Shaniqua “Shan” Rose was born into an immigrant family in Brooklyn, New York and relocated to Central Florida, where she graduated from Poinciana High School. She then went on to receive her Associates Degree in General Studies from Valencia College and continued her education with a Bachelor’s Degree in Supervision and Management from Polk State College. She now holds a Masters Degree in Public Administration. Shan started working for the City of Orlando in the Economic Development Department for the Downtown Development Board (DDB) and Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), where she endeavoured on different projects, including a nighttime economy study which resulted in the creation of a nighttime downtown manager. Shan later accepted a position in the city’s Permitting Office. There, she participated in various division enhancements, including the conversion of paper construction plans to digital, the creation of online tools for individuals that visit the City of Orlando, and initiation of required meetings between contractors and staff to discuss plan review or inspection issues, to assist the applicant with swifter completion of permits and construction projects.Shan has a passion to create positive changes; while at the City of Orlando, she researched and submitted grants to assist with homelessness in the region, made revisions to the Appearance Review policy to reduce the lengthy process to renovate the exterior of buildings, and initiated the creation of additional business incentives to assist and attract businesses. Shan’s passion is to provide healing to communities in need – from poverty to mentoring, but more specifically an opportunity to be united in focus.
On July 4, 2019, Shan started Change For the Community(CFTC) as an outlet to make positive changes in the community. CFTC creates a better neighborhood and community through group action. Shan works to inspire, educate and empower a sense of unity and pride. She builds unity and pride among the youth and enhances their livability. Shan consults with various organizations to provide solutions to pressing issues such as Youth Advocacy, Homelessness, Lack of Food, and so much more.
In 2019 Shan gathered youth within Parramore to do clean-ups in the most needed areas. After only four weeks, there was a litter decrease in the targeted areas. After witnessing this impact, she quickly explored other opportunities for change. Shan started mentoring with youth, providing opportunities to explore their community, learn history, and just have some good ole fun.
As a single mother of a young boy growing up in West Orlando, Shan realizes the importance of quality community resources that create a safe space for everyone to live, work and play. She is an active member of organizations and committees, such as NAACP, League of Women’s Voters, American Red Cross, National Congress of Black Women, and others. She continues to be an active voice for positive change in her community.
In recognition of her efforts in the community, Shan was honored as a Community Hero by the Orlando Solar Bears, she received the Getting Results award from Channel 6 News, and most recently was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award from President Joe Biden for her commitment to building a stronger nation through volunteer service.