Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Shawana Carter-Barnett.
Hi Dr. Shawana, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
began my journey as the daughter of a military dad and was often labeled a single mom. Growing up, I learned the value of resilience, determination, and hard work early on. Despite starting in entry-level roles, I knew my potential was far greater, and I was committed to pushing forward no matter the obstacles.
Education became a central part of my journey. I earned a BS in Social Science, followed by an MA in Management and Leadership, an MBA, an MA in HR Management, and ultimately a PhD in Management and Leadership. These academic pursuits equipped me with valuable knowledge, but it was my practical experience and unshakable faith that truly fueled my growth.
Hard work, consistent prayer, and perseverance have been key to my success. Through these efforts, I’ve been able to achieve dreams I once only imagined. One of the most fulfilling accomplishments has been opening my own cupcakery, a business I’m passionate about. Additionally, I had the opportunity to publish the first novel in a series, which has had an overwhelmingly positive response from readers. On top of these creative ventures, I’ve had the privilege of achieving success in the HR field, making meaningful contributions to organizations and individuals alike.
Recently, I was honored to be named one of ATL Plus Magazine’s 50 Most Powerful Women, a recognition that represents the culmination of years of dedication and growth. My journey has shown me that with faith, determination, and hard work, you can transform your dreams into reality, no matter where you start.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
No, it hasn’t been a smooth road at all. Like any journey, there have been significant obstacles. One of the most challenging moments came when I thought I was close to opening my cupcakery storefront. We had a fraudulent contractor, which set us back financially and emotionally. It was a huge setback, and we lost a lot in that process. But through it all, I leaned on my faith and the power of prayer. No matter how hard the obstacles, prayer always provided me with the strength and clarity to keep moving forward.
I’ve learned that challenges are just a part of the process. The key is to not let them define you. Instead, it’s about resilience, pushing through, and never losing sight of your ultimate goal. Every struggle has taught me something valuable, and now I know that nothing can stop me as long as I stay grounded in my purpose and continue trusting the journey.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
What do you do, and what do you specialize in?
I am the Vice President of Human Resources, where I specialize in building meaningful partnerships between employees and employers. I believe that HR isn’t just about hiring and firing—it’s about being a true liaison that helps both sides communicate openly, work collaboratively, and solve problems together. My approach focuses on fostering a healthy company culture, ensuring employee engagement, and developing strategies that align people with the company’s mission.
I’m also the proud owner of Pretty Girls CuppieCakes, a homemade cupcake business where all of our treats are made from scratch, using recipes passed down from my late grandmother. What started as a hobby when my ex-husband’s military orders led us to relocate turned into a full-fledged business. The heart of our cupcakes is not just in the ingredients but in the love and care put into each batch.
Additionally, I’m a coauthor of Naughty for Nyce, a romantic series inspired by my own journey of meeting my new partner. I wrote the book to share my experience and to give others a glimpse of the ups and downs of relationships, hoping it would resonate with people who’ve been in similar situations.
What are you known for?
I’m known for my ability to bridge gaps between employees and employers, creating an HR experience that goes beyond the transactional. I focus on fostering authentic relationships and building a true HR partnership that benefits both sides.
I’m also known for my unique approach to baking, where I blend old family recipes with new flavors and ideas. My business has grown from a hobby into something that brings joy to so many, all while honoring my grandmother’s legacy in every bite.
And, of course, Naughty for Nyce has gained attention for its candid storytelling and the way it touches on real relationship dynamics, making it both entertaining and relatable for many readers.
What are you most proud of?
I’m most proud of how I’ve built each of my roles from the ground up, staying true to my values along the way. In HR, I take pride in being the kind of leader who cares about the well-being of the employees while also meeting business goals. It’s incredibly rewarding when you see the direct impact of your work on both employee satisfaction and the company’s success.
I’m also proud of how Pretty Girls CuppieCakes has flourished. What started as a way to fill my time has turned into a thriving business that continues to grow and bring people happiness, all while honoring my family’s legacy.
And with Naughty for Nyce, I’m proud to have shared my story in a way that’s both fun and insightful, offering readers a glimpse into my life and helping them find comfort or inspiration from it.
What sets you apart from others?
What sets me apart is my commitment to always doing the right thing—whether that’s in the boardroom or in the kitchen. I believe in building real, human connections in everything I do. In HR, I’m not just solving problems; I’m creating a supportive and open environment that allows both employees and employers to thrive.
In the baking world, my treats are more than just desserts—they’re a piece of my family’s history, and each cupcake reflects my dedication to quality and authenticity.
And with Naughty for Nyce, I’ve taken something personal and turned it into a way to help others, offering a real, relatable perspective on relationships that many can learn from. I think my ability to blend personal passion with professional pursuits is what really makes my journey unique.
What are your plans for the future?
What are your plans for the future? What are you looking forward to or planning for – any big changes?
Looking ahead, I have big goals in both my professional and personal ventures. In HR, I plan to continue growing and advancing within the field, with the ultimate aim of becoming a Chief Operating Officer (COO) or Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO). I’m passionate about creating work environments where both employees and employers can thrive, and I look forward to taking on even more leadership responsibilities to help shape the future of organizations.
On the business side, I’m excited to expand Pretty Girls CuppieCakes and take it to the next level by opening a brick-and-mortar location. My vision for the space is to create a welcoming, relaxing atmosphere where customers can come for more than just delicious desserts—they’ll experience good vibes, a sense of community, and an environment that makes them want to return time and time again.
Additionally, I’m looking forward to continuing to grow the Naughty for Nyce series. The first book has been a wonderful journey, and I believe there’s so much more to explore in this fun, real-life “situationship” story. It’s the kind of series that can resonate with so many people, and I’m excited to see where it takes me and the readers who enjoy it.
Ultimately, I want to continue building all of these passions with integrity and a focus on doing the right thing, creating value for myself, my team, and everyone I serve.
Pricing:
- $19.99 Naughty for Nyce (Amazon)
- 35 per dozen- standard gourmet cupcakes
Contact Info:
- Website: www.naughtyfornyceseries.com and www.prettygirlscuppiecakes.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naughty_for_nyce
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/prettygirls_cuppiecakes
