We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Sierrah Chavis. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Sierrah below.
I discovered my life’s purpose through the crucible of challenging experiences that I’ve traversed. My firm belief is that adversity, instead of breaking us, fortifies us, makes us wiser, and emboldens us. Today, I confidently stride in my purpose, fueled by the painful trials I’ve surmounted.
Throughout most of my life, I confronted trials that many might never encounter: battles with cancer, surviving domestic violence, and witnessing my daughter grapple with severe health issues. Despite the weight of these diverse life events, I forged ahead, showing unyielding determination and unwavering perseverance. I never surrendered, knowing that in the end, these trials molded me into the woman, mother, and wife I am today.
I’ve transformed my pain into a compass, guiding me to a purpose-driven career where I help others harness their pain, turning it into a source of strength and direction.
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?
An active education advocate, domestic violence advocate, race and gender equality advocate, and diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging champion. Mrs. Chavis has an Educational Specialist degree in School Administration and Leadership from Old Dominion University and a Master’s degree in Special Education and Secondary Education from Grand Canyon University. She is a Director of Education at United Way South Hampton Roads. Her previous roles included Chief of Staff, Curriculum Specialist, Sierrah Chavis previously worked for ten years in education as a curriculum specialist administrator and case manager. She is a two-time Amazon best-selling author of “No Shame in my Pain” and, with Sharon Poshe Anderson, “From Pain to Power ”. She serves on several boards and is the co-founder for the Survivor Advisory Committee with FinAbility. She has a Non-Profit, Bossy Girl, a network of women who are entrepreneurs, CEO’s, mothers, and aspiring leaders that are helping to shape the world around them in a positive way. Bossy Girl is more than just a network but a sisterhood that’s empowering women around the world to all be a Bossy Girl globally. For the past 10 years she has been dedicating her career to advocating for equitable and inclusive education and overall well-being while galvanizing community partnerships to develop her clients, staff, and students’ fullest potential and mentoring new teachers in special education. Sierrah has presented at several conferences, women empowerment events, and radio, and has written several published articles. She is a contributor for the Connected Woman Magazine and is currently working on her next book project. She has received a number of awards including the 100 Women to Know in America presented by JPMorgan Chase is a recognition that showcases the most influential, achieved, and honorable women in our society. Following a nomination and interview process, Diversity Champion award from Old Dominion University, Impact Leadership award from the Virginia Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (VASCD), Teacher of the Year award from the Virginia Council for Learning Disabilities, and most recently National Teacher of the Year from the Council of Learning Disabilities and Hampton Roads 40 Under 40 Award. She is also a devoted mother and wife and enjoys traveling, cooking, writing, and volunteering her time in the community to make a difference.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
The most influential factors that have shaped my journey, and continue to do so, are my unwavering faith in God, cultivating self-love, and maintaining an unyielding determination to never quit or give up. If I were to offer advice to anyone embarking on their own journey, it would be this: extend grace to yourself. Recognize that perfection is not a prerequisite, and you may not always succeed on the first attempt, or even the second. It’s crucial to afford yourself some grace, coupled with hard work and an unwavering commitment to your dreams or visions. In the realm of aspirations, the concept of impossibility should never hold sway. Instead, embrace your dreams, for their potential is boundless. What you fear might just be the key to unlocking your complete purpose and showcasing to the world the extraordinary capabilities that lie within you.
What’s been one of your main areas of growth this year?
The most significant growth I’ve experienced this year centers around nurturing a deeper love for myself and committing to regular self-care. It has become increasingly clear to me that dedicating time to self-care and self-discovery is paramount. I’m discovering the importance of pursuing my desires and cultivating my hobbies with a sense of passion, as it may lead me to uncover my true purpose.
Another vital lesson I’ve embraced is the value of stepping back from the chaos of the world for a while, allowing myself to recharge and regain control over my inner peace. I’ve come to understand that I matter, and that encompasses everything from my peace of mind to my purpose and my passion. It all holds significance, and I’ve learned to prioritize and honor these aspects of myself.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.sierrahchavis.com
- Instagram: auth0r_sierrahchavis
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sierrahchavis/
