Fashion Gxd Magazine - Shonda Cleckley | Print Issue Now Available
Written By: Samantha Cee
Shonda Cleckley's life story is one of resilience, courage, and transformation. At just 20 years old, she found herself a victim of domestic violence and a single mother. Despite the challenges she faced, she persevered and graduated from college with her first nursing degree at the age of 25, marking the beginning of her remarkable journey. By 28, Shonda had achieved the milestone of purchasing her first house, a testament to her hard work and determination.
Her dedication to her career shone through as she obtained her second nursing degree at 33 and rose to the position of Nurse Manager at a prestigious Buffalo hospital by the same age. However, life's hardships took their toll, leading Shonda to struggle with anxiety, depression, and addiction after losing loved ones, including her mother, to tragic circumstances. In a moment of clarity, she sought help through therapy in 2019, taking the first steps towards reclaiming her life.
Through her experiences, Shonda found healing and purpose. She rebuilt her relationship with her daughter, joined empowering communities like Girl Hold My Hand with Coach Stormy Wellington, and became a Total Life changer through Total Life Changes, advocating for wellness and empowerment. In 2023, she founded NurseShonda Empowerment Brand, a platform dedicated to empowering women to achieve success in all aspects of life. Shonda Cleckley's journey is a testament to the power of resilience, self-discovery, and the unwavering spirit to overcome adversity and inspire others along the way.
Can you tell us about the founding of your business and what inspired you to start it? The founding of my brand is to inspire and empower my daughter and the next generation of women to strive for success no matter the obstacles ahead.
How does your business differentiate itself from competitors in the market? I differentiate myself and my brand from others because I'm teaching from life experiences, things I wish I had known growing up to apply to everything in life.
How has being a woman-owned business impacted your company's culture and decision-making processes? Being a woman in a man’s world is never easy when it comes to business. I try to help young women find their voice around the standards society puts on women, like women belonging in the kitchen, etc.
What challenges have you faced as a woman entrepreneur and how have you overcome them? As a woman entrepreneur, you are getting the same chances as a man would in the same business, so we as women have to work 10x harder to be taken seriously.
Can you discuss any notable achievements or milestones your business has reached? Currently getting my business off the ground is a milestone for me after hitting rock bottom several years ago.
How do you stay current and adapt to changes in your industry? I stay current with the time by attending mentoring sessions and researching and listening to young people.
How do you balance running a successful business with your personal life and priorities? I work a 9-5 job and build my business from 5-9.
Can you discuss any initiatives or programs your business has implemented to promote diversity and inclusion? I'm currently running my business solo but all are welcome.
How do you plan for the future and set goals for your business? I plan on retiring from healthcare to devote 100% of my time to building my brand, NurseShonda Empowerment Brand LLC, helping you to achieve a healthier lifestyle through lifestyle coaching and TLC products.
By Pilar Scratch in Entrepreneur cover for Fashion Gxd Magazine
32 pages, published 2/27/2024
