Real Women of Rochester | Shaquana Divers
Shaquana Divers | Age: 42 | Public Health Professional, Health Care Leader
Q: Tell us about your journey through womanhood.
A: My journey started as a young girl growing up in Queens NY. It spans major life experiences, windy roads and smooth sailing. Peace, peril and the in-between. 21 years of mothering, a loving partnership of 22 years. 18 years of being a professional. 42 years of life. Many lessons of self-love. There is so much to my story of becoming. Three consistent threads of my life that I can clearly point to is an innate nurturing quality, a haunting ambition, and a deep commitment to social justice.
Q: What would you say to another woman who may be going through something you've been through?
A: I heavily rely on my spirituality and faithfulness to get me through tough times and would encourage other women to cultivate their faith. I also believe in seeking out practical solutions to problems, and being resourceful and creative. Having trusted confidants who love you and want the best for you is invaluable.
Q: What surprised you most about your photography experience?
A: The studio has a simplistic elegance that made me feel luxurious!
Q: How do you feel when you look at your favorite photo of yourself from your shoot?
A: Seeing my reflection through an amazing photo is a way that I stay attuned with my positive self-image. I strive to have my outer and inner self align as much as I can.
Q: What would you share with a woman who doesn't think she is beautiful enough to be photographed?
A: I would encourage her to bravely invest in herself. One way that can help her to get excited is to make the experience as special as possible - get her hair and makeup done, wear something that makes her feel confident, then show up and let the professionals help her bring out the beauty inside.
Q: What message would you like to share with other women?
A: Each day I seek inspiration about how I can live my best life, and I gain it from women in my various circles as well as public figures who I admire. I also aim to be an inspiration to other women. I find that I am in a season where I am really cherishing having one-on-one bonding experiences (a cup of coffee/tea, lunch, dinner, a walk) with women for a purpose. For me it allows for intentional communication. Although we do have many similarities, the nuances of our journeys can be where we need to put our attention to gain a vital change.
Q: What are your thoughts on beauty?
A: I am obsessed with beauty - both outer and inner. I love cultivating my beauty and appreciating the beauty of humanity and our planet. Since my pre-teen years, I connected to my beauty through self-care and invested in caring for my whole self.
Q: What are your hopes for the next generation of women? What advice would you give to them?
A: It is happening already, but I hope that the next generation will be able to see more examples of other women living deep and fulfilling lives beyond the few traditional paths, so that it will give them further inspiration to innovate their own lives and enjoy them. There are multiple ways to achieve success, maximize destiny and be at peace. This can also lead to us cheering each other on more genuinely.
Q: What would you say to your sixteen year old self?
A: I am proud of you!
Q: What empowering message would you like to share with young women today?
A: Stay focused on your goals. Spend less time comparing, take the best possible care of yourself and continue to assess what is needed as your life changes. If you come across a great guy or potential partner, don't be afraid to commit. Lean into love.
Q: What's the biggest hurdle you've overcome career-wise as a woman?
A: Under estimation has been one that I have had to and continue to deal with, especially as I ascend further into leadership. I have also had the joy and pain of being at the forefront for most of my career and having to pioneer new programs and policies to improve the lives of the people in my community. I am so grateful for the struggles and triumphs that come with innovation.
Q: What's the most empowering experience you've had as a woman?
A: I can remember feeling very empowered after giving birth (naturally) to each of my children. Raising two amazing sons and a self-assured daughter in partnership with a phenomenal man makes me proud.
Q: When do you feel the most beautiful?
A: One of my favorite pics was one I took at Letchworth park with one of my sons during a camping trip.
Q: What do you love about being a woman?
A: Our beauty, our faithfulness, our strength, our sensuality and our timeless wisdom.
Shaquana is the 2019 recipient of the Rochester ATHENA Young Professional Award as Executive Program Manager with Excellus BCBS. She also serves as a member of the Rochester Women’s Council, Governance Council of East High School, A Princess for a Day, and is an Executive Board Member of the Rochester, NY chapter of Jack and Jill of America. You can also follow her at @sheglowsforever on Instagram!