Ivory Shields – 2020 Over 40 & Fabulous Top 10 Winner
Renaissance woman Ivory Shields is an actress, model, speaker and spiritual healer. After discovering the power to heal from past trauma within herself, this 41-year-old decided to use her gifts and experience to help others on their journey of healing.
What is something you learned about yourself during quarantine? That I’m a bit of a workaholic. I have had to learn to create balance in my life, by incorporating some fun stuff into my schedule.
What is the one thing you’ve learned to appreciate that you didn’t when you were younger? Being a melanated woman! I was a kid who grew up in an era where black excellence wasn’t shown in mainstream media. We had The Cosby Show and A Different World, but that was about it. The media primarily showed us
all of the images and stories related to gang violence and the crack epidemic in black communities. Also, the rich and positive history of melanated people wasn’t something really talked about in my home.
What do you love most about Atlanta? This is my home. I love how this city is so rich with culture and history! Also, my family’s roots are here. My great-grandfather was one of the first black contractors to get a city contract. He helped to build many prominent buildings in this city, including the first Coca-Cola building and Grady Memorial Hospital.
What do you consider to be your best accomplishment? Being able to forgive those who hurt me. It freed me.
What is your favorite way to give back to your community? I really enjoy connecting with young people and children, and teaching them about the power of self-awareness and meditation.
What inspired you to do this particular kind of charity work? Because of the powerful transformation it has had in my life. Meditation has helped me heal from trauma and manage anxiety and depression.
Who are the experts/professionals who help you be your best self? I have several spiritual Sistas who I fully lean on to help me be my best self. One of my besties, Starr Eberhart, is a realtor here in Atlanta and we’ve known each other for almost 30 years. She’s someone I talk to about everything and we hold each other accountable. Also, my friend Shehawnee Prescod, of EarthAngel PR, is someone I lean on for helping me to be the best version of myself.
Name something on your bucket list. Opening a meditation center for underserved children.
