The Queens Esteem Story

Since 2019, we have been dedicated to helping young girls build their self esteem and confidence.

Based in Dekalb County, Georgia, we offer workshops, daily activities, and team building events both in person and virtually.

Queens Esteem is for every girl to find her voice, discover her strength, lead with confidence, and embrace her crown daily.

As of Winter 2023, Queens Esteem has expanded our reach and opened our first satellite chapter in Tampa, Fl.

Shardae Washington, Founder

Hometown: Panama City, FL Residence: Decatur, GA

Hi, I’m Shardae!

Having been raised by my grandmother and aunt, I know a thing or two about blended families and a feeling disconnected.

I know the feeling of insecurity, self-worth, purposeless. The same way that your daughter, niece or granddaughter may be feeling.

Even with all that I’ve endured, I keep my head high and crown on straight. That’s what I want for her.

Throughout my youth, and even adulthood, I’ve always strived to be someone any girl (or woman) can call on for advice or support. Someone that speaks positivity and life into others.

I find joy in making others feel loved because that’s what I always hoped for as a girl.

My heart is biggest when I am empowering girls

These days my heart is biggest when I am empowering girls to embrace their crowns. I saw a need for a program that guides at-risk youth to addressing their obstacles. In 2019 I finally stepped out on faith by nurturing and executing this vision. 

March 2019 was the best moment ever.

Because Queens Esteem was born! I strongly believe that it not only takes a village. It takes the right village. One with good hearts.

Despite the challenges of today’s world, I am on a mission to build self-esteem, confidence, and positivity in every young girl that I encounter on their transition to womanhood.

My Favorite Motto: Believe in you!

Lashonda Merrell, Director Tampa Chapter

Hometown: Tampa, FL Residence: Tampa, FL

Hi, I’m Coach “Shonda”!

I am a Native Floridian, living in Hillsborough County all of my life. Being the middle child I know first hand the challenges that can come of being the “knee baby”.

In my early teens, I began to question my self worth, my physical beauty and lacked acceptance by my peers; I was the smart loner. Searching for love in all of the wrong places I fell into the statistic of being a teen mother. My strong family support system allowed me to overcome the statistics and beat all odds that were set against me.

With support I was able to graduate college, become a successful business owner (x5), serve as a public servant of Hillsborough County and much more. I understand the value of a strong support system- this same support system is what I intend to provide the young ladies of our program.

Often the “go-to” person of professional memberships, the workplace and my family, I’ve learned that in all my getting- an understanding is most important. Having a degree in Education has afforded me the opportunity to learn the various learning styles and techniques to be most effective. This helps me to reach the youth of today in ways that others may struggle.

I find joy in making others feel loved because that’s what I always hoped for as a girl.

My heart is biggest when I am able to make connections of resources to the community!

For many young women, the need for direction and positive self awareness expands far beyond the reach of thier immediate families and community.  I feel that my purpose is best fulfilled when being the link between the community needs and resources that can fill the need. With boldness, I continue my search for resources for our young ladies; being intent on networking, participating and making our cause a global initiative. 

April 2021 my life changed forever.

In April 2021 my 23yr old daughter was diagnosed with brain cancer. Witnessing her resilience and determination to beat Cancer inspired me to pursue my dreams of becoming a mentor to other young girls.

Through my journey in life there has one thing that remain consistent my desire to INSPIRE! Its my direct mission to build self-esteem, confidence, and positivity in every young girl that I encounter on their transition to womanhood.

My Favorite Motto: If not YOU then WHO?