Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Shaniqua Jones.
Dr. Shaniqua, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I am a BIG Thought Leader who decided to walk into the calling God provided for me. I was born and raised COGIC and I mention this after watching my life unfold through the #1 Lifetime Movie as of right now, The Clark Sisters: First Ladies of Gospel. Yes! I am a wife, mother to five beautiful children; four daughters and one son. I am an author, educator, and inspirational speaker. I am also a Restorative Justice Practitioner. What is a Restorative Justice Practitioner you ask? Great! Restorative Justice is a historical framework that involves shareholders who were harmed to come together and repair the relationship and/or make the people involved as whole as possible by discussing the why – we need to know the backstory.
After experiencing life in survival mode after overcoming various traumatic situations such as mental illness, teen pregnancy, promiscuity, failed suicide attempts, cervical cancer, rape and sexual assault, and other disheartening circumstances – still I rise to be what He called me to be. I now understand my why? I am here to pour into the lives of children, parental supports, educators, communities – the world. We need to heal and Restorative Justice is the way I approach life. I am now a better person and leader to those I serve. Here is a quick video that explains much of what I shared: https://bit.ly/WhoIsDrJ.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I had to overcome the poverty mindset that had me bound to struggling and lacking self- love. I’ve been homeless on numerous occasions; even while walking across stage four years ago when I received the highest degree in the U.S. It wasn’t a matter of being irresponsible. It was another reminder of what is means to be Black in America – where you can achieve your highest goals and face the ills of race when it comes to racial and societal stigmas. Here I am, four years later thriving in ways I could have only imagined. I have been on this journey for over a decade now and this is only the beginning.
Please tell us about Purple Path.
Purple Path is a vision of Dr. Shaniqua Jones to share her journey with the world from a restorative lens. From her signature talks to her expertise in Restorative Justice, she helps others to understand Restorative Justice and Restorative Practices via life application. Her mission is to positively impact the lives of every soul she encounters. Dr. Jones live by her life’s mantra. A journey not shared is a soul not healed.
I am proud to be one of the leaders in our communities unafraid to share my personal journey from poverty to EdD and beyond. I provide the life application to the philosophy, Restorative Justice. My speaking and trainings are in alignment with the work God has for me. I am able to reach the masses through my transparency and humor. I have been coined the Olivia Pope of Education and even the educated thug at times, lol. I take them both as compliments. If anyone ever needs to see a miracle – here I am.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
Luck. No. Lessons learned, yes. I have been able to turn my pain into passion and my passion into sustainable opportunities.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.shaniquajones.com
- Phone: 773-708-2041
- Email: purplepath@shaniquajones.com
- Instagram: @purplepathDrJ
- Facebook: @drshanjones2016
- Twitter: @drshanjones2016
- Other: https://linktr.ee/PurplePath
Image Credit:
Felice Kimbrew of FMK Media, LLC.
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