Meet Our Founder

 

Dr. Shenique Carmichael
Founder & President, Leah’s Hopes & Dreams (LHD)

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Dr. Shenique Carmichael is a community leader, author, and advocate driven by faith, compassion, and a commitment to transforming lives. Born in Nassau and raised in Exuma, Bahamas, she experienced poverty at a young age—an experience that fuels her passion for service and purpose. Since relocating to Charlotte in 2012, she and her family have been firmly rooted here, dedicating their lives to building stronger, more resilient communities.

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She holds a Ph.D. in Leadership & Organizational Change, a Master’s in Banking & Finance, and a Bachelor’s in Business Administration & Marketing.

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Mission & Community Impact

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As founder of Leah’s Hopes & Dreams, she leads initiatives that provide transitional housing, food outreach, mobile hygiene services, mentorship, and workforce readiness programs for unhoused individuals and families in transition.

She champions collaborative solutions, working alongside local nonprofits, faith communities, and civic partners to address systemic challenges such as homelessness, poverty, and barriers to economic mobility.

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Under her leadership, LHD has served tens of thousands of meals, distributed thousands of hygiene kits, launched a student food pantry, and expanded transitional housing opportunities across the Charlotte region.

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Her vision emphasizes dignity, empowerment, and long-term self-sufficiency—principles that align with Charlotte’s growing movement for equity and opportunity for all residents.

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Author & Mentor

Dr. Shenique Carmichael is the author of 30 Days Scripture Reflection Journal, Rise Above, and Don’t Quit. God is not done yet!—works that inspire faith, resilience, and personal growth.

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Beyond her writing, she mentors women weekly, helping them embrace their identity in Christ, pursue purpose, and live with confidence.

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Roots & Values

Mother of two adult children.

Guided by the three pillars of LHD: Faith, Loving Unconditionally, and Giving Without Exception.

Firmly believes that communities thrive when all people have access to stable housing, meaningful work, and opportunities for growth.