Joanna de’Shay
Born in Accra, Ghana on the Western Coast of Africa to a Nigerian father and a Russian mother, Joanna deʼShay grew up heavily influenced by the exotic people, cultures, and textures of her homeland. Inspired by both her international upbringing and her mother’s chic European fashion sense, Joanna created Black Russian Label, a women’s upscale clothing brand in 2012 for the global woman who is unapologetic, bold, and empowered by her individual style. Bravely leaving a 15+ year career in Corporate America, Joanna is the epitome of a Passionate Entrepreneur who has designed an intentional life filled with success on her terms. Joanna is an avid Servant Leader who believes in Community Service as a way to change this world for the better. She currently also serves as the Executive Director of Diversity Leadership Alliance, a role she has held for the past 5 years. A mother of two amazing young men ages 12 and 15, Joanna is determined to shine as a beacon of light for Warrior Moms, who strive daily to balance work, family and community.