.png)
The color purple has always been a symbol of royalty and ambition. From the late, great His Royal Badness Prince to the acting brilliance of EGOT winner Whoopi Goldberg, purple encompasses various shades of greatness for all to embrace and enjoy.
Dr. Shaniqua Jones’s organization, Purple Path, not only embodies the definition restorative justice, but also adds grace, grit, and unwavering determination to assist our communities in growth and development. I recently had the honor of asking her seven questions about her inspiring organization, her methods for networking, and—of course—her top three sneakers of all time.
1. What is Purple Path’s Restorative Justice?Restorative Justice is a healing-centered approach to addressing harm and conflict by prioritizing accountability, repair, and community well-being over punishment. It shifts the focus from “What rule was broken?” to “Who was harmed, and how do we make things right?” Rooted in Indigenous traditions, this practice seeks to dismantle the cycles of harm that traditional punitive systems often reinforce. At its core, Restorative Justice is about healing—not just for individuals but for entire communities—so we can collectively thrive.
2. What Are Three Ways Your Organization Provides Betterment Opportunities for Communities:- Healing Retreats & Circles: We host safe spaces for youth, families, and educators to process trauma, build resilience, and reconnect with their purpose. Healing is an ongoing journey, and these spaces ensure no one has to navigate it alone.- Restorative Justice Training & Implementation: We equip schools, organizations, and justice systems with the tools to embed restorative practices, ensuring sustainable cultural shifts away from punitive approaches that disproportionately impact marginalized communities.- Restorative Justice Transformational Life Coaching: We guide individuals—especially those impacted by systemic harm—through a coaching process that supports their personal and professional growth. By centering healing, accountability, and empowerment, we help people reclaim their narratives, develop leadership skills, and step into their purpose with clarity and confidence.
3. Why Minority-Owned Businesses Must Thrive in Today’s Political ClimateLet’s be real—systems weren’t designed for us to win. When a minority-owned business thrives, it creates wealth, opportunities, and representation in spaces where we’ve historically been excluded. But beyond financial success, it’s about legacy and impact. Businesses like mine don’t just serve clients—we serve as pillars of healing, advocacy, and disruption in a world that constantly tries to silence us. Expanding our outreach ensures that our work isn’t just about survival but about transformation on a generational level.
4. How Do You Create Genuine Relationships & Connections?Authenticity is my superpower. I show up as my full self—restorative justice practitioner, community leader, mother, wife, and survivor of life’s toughest lessons. I don’t believe in transactional connections; I believe in transformational ones. Listening deeply, showing up when it matters, and leading with love and accountability are how I build relationships that last.
5. What Methods & Strategies Have Fueled Your Continued Success?Consistency & Boundaries: I stay true to my mission, but I’ve also learned that saying “no” is just as important as saying “yes.”Collaboration Over Competition: I work alongside like-minded organizations and individuals because healing is a collective process.Investing in My Own Growth: Whether it’s professional development, financial literacy, or spiritual nourishment, I make sure to pour into myself as much as I pour into others.
6. How Do You Approach Diversity & Setbacks?Life be life-ing, so adaptability is key. I approach challenges with a Restorative Justice lens—seeing setbacks not as failures but as opportunities for deeper learning and alignment. I ask, “What’s the lesson here?” and adjust accordingly. Whether it’s pivoting a business strategy or shifting focus in a workshop, I stay anchored in my why while remaining flexible in my how.
7. As a Connoisseur of Exceptional Footwear, What Are Your Top Three Sneakers?Nike VaporMax – Because comfort, style, and function should never be compromised.Jordan 1 Retros – Classic, timeless, and always making a statement.Yeezy Boosts – Comfort meets culture—because walking in purpose should feel good too.