03/27/2026
This , we’re proud to highlight the inspiring women of SCI who make a meaningful impact every day. Today, we’re honored to introduce Sheneiah Phillips from our Supports Planning Services team, who has been a dedicated member of SCI for seven years.
Throughout her career, Sheneiah has built confidence through the support of mentors, constructive guidance from managers, and collaboration with colleagues. But above all, she credits her confidence to something even more powerful – herself. “I had to believe in my own capabilities,” she shares. “Without confidence, I would live in fear of failure and rejection. I didn’t want to miss out on opportunities or limit my personal growth.”
That mindset has not only shaped her career, but also the advice she offers to other women. Sheneiah encourages young women to embrace their own unique journeys and resist the urge to compare themselves to others. “Life is not straightforward. We all have our own path to follow, unfolding in the way they're meant to,” she says. “Trust that your dreams will take shape in their own time. What is meant for you will come, exactly when it's supposed to."
Sheneiah’s path has been shaped by powerful female influences in her life. During her middle and high school years, she participated in the STAR mentorship program at Lehigh University, where she was paired with a college student mentor who left a lasting impression. Her mentor shared a message that continues to guide Sheneiah today: “I am loved, I am able, and I can make a difference.”
She also draws deep inspiration from her late grandmother, whose generosity, resilience, and commitment to serving others continue to guide her. Whether supporting her family, giving back to her community, or sending goods to those in need in Guyana, her grandmother embodied strength and grace.
“She faced her own challenges, but she didn’t live in them… she overcame them,” Sheneiah reflects. “She was everything I strive to be for my community and loved ones.”
One of Sheneiah’s proudest accomplishments is the personal growth she’s achieved over time. Once shy and hesitant to speak up, she has found her voice and learned to confidently express herself, even in large group settings.
“It took me years to understand how I fit in and how to use my voice,” she says. “Now, I’m not afraid to show up as my authentic self.” She’s especially proud to see that confidence reflected in her 8-year-old daughter, who she says already carries a strong sense of self.
As someone who values connection and empowerment, Sheneiah believes deeply in the importance of women supporting one another.
“There’s so much to learn from each other,” she says. “Our experiences are unique, and it’s important that we uplift one another rather than compete. We can validate each other and grow together in such a complex world.”
In her everyday life and work, Sheneiah uplifts others by creating safe, supportive spaces where people feel heard and encouraged. Known for her strong intuition, she prioritizes being present for others, whether that means listening, offering guidance, or simply providing reassurance during challenging moments.
“To me, mentorship is about being a listening ear, providing a safe space, and fostering a positive, encouraging environment,” she explains. “We all need support from time to time.”
Through her journey, Sheneiah continues to remind others of the importance of living with purpose.
“Live in your purpose,” she says. “And if you don’t know what that is yet, take the time to explore within yourself and discover what it means to you.”
Inspired by Sheneiah’s journey? Visit ServiceCoord.org to learn how SCI supports people across Maryland and how our team members live their purpose every day.
