Meet Carlina Shotwell

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Carlina Shotwell. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Carlina, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
Throughout my personal journey and advocacy work, I have become acutely aware of the unique challenges that adolescents face, particularly those in foster care. As someone who has navigated the foster care system myself, I understand firsthand the importance of positive youth development programming and comprehensive life skills education. These areas are essential not only for fostering a strong sense of self-esteem and confidence but also for equipping young individuals with the knowledge and skills they need to make informed decisions.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
My academic background includes a bachelor’s degree in Juvenile Justice, which has provided me with a solid foundation in understanding the legal and social issues that affect young people. This knowledge has been invaluable in my advocacy efforts and program development, allowing me to approach adolescent health education from a holistic perspective.
Additionally, I bring over a decade of experience in facilitating youth-focused programs. This hands-on experience has honed my ability to engage with young individuals, create a supportive and open environment, and deliver educational content in a manner that resonates with them. My tenure includes various roles where I have designed and led workshops, group discussions, and empowerment sessions that have helped youth develop essential life skills and make informed decisions about their well-being.

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?
As a life skills educator, there are three qualities that are essential to succeed. These qualities include: Extensive Advocacy Experience; I have actively participated in advocacy efforts at local and regional levels, promoting policies and initiatives that enhance the lives of foster youth and underserved adolescents. Effective Communication Skills; I am skilled in conveying complex information in a clear and relatable manner, adapting my approach to the diverse backgrounds and learning styles of my audience. Program Development; I have experience designing and implementing educational programs that cater to the unique needs of adolescents, creating engaging and interactive learning experiences.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

I would love to collaborate with under supported youth organizations to contribute my skills to their efforts in adolescent health education. I am confident that my personal experiences, advocacy background, and dedication to fostering positive youth development will align perfectly with their organization’s mission.

As a passionate life skills educator for under-supported youth, I’ve poured my heart and expertise into creating a collection of books that aim to uplift, enlighten, and ignite positive change available on Amazon.

Contact Info:

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