Meet The Visionaries behind The MC Collective
Hey there, Beautiful people! We're thrilled to introduce you to the brilliant minds behind MC Collective, Shanterra Mitchum and Wanda Chatman. These incredible women are not just co-founders; they are the heartbeat of a movement that's all about embracing your true self, shattering societal expectations, and celebrating the extraordinary power within you.
In today's blog, we'll dive deep into the lives, dreams, and the driving force behind MC Collective. So, grab a cozy blanket, your favorite cup of tea, and let's embark on a heartwarming journey of empowerment, authenticity, and sisterhood.
Meet Shanterra Mitchum:
Shanterra Mitchum is a testimony that no matter your surroundings or experiences, they only make you stronger and more qualified to do the work. Her story is one that will inspire you to conquer mountains, both literal and metaphorical.
Background:
Shanterra's journey to MC Collective began with her own experiences growing up in a community plagued by crime, drugs, and poverty. A community that was intentionally divested in and as a result extremely impoverished. However, in the midst of that she had an amazing support system that pushed her to use her experiences as a testament of her strength and ability.
At some point along her journey in the non-profit leadership realm, Shanterra found herself in rooms with folks who didn’t come from the background she did, they didn't look like her and she struggled with being the only one. At her PWI she was the only Black student in her program. On her job she was the youngest full time staff member, and her knowledge, expertise and voice were constantly pushed aside or ignored. She noticed inequity as it pertained to her autonomy within the organization. She even conducted entire hiring processes for people who would make more money than she did and who would hold higher positions.
One day she had enough, and she went to the Director and said with fear and trembling: "there is no one more qualified for this position than she am." And that if they didn't consider me for it, then there would be no way for me to continue working there.
She got the job! But it was still a white-led organization with cultural issues that needed to be addressed—and ill-equipped as well—but making a bit more money than before, she stayed; she couldn't do it anymore and she left. For several years she pursued a career in education until one day post pandemic they called and asked if she would be willing to take the directors role. They sent her over the job description and pay and she said you all can’t afford me. They then asked her the golden question: what do you want to be paid… the rest is history. In her role she still found herself at the age of 31 the only Black woman of color in many rooms and she began to question why? she researched and surveyed? Hearing things from employers like there aren't enough Black women in the pipeline? she knew she couldnt be the only one. Maybe some women were fearful like she was constantly being overlooked and silenced, perhaps they existed in a workplace that marginalized them. Whatever the reason she decided that the way she worked with youth over the years to find themselves, that she would put that same energy into helping women take control of their lives and careers. This is my calling, my ministry, my purpose despite the challenges.
Her Mission:
Shanterra made it her mission to create a safe space for women like her – women who are tired of pretending and ready to embrace their authentic selves. MC Collective is the manifestation of that mission, a sanctuary where you can let your true colors shine without fear of judgment and actualize your potential on the journey.
Meet Wanda Chatman:
Wanda Chatman is the embodiment of wisdom, grace, and sisterly love. Her journey is one of self-discovery and the unwavering belief in the power of women supporting women.
Background:
Wanda's story is a tapestry of experiences that weave together to form the beautiful soul she is today. She's faced adversity, heartache, and triumph, each moment contributing to her incredible wisdom and compassion. She understands that life's challenges can either break you or make you, and she chose the latter. Wanda Chatman is the Sr. Pastor of Victory Christian Ministries International in Orlando Florida. She is also an HR professional with over 25 years of HR, Operations Management, and Recruiting experience. She has been blessed to work for some major corporations such as Verizon Wireless, JP Morgan Chase,, and Zenwise Health and is currently the Director of HR for Merrick Bank. Wanda earned her Associates in Business Management at 45 from Ashford University and is currently pursuing her bachelors, demonstrating that it is never too late to pursue your goals! Some of her major accomplishments have included Building the HR Department for Zenwise Health, creating a Leadership Academy for JP Morgan Chase, and recruiting, staffing, and training new Verizon Wireless locations built throughout the United States.
Wanda's passion has always been to empower young women in their career and life goals. She has mentored and coached many women in developing their skills, enhancing their communication, and building their brand to help them reach greater levels of success in corporate America. Through that Passion, MC Collective was established.
Wanda's greatest achievement in life is her Husband of 22 years, Gary Chatman Sr., her three sons, Kyrie, Gary, and Sean, and her 2 beautiful granddaughters.
In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, Interior decorating, and singing!
Her Mission:
Wanda's mission is simple yet profound: to be a guiding light for women on their own paths of self-discovery. She knows that every woman has a unique journey, and through MC Collective, she and Shanterra offer a nurturing environment where you can learn to love yourself, imperfections and all.
Together They Are Unstoppable:
Shanterra and Wanda share a bond that goes beyond business partners; they are family and sisters in spirit, united by a deep understanding of the struggles women face in today's world. Their partnership is built on trust, empathy, and a shared commitment to uplifting others.
Their Vision:
Their vision is to help women discover and actualize their potential and purpose In all things personal growth, spirituality, relationships & wellbeing. They Empower, Inspire, and Journey with Women to remove the barriers in their professional lives and careers for greater impact and support companies in transforming workplace culture and creating opportunities for women of color to take on leadership roles within them.
Join the MC Collective Family:
As you read this blog, we hope you can feel the warmth, support, and sisterhood that Shanterra and Wanda bring to MC Collective. We invite you to join our family, to walk this transformative journey together. Whether you're struggling with self-acceptance, societal expectations, or simply seeking guidance and encouragement, MC Collective is here for you.
With love and empowerment,
Shanterra Mitchum
MC Collective Coach and Consultant
