Meet Shawna Mills

We recently connected with Shawna Mills and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Shawna , really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?

“I found my purpose through my own life experiences. As a thriver of a very toxic relationship, I chose to turn my pain into power and use my story to advocate for others. Being a domestic violence advocate allows me to create a platform where survivors feel seen, heard, and supported. My mission is to empower others to find their strength, reclaim their voices, and know that they are not alone. Together, we can transform our scars into symbols of resilience and hope.”

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

**“My duty in the domestic violence community and as a military wife is to create a safe space for men and women to be vulnerable, celebrated, and heard—a space that shines light on unseen souls. I will never forget when my best friend, Jatima, unknowingly created a space for me during one of my darkest moments. It was in that moment that I realized there were so many others like me, feeling unseen and unheard. That realization became my driving force to ensure no one feels alone in their pain.

As the founder of GGKLipstickDiary, my beauty brand stands as a reflection of this mission. Behind every color is a story—a story of resilience, empowerment, and the smile that tells it. Through my brand, I aim to celebrate those smiles, honor the milestones they have overcome, and create moments of joy and confidence that reflect their inner strength. Together, we shine light on their journeys and help them embrace the beauty of their transformation.”**

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, the three most impactful qualities in my journey were:
1. Resilience: The ability to keep moving forward despite challenges was crucial. Resilience doesn’t mean avoiding pain—it means learning how to process it and come out stronger.
• Advice: Practice self-reflection and embrace setbacks as opportunities to grow. Build a strong support system and allow yourself to lean on others when needed.
2. Empathy: Understanding and connecting with others on a deeper level not only shaped my advocacy but also strengthened my relationships.
• Advice: Listen actively and without judgment. Volunteer or engage in spaces where you can better understand people’s experiences and emotions.
3. Communication: Being able to share my story authentically and inspire others required strong communication skills.
• Advice: Start by journaling or speaking to small groups. Over time, you’ll find your voice and the confidence to share your message on larger platforms.

For those early in their journey:
• Take your time: Growth doesn’t happen overnight, and it’s okay to feel uncertain.
• Invest in yourself: Read, learn, and seek mentorship from those who inspire you.
• Show up: Even when you’re scared or doubtful, keep putting yourself out there. The right opportunities will find you when you’re ready.

Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?

The most helpful people in my journey have been my parents, my best friends Felicia and Jatima, and my amazing husband, Kevin Mills. Having people in your corner who have witnessed every phase of your life is invaluable. They remind you of who you are, pray for you, and push you to become the best version of yourself.

My parents laid the foundation for resilience and strength, while Felicia and Jatima created safe spaces for me, offering unconditional love and support through life’s highs and lows. And to be able to share life with my husband, Kevin, who gets to witness all of me, has been one of my greatest blessings. Together, they’ve shaped my growth and helped me overcome challenges, ensuring that I thrive in all areas of life.”**

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