Influential Woman · Social-emotional learning and community outreach
Shayla K. Scott
Founder & Business Owner, Blessings Galore 143
Washington Dc, MD 20018
Her Story
About Shayla
Shayla K. Scott is a dedicated educator, entrepreneur, and community advocate who founded her community outreach and social-emotional learning organization in 2024. With 16 years of experience in education, she has built a career centered on empowering individuals through meaningful programs, mentorship, and support initiatives. Her organization serves a diverse range of communities, including children, youth, adults, seniors, individuals experiencing homelessness, and residents of women’s shelters through collaborative events and outreach efforts designed to promote growth, connection, and emotional well-being.
As a business owner, Shayla leads a team of seven while coordinating events, developing partnerships with businesses and organizations, and creating opportunities for her team to utilize and expand their talents. Her passion for education began at an early age and continues to guide her commitment to professionalism, community impact, and creating environments where others feel valued and empowered. Through her leadership, she strives to make a lasting difference by combining education, compassion, and service.
Shayla attributes her success to the unwavering encouragement of her grandmother, along with her own determination, resilience, and willingness to take bold steps despite challenges. She believes in stepping out on faith, pursuing opportunities without fear, and remaining committed to personal and professional growth. Guided by values of character, integrity, loyalty, love, compassion, drive, and consistency, Shayla continues to inspire others, especially young women, to believe in themselves, embrace their potential, and never give up on their goals.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Shayla
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the unwavering support and belief of my grandmother, who always encouraged me to pursue my dreams and reminded me of my potential. I also credit my determination, resilience, and willingness to take bold steps even when faced with challenges and setbacks. Throughout my journey, I have learned to embrace obstacles as opportunities for growth rather than allowing disappointment to define me. After experiencing significant loss and hardship, I have chosen to focus on creating new opportunities, continuing to grow, and pursuing success with purpose and perseverance.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is to not be afraid to pursue what I truly want. I believe in stepping out on faith, taking calculated risks, and embracing new opportunities, because even if the outcome is not what I hoped for, I will always have the confidence of knowing that I tried. This mindset has encouraged me to move beyond fear, trust my abilities, and continue growing both personally and professionally without ever having to wonder, “What if?”
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
The advice I would give to young women entering my industry is to never allow others to define their potential or place limits on what they can achieve. Believe in yourself, carry yourself with confidence and dignity, and always lead with professionalism and authenticity. I encourage women to embrace who they are, remain graceful through challenges, and continue pursuing their goals with determination. Most importantly, never give up, because perseverance and self-belief are essential to achieving long-term success.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges I face in my field is ensuring that my team is compensated in a way that reflects their value, dedication, and the level of care they provide. I believe in treating my staff with the same respect and appreciation that I would want to receive, and finding the right balance between supporting my team and maintaining a successful business is an ongoing responsibility. This challenge also represents an opportunity to continue building a strong, motivated team and creating a workplace where people feel valued and empowered.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are character, integrity, loyalty, love, compassion, drive, and consistency. I believe these principles shape how I approach relationships, make decisions, and treat others with respect and kindness. Maintaining strong values allows me to build trust, lead with purpose, and create meaningful connections. I believe that staying true to these principles is essential for achieving long-term success and making a positive impact on the people around me.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.