LaShunda Leslie-Smith
Rochester City Council Member
Dr. LaShunda Leslie-Smith, DSW, LMSW
From a
Mother at age 14 to a CEO by age 34…
Dr. LaShunda Leslie-Smith exemplifies resilience, determination, and leadership. As the first in her family to earn a college degree, a master’s degree, and ultimately a Doctorate in Social Work from the University of Southern California, she has broken barriers and inspired many.
CHANGE AGENT
Scholar, Servant Leader, Social Entrepreneur, and Woman of Faith
Dr. LaShunda
Leslie-Smith
Meet the Speaker
LaShunda began
speaking professionally in the 4th grade!
LaShunda discovered her voice early in life, and it became both her gift and her calling. Her talent for communication was apparent even in elementary school, where her 4th-grade teacher, Mr. Baxter, recognized her potential and recommended her for a local oratorical contest. With guidance from Mrs. Uter, the school’s reading teacher, LaShunda honed her speechwriting and public speaking skills. This experience not only taught her how to command an audience's attention but also ignited her passion for speaking.
Pressure is a Privilege
Motherhood at 14 was never part of the plan. Yet, LaShunda Leslie-Smith transformed what could have been a story of despair into a testament to resilience, purpose, and possibility. In her deeply moving talk, she challenges us to radically reimagine the unexpected, unplanned, and difficult moments in our lives. Through the lens of her own journey, LaShunda reveals the profound power of reframing adversity—not as a barrier, but as a catalyst for growth and transformation.
Dr. LaShunda Leslie-Smith, DSW, LMSW, weaves together her wealth of formal education and lived experiences to inspire others, showing that even the most challenging circumstances can pave the way for impact, leadership, and hope.
Meet the Conference Host
Bringing Women Together to Discover Their Passion is What I Was Born To Do
The events and conferences crafted by LaShunda and her team are transformative experiences tailored for women seeking growth on every level—spiritual, mental, and professional. Each workshop is thoughtfully designed to provide actionable strategies, empowering women to break barriers and step boldly into their next chapter. With a holistic approach, these gatherings focus on nurturing the whole woman, addressing every facet of her life to inspire lasting transformation and equip her for a future of purpose and impact.
Meet the Author
The Journey of a Teenage Mother
LaShunda is the lead author of The Journey of a Teenage Mother, a compelling anthology where thirteen former teenage mothers courageously share their journeys from fear and uncertainty to triumph and empowerment. This powerful collection of stories transcends racial, cultural, and socio-economic boundaries, offering universal themes of resilience, hope, and transformation. Written to inspire and uplift audiences worldwide, the book speaks to the human spirit, appealing to readers of all ages, genders, and backgrounds, and reminding us all of the extraordinary strength found in overcoming life’s challenges.
Meet the Candidate
Leadership Rooted in Community,
Focused on Progress
Dr. LaShunda Leslie-Smith serves as an At-Large member of the Rochester City Council, bringing decades of experience in nonprofit leadership, community development, and neighborhood revitalization to public service. A proud Rochester native and lifelong advocate for her community, Dr. Leslie-Smith has built her career around strengthening neighborhoods, expanding economic opportunity, and creating pathways for residents and families to thrive.
Her service on City Council is grounded in a commitment to listening to residents, strengthening communities, and advancing practical solutions that improve quality of life across Rochester. Drawing on her experience building partnerships across the nonprofit, public, philanthropic, and private sectors, she is committed to helping build a safer, stronger, and more prosperous Rochester where every resident has the opportunity to thrive.
Contact Dr. LaShunda