Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Shantel Drayton. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Shantel, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear about the best boss, mentor, or leader you’ve ever worked with.
Strength, Resilience, and Intelligence are three (3) of many characteristics I would use to define the individual that made the greatest impact on my professional journey. I started working under her leadership in 2011. As a recent graduate, very new to the non-profit arena, I was nervous and lacked confidence, however, this leader saw something in me that I never knew I had. She motivated me, encouraged me and prepared me for days ahead, as she knew what I would be up against as a young black woman. From training(s) to community engagement meetings/presentations, grant writing, and program development, she exposed me to opportunities that would not only challenge me but set my career up for greatness! My level of expertise in grant writing is the direct result of her leadership. She reminded me to be an advocate for others and to address community needs by meeting people where they are.
The defining moment in my career actually took place under her leadership. As a result of attending a local Nonprofit Chamber meeting, the organization decided to submit for the Legislative Green Book, a summary of the top legislative priorities selected by the Health and Human Services Community of Palm Beach County. In my mind, this was going to be a collective effort (LOL). This leader had other plans. I was tasked with completing the questionnaire and presenting the information to the legislative body. YIKES! I remember walking into her office with my research and speech in hand. As I began to read the speech aloud, the leader stopped and said, “Great speech, but you know you won’t be using that piece of paper, right? Take the time to review the information and commit it to memory, you’ve got this Shantel!” She made sure I was confident in myself to present the information. We were selected as priority number one under the category of homeless, hunger, and housing! All of her coaching and guidance made me the professional that I am today! Oh, and did I mention her keen sense of fashion? You only get one chance to make a first impression! What I learned from her is priceless; “be sure to leave your mark in the room, research is essential, be the expert in your “lane”, and always do a “Call to Action,” in an effort to invite the audience to engage with you in your work; be the change you want to see!” It is for these reasons that I chose the GREATEST Leader/Mentor of all time, Mrs. Kemberly Bush, CEO of Pathways to Prosperity. Thank you for leading by example and always saying my name in a room full of opportunity!
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I’m an advocate for social justice. As a researcher/grant writer that is passionate about my community, it is my goal to strategically address systemic barriers that prevent people of color from progressing. I started my journey in my last semester of graduate school. My final assignment was to develop a manual for a local non-profit. In the beginning phase of the project, I did hours of research. The more I read, the more curious I became. I am a naturally inquisitive person, so I didn’t think much of the research portion of the project at the time. One question led to another, and another, and another. I would come to find this pattern later in my career, to be known as the “5 Whys” (Lean Six Sigma…. shout out to Instructor Bob). The responses to the 5 Whys, would be the root cause of any problem or challenge. This technique is designed to address the cause and effect of an underline problem.
By addressing the 5 Whys, I am able to develop strong proposals to seek funding opportunities for my clients. Research matters. Being able to connect the dots matters. I ensure clients are engaged in the process every step of the way. How can my clients or any organization work towards a solution that will allow the community access much needed resources? Funding. No funding, no services, it’s that simple. The larger reach is policy change. If you change the current policies, will there be a need for services? Pay attention to the cycle. My passion to see change is what sets me apart from others. Can you image living in an equitable world, where racial and social disparities do not exist? I can!
I am most proud of the relationships I’ve established with my clients. My clients become my family and more importantly, my priority. I am dedicated to my client’s mission. Their vision becomes mine. It is a true partnership.
How do you keep your team’s morale high?
Managing a team can be challenging. Everyone learns differently; everyone responds differently. As a leader, knowing the strengths and weaknesses of your team is very important. Be mindful that everyone has a different personality as well. In my experience, managing the “position” doesn’t work. Managing the person’s personality does! I am always cognizant of my team’s ability to perform under pressure, work on projects with tight deadlines, to work independently verses collectively and, lastly, my ability to divide and conquer (sharing the load). Listen to your team. It is also important to appreciate your team. Some team members like public appreciation, while others prefer a simple “good job” email. In human services work, being overwhelmed comes as no surprise. Value your team and create an office culture that is pleasant. I want my team to enjoy coming to work.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
Contact Info:
Other: http://www.linkedin.com/in/shantel-drayton-mpa-604b5a9b
Image Credits
One Sterling LLC