Shaneisha Dodson, an award-winning playwright and entrepreneur, is the founder of Brilliant Girl and Black Girlz Productions. At Soigne’ + Swank Magazine, we are thrilled to feature her among the talented Black Women making their mark in the creative space. Her compelling story is one of a compassionate heart, a commitment to giving back, and a drive to increase representation in the doll industry.
In a groundbreaking move, Shaneisha created the first-ever 18-inch black superhero doll, Sugamama. Her company’s mission is to promote greater representation in the toy industry. In 2022, she donated over 90 dolls to children in need and has plans to increase this number in 2023.
Get to know more about the inspiring Shaneisha Dodson and her incredible journey below.
What is the motto and goal of Black Girlz Productions, LLC?
Shaneisha: The company’s motto is “Dream BIG or go Home!” The goal is to bring awareness to social issues through theatre.
Where have some of your work been presented?
Shaneisha: My work has been presented at the Playwrights Playground at the Classical Theatre of Harlem, Inkwell Theatre, Soundscape Theater, HBMG Foundation, and Logan Theatre to name a few.
Please tell us about Sugamama.
Shaneisha: The inspiration behind my brand is my niece who I nicknamed Sugamama. My niece has always loved a good bedtime story. So, I wrote my first children’s book The Adventures of Sugamama, and founded my company Brilliant Girl.
Who is your business role model? Why?
Shaneisha: My business role model is Oprah. She is a powerhouse. Everything that she touches turns into gold.
What qualities do you think every entrepreneur should possess?
Shaneisha: Every entrepreneur should be resilient, flexible, and optimistic.
What’s next for you?
Shaneisha: I plan to promote my doll Sugamama, the first black 18-inch superhero doll, that I launched in November 2022. I also plan to start working on the first animation series focused on Sugamama. In addition, I will be touring with my third children’s book Amina Fairy-In-Training. The book encourages children to never give up on their dreams.
More on Shaneisha Dodson
Shaneisha Dodson has received numerous accolades: 2022 Christian Women In Media Award (London, UK), 2021 Fade to Black Winner, 2021 Featured Writer for Madwomen in the Attic, 2020 Best Director nominee, 2019 Artist of the Year, 2018 Top 30 under 40 M-lifestyle Magazine, 2018 Top 25 Women In Business by Courageous Magazine, 2018 Women Doing It Big Honoree, 2018 Top 35 Women to Watch, 2017 Best Director and Best Play nomination at the Broadway World awards, 2017 Best Theatrical Presentation winner by NYC Success in the Arts, 2016 ACHI Magazine Screenwriter of the year, 2016 Black Women Are (Inspirational) award winner, 2015 Best Playwright, 2015 Extraordinary Person Honoree.
Her short films have been Official Selections at the Bronze Lens Film Festival, Lift-Off Global Network, Europe Film Festival, and the Los Angeles Film Festival. Her films have received recognition by Senator Comrie of New York.
Be sure to visit:
Website: https://brilliant-girls.myshopify.com/
Instagram: @the_brilliantgirl
Lynnecia S. Eley is Founder & Managing Editor of Soigne’ + Swank Magazine. She is a career-driven entrepreneur, wife, and mother. Born and raised in Miami, Florida, she is an award-winning University Assistant Dean and Adjunct Professor committed to excellence, dedication, and caring for others. Known as the Confidence Doula, Lynnecia is a best-selling author and coach, a founder of Two Queens Media and Black & Ivy League, Inc. You can learn more about Lynnecia and her platforms at www.shecaninspire.com.
