Shalewa Nyanza is a visionary leader, advocate, and change-maker, dedicated to empowering women of color and uplifting her community. As a mother of two college students who overcame learning disabilities to pursue higher education, Shalewa's personal journey shaped her into an unwavering advocate for equity, resilience, and opportunity. Her experience navigating the challenges of securing proper educational accommodations for her children ignited her passion for advocacy and laid the foundation for her life’s work.

A graduate of North Carolina Central University with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and a minor in Physics, Shalewa excelled in the world of computer programming. While her career in technology was financially rewarding, she realized her true calling lay in creating meaningful change and fostering empowerment.

In January 2021, Shalewa founded Five Star Women of Color, a groundbreaking nonprofit organization designed to nurture, educate, and transform the lives of women of color. Her vision is to cultivate sophisticated, empowered women who are property owners, financially secure, health-conscious, and well-positioned to thrive. Shalewa’s leadership is driven by her unwavering belief that access to knowledge, resources, and support is what bridges the gap between women of color and a life of true fulfillment. Her work is not only a reflection of her passion but also a testament to her commitment to breaking cycles of disadvantage and creating pathways to success.

Shalewa is currently advancing her expertise by pursuing a master’s degree in Nonprofit Management at Harvard University, having recently completed the prestigious MD Nonprofit Cohort in October 2024. She is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Women in Cyber Security Mid-Atlantic, the NAACP, and numerous diversity committees, through which she continues to champion inclusion, equity, and community engagement.

Shalewa Nyanza’s leadership, resilience, and commitment to empowering others make her a powerful force for change, not only in Baltimore but beyond.