Today we’d like to introduce you to Shelly Johnson.
Shelly, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Birthed into bad decisions and debt, so decided to break the chain with my two children. I had my first child at 15 years old, second child at 19. My children broke one chain of not becoming a teen parent, statistics said they would. I cried on both their 16th birthday. My life has been busy since I was 15, 2 jobs, school and children. I breathe to break the chain I want my children, children to have more of a childhood, so we work. I worked hard to assure their basic needs are met and psych their brains to wear their own name in their clothes, self-made entrepreneurs. Being a single parent, I refused to put my money on hot sneakers, video games, trendy items that cost as much as monthly overhead. So, my children were forced to embrace their artistry side and differences from most children their age. Help them turn their art into businesses, they are both growing. I manage both my children’s business. Olivia, my daughter is a crochet designer, she can make any clothing you want in crochet. Her company name is LivbyLiv. Proud to say I am a mother of a college graduate in three weeks. Emanuel, my son is an actor, writer and music artist. His company name is Faame Emanuel. I am still in a dream when I recant the many accomplishments I have made with my children. I have two high school graduates, and one about to graduate from college, I am a story! As a young girl, I had to help my dad get safely home from drinking. During a weekend visit with my mom, I would have to cry and yell to stop my mom from smoking dope. I stand here today with a college degree, many licenses and two children thriving, surpassing society predictions of their outcome. Higher power is overall!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Being hard on self. Life is an obstacle and I am still defeating the challenges, refuse to quit.
Please tell us about LivFaame Liv by Liv and Faame Emanuel.
I wear many of hats, from mommager, Property managing and leasing, Real estate agent. I love providing exceptional customer experience. No matter what work, I am performing I give it my best.
Do you think there are structural or other barriers impeding the emergence of more female leaders?
Assuring your craft is respected. Assuring business colleagues keep it professional. Be confident that you are beautiful, but refuse to be a sexually lusted over in the business environment. Keep business separate from pleasure, even if it’s to die for.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @mommyfaame
- Facebook: Shelly Johnson
Image Credit:
Faame Emanuel
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