​Shonda Smith – Founder & CEO, i28 & Co. | Co-Founder, Industry 28 Cares

 

Shonda Smith is a visionary entrepreneur, project manager, and powerhouse in the world of talent management and personal development. As the Founder and CEO of i28 & Co., a full-service management and development company, she leads a dynamic team committed to cultivating the next generation of artists, athletes, and influencers. Since earning her degree in Psychology from Clayton State University in 2015, Shonda has built an impressive and diverse roster, representing talents in hip hop, R&B, and country music—including a Grammy-nominated artist—as well as a professional boxer, a podcast host, and an elite athlete.

 

Originally from the small town of Franklin, Louisiana (population 75,000), Shonda relocated to Suwanee, Georgia in 2005 and hasn’t looked back. Her Southern roots, paired with her relentless drive, have shaped a leadership style that is both grounded and growth-focused. Shonda is known for her strategic thinking, personalized approach to talent development, and her unwavering belief in the power of purpose-driven work.

 

As both a CEO and Project Manager within her organization, Shonda oversees every detail of her clients’ development—from brand strategy and creative direction to partnerships and long-term career growth. She is deeply passionate about helping people live in their purpose, and she carries a firm belief that "everyone deserves to win". Whether guiding an artist to the next stage of their career or helping someone discover untapped potential, her work is rooted in empowerment, clarity, and forward momentum. She is also a strong advocate for self-care and believes that success must be built on a foundation of balance, wellness, and intentional living.

 

In addition to her work with i28 & Co., Shonda co-founded Industry 28 Cares, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering women and children through comprehensive rehabilitation and growth. Renew Your Purpose, a signature program and cohort of Industry 28 Cares, focuses on helping individuals rebuild their lives through personal and professional development. Shonda provides resources that meet people right where they are—from individuals in entry-level positions seeking advancement to women in need of life restructuring and support.

 

Through resume building, certification programs, mentorship, and youth sports scholarships, Shonda and her team are removing barriers and opening doors. Each year, they also host an Annual Blanket Drive to provide warmth and comfort to the homeless—extending their mission of service beyond development and into genuine community impact.

 

Whether it’s helping someone land their dream job or giving a child their first chance to play on a sports team, Shonda’s mission is clear: to help others rise, no matter the starting point. With every venture, Shonda Smith continues to embody excellence, compassion, and a deep commitment to helping others find purpose, pursue growth, and reach their fullest potential.