Shannon Reaves, Co-Owner of Bath Savvy

Age: 31

High School: Flint Central High School

College: Michigan State University

Neighborhood/City: Harper Woods

How she’s making her mark on the city of Detroit:

“As co-owner of  Bath Savvy and a young professional, I would like to be a motivating example of what is possible in this city.  I share in the optimism that Detroit is going through a rebirth and with creative ideas and passion Michigan will once again be a thriving place to live. I hope to show others that we collectively as young people can make an impact by starting businesses, providing  jobs and being leaders. ”

On why she chooses to stay in Metro Detroit:

“I believe in Detroit! Detroit has a character about it that is unlike anywhere else and I believe that this city will revive itself in the coming years. Also, my family is important to me and living in this area allows me to stay close to them.”

On how she accomplishes her goals:

“I think having strong support systems with my friends and family, along with surrounding myself with like minded people, helps me stay focused on my goals. Every city has its challenges so staying passionate and steadfast has been the driving force behind pursuing my dreams and making a difference in Detroit.”

On her favorite things about Detroit:

“Detroit is a hidden gem for culture and new developments. I love to go downtown for social events, festivals, sporting events and eating good food at new restaurants or bars that seem to pop up all the time. Downtown is drawing a much more diverse crowd which makes the landscape ever-changing and more positive. I love the determination of the people here and the pride they have in Detroit to make this a great place to live.”

On what she wishes you knew about Detroit:

“That it’s not all what you see on TV. Yes, there is crime and abandonment, but on the other side of that is potential and opportunity. There are organizations using vacant land plots in the inner city to grow fresh food for the community, there are successful businesses forming resource pools and entrepreneur support groups, there are many investing in the city while housing prices are lower than they have ever been. This time is unique and there is so much more that can be done but there are many doing great things we just don’t hear enough about. ”

On future plans:

“My future plans are to continue to grow my business, Bath Savvy, and providing healthy products for our customers. I would love to grow to see our company provide jobs in the community and help other entrepreneurs and young people achieve success and help them strive for their passions with the knowledge I have gained over the years!”

On her hopes for the city of Detroit:

“I hope that Detroit will reemerge with a new industry that is cutting edge and fresh to bolster our economy. Whether its green technology or the film industry. I hope for passionate entrepreneurs, creative young people and business leaders to support a change in this city to be a success story unlike any other American city has done. I think we can do it!”.

Shannon’s words of wisdom:

“Focus on the positives and surround yourself with like minded people.  The city has its challenges and not everyone will support you but that can be said about any city. Don’t get discouraged and give up on your dreams. There are networking groups and resources available for all fields. We have to be creative and work with passion with whatever we spend our time doing. If we all strive for that, all things are possible.”

Related Websites:

• http://www.bathsavvy.com