Dominica Sharda: A Resilient CEO and Author Paving the Way for Formerly Incarcerated Women to Thrive in Society

Dominica Sharda’s life story is one of unparalleled resilience, entrepreneurial spirit, and a deep commitment to social justice. As a CEO, motivational speaker, author, and the Executive Director of Dominica’s Promise, Dominica Sharda has become a powerful voice for empowerment and transformation, particularly for those who have experienced the harsh realities of the criminal justice system. Her journey from incarceration to influential leader exemplifies the strength of the human spirit and the boundless potential for personal reinvention.

Dominica Sharda’s remarkable story began with hardship and incarceration. After serving 15 years in prison, she faced the monumental task of reentering society without the support and resources many take for granted. It was through this struggle that Dominica Sharda recognized the severe gaps in reentry services for formerly incarcerated individuals, particularly women, who face disproportionate barriers to housing, employment, and mental health care. Driven by her own experiences, Dominica Sharda took matters into her own hands, launching initiatives aimed at helping others like her rebuild their lives after prison.

In 2024, Dominica Sharda co-founded Felony Girls, a groundbreaking movement that aims to support female felons in their journey toward successful reentry. Along with co-founders Starr Austin and Rashida Morgan, Dominica Sharda is reshaping the narrative around mass incarceration, aiming to dismantle the stigmas that plague those who have been incarcerated. Through Felony Girls, Dominica Sharda has created a multifaceted platform that not only provides high-quality beauty products, such as Felony Lashes and Felony Lip Gloss, but also offers vital resources like housing, job placement, and mental health support for women transitioning back into society.

Dominica Sharda’s entrepreneurial ventures are not limited to beauty products alone. She is also the driving force behind the S.L.A.P. (Starting Life After Prison) Program, a comprehensive peer-led initiative that helps individuals build self-esteem, set goals, and develop the skills needed to thrive in their communities. This program stands as a testament to Dominica Sharda’s commitment to uplifting those who have been marginalized by society and providing them with the tools to succeed.

Her passion for empowering women extends beyond business. Dominica Sharda is actively working toward the creation of reentry homes, envisioned as safe spaces to support formerly incarcerated women as they reintegrate into society. This is a crucial aspect of Dominica Sharda’s broader mission to combat the systemic issues that often result in the reincarceration of parolees, many of whom are women of color facing an uphill battle against the weight of societal stigma.

As the Executive Director of Dominica’s Promise, a non-profit organization dedicated to serving underserved women and at-risk youth, Dominica Sharda continues her advocacy for empowerment and change. The organization focuses on addressing the social needs of women, promoting mental health, providing healthcare services, and creating opportunities for employment. Through programs like GLOW (Girls Loving Our Wisdom), A Mother's Love, Beyond Our Reach, and S.A.F.E. (Supporting All Families Effectively), which includes Dominica’s Closet, Dominica Sharda is fostering a sense of community and support for those who need it most. These programs provide essential resources and aim to uplift both women and families, recognizing that empowering women is essential for strengthening entire communities.

Dominica Sharda’s work continues to resonate with a wider audience, as she uses her platform to advocate for criminal justice reform and provide a voice for those whose stories are often overlooked. As an author, Dominica Sharda shares her personal experiences and insights in her book, Convicted Pressure: An Autobiography, a deeply compelling narrative that chronicles her life behind bars and the journey to reclaim her freedom and purpose. This powerful story of redemption and resilience has become an inspiration to countless individuals facing similar struggles.

For those interested in learning more about Dominica Sharda’s work, her book, Convicted Pressure, is available for purchase here. To follow her journey and be part of her empowering movement, you can connect with her on Instagram @dominica.sharda.

Dominica Sharda’s influence goes beyond the business world. She is a symbol of redemption, a trailblazer who is dedicated to creating lasting change for those who have been disenfranchised. Through her efforts, Dominica Sharda is proving that anyone, no matter their past, can redefine their future and make a profound impact on the world.