Pedestal Professionals is a weekly spotlight series on our blog that highlights Black women entrepreneurs who are forging new paths in their respective fields.
Meet this week’s Pedestal Professional, Ashanta Williamson, Founder of 27th Wonder, a boutique consulting firm that provides government and public affairs specialty offerings, strategic planning and development, student leadership development, king and queen best practices, fundraising campaigns, image consulting and public speaking. Ashanta is a native of West Palm Beach, Florida by way of Montego Bay, Jamaica. Currently based in Daytona Beach, Florida, she is quickly making a mark in her field and expanding her reach across the nation. We had a chance to chat with Ashanta to learn more about her work!
Thanks for joining us on the Pedestal, Ashanta! Let’s jump right in. Could you tell us a bit about your business, 27th Wonder?
27th Wonder is a boutique consulting firm that focuses on the development of the following areas: Government/Public Affairs, Strategic Planning, Student Leadership Development and Branding, King and Queen Development and Branding, Fundraising, Image Consulting and Public Speaking.
How did you get started?
In June 2017 I decided to take a leap of faith on my 27th Birthday. I wanted to finally use all the talents that God gave to me and impact the community. I always had a passion for Branding, Student Leadership, HBCU Royalty, Fundraising and Strategic Planning. I became an expert at it all, and I wanted to ensure that those who are around me had the necessary tools to be successful in all that they aim to do.
Tell us about your educational journey.
My passion for service resonates through my daily work. I currently serve as the Public Affairs Specialist for my Alma Mater, Bethune-Cookman University in Daytona Beach and continue to model outstanding leadership qualities both independently and as a team member in the community.
I have always exhibited a high degree of scholarship through my course work, I received accolades as top 5% of her high school graduating class. I am most proud to be a Fall 2014 graduate of Bethune-Cookman University, where I was also very active as President of Model United Nations, Vice President of the Pre-Law Society, The National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), Charter Member of the Bethune-Cookman University Pre-Law Chapter of Phi- Alpha Delta Law Fraternity, International, Co-Founder of the Sistership, and Co-Founder of UpNext Young Professionals Group of Daytona Beach.
What’s the most rewarding part of what you do?
My ability to inspire great confidence in the people I come in contact with. I try my best to give the energy of ambition, exceptional character, and a sheer determination to innovate new and exciting ways to assist and inspire everyone.
Did you encounter any challenges along your journey? If so, how did you overcome them?
Being a victim of domestic violence and rape, I lost a sense of confidence in myself. I became discouraged and depressed. I fought through and grounded myself spiritually and that was the best decision I have ever made.
In your opinion, what is unique about being a professional Black Woman?
The most unique part about being a Professional Black Woman is ….. They don’t know what to expect from us. So we surprise them every time. We are full of class, we are innovative and when we walk into a room, we own it with humility, style and grace. Thank God for a Black Woman!
What’s your personal mantra?
When God is in it, There is NO Limits
What’s one piece of advice you would give to aspiring Black women professionals and entrepreneurs?
Remain Faithful, Never allow society to keep you boxed in. You are not a statistic. You can beat the Odds and YOU WILL COME OUT ON TOP!
How can people learn more about your products, services, and/or journey?
My life is an open book. Follow me on Instagram (@phenomenal_tay), and be sure to visit my website, http://www.27thwonderco.com.
Is there anything else you would like us to know?
I love this platform, and I am beyond thankful for this opportunity. I am a living witness that God answers prayers.
If you, or someone you know, would like to be featured in Pedestal Professionals, please complete the form in the “Connect” section or email us at pedestalprojectorg@gmail.com.
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