Meet Shawandra Ford | Yoga Educator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Shawandra Ford and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shawandra, what do you attribute your success to?
Authenticity! As an entrepreneur, I honestly did not know what I was getting myself into when I decided to create Brwnskn Yoga.
Brwnskn Yoga is a brand that offers representation in diverse communities. I am a brown skinned girl that wanted to reach a different demographic of people to represent, mostly those that have been overlooked in the black and brown community. The question is WHY? and the answer is simple… because I know what it feels like. The passion that I have for what I do is unmatchable. My success comes from going into the places where no one else wanted to go, the TRENCHES. I am successful because I am not afraid of my people, they are who I am.

What should our readers know about your business?
Brwnskn Yoga is more than just a practice—it’s a MOVEMENT of self-love, empowerment, and healing. Founded by Shawandra Ford, our mission is to create inclusive spaces where individuals of all shades and backgrounds can experience the transformative power of yoga.

With a passion for promoting diversity and representation in the wellness industry, Shawandra brings a unique perspective to teaching, blending traditional yoga techniques with elements of mindfulness and cultural appreciation. Through her classes, workshops, and community events, Shawandra fosters a sense of belonging and acceptance, encouraging practitioners to embrace their bodies and celebrate their cultural heritage.

Beyond the mat, Shawandra is a dedicated advocate for social justice and mental health awareness. She actively supports initiatives that promote equity and inclusion within the yoga community and beyond. Through her work, Shawandra strives to create positive change and inspire others to live authentically and unapologetically.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My mom, Jearlene Cowan Washington. I think about her often and I reflect back on what it must have been like to be my mother. I was such a serious child, only seeing things from a child’s perspective. Now, I give her so much gratitude but unfortunately she isn’t here to receive it. As a child, it is not always easy to see what your parents have to endure to keep the family safe. As an adult I now see and therefore, I dedicate Brwnskn Yoga to her.

Website: https://www.brwnsknyoga.com

Instagram: @brwnsknyoga

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawandra-f-2a29b51ab/