-on and navigate through uncertainties.
Her belief in my abilities has been a constant motivator, encouraging me to strive for excellence in every endeavor. Through her example, I have learned the importance of perseverance, kindness, and a positive attitude—qualities that have become invaluable in shaping my personal and professional life.
My mother’s advice and words of wisdom have been a guiding light, helping me navigate complex decisions and fostering a sense of clarity amid ambiguity. I appreciate the countless sacrifices made to ensure my well-being and success. It is not just the significant milestones but the everyday moments of encouragement, understanding, and shared laughter that have collectively contributed to my growth. Her role as my mother extends far beyond the title, as she has been my mentor, confidant, and the anchor that grounds me in times of uncertainty.
Overall, the combination of mentorship, collaboration, and a commitment to continuous learning from my mom has shaped my professional journey and equipped me with the skills and qualities needed to overcome challenges and achieve success.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.shenequapierre.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.shenequapierre/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shenequa.pierre/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shenequapierre/
