03/31/2024
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As the Vice President and Manager of The Safe Haven Space LLC, it is only fitting that we honor the CEO and owner, Shakima Petersen, on this last day of March as we bid farewell to Women’s History Month. As her husband and #1 supporter I feel this is the perfect moment to shine the light on and celebrate her remarkable journey. Throughout this month, we’ve recognized the contributions and achievements of women who have been making history in their own way, and among these women stands Shakima, a shining example of resilience, compassion, and dedication.
Shakima’s story is one of courage and compassion, a testament to the power of perseverance. Her mother struggled with undiagnosed mental health challenges until she died on November 1, 2009, due to insufficient resources in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands during the 1990s and early 2000s.
Shakima started from a place of personal experience, witnessing the mental health challenges her mother faced. This ignited a fire within her to make a difference and support others who may be going through similar struggles. Even though Shakima has her personal struggles with mental health challenges, she found her place in helping others navigate similar struggles through her lived experiences.
Throughout the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, Shakima’s mental health challenges was hitting hard. It was most challenging having her rainbow baby girl right before the pandemic started. In the midst of all that chaos was when Shakima discovered her true calling and purpose. It was speaking with her therapist and doing some research that brought her to her current job today as a Generalized Certified Recovery Peer Specialist.
Shakima has been doing the work actively pursuing additional training to broaden her expertise and better serve others. Some of her recent training includes Domestic Violence 101, The Jason Foundation's Youth and Adult Su***de Awareness and Prevention Training, Transforming Grief, Peer Supervisor Training, Emotional CPR Training, and many others, in addition to completing required Florida Certification Board CEUs. Notably, she has recently completed the Certified Support Specialist program (CRSS) with Lutheran Services Florida (LSF), and she is currently enrolled in the Certified Addiction Counselor Course (CAC) at Edward Waters College, both of which focus on substance abuse. Furthermore, she has reenrolled at Florida State College at Jacksonville to resume her journey towards becoming a therapist, a path she began nine years ago but temporarily paused.
As a Generalized Certified Recovery Peer Specialist, Shakima has dedicated herself to supporting individuals who are recovering from mental health, substance use, and or trauma-related challenges on their journey towards recovery. Her commitment and passion for helping others have not gone unnoticed. In recognition of her hard working efforts, she was nominated by her work peers and was honored with the Peer Hero Of The Year Award 2023 for the entire state of Florida , a well-deserved accolade that speaks volumes about her impact on the lives of others.
Shakima’s influence extends far beyond the confines of her professional endeavors. Through her personal and business platforms, such as The Mental Mender, Safe Haven Space LLC, and SnS Event Planning, she continues to inspire and uplift countless individuals. Whether it’s through her words of encouragement, her insightful tips for better mental well-being, or her unwavering support, Shakima has touched the hearts and souls of many.
Despite juggling the demands of her role as a student, a devoted wife, and a loving mother to three children, Shakima remains focus in her mission to spread light and positivity with making a change. Throughout this month, she took it upon herself to use The Safe Haven Space LLC platform to shine a spotlight in “31 Women in 31 Days”, highlighting their contributions and celebrating their achievements. We choose her as selection 31!
As the Vice President and Manager of Safe Haven Space LLC, I am moved by Shakima Petersen's tireless dedication to recognizing the contributions of women throughout Women's History Month. Her leadership and unwavering commitment to honoring these remarkable individuals serve as an inspiring example for us all. Today, as we celebrate Shakima, let's reflect on her passion, resilience, and determination to uplift others. Her efforts have not only shed light on the achievements of women but have also fostered a sense of unity and empowerment within our community. Please join me in giving Shakima Petersen, AKA Mental Mender, a heartfelt and resounding round of applause for her extraordinary leadership and dedication! 🥳🥳🥳👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽
