We recently connected with Atia Sherrod and have shared our conversation below.
Atia, appreciate you joining us today. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?
My mission to build housing communities for veterans is deeply personal and profoundly meaningful to me. Coming from a family with a rich military background, where my relatives have served in the Air Force, Army, Navy, and Marines, I’ve witnessed firsthand the sacrifices these men and women make for our country. Their service and dedication have always been a source of immense pride and inspiration.
However, I’ve also seen the struggles many veterans face once their service ends. The transition to civilian life can be incredibly challenging, with many veterans finding it difficult to secure stable housing and meet their basic needs. This reality hit close to home and ignited a passion within me to make a difference.
My mission is not just about building houses; it’s about creating supportive communities that offer stability, respect, and a sense of belonging to those who have given so much. By developing housing communities specifically designed for veterans, I aim to provide them with a safe and nurturing environment where they can thrive. This mission is a way for me to honor their service and give back to those who have sacrificed for our freedom.
Building these communities is more than a business endeavor; it’s a personal commitment to addressing a critical need and contributing to the well-being of our veterans. Their struggles and resilience inspire me daily, and my goal is to ensure they receive the support and opportunities they deserve.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
Hello, my name is Atia Sherrod. I’m transitioning from a traditional 9-5 career to pursuing my passion as a real estate developer. My journey into this industry is driven by a deep-seated mission to support veterans by building housing communities tailored to their needs. With a background rooted in military service, as my family members have served in the Air Force, Army, Navy, and Marines, I’ve always been inspired by their dedication and sacrifices.
Before venturing into real estate, I manage a successful snack vending machine business called Girlswhovend. This experience taught me the importance of understanding and addressing the needs of my clients, as well as the value of hard work and perseverance. However, my true calling emerged from my desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of veterans who often face significant challenges after their service.
In my role as a real estate developer, I focus on creating housing communities that offer more than just shelter. These communities provide a supportive and nurturing environment where veterans can access the resources and assistance they need to thrive. Our goal is to address the fundamental problems veterans face, such as finding stable housing and connecting with a community that understands their unique experiences.
What sets my work apart is the personal connection and commitment I bring to every project. I understand the struggles veterans endure and am driven to create solutions that honor their service and support their well-being. My approach is holistic, considering not only the physical aspects of housing but also the emotional and social needs of the residents.
I am most proud of the positive impact our communities have on the lives of veterans. Seeing them thrive in an environment designed with their needs in mind is incredibly rewarding. It validates the mission and fuels my dedication to this cause.
For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want you to know that my work is rooted in a genuine passion for helping veterans. My brand is built on the principles of respect, support, and community. I am committed to making a meaningful difference and ensuring that our veterans receive the recognition and assistance they deserve. Thank you for supporting this mission and joining us in creating a better future for those who have served our country.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
While I haven’t made a complete pivot yet, I am currently using my 9-5 job to fund my real estate development business, which is focused on building housing communities for veterans. This strategic approach allows me to maintain financial stability while pursuing my passion for creating supportive living environments for those who have served our country.
Balancing a full-time job with the demands of starting and growing a business has been challenging but incredibly rewarding. My day job provides the necessary resources to invest in my business, covering costs related to certifications, land acquisition, and construction. This approach also allows me to build a strong foundation for my real estate projects without the immediate financial pressures that often come with entrepreneurship.
To ensure my growth and success in this industry, I have also started taking the necessary training and certifications needed to excel as a real estate developer. As a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field, I recognize the importance of continuous learning and professional development. This commitment to education not only equips me with the skills and knowledge required but also empowers me to break barriers and pave the way for other women in the industry.
This period of dual roles has taught me valuable lessons in time management, resilience, and strategic planning. It’s a demanding path, but knowing that I am working towards a mission that aligns with my values and personal history makes it all worthwhile. Using my 9-5 to fund my business is a strategic move that bridges my present circumstances with my future goals, ensuring that when the time comes to fully pivot, I’ll be well-prepared to make a significant impact in the lives of veterans.
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
One of the most significant lessons I had to unlearn was the pervasive self-doubt that often accompanies being a minority and a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field. The journey to stepping into my own power was not easy and required a deep transformation in how I viewed myself and my capabilities.
Growing up, societal expectations and stereotypes often made me question my worth and abilities. I internalized many of these negative beliefs, leading to a constant battle with self-doubt. This mindset was a significant barrier, preventing me from fully embracing my potential and taking bold steps toward my goals.
I realized that to succeed, I needed to believe in myself and my vision. This meant actively working on my confidence, seeking out mentors, and surrounding myself with supportive individuals who encouraged my growth.
Another crucial lesson I learned was the importance of re-evaluating my friend group. I came to understand that not everyone who smiles in your face is genuinely happy for you. This realization led me to distance myself from those who were not supportive of my goals and surround myself with people who truly believed in my mission.
Additionally, as someone who naturally talks a lot, I had to learn the power of being quiet and focusing on my goals without announcing them. I started to notice that when I spoke about my plans, I often didn’t succeed in starting or finishing them. However, once I learned to keep my ambitions to myself and work silently, it became a true game-changer. This shift allowed me to channel my energy into action rather than just words, leading to more significant progress and success.
Stepping into my own power has been a transformative experience. By unlearning self-doubt, re-evaluating my support system, and embracing the power of silence, I’ve been able to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship with resilience and determination. These lessons have empowered me to push beyond limitations and strive for excellence in all my endeavors.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.four11fourteen.com/
Image Credits
Image in the black and white suit
Jerez- IG: @ eyecatcheverything