Q and A with Jasheena from Indianapolis, Indiana
“When we care for each other, we are only making our community stronger.”
Q: What are you passionate about?
A: I am very interested in the healing power of the arts and artistic expressions. The influences of my uncle—an architect, and my father—a cartoon artist, helped to develop my passion for creative expression, especially during high-stress times. I am also passionate about supporting my community. I currently serve as a point for the Women’s Ministry at my church; helping to build community and hold space for each other. I also have my own business, Jasheena Shelton Enterprises, where I lead a team of personal life trainers to come beside our clients, utilizing our nine signature programs, to get them from goals to manifestation.
Q: What were your younger years like?
A: I was raised in the small rural town of Louisa, Virginia, and now live in Indianapolis, Indiana. I was a child who was constantly in the local library and highly immersed in community programs. I was raised primarily by my maternal grandmother and we were a dynamic duo during my formative years. She made sure that I was with her everywhere she went when I was out of school, which led to some interesting adventures across local farms, churches, businesses, libraries, and government centers. Between my grandmother and my mother, there was a time when I was in some sort of school or training seven days a week. I was on college campuses at a young age, at the feet of some academic giants and political leaders. I was active in church weekly and allowed to soak up all the spiritual wisdom available from my community.
Q: What is something valuable you’d like others to know?
A: I was highly influenced by “the village” that took an active role in my upbringing. I want others to look around and see the child in their neighborhood who may need a listening ear, a soft shoulder, or gentle reminders that they are important. I want others to see the grandparents who may be raising another generation of children and offer them occasional support. When we care for each other, we are only making our community stronger.
Q: What does feminism mean to you?
A: Feminism, to me, is more than equal pay for equal work. It is treatment rooted in respect for a job well done.
MORE ABOUT JASHEENA: I have a new book set to be released this fall, that highlights the growing loneliness epidemic and it’s called, Our Neighbors Cry. This is a collection of poetry that highlights some conversations I had while serving my community as a crisis specialist. This book also includes space for reflection and a call to action for the readers. I hope that whoever reads this book takes the time to look around them and see what need they can meet for another member of their community.
Thanks for reading!
Connect with me here.
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