We had the good fortune of connecting with Shondrae Knight and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shondrae, can you share the most important lesson you’ve learned over the course of your career?
The most important lesson my business/career has taught me is that faith plus discipline equals success. My faith in Christ has been tried and tested. I have experienced some failures, but just as much success. I have learned to lean on God in everything that I do. I have learned that discipline is the root of all successful plans and the key to long-lasting success. I have learned to tell myself “no”. I don’t deny myself pleasure, but I definitely prioritize everything.

What should our readers know about your business?
This is only a snippet of my story! When I look back at where I started, I can see God’s hand moving me forward and right where I am today! I can’t thank Him enough! I own and operate a private Micro-school in Southwest Atlanta. Although we are tuition-based, we have a great alternative payment system that helps stabilize families and it helps strengthen the community. We offer a small, nurturing, and resource-rich learning space for neurodivergent and non-neurodivergent students. A smaller setting allows the students to complete their academic endeavors with the confidence and support they need. I am proud that I can help the families in my community, and because I can help them, I become a part of their family. I feel like I am a second mom, aunt, or grandma to so many students in my community. This became possible because I saw the need, particularly during COVID. I realized the need, left the public sector, and started the school. I started my business with my own money and creative financing. I used my educational background, career experience, my title as USAM Georgia, my social influence, and all of the work and time that I’ve put into my community. In other words, I used my skill set and experience as a form of currency. Also, I took a faith-based risk, although not easy, but doable. I’ve faced many challenges, but it has been worth the time. I overcame the challenges with the support of my family, friends, parents, students, and those in my community. I have learned so many lessons, and one of them in particular has been that good relationships are better than money. I have great relationships with the people in my circle and my community. They trust me and I trust them. If I need anything, I feel confident enough to ask for help. I feel so supported!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting the area, I would take her out to eat, play Top Golf, or go to a Paint and Sip spot. Atlanta is so multifaceted, and there is something for everyone in this city. I love living here, and I would definitely want to show my bestie why this is the place to be. There are places like the Chattahoochee Food Works, where she can get all types of food and people watch. I would take her to No Mas Cantina because why not!? This place has some of the best Mexican food. We would have to go to South City Kitchen for dinner and drinks because the ambiance, food, and drinks are a winner. Lastly, we will get some soul food from either Paschal’s or Mary Mac’s Tea Room. Although the restaurants are top tier, we must visit the Atlanta Botanical Garden, go on a wine tour, check out the Atlanta History Center, check out some of the rooftop hotels, and walk the Beltline!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First, I would like to thank my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I can do all things through Him. Second, I would like to thank my parents, my children, my sister, and my brothers for believing in me and supporting me. Also, I want to personally thank my closest friends, especially my best friend, Erica Longino, and my longtime friend and mentor Keyanna Moreau. Thank you to all of the people in my community for trusting me, and a special thank you to the Byrd family. Thank you for always making sure I look amazing when I step out! Thanks to all my extended family members! I love you all. Last but not least, I want to say thank you to my students, parents, volunteers, and sponsors. Without you, there is no DFAM!

Website: https://www.dontforgetaboutme911.com

Youtube: @dontforgetaboutme911

Other: Tik Tok-@dfam1

Image Credits
Bee Trofort Photography

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