Picture a young woman sitting in a stark prison cell, her heart aching with every thought of her daughter. Shawntelle Fisher was just 19 when she entered that unfamiliar world, a place that felt light years away from the confident, academically successful teenager she had been. The weight of her choices pressed heavily upon her, and as the days turned into months, her resolve to get back home to her daughter only grew stronger. This was not just a chapter in her life; it was a turning point that would shape her future.
Shawntelle’s early life was marked by a sense of normalcy. Raised in a household that, while not perfect, provided a stable environment, she excelled academically and was known for her athletic prowess. Graduating high school at just 16, she was on the verge of a promising future. But life took a sharp turn when she became a mother at 15, a role that brought both joy and immense challenges.
By 17, the weight of adult responsibilities pushed her to move out on her own with her child. Lacking financial knowledge, she found herself resorting to writing bad checks, a decision that would lead her down a dark path. It was a moment of desperation that caught up with her and resulted in multiple felony charges. The legal consequences were swift and unforgiving, sending her to prison where she faced the stark reality of her situation.
Shawntelle often reflects on her time there, recalling the fear of the unknown and the constant worry about her child. It was a world where hope felt distant, yet it was also a place of self discovery. But it was during this time that a case manager asked her a simple yet profound question: “What do you want to do with your life?” This question stirred something deep within her.
Shawntelle realized that she had the power to redefine her future, not just for herself, but for other women who found themselves in similar situations. The thought of pleading guilty loomed over her, a decision that would label her as a felon for life. It was a weighty realization, one that she felt was not communicated to her parents, highlighting the gaps in understanding that often accompany such decisions. After serving two years, Shawntelle emerged from prison with a fierce determination to change her narrative.
The world outside felt daunting, doors were slammed shut in her face, and opportunities seemed scarce. Yet, she refused to let her past define her. Instead of allowing her status as a felon to dictate her future, she channeled her experiences into a purpose driven mission. Driven by the desire to help women like herself and their children, Shawntelle founded Soul Fisher Ministries.
This organization became a beacon of support for those navigating the treacherous waters of incarceration. Alongside her advocacy work, she pursued education with an unwavering commitment. Earning a degree in social work from the University of Missouri St. Louis, followed by graduate degrees from Washington University and Eden Theological Seminary, she became a licensed clinical social worker and a drug and alcohol abuse counselor.
Today, Shawntelle is actively involved in helping children of incarcerated parents, using her voice to advocate for change. Yet, her journey is not without its hurdles. She aspires to become a foster mom, a dream that has been met with rejection from agencies, a reminder that the past can still cast a long shadow. But through it all, her dedication to her mission remains steadfast, fueled by the memories of her own struggles and the faces of those she aims to help.
Reflecting on her journey, Shawntelle’s story is a powerful reminder of the profound impact one person can have when they choose to rise above their circumstances. Her experiences have shaped her into an advocate for change, demonstrating that our past does not have to define our future. The work she does with Soul Fisher Ministries is a testament to the belief that everyone deserves a second chance, and that with the right support, transformation is possible. Shawntelle Fisher’s life is a vivid example of how purpose can emerge from pain, illuminating the path for others who are navigating similar challenges.