Productive Presence Celebrates Dr. Shemeka Brathwaite's Doctorate Achievement

Dr. Brathwaite Advances Research on Sustainable Community Leadership Among Black Women

Queens, NY - August 31, 2026-- QUEENS, NY - Dr. Shemeka Brathwaite, a professional speaker, Higher Ed Leader, and community advocate, has been awarded her doctorate in Community-Based Leadership from the College of Staten Island (CSI) / The City University of New York (CUNY). This significant milestone was celebrated during her doctoral hooding ceremony at the CSI campus on May 28th, 2026, marking the culmination of years of rigorous research and community advocacy.

Dr. Shemeka Brathwaite

Dr. Brathwaite’s dissertation, "Balancing Our Capacity to Serve: A Phenomenological Exploration of Black Women Navigating Personal, Professional, and Community Leadership Roles," enhances her expertise in sustainable leadership frameworks. Grounded in Black Feminist Intersectionality and Role Theory, the study investigates the experiences of Black women leaders balancing intense responsibilities, offering strategies to establish boundaries and preserve well-being.

The inspiration for this research began in 2023 with Dr. Brathwaite's TEDx talk How to P.L.A.N activism into your work-life balance. Driven by a passion to expand this message, she launched a nationwide qualitative research initiative to amplify the voices of Black women community leaders.

"Words cannot fully express the joy and gratitude I feel looking back at this moment," said Dr. Brathwaite. "This hood is a symbol of perseverance, sacrifices, and a community that lifted me up every step of the way. What started as my TEDx talk in 2023 became a transformative research study and journey. The work doesn't stop here; it's just shifting into a new gear, and I am excited for how the next iteration of this work will evolve! Stay tuned, the best is yet to come."

Under the guidance of an esteemed academic committee, Dr. Brathwaite expressed gratitude to her Dissertation Chair, Dr. Audra Watson, and committee members Dr. Bethany Rogers and Dr. Trina Yearwood, for their invaluable mentorship. She also thanked her support networks and the women who shared their stories.

As the founder of Productive Presence, Dr. Brathwaite plans to leverage her research to consult, publish, and develop frameworks that foster sustainable leadership practices for professionals, civic organizations, and corporate partners.

Before academia, Shemeka honed her leadership style in the fashion industry, serving as a Technical Designer for global brands. Her community advocacy includes collaborations with leading non-profits and her mini-documentary, "Walking Harlem," was featured in the College of Staten Island Annual Film Festival.

Her dedication to service has earned her recognition from the U.S. Congress, New York State Assembly, and New York City Council, along with awards from the National Speakers Association Foundation.

Dr. Shemeka Brathwaite Hooding Ceremony