We had the good fortune of connecting with Shequan Palmer and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shequan, alright, let’s jump in with a deep one – what’s you’re definition for success?

This is such a great question—so subjective, but I’m totally here for it! This past year has really allowed me the space to truly define success. According to Webster, success is basically a positive outcome to an accomplished goal; and while that definition is easy enough, perhaps, too easy? (Also, we would then need to define what a “positive outcome” is; sometimes, failing can be the best thing to happen to your goal.) I believe there’s a little more to unpack, personally. For me, success isn’t simply just accomplishing a goal for a “positive outcome.”

For me, success doesn’t really have an end goal. Instead, I am most successful when I’m operating in my purpose—my God-given purpose. The outcomes are endless and come in many different forms: helping others, leading with integrity, turning my “failures” into lessons, taking advantage of new opportunities, and building new relationships to name a few.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.

I carry a solid personal and professional foundation that is still growing! I have a passion for learning and reaching new heights. I served many years as an elementary school teacher; my favorite years were as a performing arts teacher. I am currently an Operations Manager at Open Hearts Family Wellness and oversee Community Based Services: “Meet Me Where I Am” program. I have a passion for helping low-income/impoverished populations, along with improving societal and environmental factors affecting youth and young adults.

Concerning my “other” professional life, I currently hold the title of Mrs. Arizona International 2021. Pageantry has always been a passion of mine, but my family could never afford for me to participate. At the age of 33, I finally participated in my very first local pageant and won in all 3 categories. Additionally, I went on to compete in my first international pageant and placed in the top 15, which I was told was “unheard of” for a first-timer! This journey really helped to expand my capacity and encouraged me to take a step out on faith to turn my dreams into a reality. I feel now is the perfect time to put my passion and purpose into action! I have created an affordable pageant system for young women who also aspire to participate in pageantry: Valley of the Sun Pageants, this competition won’t simply focus on external beauty, it will also allow each delegate the opportunity to showcase their inner beauty, as well as share their dreams, goals, and aspirations (all while doing it in a financially-friendly manner!)

Last year, I launched the SHEQUAN SHOW: “The only place where normalcy is not necessary but Flourishing Within Your Means is”, whether it be physically, mentally, emotionally, financially, spiritually, or relationally.” On the Shequan Show, I share mini slices of life, to encourage new perspectives and provoke thinking. This space allows me to simply be me, without the added pressures of social society, and I love it!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?

The only thing Arizona is missing is a beach, nonetheless, I love the great state of AZ! My husband, Wayne, and I love discovering something new to get into (within our means, of course). The beautiful mountains allow for a great hike with breathtaking views as you make your way to the top. Next, a quick stop at Nekter Juice Bar to get the day started, is a great option. Brunch at Scramble or Hash Kitchen will definitely hit the spot! We really enjoy escape rooms, so this is an absolute necessity. Our favorite food is pizza, so we would most likely round this day out with dinner at Grimaldi’s and Bruster’s Ice cream for dessert. That’s just day one!

Day 2: We’ll take it easy, with a homemade breakfast, then off to a private full-body Balinese massage. I’m also imagining that it’s Tuesday, so you know what that means… Tacos! We’ll stop for street tacos at Tacos Califa. Tempe Town Lake for scooter riding and pedal boats will help to work the tacos off and make room for Mexican food at Ajo Al’s, Yuuuummmy!

Day 3: We’re up early, starting with a quick stop at Starbucks, then we’re off on a trip to Bearizona, because who wouldn’t want to drive through a wildlife park? This is an experience that you wouldn’t want to miss!

Day 4: My personal favorite, shopping! Arizona has enough malls and outlets to keep you busy all day; make sure that you wear comfortable shoes! We’ll stop for lunch at Cafe Zupas. Finally, we end this night with a trip to the movies—a round of popcorn and slushies on me!

Day 5: Hopefully, we haven’t worn you out just yet. This will be a long day! We’re heading to one of the natural wonders of the world, the Grand Canyon! This is truly one site that you do not want to miss.

Day 6: It’s been a pretty full week, so we’re going to chill. Grab your towel and sunscreen, we’re grilling and hanging poolside, late into the evening sharing stories and reminiscing on the good ol’ times.

Day 7: We’ll round out this week by visiting our home church for morning service! You’ll get a chance to meet some of the people that we do life with; after that, we’ll head to Crazy Mike’s for the best wings in town! Then head to Sedona for a couple of hours of site-seeing. This week has been quite the roller coaster! We’ll put a staple in this trip by closing out the week with dinner at Bobby Q’s.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

Having a strong, dedicated, support team made all the difference in my journey! I am so blessed to have the best family and friends on planet Earth!

– My Husband, Wayne Palmer for genuinely loving me unconditionally, for making my goals and dreams a priority. He’s the real MVP!

– My Grandma Janis Ruth has been the most instrumental in me becoming the woman that I am today. Though unseen, she has always worn a crown, and for that reason, I’ve dedicated my physical crown to her simply to say thank you—it’s not much, but I am so appreciative of her supporting me through thick & thin.

– My Aunt Ericka is self-proclaimed, my biggest fan. She gets a kick out of sharing my accomplishments with everyone, whether it be at a doctor’s office or a mall, my aunt will share with them all!

– My parents Wayne & Terecia Palmer made it possible for me to travel to participate in my first international pageant, where I placed in the Top 15! I am so blessed to call them my parents. And, I absolutely cannot forget about my Auntie Ann, not only is she a true gem, but she also cooks and caters the best Jamaican food in Arizona bar none!

– Chris & Kerri Mackey & the “Sidebar” bible study crew for being exemplary friends, tried, true, and through!

– My best friend, Mariah Green, who since the 6th grade, has also had a front-row to all my shenanigans, and although 1,700 miles apart, we never miss a beat!

– My church family & friends who have supported me throughout my pageant journey: North Phoenix COGOP: Gerry & Hope Murphy; Lynnhaven Community Church: Salomon & Iris Alegria, and Sunnyslope Community Church: Darrell & Tagine Ojeda.

Website: shequanshow.com

Instagram: Shequan Show

Linkedin: Shequan Palmer

Facebook: Shequan Show Says

Youtube: Shequan Show

Other: vspageants.com

Image Credits
Dorrell Edwards (page 1) Ray Ray Gosha (page 2)

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