Today we’d like to introduce you to Sheena Parker.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Sheena. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I have been an entrepreneur since I was 12 years old. I started off selling baseball and basketball cards that I collected from programs that gave Christmas presents to disadvantaged kids. I’m the oldest of 5 to a single mother who was drug addicted until I was 27. I always tell my kids I’m from Jupiter because I didn’t know a single business owner – I didn’t even understand the concept of what business was. I’ve always known hustle – and always knew I HAD TO HAVE money. I started my first W2 job at 14 using my school ID – using that same ID to open my 1st bank account. No guidance, no direction, just a tremendous drive. Since then, I’ve had many jobs (over 30); sometimes 2 or 3 at the same time. MANY businesses, side hustles, and HUSTLE hustles along the way.
I have been in the US Army for over 17 years; serving as a Signal Warrant Officer in the Information Technology space. Most of my jobs ran concurrent with the military when I was not on Active Duty. Many of them also were NOT Information Technology related. Throughout this time, I acquired a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Project Management.
Six years ago, I tried out a long-time interest of mine – becoming a Real Estate Investor. That initial plan leads me to also become an acquisitions manager and Wholesaler. I shifted my focus to the launch of Sheena Investments LLC, a Real Estate & Facility Maintenance Company. “We make buildings beautiful again!” With the gift of government contracting, I was able to glide into that industry grossing six figures in the 1st six months of the official business launch.
I am a wife to my wonderful other half who is also self-employed. I am a mother to two teenage business owners in training (wishful thinking). I have always had a passion for business and finance. Teaching budget classes, coupon classes and dedicating many hours to ANYONE needing assistance with business startup, budget or personal development!
Sheena Investments will be is soon to launch alternate lease purchase options for families looking to purchase a home. The thought is, people are more likely to stay in their homes if they can pay them off faster; as well as more likely to pass their property down to create ownership in their legacy.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
None of the roads within any business I have had has been smooth! However, I believe outlook is everything. There were many days I can only describe as pure depression. Other days, of disbelief that such an achievement was happening for me. I have been scammed, personal finances attacked because of legal misguidance, detriment to my home life – as many entrepreneurs have faced over and over again.
Sometimes, until you hear another entrepreneur’s story, you think you are the only business owner silently – or publicly struggling. However, such is life and you must take every situation as a beautiful and painful lesson.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Sheena Investments LLC – what should we know?
Sheena Investments LLC is a Service Disabled Veteran Owned, Woman Owned, Minority Owned full-service real estate and facility maintenance company. We provide Real Estate and Facility Maintenance services to federal, local and corporate departments. These federal, local and corporate agencies have a regulatory spending goal to improve internal facilities or to provide services to the public. We are the bridge to the gap between RE Facility services and the government. With over a decade of federal experience coupled with years of RE expertise, we add a unique perspective to both we serve; with superb customer service, industry expertise and desire to deliver high-quality capabilities.
Our services include, but not limited to, janitorial services, residential and commercial remodeling, facility & property management, landscaping services and grounds maintenance.
The business recognized another problem. When I was a Real Estate Investor, I noticed there were limited “One Stop Shops” for real estate investors where they can find contractors, agents, landscaping professionals, janitorial professionals, and other real estate related services. Real Estate companies, government contractors, investors and agents are constantly in search of personnel to meet their current mission.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Success leaves clues. There is a tremendous amount of tenacity that goes along with being a successful member of society. Going along with the flow of life and not accomplishing anything is super easy! Most people reach the end of their life not being happy with what they’ve accomplished due of fear. FEAR KILLS! Always find ways to step out of your comfort zone to do what you have set out to do. One would have to analyze and dig deep into their own characteristics. I read A LOT so I could recommend dozens of books; but two books that I think could thwart any person looking to achieve success would be:
“Think and grow rich” – Napoleon Hill &
“Mind you Business” – Ilana Griffo.
Study and learn – not only yourself but the realm you are pursuing.
I have been told my entire life that I had an insatiable drive and self-motivation. I believe that when the going gets tough, you need YOU to get yourself back on the saddle and keep riding on the horse of entrepreneurship. Motivation will get you there; drive, ambition and aspirations keep you there. If I stop doing something, I can pick myself up to keep on with what I was doing, or I can pivot to the next thing. Those attributes weren’t taught to me….they come naturally.
Contact Info:
- Website: sheenainvests.com
- Phone: 4044911314
- Email: info@sheenainvests.com
- Instagram: sheenainvestments
- Twitter: @sheenapreneur
- Other: linkedin.com/in/sheenaparker
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