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Dr. Shan White’s story is one of resilience, determination, and compassion—a story that has now earned her the prestigious 2025 Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, presented during the International School of Champions Theological Institute’s graduation ceremony on October 5, 2024. The recognition is a testament to her extraordinary work in empowering women and advocating for survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking.

Born and raised in Atlanta, GA, Dr. White has dedicated her life to creating spaces where women can heal, grow, and thrive. As a survivor of domestic violence herself, her mission is deeply personal. Through her multi-faceted brand, “Let’s Talk Real Talk”, she has built a legacy of support and empowerment, giving women the tools to speak their truth and walk confidently in their purpose.

Turning Pain into Purpose

For Dr. White, the journey toward purpose began with overcoming her own challenges. Her experience as a survivor of domestic violence became the foundation for a life dedicated to helping others. Through her nonprofit organization, Let’s Talk Real Talk Inc., she provides critical resources for survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking, fostering a community of sisterhood and hope.

Her efforts don’t stop there. Dr. White has expanded her reach through entrepreneurship, building businesses that serve both practical needs and emotional healing.

•Let’s Talk Catering, her award-winning catering company, has become a staple in Atlanta and is now the official caterer for Silk White Productions and E.G.O. Entertainment Network.

•G.D.F.AM. Apparel, her faith-based clothing brand, combines style with a message of resilience and empowerment.

•Anointed T-Shirt Company continues her mission of spreading love and faith through everyday wear.

Each of these ventures reflects her belief that business can be a powerful tool for social change.

A Voice in Entertainment

In addition to her entrepreneurial success, Dr. White has made waves in the entertainment industry. She debuted as an actress in Atlanta Ugly 2.1 and has since starred in films like Tears of a Hustler and I Survived Suicide. Her performances are deeply rooted in her personal experiences, blending storytelling with the realities faced by survivors.

Her creative work has not only entertained audiences but also raised awareness about issues close to her heart, such as domestic violence and mental health.

A Lifetime of Service Recognized

Dr. White’s commitment to her community has earned her numerous accolades, including an Honorary Doctorate in Humanitarian Services in 2021. However, the 2025 Presidential Lifetime Achievement Awardis perhaps her most significant recognition yet. Presented by Dr. Sharron Brown, the award acknowledges her tireless efforts to uplift women, create opportunities, and advocate for change.

Building a Legacy

Dr. White’s work is far from over. She continues to inspire through speaking engagements, bestselling books, and her annual “Love Shouldn’t Hurt” gala, which raises awareness about domestic violence. Her impact is felt not only in Atlanta but around the world, as she motivates women to overcome adversity and find strength in their own stories.

When asked about her journey, Dr. White often reflects on her faith and resilience. “I want my life to be a testament that pain doesn’t define you—it refines you,” she says.

Read more about Shan and her mission to inspire in our in-depth interview here:

 

Dr. White, congratulations on receiving the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award! How does it feel to be recognized at such a high level, and what does this award mean to you personally and professionally?

Thank you! This award is an incredible honor. While I don’t seek recognition, it’s gratifying to know my hard work and dedication haven’t gone unnoticed. I’m both humbled and thankful!

Your platform, “Let’s Talk Real Talk,” has made a profound impact on women’s lives, especially survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking. Can you share what inspired you to create this brand and the vision behind it?

I know firsthand the silence and shame that accompany trauma, but God had other plans! In a moment of clarity, I felt called to share my story and encourage others to take off the mask and truly talk. It was time to stop sweeping things under the rug. ‘Let’s Talk Real Talk’ was born—a safe space for women, especially survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking, to find solidarity, break free from silence, and heal through shared experiences. Vision: Empowerment through vulnerability.

As a survivor of domestic violence, yourself, you’ve turned your personal pain into a mission to help others. What has your journey been like, and how has it influenced your work with your nonprofit?

My journey from survivor to advocate has been both challenging and redeeming. As a domestic violence survivor, I’ve transformed my pain into purpose. There were times I questioned, “Are you sure, God?” but faith propelled me forward. Now, I empower women who share similar experiences through my nonprofit, offering support, community, and healing. Completing God’s assignments has ignited resilience within me, and today, I help others break their silence and find strength.

In addition to your work as an entrepreneur, you’ve built a career as an actress with powerful roles in films like Tears of a Hustler and I Survived Suicide. How do you balance acting with your community service and businesses, and how do you see these roles intersecting?

If it hadn’t been for God giving me strength, I wouldn’t have made it. Sometimes, I feel like I’m all over the place, especially balancing my law enforcement profession with acting. Playing a cop in I Survived Suicide felt natural to me. Acting allows me to bring another person to life—a gift I cherish.

Let’s Talk Catering has recently become the official caterer for Silk White Productions and E.G.O. Entertainment Network. What inspired you to start your catering business, and how does it feel to receive such high-profile partnerships?

At my events, I would often cater myself, cutting out the middleman, so people could enjoy good food and a good time. I put love into every dish I make. Becoming the official caterer for Silk White and E.G.O. Entertainment has been a true blessing and honor, showing that people genuinely enjoy my food and hold it in high regard.

You’ve spoken at many events and host an annual “Love Shouldn’t Hurt” gala, which raises awareness about domestic violence. What key messages do you hope to convey through these events, and why is it important for you to continue this work?

I want people to know that love shouldn’t hurt. Never let anyone speak to you disrespectfully or define who you are. Know whose you are and who you are. I encourage everyone to love themselves and not tolerate mistreatment.

You’ve launched multiple businesses, including Let’s Talk Catering, Anointed T-shirt Company, and G.D.F.A.M. Apparel, each rooted in faith and purpose. What advice would you give to other women looking to turn their passion into purpose-driven businesses?

I encourage women to go for it, whatever their passion is. If it’s in your heart and you know it’s your calling, start the process. Sometimes, we delay our blessings by hesitating. The Bible says God hasn’t given us a spirit of fear, so don’t let fear stop you from reaching your destiny.

Through your work, you’ve helped so many survivors find their voice. What has been the most rewarding part of building a community around “Let’s Talk Real Talk,” and what are your goals for its future?

‘Let’s Talk Real Talk’ has been a labor of love, empowering survivors to find their voice. The most rewarding aspect has been witnessing transformative connections and seeing survivors break their silence and heal. 

Future Goals:

1. Expanding reach through workshops and events. 

2. Collaborating with influencers and organizations. 

3. Developing resources and support groups. Vision: To continue providing pathways to healing, solidarity, and hope.

Finally, for those who may be struggling to overcome adversity or find their purpose, what words of wisdom would you share to help them stay resilient and keep pushing forward?

Remember, struggles are temporary, but your strength is eternal. Purpose often hides in pain; face your fears. Self-care fuels resilience, and community support accelerates healing. Faith and perseverance can overcome any obstacle. You are stronger than yesterday, braver than you think, and closer to victory. Keep pushing forward!

An Inspiration for All

Through her unwavering dedication, she has proven that challenges can be the foundation for building a life of service and inspiration.

Her ability to merge entrepreneurship, advocacy, and storytelling has not only provided tangible resources for those in need but also given countless women the courage to reclaim their lives. Dr. White’s journey is a powerful reminder that healing is possible, and with faith and determination, anyone can rise above adversity to create lasting change.

As she continues to expand her reach and influence, Dr. Shan White remains a beacon of hope for women worldwide. Her story is not just about overcoming obstacles—it’s about using those obstacles as a platform to uplift others, proving that true success lies in empowering those around you.

For more information on Dr. Shan White’s initiatives and to join her mission of empowerment, visit Let’s Talk Real Talk

 

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Dr. Shan White