I am a first generation high school graduate. My mom had me at 16 years of age. I have NEVER set eyes on my biological father. My stepfather had nothing more than a 4th grade education. I didn’t have women or men in leadership roles to help me navigate life. To clarify, I mean how to be an African-American Female Leader in this world. I was ill-prepared on my journey to be the woman I am now. I hit a lot of bumps along the way. (Quietly, I still hit some.) A number of bumps were distractions: someone or something attempted to get in the way. I decided to author a book titled, We Can! We Can! Leadership Stories from Minoritized Women to help others along their journeys. This book is important because we get busy and sometimes, just sometimes, it is difficult to find time or opportunity to mentor others. You see, there is still a need for mentoring. I am hoping this book will provide support/guidance on how to be a leader through the lenses of minoritized women. So what does minoritized mean? It means groups that are different in race, religious creed, nation of origin, sexuality, and gender and as a result of social constructs have less power or representation compared to other members or groups in society. Women are not minorities, they are one of many minoritized groups.
So why am I writing this article on LinkedIn? I have reached out to several women and men to ask them to share the call for contributors on previous posts. I have received inquiries asking why they should contribute. I am writing this to give additional context.
1) There’s no financial gain from this….seriously.
2) There could be a sense of moral/personal obligation to contribute to this book in order to impact others.
3) There could also be a social responsibility.
I commented on a fellow LinkedIn member’s post earlier this week regarding what people have told him he can’t do. So many times our young people are told what they can’t do. I can relate because I was told that I would be on welfare and not break the cycle of poverty. I now have four degrees (Bachelor’s, Two Master’s and a PhD) and working towards two certifications from reputable institutions. I have now changed the trajectory of my family for years to come. This is what I pray for others.
I hope this answers the question of why I am qualified to be an author of this important topic…..I have a story to tell. I pray you do as well.
Be safe! Be blessed.
Dr. Shaunna D. Finley
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