The Empowered Woman: Shaylan Johnson

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This month’s issue of The Empowered Woman honors Shaylan Johnson — a force of resilience, compassion, and change. As the owner of Blooming Oak Photography Studio, former President of the North Georgia Minority Business Owners Association, devoted mother, and tireless community activist, Shaylan wears many hats. It’s her role as a domestic violence survivor and advocate that defines her mission today.

Shaylan has been nominated as Grand Marshal for this year’s Walk a Mile in Her Shoes, hosted by the Hospitality House. The Hospitality House is dedicated to supporting survivors of domestic and sexual violence. The walk, taking place October 4 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., is more than a symbolic gesture. For Shaylan, it’s a tribute. “I want the walk to be a tribute to the women who lost the battle and aren’t able to walk,” she says.

The Hospitality House provides a safe haven for women escaping abuse, offering counseling, legal assistance, and resources to help survivors rebuild their lives. Shaylan’s partnership with the organization is deeply personal. She’s made it her life’s work to raise awareness and dismantle the stigma surrounding domestic violence. When asked about the most damaging misconception, Shaylan doesn’t hesitate, “People say, ‘If it was really that bad, they would just leave.’ But it’s never that simple.”

She explains that, on average, it takes a woman seven attempts to leave an abusive relationship. The cycle of fear, manipulation, and emotional trauma makes escape a complex and courageous journey. To those currently navigating that path, Shaylan offers this message of hope, “There is always light at the end of the tunnel, and every step is rooted in who you are becoming.”

Her advocacy is grounded in empathy and action. Shaylan lives by the mantra “Reach one, teach one,” and makes it a point to perform one act of kindness each day. Her goal? To be the inspirational woman she didn’t have growing up.

“Your circumstances do not define you,” she says. “Look at your circumstance and figure out what’s next. You are never what they say you are, you are who you believe you are.”

The upcoming Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event will feature music, face painting, and family-friendly activities. Shaylan’s courage, advocacy, and unwavering belief in the power of transformation make her a true embodiment of empowerment.

Know an empowered woman you’d like to see featured? Email us their name, contact information and what makes them empowered.