We had the good fortune of connecting with Shanavia Evans and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Shanavia, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
Throughout my life, I’ve been inspired by change, elevation, my gifts, and people. Living in this world as a spiritual human being, I realized that being able to show people that they are unique in so many ways allows me to continue to be inspired to help people find their gifts. I love being able to show people that the end is not the end. As Jhene Aiko said, “There’s really no end, there’s really no beginning,” because the truth is, if you look at the world with open eyes, everything is possible. You have to be willing to take the risk, no matter how scary they may seem. Let the benefits of the risk inspire you to use your gifts. Seeing others on the other side after they’ve struggled with change allows me to see that by being in tune with my gifts, God will shine through me.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My first real marketing job happened when I was a senior in college, and I was so happy to be a part of something bigger. During the moments of my happiness, I was so blinded by the situations that were happening in my life that I had no idea where I was going or what God wanted me to see. I made so many mistakes throughout my career when it came to choosing myself. I remember choosing other people over my sanity. I told myself that I would never go down that path again. I was lost for a long time before I decided to give it all to God and allow Him to step into my life. I know I’ve always had a passion for fashion, poetry, writing, reading, modeling, and helping others elevate, but I never knew what to do with those gifts. Once I moved from Mississippi to Saint Louis, MO, I realized that there are so many people who need encouragement to follow their dreams, and that’s how my life coaching business started. I realized that sometimes we need a “hype man” to motivate us to do the things we truly enjoy doing. I became that woman who hyped people up by motivating them to change and motivating them to go after their dreams. My brands are brands of elevation; anytime that you work with me or someone who is connected to me, you are on the road to elevation and change.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
In Atlanta, there are so many amazing places to go! First, we would go to as many art galleries as we can throughout the city, and we would also find different brunch spots each day to try something new. We would visit any open mic night places that are in the city, and we would go roller skating and to the arcade.
If we were in Saint Louis, MO, I would take my friend to The Armory and The City Foundry STL, which are two amazing places for adults who want to connect with their inner child. We would find new brunch places that we’ve never eaten at, and of course, go get sushi at my favorite sushi spot, Sado. I would take my friend to the art museum here, and open mic nights as well. One of the days we would eat at Bowood Farms for brunch
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Giving honor to God first and then my family, friends, and the Saint Louis art community deserves all the credit for being a part of my story. Without these extraordinary people in my life, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I have been inspired by so many people throughout my life, especially my mom; she has been there for me, hands-down, and I love her so much. Since childhood, my mom has shown me the true meaning of God and how He has been in our lives. Thank you so much to everyone who’s supported me throughout this journey. I know there’s no stopping me now. We can all do it together. We all know it takes a village.
Website: https://shanaviaevans.wixsite.com/website
Instagram: sheisgolden_____
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/shanavia-evans
Facebook: Shanavia Evans
Image Credits
Photographers: Artist Love, Nylusblackphotography, Shonuffphotography