Why I Created Shades of Reality: From Struggle to Strategy
- Shardia O'Connor
- Jul 8
- 1 min read

Keywords: adversity, leadership development, mental health support, storytelling for change, social impact, identity and resilience
With over 20 years of professional experience spanning retail management, administration, general care, mental health, and security in the events industry, I have witnessed firsthand how adversity shapes lives, and how leadership and storytelling can transform them. This personal journey inspired me to create Shades of Reality, a platform dedicated to empowering individuals through education, authentic storytelling, and leadership development.
Shades of Reality is more than a business, it’s a movement to highlight underrepresented voices and build systems that support resilience and growth. Through workshops, podcasts, and community programs, we provide mental health support and leadership tools to schools, charities, and organisations committed to social impact.
My work blends lived experience with evidence-based practices to tackle issues like trauma, identity, and inequality. I believe that sharing real stories is a powerful catalyst for healing and transformation, and that values-driven leadership can create meaningful change.
If you’re looking to engage in honest conversations about adversity and build lasting strategies for personal and community development, Shades of Reality is here to guide that journey.
Keywords: #adversity, #leadership #development, #mental #health #support, #storytelling for #change, #social #impact, #identity and #resilience
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