I’m passionate about causes by women that uplift other women in society and every month we feature such causes. This month, we feature The L.O.V.E Network Movement that empowers women and here is an interview I had with the movement’s founder Shivawn A.Mitchell.
Tell us more about who you are and what you do?
My background is in social work and I currently work for a counseling agency. I’ve always been the person who everyone comes to for advice so I knew counseling was the best choice for me. I have a heart for teenagers because I know how it is to feel like no one hears you when you need help. It’s very important to me to be transparent as much as possible so other people that I come in contact with don’t make the same mistakes I’ve made in life. I’m juggling at this moment building the L.o.v.e. Movement Network, finishing my first book and writing a column for an upcoming magazine. I have an extreme love for shoes, great food, a good novel and amazing conversation.
What is the L.O.V.E movement network all about?
The L.o.v.e. Network is about empowering women and meeting them right where they are. Most women have a burning desire to live their dreams but we usually get stopped somewhere along the way because life happens. We start to focus on not having enough money, children, our appearance and the list can go on. Slowly your dreams and purpose get lost somewhere in the background. It is my goal for every lady that I come in contact with that we obtain balance in 7 areas. I call them my 7 keys to L.o.v.e. So we have established “chapters” where women can connect with other women on a monthly basis and discuss how to run an effective business, how to invest or work out as a group. Once we work on ourselves then we can effect change and have positive influence with our young ladies and that project is called “Designing Diamond Girls”. We are a movement because we want to move women to live out loud in their community.
What inspired you to start the L.O.V.E Movement?
I saw a need for women to have support in every area of their lives. Most networks “communities” focus only on one aspect of life (business or entertainment). But I know we need help in more than just those few areas. I wanted my network to become a wellness center for women. A place where you could get feedback about your business but also get some tips on working out or how to maintain your finances. There is a need for women to get themselves in order so they can turn around and inspire the next generation not just to have a vision but to live it out loud.
Who makes up part of the LOVE Movement and which cities is the movement present?
Currently we have chapters in Atlanta, Canada, Ohio and New Jersey. The leaders are Leslie Bonds Atlanta Chapter, Sasha Watson New Jersey Chapter, Grace Mayele Canada Chapter, Shaundretta Boykins and Latika Larry Ohio Chapter, and Andria Thompson Canada Chapter. These ladies are known as our Circle of L.o.v.e. Leaders. They help coordinate meetings among the women in their area. They hold sessions that range from beauty tips, business ideas, entertainment, vision parties etc. However you can connect with us on the internet also if you aren't in the areas that are listed. However, we are always looking to expand and grow with new Leaders.
Some of your objectives include encouraging, inspiring and entertaining women, what kinds of activities are you involved in that help you reach these objectives?
Our most resent event that was held by two of our chapters (Ohio and Atlanta) was our vision board party. The vision board party was to assist the women in outlining their personal vision while including personal and professional goals, hopes, wants illustrated with words, images, pictures and more. The Leaders helped facilitate this activity with the women their group. Our next activity that is planned for next month is our ultimate fitness party where several groups are partnering with a gym to promote the importance of living a healthy lifestyle. We are also working along with a nutritionist and one of our writers on are blog to help provide healthy but great recipes for the women in our network.
 |
| vision board party held by the Ohio group. |
Where do you see the L.O.V.E Movement two years from now?
Holding national conferences yearly that will bring in speakers, expos and networking opportunities. I see Designing Diamond Girls becoming an organization of its own. Focusing more on self esteem issues for young ladies. I also see us having at least 15 chapters globally and becoming a household name because of what we stand for. As well as having our own tee-shirt line for women.
What is your message of love to every woman for February?
To love yourself first! Become your own biggest fan. We get so caught up in people pleasing that we lose sight of who we are. Learn how to make self happy or you will always be dancing to someone else’s music. Oh yeah Live L.o.v.e. Loud!
Ladies, this is definitely a great movement to be a part of. As the movement says 'Don't Just Have a Vision But Live It! Check out the L.O.V.E Movement's site and blog.
This is a great inspirational movement, and I so share their sentiments. All the best to them.