Shalimar Thomas
Brief Bio
What is a defining moment in your career and life? There were so many, it’s hard to pinpoint. There were several moments that shaped and continue to shape me and several people that contributed to those moments.
What challenges have you faced as a woman of color in your field and how did you overcome them? HA! I don’t think we have enough room in this book to talk about the challenges, and for the most part I’m still figuring out the overcoming part. Experiences have a way of shaping you, and sometimes you don’t realize the impact until years later. So ask me again in about 20 years.
What woman inspires you and why? All of them. Either they inspire me to be like them, or better than them. Every woman from my mom to the 83 year old I met on SEPTA who told me about her day. Could you imagine, 83 years old and still going Downtown to go shopping! I love it. But my mom is the real MVP. She taught me about being strong, yet compassionate. She’s beautiful and amazing!
Most women, through their confidence, audacity, kindness, wisdom, intelligence, resiliency, beauty, strength, and grace has taught me so much about working and living in this world – either directly or indirectly. It’s nothing like learning from another woman.
What is your advice to the younger generation of women coming after you? To keep being great! This new generation is bold! I love how they don’t accept and challenge the norm. They create their own rules and own narratives. It’s great. Be mindful of course, and use the past to guide you, but continue to be great!
What does being a part of the African Diaspora mean to you? Being a part of vast network of excellence.