Meet Shantelle Patton
Shantelle Patton began in Buffalo, NY, where she took her first step into the professional world as a Teen Peer Mentor at Planned Parenthood. This role would be a transformative experience for her, igniting her passion for advocacy and community service at a young age. She carries this passion with her to this day as a full-time entrepreneur. She has an innate ability to identify voids in the community and creatively fill those gaps, showcasing her passion and commitment to fostering positive change.
In 2018, Shantelle founded That Brown Bag Minority Business Directory, a platform born out of her deep-seated commitment to addressing disparities and promoting inclusivity within the business world. That Brown Bag has significantly impacted the visibility and growth of minority entrepreneurs by amplifying their presence, fostering economic empowerment, and encouraging inclusive communities. It also connects consumers with diverse businesses, facilitating meaningful connections and opportunities for collaboration.
Aside from her professional pursuits, Shantelle's role as a girlfriend, mother, and grandmother is the cornerstone of her life. These relationships provide her with love, support, and endless inspiration, fueling her drive to create, innovate, and make a meaningful impact.
Personal Milestones
Where are you from?
Buffalo, NY
What was your first job?
My first job was as a Teen Peer Advocate at Planned Parenthood. In this role, I had the privilege of providing support, education, and resources to fellow teens on topics related to sexual health and reproductive rights. It was an incredibly fulfilling experience that ignited my passion for advocacy and community service at a young age. Working with Planned Parenthood not only allowed me to make a positive impact on the lives of others but also fostered my commitment to promoting health education and empowerment among adolescents.
One thing most people don't know about you:
One thing most people don't know about me is that I have a talent for poetry. While it's not something I often share openly, writing poetry has been a form of self-expression and reflection for me for many years. Whether capturing moments of beauty, exploring complex emotions, or simply playing with words, poetry allows me to delve into the depths of my creativity and connect with the world uniquely.
What is your favorite book or podcast?
Eckhart Tolle's The Power of Now is a transformative book that encourages mindfulness and living in the present moment. It's a profound exploration of spirituality and personal growth. My favorite podcast, The C-Suite Mama, is an intriguing listen! Focused on the intersection of motherhood and leadership, it offers valuable insights and inspiration for navigating both professional and personal roles.
What motivates you to pursue current and new passions?
My primary motivation for pursuing current and new passions stems from my belief in the ability to effect positive change for myself and my entire community. Whether through my creative endeavors, entrepreneurial pursuits, or personal relationships, I am driven by the desire to make a meaningful impact and contribute to the betterment of those around me. This belief fuels my curiosity, propelling me to explore new avenues for growth and innovation, all with the ultimate goal of creating a brighter, more inclusive future for everyone.
What is your biggest accomplishment at this point in your life?
At this juncture in my life and career, being invited to contribute to the 5/14 Memorial Project and then having that team be selected as one of three finalists stands as a testament to the impact of my work and dedication to the community at large. It signifies recognition and trust in my ability to contribute meaningfully to such a significant initiative. This invitation reaffirms my commitment to serving and uplifting my community, driving me to continue striving for positive change and leaving a lasting legacy of compassion and remembrance.
What is one thing you know now that you wish you knew at 18 years old?
I wish I knew at 18 the importance of embracing failure as a natural part of growth and learning. Back then, I often viewed failure as a setback rather than an opportunity for growth. Understanding that failure does not reflect my worth but rather a chance to learn, adapt, and succeed would have alleviated unnecessary stress and self-doubt. Embracing failure early on would have empowered me to take more risks, pursue my passions wholeheartedly, and approach life with greater resilience and optimism.
Professional Milestones
Is what you do now what you always wanted to do as a child?
No, what I do now isn't what I always wanted to do from childhood. In fact, I wasn't quite sure what I wanted to be when I grew up. Looking back, I realize it's because my current position didn't even exist back then. My journey has been an exploration and adaptation, leading me to carve out a path that aligns with my passions and values. While my childhood aspirations may have been undefined, I'm grateful to have found a role that allows me to make a meaningful impact and contribute to positive change in ways I never imagined.
What inspired you to go into your industry?
The inspiration behind starting 'That Brown Bag Minority Business Directory' stemmed from a deep-seated commitment to addressing disparities and promoting inclusivity within the business world. Witnessing the challenges minority entrepreneurs face in accessing opportunities and resources, I felt compelled to create a platform that celebrates and uplifts their contributions. By highlighting minority-owned businesses and providing them with a dedicated space to thrive, I hope to contribute to a more equitable and diverse economic landscape. Ultimately, my passion for social justice and empowerment fuels every aspect of this venture, driving me to create positive change within my community and beyond.
Describe in one word what it's like to be a woman of color in your industry.
Empowering
Was there ever a time you faced challenges in your professional life? How did you overcome them?
Yes, there have been times when I faced challenges in my professional life, mainly while working through health issues. Despite the physical and emotional hurdles, I knew I needed to produce results and fulfill my responsibilities. To push through these challenges, I prioritized self-care, sought support from trusted colleagues and loved ones, and adapted my approach to work when necessary. By maintaining open communication with my team and proactively managing my health, I persevered and continued making meaningful contributions, albeit at a different pace. A combination of resilience, determination, and support helped me overcome these obstacles and emerge stronger on the other side.
What's next for you in your career?
What's next for me is to add additional services, such as supplier diversity consulting, to support minority-owned businesses further. Additionally, I plan to scale the company by creating a franchise model that will allow for the expansion of the directory into more territories. This growth strategy aims to increase the reach and impact of our platform, empower even more minority entrepreneurs, and contribute to greater economic inclusivity on a larger scale. I'm excited about the opportunities ahead and remain committed to advancing diversity and equity within the business landscape.
What advice would you give a young woman of color trying to enter or advance in your industry?
I advise a young woman of color trying to enter or advance in our industry to approach your work with passion and authenticity. Let your dedication and commitment shine through in everything you do, and always operate from the heart. Surround yourself with mentors and allies who genuinely support your growth and uplift your voice. Remember that your unique perspective and experiences are valuable assets, so don't be afraid to advocate for yourself and seize opportunities to make your mark.
Who/what do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to showing up as myself every time, being consistent, and exemplifying the brand's values daily. By staying true to myself and consistently embodying the principles that define our brand, I've built trust, credibility, and lasting relationships within the industry. This approach has helped me achieve my goals and fostered a strong sense of connection with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders. My unwavering commitment to integrity and staying true to my values has paved the way for my success.
Are you involved in any organizations, associations, clubs, or groups?
President: Urban Chamber of Commerce Buffalo
Board Member: Greater Jefferson Avenue Business Association
Board Member: Michigan StreetPreservation Board of Directors
Connect with Shantelle
Facebook: That Brown Bag
Instagram: That Brown Bag
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