Today we’d like to introduce you to Rasheeda Parr.
Hi Rasheeda, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I am a passionate community leader, advocate, entrepreneur, and founder of Empowered Women Networking, Inc. My journey is one of resilience, determination, and service to others. As a professional accountant with extensive experience in finance, operations, and human resources, I have built a successful career helping organizations grow and thrive. However, my greatest passion has always been empowering people and creating opportunities for women to succeed.
As a survivor of domestic violence, I understands firsthand the challenges, isolation, and self-doubt that many women face. Through my own healing journey, I discovered the importance of having a strong support system, access to resources, and a community of women who uplift and encourage one another. I realized that many women were searching for meaningful connections, mentorship, business opportunities, and a safe space where they could grow personally and professionally.
Inspired by this need, I founded Empowered Women Networking, Inc. with a vision of bringing women together to build relationships, share resources, develop leadership skills, and support one another through life’s challenges and successes. What began as a desire to connect women has grown into an organization focused on networking, education, mentorship, community service, mental health awareness, and advocacy for survivors of domestic violence.
Today, Empowered Women Networking, Inc. serves as a platform where women can find encouragement, collaboration, professional development, and lasting friendships. Through workshops, networking events, support groups, community outreach, and leadership opportunities, the organization helps women gain confidence, discover their purpose, and create positive change in their lives and communities.
In addition to leading Empowered Women Networking, Inc., I serve on the Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) through the Women’s Resource Center, advocating for survivors and supporting individuals during difficult times. I also an active member of the North County African American Women’s Association and remains deeply committed to serving my community.
Above all, I am a devoted mother of four sons and proud grandmother of two grandsons. I believes that every woman has the power to overcome adversity, achieve her goals, and make an impact. Through Empowered Women Networking, Inc., I continues to inspire women to embrace their strength, find their voice, and walk confidently in their purpose.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
“My journey has not been without challenges. I have overcome domestic violence, faced moments of uncertainty, balanced the responsibilities of raising four sons while building a career, and taken the leap of creating a nonprofit from a vision and a desire to serve others. Each challenge taught me resilience, strengthened my faith, and reinforced my commitment to helping women recognize their worth and potential. Those struggles did not define me—they refined me and prepared me for the work I do today.”
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am an accountant, nonprofit founder, community advocate, and leader dedicated to helping individuals and organizations grow and succeed. Professionally, I work in accounting, finance, operations, and human resources. Personally, I am passionate about empowering women, supporting survivors, and creating opportunities for people to connect, learn, and thrive.
As the Founder and President of Empowered Women Networking, Inc., I bring women together through networking, education, mentorship, community service, and leadership development. I also serve on the Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) through the Women’s Resource Center, supporting survivors during critical moments in their healing journey.
I specialize in building relationships, connecting people to resources, community engagement, nonprofit leadership, accounting and financial management, and creating programs that empower women. I enjoy helping others identify their strengths, develop confidence, and move forward in both their personal and professional lives.
I am known for being a connector, encourager, and advocate. Whether it’s introducing someone to a valuable resource, helping a woman build her confidence, mentoring a future leader, or bringing community partners together, I am passionate about creating opportunities and supporting others. People often describe me as someone who genuinely cares, follows through, and leads with compassion and purpose.
I am most proud of overcoming my own challenges and using my experiences to help others. As a survivor of domestic violence, I transformed my pain into purpose by becoming an advocate and creating spaces where women feel seen, heard, and supported.
I am also incredibly proud of founding Empowered Women Networking, Inc., growing it into a platform that empowers women through connection, education, and service. Beyond my professional and community accomplishments, my greatest pride is being the mother of four amazing young men and grandmother to two wonderful grandsons.
What sets me apart is my ability to combine professional expertise with genuine compassion and service. I understand both the business side of leadership and the human side of overcoming adversity. My journey as a survivor, community advocate, nonprofit founder, accountant, mother, and grandmother allows me to connect with people from all walks of life.
I don’t just talk about empowerment—I live it. I believe in meeting people where they are, helping them recognize their value, and creating opportunities for them to succeed. My mission is not simply to build organizations; it is to build people, strengthen communities, and leave a lasting impact wherever I serve.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
What I like best about Oceanside:
What I love most about Oceanside is the sense of community and the diversity of people who call it home. Oceanside has a beautiful coastal setting, but what makes it special to me is the people. I appreciate the many opportunities to connect, support local businesses, serve our community, and create meaningful relationships. As someone who is passionate about giving back, I love that there are so many organizations, nonprofits, and community leaders working to make a difference. Oceanside feels like a place where you can build something meaningful and have an impact.
What I like least about Oceanside:
One thing I would like to see improve is greater access to resources and opportunities for everyone in our community, especially for women, families, young people, and individuals who may be struggling. I believe we can continue strengthening collaboration between local businesses, nonprofits, community organizations, and residents so that people don’t have to search so hard to find the support they need.
Overall:
I don’t look at what I like least as something to simply criticize—I look at it as an opportunity. I love Oceanside, and that’s why I want to be part of making it even better.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empoweredwomenni/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/empoweredwng/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rasheeda-parr-6132b6180
