Ganap Magazine

Kick Off Fall Equinox With "12 New Things" by Activist & White House Committee Member

[as originally published at ganapmagazine.com]

Shonda Scott stands at the helm of innovation and leadership as the Founder and CEO of 360 Total Concept, a renowned management consulting firm that has spearheaded transformative mega projects with industry titans such as BET, Uber, Comcast, Kaiser Permanente, major transit agencies, and international airports.

Her visionary approach extends beyond traditional business boundaries, as evidenced by her role in developing diversity spending strategies, resulting in the reinvestment of over $200 million into historically underserved communities and the upliftment of small businesses.

Recently featured on esteemed platforms like Good Day Sacramento, Fox Soul TV, and more, Shonda's influence reaches far and wide. On a national level, most recently in 2023, Shonda was appointed by President Biden to serve on the White House U.S. Advisory Trade Policy and Negotiation Committee. In 2012, Shonda served as President Obamas appointee to the Platform Committee, as a testament to her significant impact in civic and community spheres.

Based on her business acumen, Shonda was inducted into Alameda County's Women's Hall of Fame.

Beyond her entrepreneurial prowess, Shonda showcases her versatility as a notable journalist. She served e executive producer and host of Spotlight with Shonda Scott. a talk show that shed light on local and national influencers and unsung heroes, showcasing her commitment to amplifying diverse voices.

Shonda's passion for personal growth and exploration culminated in the creation of the 12 New Things* Challenge in 2019. Born from a birthday celebration, this challenge encourages individuals to embrace change by undertaking something new each month for a year.

Shonda's adventurous spirit, reflected in her extensive travels to nearly 40 states in the U.S. and over 25 countries across five continents, serves as an inspiration for those seeking continuous self-improvement.

She remains dedicated to education and community engagement as a lifetime member of the UCLA/CAL

Alumni Association and an achiever member of the UCLA Bay Area Black Alumni.

Shonda Scott's impact transcends conventional boundaries, embodying a commitment to empowerment, diversity, and personal development.

Explore more about Shondas diverse endeavors at https://www.shondascott.com/ceo.

Tell us more about the inspiration behind your campaign "12 New Things."

As a woman in business, I realize the importance of staying innovative and always evolving, so I began to think of how one can embrace the one constant in life... change! Personally, I was over the emotional roller coaster that comes with anxiety and fear of change. I wanted to discover a more peaceful approach. This birthed the idea of making change at least once a month fun and exciting, thus by the end of the year you would have done at least 12 new things, opening up your world to even greater possibilities as you take control of your life and its ever-changing cycle.

How can readers embrace a "12 New Things" lifestyle to kick off the fall season and make the most of the last quarter of the year?

Well, getting started is casy. Just begin by thinking about all the new things you want to do that you've never done before, and the and places you want to go. Make a list and do your research. You should find, like I did, that things will open up and present themselves to you. It is up to you to take the pledge and jump in to start your new adventure.

What do members receive when they officially join the "12 New Things" family?

The members on our VIP list receive access to fun and incredible "12 New Things" tips and the opportunity for rewards with our promotional partners. One year, we had a collaboration with Alaska Airlines and gave away two free tickets and lounge passes to a lucky VIP member. Soon, we will have merchandise available on 12newthings.com and special member rates on exciting adventures to add to your 12 New Things lifestyle. At some point in the future, the membership will no longer be free, so sign up now while it's still free!

What changes have you noticed in yourself since you began "12 New Things?"

Once I committed to the lifestyle, something unlocked in me where I began to experience greater peace and prosper-ity. I noticed that living for new adventures made my life more fulfilling. Many of the 12 New Things members have shared this as their experience too.

Do you know what your last 3 new things of 2024 will be?

Well, one new thing I did this year is sign my first book deal. I have not actually mapped out the other things for the rest of the year. I am remaining open to the universe. Though I would be elated if helping to elect the first black woman President of the United States was one of the new things I experienced this year!

What is the craziest thing you';ve tried since implementing this lifestyle?

A two-mile open swim in the Pacific Ocean. And yes, there probably were sharks and other things in the bottom of the ocean. It was for a good cause, though, which was Swim Across America for pediatric cancer research. The training and the actual swim were the most challenging things I have done to date. It tested my mental, physical, and spirituall strength. But I did it, and I felt the most amazing feeling of accomplishment. Overcoming your fears is the key to unlocking the blessings that lie on the other side of fear.

Beyond "12 New Things," you serve as CEO of the management consulting firm 360 Total Concept. What drew you to management consulting and what do you find to be the most rewarding about the job?

Management consulting has allowed me to carve out the career of my dreams. After close to 20 years as CEO of my firm, I still love the work I do. It is rewarding to create opportunities for my team and for the community we serve, and to help our clients turn concepts into reality with equity and inclusion. It is my mission to do all I can to help close the racial wealth gap in the United States and create opportunities for underrepresented people worldwide.

Through 360 Total Concept, you've advised such industry titans as BET, Uber, and Kaiser Permanente on diversity spending. How did their strategies shift after you advised them? What impact did that have on our society?

The main thing about 360 is once you work with us, your life and project are changed for the better. We bring positive energy, equitable solutions, and balance to all our projects. Many of our clients have implemented successful programs and policies focused on economic equity, and the value that it brings to the bottom line. I created 360 to be part of the solution, and that is exactly what we are on our projects... the solution.

In 2012, you were appointed to President Obama's Platform Committee. Please tell us more about this experience and what you took away from it.

It was an honor to serve as President Obama's appointee to the Platform Committee. The Platform Committee provides recommendations to the president for the focus during the four-year term in office. It was mind-blowing to me when I found out that the first platform committee was focused on slavery in the United States. As a descendant of enslaved Black people in the United States, it was not lost on me the magnitude of my service, as I honored my ancestors who fought for the freedoms we now enjoy.

In 2023, you were appointed by President Biden to serve on the U.S. White House Advisory Trade Policy and Negotiation Committee. What are you most proud of accomplishing as part of the committee?

Presidential appointees to the United States Trade Policy and Negotiation Committee advise the White House on how the U.S. uses trade and commerce to strengthen policies that impact our domestic and global economies. These policies have a significant impact on the lives of United States citizens as well as our global partners abroad. This year, I am truly proud of the increased focus that we are putting on Africa to increase much-needed trade and commerce to that continent.

As part of the Congressional Black Caucus, you recently spoke in Washington D.C. as part of a CBC panel. What was the topic of your discussion and what do you hope attendees took away from your panel?

The panel I spoke on at the Congressional Black Caucus was led by the Financial Services Committees ranking member, the great Congresswoman Maxine Waters. We discussed access to capital for historically under-utilized and Black businesses. Studies show that when Black businesses thrive, so does the United States economy, by the trillions. It is my hope that many left inspired and with guidance on where they can find capital that is historically not available to them and will help them build their business' capacity. As I mentioned before, helping to implement solutions to close the wealth gap is my mission.

What's next for Shonda Scott?

A book! Getting my book published and in the hands of millions of people worldwide to help others heal, grow, and enjoy a 12 New Things lifestyle and live their best life.