An inspiring exploration of authentic leadership for women, emphasizing courage, self-belief, and the power of lifting others up. Discover how true leaders inspire through action and compassion.
Her Story
About ShaunaLynette
ShaunaLynette Akridge is a compassionate Activities Director dedicated to enriching the lives of older adults through meaningful engagement and person-centered care. Based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, she serves at a skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility, where she develops innovative monthly activity calendars designed to promote residents' emotional, cognitive, physical, and social well-being. Her programs include cognitive games, yoga, community outings, cooking clubs, dance parties, weekly bingo, technology training that helps residents connect with loved ones through platforms like FaceTime and Messenger, as well as Bible studies and volunteer-led religious programming. Her mission is to ensure every resident feels valued, connected, and engaged, including those living with dementia and memory-related conditions.
Before entering senior care, ShaunaLynette devoted 22 years to early childhood education as a pre-kindergarten teacher, where she cultivated creativity, patience, and a deep understanding of individual learning needs. She holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and completed early childhood education coursework at the Community College of Philadelphia. Currently, she is just three classes away from earning her Associate degree in Human Services, maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA while earning Dean's List recognition and membership in the Alpha Beta Gamma honor society. Looking ahead, she plans to pursue a bachelor's degree in Social Work with the goal of advocating for and serving the senior population.
ShaunaLynette credits her success to the work ethic instilled by her mother, who taught her that no job is beneath you and that perseverance creates opportunity. Guided by values of trust, honesty, compassion, and family, she believes that caring for others begins with practicing self-care and maintaining balance to prevent burnout. She is also committed to giving back through participation in Autism Speaks fundraisers and embraces emerging technologies, including AI, as tools to enhance resident engagement and strengthen family connections. Through her dedication to lifelong learning and service, ShaunaLynette continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the individuals and communities she serves.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with ShaunaLynette
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the example my mother set through her incredible work ethic. She always taught me that no job is beneath you, especially when you're providing for others. Even if a role isn't your dream job, you give it your best until the right opportunity comes along. That mindset has stayed with me throughout my career.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've received is to stay focused, keep my eye on the prize, and trust that what's meant for me will come. That perspective has helped me remain patient, determined, and committed to my goals.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Take time to care for yourself. Self-care isn't a luxury—it's essential. You can't give your best to others if you're burned out, so prioritizing your own well-being is one of the most important investments you can make in your career.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is creating meaningful engagement for residents living with dementia. Their interests and memories can change from day to day, so it takes patience, creativity, and compassion to continually find activities that bring them comfort, connection, and joy.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Trust, honesty, compassion, and family are the values that guide both my professional and personal life. I believe these principles are the foundation for building strong relationships, providing meaningful care, and making a positive difference in the lives of others.
Her Content Hub
Articles by ShaunaLynette
My vision of leadership
Embracing Your Power: Why Women's Leadership Starts with Believing in Yourself
Leadership is not about being the loudest person in the room or having the biggest title. It's about having the courage to serve others, make difficult decisions, and inspire people through your actions. As women, we sometimes doubt ourselves or wait until we feel completely ready, but real leadership often begins when we step outside our comfort zones.
I encourage other women to believe in their abilities, speak up with confidence, and never underestimate the value they bring to their workplaces, families, and communities. Support other women instead of competing with them, because when one woman succeeds, she opens the door for others to succeed as well.
There will be challenges and moments of self-doubt, but don't let fear stop you from pursuing your goals. Continue learning, ask questions, and lead with compassion, integrity, and respect. True leaders listen, encourage others, and are willing to grow from both their successes and their mistakes.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.