Shayla Pinner
In January, Herd Strategies is highlighting people and organizations who help others rediscover their purpose, passions and peace. Through her work as director of marketing and development at Dress for Success Indianapolis, Shayla Pinner champions women in Indy by empowering them to step into their innate inner strength.
Shayla Pinner is a communications and public relations professional with a passion for developing creative ways to engage, empower and educate. After earning a bachelor’s degree in public health and a master’s degree in public relations from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, she worked in the direct service, education, healthcare and finance sectors. These experiences opened her eyes to access gaps in her community, which inspired her to become the leader and community facilitator she is today. Now, as director of marketing and development at Dress for Success Indianapolis, Shayla's passion for identifying the strengths of others allows her to engage and bridge communities with shared visions and values, resulting in increased value and impact for all.
DFS Indianapolis empowers over 700 women every year to feel confident in the workforce by providing employment and career support through clothing, career coaching, interview prep and resume review. DFS Indianapolis resources and services are available to anyone who identifies as a woman, regardless of education, income or race. “When you look good, you tend to stand taller, hold your head up and speak with confidence,” Shayla shared. DFS Indianapolis helps women find confidence through styling, coaching, and support so they can walk into an interview or any room believing they belong. “There is nothing like connecting a woman to an opportunity that will help her achieve her vision of success,” said Shayla. “Marketers are connectors. I get to use my knowledge and skills to be every woman's hype woman and I love that!”
Shayla’s work with DFS Indianapolis helps women rediscover themselves personally and professionally. She shared that the first step is to help them identify their wants, needs and the barriers that prevent their success. Styling services are offered to help boost confidence. Coaching then assists them with identifying specific goals and creating a plan. “These can be personal or professional goals from financial literacy to finding housing and childcare to career assessments and interview prep. We then support them along that journey,” Shayla said. A Professional Women's Group offers ongoing professional and personal support by serving as a sisterhood of women.
To keep up with Shayla, follow her on LinkedIn. Follow Dress for Success Indianapolis on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn or visit their website at www.indydfs.org.