Diverse, detailed and driven are a few words that come to mind if asked to summarize the conversation for the interview describing the incoming Administrative Assistant for the Office for Regional Conference Ministry (ORCM) and the Regional Conference Retirement Plan (RCRP).
Shayla-René Little hails from Washington, D.C. where she was educated in the Prince George County Public School system. She later graduated from Towson University with a degree in Family and Human Services.
Ms. Little’s diversity is exemplified by her varied experiences in teaching, as an administrative assistant, and as an entrepreneur. Ms. Little started off in education as an Early Childhood Educator for Pre-K 3 and 4. There she taught and molded little minds for five years. Combining her keen sense to detail and teaching she opened a dance studio. From there, The Office of Education in the Allegheny East Conference was the beneficiary of Ms. Little’s skills as its administrative assistant. It was then that her entrepreneurial spirit kicked in and she discovered the many other talents lodged within. Pulling from her sense of detail, Ms. Little launched her own wedding and event planning business, Sonju Weddings + Events.
This drive for excellence did not come by accident. Early in her education, Ms. Little credits her 7th grade Social Studies teacher for instilling the importance excellence and not settling for mediocracy. Though the influence of her Social Studies teacher did not stand alone. “It takes a village”, is not just a quote for Ms. Little. Ms. Little states indeed she had a “village” that was influential in her life.
Though Ms. Little is an entrepreneur at heart; always growing, expanding, and learning, when asked what she would like to learn more about she replied, “Jesus”. But not just Jesus, she wants to learn more about linking her character with His. Because of the sin we are constantly confronted with in this life, her desire is to have her character reflect the character of Christ’s.
Working with the ORCM and RCRP is a great merger. Recently baptized in 2011, Ms. Little believes she brings a perspective along with her experience and skills that will enhance the regional movement. She has a great appreciation for the regional work.
Shayla-René Little has a diverse, driven and detailed life. Her advice to anyone just getting started is, “Seek God first in all that you do.” Her other advice is found in the writings of one of her favorite authors, Stephen Covey in his book, The 7 Habits of highly Effective People, “Seek first to understand, then to be understood.”