Today we’d like to introduce you to Nurse Ebony Shene’.
Hi Nurse Ebony, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
As a young girl, I knew that I was in the business of helping others. I have always had a love for community and helping to build up others in order for us all to see our full potential. I started out a career in healthcare over 20 years ago at the very young age of 16. Taking care of others has always been a positive outlet for me in more ways than one. Everything that I lacked growing up, I was able to translate that into providing compassionate care for others. Becoming a nurse has not only taught me how to be an excellent leader but a humble follower. I truly believe that in order to lead, one has to know how to follow. It is an art and skill. I successfully opened up my own allied healthcare training center, ‘Scott School of Careers’ four years ago and since then have grown to five locations offering nursing assistant courses as well as practical nursing courses to name a few. I am extremely proud of the work that we do in the community. We have been able to help hundreds of graduates start their careers in healthcare. This is what makes the most difficult days all worth the while.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Being a Nurse Entrepreneur isn’t easy. There is always a temptation to go back to working your regular job when business gets hectic. Being an entrepreneur takes a lot of time and energy. As a small business owner, when business isn’t going as you planned, it seems easier to just give up and go back to work. BUT don’t stop! It is in those times of frustration that your breakthrough is near!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am most productive when I am able to use my creativity to connect with others. I always aim to help the next individual and give opportunities that someone may not have otherwise had if they had to depend on someone else who is unwilling to give them a chance. If I am in a position, then they are too. We all can win. One of my goals in life is to allow others to see that I never give up. I won’t give up until my work on this side of the earth is done. I don’t allow what others think or say about me to distract me from my purpose in life. I am a cultivator of inspiration. I believe that energy is contagious and if you surround yourself with the right energies, it will be sure to rub off and inspire you.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
Ebony is a 2022 recipient of the Illinois Nurses Association 40 under 40 award. The chief organizer of The Chicago Nurse Expo and Chair of The Black Nurses Matter organization.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ssccareers.org
- Instagram: @nurseebonyshene
Image Credits
Carey Fine D’sign Borders and Jeff Canady
