SHAUNTAE'S STORY
What does freedom mean to you?
Freedom is the ability to live life on your terms. It's prioritizing the things that mean the most to you with confidence, regardless of the opinions of others.
Why did you pursue the Women in Freedom Photoshoot?
I pursued the Women in Freedom Photoshoot because I wanted women to see how I define freedom through photography.
Share a bit about your personal story and where you are today. In what ways have you stepped into your freedom recently?
For years, I worked in corporate America, sometimes being the only minority in the company. And for years, I was overlooked, undervalued, not appreciated, and frustrated because I was not allowed to excel.
The more I was rejected, the more energy I put into proving myself until I realized that the only person I needed to prove myself to was me! The revelation pushed me into a newfound freedom.
In April 2021, during the midst of a global pandemic, when people were losing jobs, I quit mine and walked entirely into the role God had for me. There are no words to describe the level of freedom I felt after the last meeting ended and the duty day was done. The next day, I stepped into the CEO's shoes at my own business and haven't taken them off!
How has this experience shaped the way you see yourself?
When I started this business, I was told that I would fail. Clearly, I was not being seen the way I saw myself; intelligent, intelligent, ambitious. Instead of cowering, I used those exact words as ammunition.
How has this life of freedom had a positive impact on you?
Being my own boss allows me to follow my heart and fulfill my own dreams. I can spend more time with my family, impact the community, and look and feel good doing it!
What was the most meaningful aspect of this photoshoot to you?
Being my own boss allows me to follow my heart and fulfill my own dreams. I can spend more time with my family, impact the community, and look and feel good doing it!
How do you plan to hold onto this feeling of unique freedom?
I am a Christian woman. I believe that with God, all things are possible. It is my faith and optimistic outlook that provides freedom from restriction.
Anything else you'd like to share?
As a Certified Grant Writer, my duty is to assist organizations in obtaining funding and giving back to the hardest-hit communities by providing time and resources. I am eternally grateful to companies and individuals like Olive Grey and Kelsey Messenger for empowering me and women in the community through photography. Women-Owned companies have so much to offer. We just needed a platform that allows people to see who we are and our services.
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