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Shannon Keith
Sudara CEO + founder
Shannon Keith is a social entrepreneur and business leader with a strong focus on women's empowerment and sustainable development. She is currently an Activator at SheEO™, a global initiative that supports and celebrates female entrepreneurs working on the UN's Sustainable Development Goals.12
Professional Background
Shannon is best known as the founder and CEO of Sudara, Inc., a certified Benefit Corporation she established in 2014.3 Sudara's mission is to create job opportunities and provide skills training for women who have escaped or are at high risk of human trafficking.1 This venture grew out of the Sudara Freedom Fund, which Shannon founded in 2006 after a trip to India in 2005 inspired her to take action against sex trafficking.3
Education and Early Career
Shannon holds a Bachelor of Arts in Theology from Gordon College, which she earned between 1994 and 1996.1 Prior to her work in social entrepreneurship, she gained corporate experience as a Sales/Trainer at Aventis Pharmaceuticals.1
Achievements and Recognition
Shannon's work has earned her several accolades, including:
- Social Impact Winner at Oregon's BVC
- Female Entrepreneur of the Year in 2017
- TEDx speaker
- Top 25 SheEO World Venture Finalist
Her efforts have been featured in prominent publications such as Forbes, The Good Trade, and Conscious Magazine.
Current Roles and Advocacy
As an Activator at SheEO™ since 2020, Shannon continues to support and empower female entrepreneurs.12 She is also a national speaker, addressing topics such as:
- Economic development for women
- Social business for Sustainable Development Goals
- The importance of investing in women
Through her work at Sudara and her involvement with SheEO™, Shannon Keith demonstrates a strong commitment to creating sustainable change and empowering women through entrepreneurship and economic opportunities.
