In a city (and country) where the young black “man-child” is considered endangered and in need of intervention, Shante Davis believes “it’s the same for women.”
That’s why she recently became a core committee member for the national Women in Leadership Revival Tour.
The revival blesses St. Louis from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, April 25 at the Maria Center on the campus of the Notre Dame School. Women can register online at www.berkana.org or by calling (314) 773-5100.
Women are encouraged to set up booths for a nominal fee of $10. However, one of the missions is to raise money for the mother company and its programs.
“We know these are hard times, so we want to make it economical for women,” Davis said. “We are here to help one another.”
Hence, the gathering seeks to spark women’s curiosities about their strengths as a leader and ways to bring positive changes to their community and beyond.
Under the bullets of sisterhood, diversity, community and empowerment, women have been promised inspiration, instruction and conversation as they blend story, music and poetry.
Women will also engage to networking, workshops and sister circles. The tour is led by Margaret Wheatley, speaker, consultant, author and co-founder of the Berkana Institute. The institute connects and supports pioneering, life-affirming leaders around the world who strengthen their communities by working with the wisdom and wealth already present in its people, traditions and environment.
The institute defines a leader as anyone who wants to help, who is willing to step forward to create change in their world.
They are calling all women of all generations and cultures to confirm their roles as leaders.
Davis has been living as a leader in community for several years.
In 2004, she founded SHERAH (Sisters Helping Each Other Reach A Higher Height), a support group for women.
Davis is sitting on the committee as a representative of SHERAH and several members have registered.
“SHERAH is representing diversity; we don’t want to just include older Caucasian women, because we all have the common goal to empower ourselves and work with others in our communities – that’s what this is all about,” Davis said.
“When you deal with women who need real life solutions you have to find other resources,” Davis said.
Davis is also up for being a resource – herself – for others.
From March to September 2006, she traveled to Mozambique to work with “street children.”
“I know we need so much help here at home, but wanted to go there and help because they need a lot of help to – it’s about helping where you can,” Davis said.
She corresponding with SHERAH members while in Africa and while the organization staggered while Davis was in Africa, she jumpstarted it when she returned.
“It’s time for us women to gather together in deep reflection and joyous discovery of where we can most meaningfully offer our leadership,” Wheatley said.
“Gathering in the company of other women will revive and refresh us for the work that is ahead; together we can celebrate what we’ve already accomplished and learned and discover new ways to contribute.”
