NEA Women in Business: Shunqetta N. Cunningham

Residence: Jonesboro

Education: Bachelor’s degree in political science, master’s degree in public administration, Arkansas State University

What was your dream job and why? My dream job was to be president of the United States. I’ve always aspired to be in a position where I could lead and make a significant impact on a broad scale. I believed that the role of the presidency was the ultimate platform to effect and impact positive change for all people in our nation.

What advice would you give young women who are at the beginning of their careers? Seek a mentor early on and remain teachable. It’s not actually a YOLO [you only live once] life, and early activities that you deem innocent do have long term impact. Guard your choices and your yes. I also encourage young women not to neglect building a family while pursuing a career. True legacy lies in the family and loved ones, not just in a title. Embrace every aspect of being a woman.

What’s the next big personal or career challenge you plan to take on? My next challenge is to release the content I’ve developed on nonprofits, micro-businesses, and more in the form of eBooks and curricula. Embracing the digital landscape is crucial, and I’m eager to share my knowledge on nonprofit development and success with a broader audience beyond Arkansas.

What character traits do you feel have benefited you in your success? I prioritize seeking wisdom, as I believe it is the foundation of success. I am courageous and relentless in pursuing my goals. Additionally, I humble myself to the process of growth and learning, consistently engaging with industry-related content through articles, podcasts, and continuous education. I never stop learning or asking questions.

Can you share how COVID impacted your business or organization during the pandemic? One word: shift. I kept my five children home for virtual learning, which I actually enjoyed, but it also impacted the business. Despite the chaos and challenges, COVID brought much-needed attention to women-led businesses and highlighted the disparities we face. It also elevated my business, KHARIS, and the nonprofit I founded, Over A Cup. In many ways, there was a blessing in that season and a reset.

If you have a bucket list, what are the top three things on it? Meet my best friend, Michelle Obama, speak on the continent of Africa, and tour the world with my family, training nonprofits and women-led micro-businesses.

Who have been mentors who’ve influenced your professional career? Tony Thomas, Dr. Cherisse Jones-Branch, Darnyelle Jervey Harmon, Myron Golden (I have never met him but follow all of his work), and my husband, Sanford. They have pushed, encouraged, trained, and loved me into being the best version of myself.

Do you have a significant other and/or children? If so, what do you guys like to do for fun? I am married to my high school sweetheart, Sanford, of nearly 20 years, and together we have five brilliant children. We love watching sports games, “Chopped,” playing UNO, making up family songs and dancing, and going on vacations.

How do you spend your time away from work? What are your hobbies? I love curling up in bed with a good book and listening to business or faith-based podcasts. I also enjoy sitting in our local park, often writing down my ideas in the car. Above all, I cherish spending quality time with my family. I sometimes frequent a local coffee shop and have Bible study. I am very simple yet particular in what I engage in to refuel me.

What’s the last good book you read? “Satan Get Lost!” by Dr. David Oyedepo.

What has been the most fulfilling moment of your career so far? In 2023, I was named one of Arkansas’s Top 100 Women of Impact. This recognition was deeply fulfilling because it placed me among women I admire and consider mentors. Being in that room was a realization that my life’s journey had expanded in ways I hadn’t imagined, and it was truly a God-ordained blessing to be in such esteemed company.

What’s your favorite app at the moment? Canva and ChatGPT.