BREAKING BARRIERS and REDEFINING SUCCESS: The Unstoppable Journey of SHARENA SHIV

Is there anything this serial entrepreneur and all-around inspirational woman can’t do? Introducing Sharena Shiv, a changemaker in our society who is breaking social norms and empowering women. A decade ago, during her final year of university, Sharena founded the 'Aston Women in Business' society to support female undergraduates and postgraduates entering the working world. But her journey didn't stop there. She established ‘Devotion Property Management’, a company transforming homes into shared accommodations for young professionals. Additionally, Sharena hosts the ‘START UP. START NOW’ podcast, where she interviews successful entrepreneurs about their journeys, offering valuable insights to aspiring business leaders. Sharena's multifaceted career is a testament to her unwavering dedication to championing women in business and inspiring them to follow and live their true passions.

Having lived in shared housing in both Birmingham and London due to work and studying, I realised a need for quality shared housing for young professionals in the southwest. I had worked for an estate agent when I was seventeen before moving so I understood the industry. Seeing this opportunity, I returned to the southwest and have spent the past seven years buying and transforming homes into shared living spaces. My company, Devotion Property Management, not only provides shared housing but also matches young professionals.



During the pandemic, I started connecting with various professionals through Instagram and LinkedIn, recognising a widespread need for guidance on starting a business. This inspired me to launch the podcast, START UP. START NOW. The podcast features in-depth interviews with successful British entrepreneurs, such as Steven Bartlett of Diary of a CEO, Ben Francis of Gymshark, Holly Tucker of Not On The High Street, and Pip Murray of Pip & Nut. Through these stories, I aim to uncover the motivations and journeys behind their success, providing valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs.

In addition to running these ventures, I founded ‘Aston Women in Business’ ten years ago during my final year of university. This business society is dedicated to supporting and championing women in business, reflecting my commitment to empowering the next generation of female leaders.

What has been a career highlight for you?

Breaking it down, I would say, firstly with Aston Women in Business, seeing these women who have gone through the committee go into industry and join their inclusivity and diversity boards. To see real fundamental changes being made not only in the UK, but the world is a huge highlight for me.

Still today getting my first tenant for my first property is always going to be a key career highlight for me. Seeing people connect in their homes and become lifelong friends is definitely fulfilling.

Finally, when I started the podcast, I had a list of key people I wanted to interview, however at this time no one knew who I was, like many when starting out. Therefore, when reaching out to these people it was challenging. However, during my master’s at University of Cambridge I was elected as the equalities officer for the Cambridge Union, the oldest debating society in the world and as a result I had the opportunity to invite these key people to be interviewed and I used these to ultimately helped grow the podcast. In true entrepreneurship style things change, life moves in different directions, and I have learnt from this that things aren’t linear. You have to take the opportunities and let this guide you, you never know what could happen.

Have you faced any challenges being a female in business?

Definitely in the property market, often men would underestimate me. I have been in the industry originally starting as an intern then working my way up for years, yet contractors assumed that as young female I wouldn’t know how much replacing a boiler would cost or rewiring. I grew up with a single father who would often make us do a lot of DIY around the house from a young age. So, I grew up with this knowledge, I know how much things should cost. Yet, I have faced people undermining because of my gender and I find myself questioning a lot of trades people. But whilst it is not acceptable, I am able to deal with these situations and it does bring me some pleasure outsmarting them.

What advice would you give to women looking to change careers or pursue their passion?

Life is short, I live life with no regrets. I would rather try things and learn from them, than never have tried them at all. Give it ago, take it step by step. Research is a great first step, there are many tools out there to help including, Google and now AI, chat GPT. Creating a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) will be useful to understand the need for the product or service. You don’t need a lot of money to start, just do it, it’s never too late – as soon as you start showing up for it consistently you will be surprised how the universe nurtures that commitment.

The only thing that’s stopping you, is yourself.

How would you describe your personal style when it comes to fashion?

I love everything about fashion I think it’s a great way of expression. The way you dress changes the way you feel, when I am dress up with my heels, I feel like I exude a different type of confidence. There is no in between for me it’s either all black or the whole rainbow, I love colour!

What piece of advice would you give to both a male and female counterpart in business to support and champion women?

One crucial piece of advice I would give to a male counterpart to support and champion women is to actively listen and amplify women's voices. Promote our work, from the simplest things such as leaving a comment on a LinkedIn post or writing some feedback or sharing. You don't need to completely understand it; just show up and support our work. By doing so, you help ensure that women's contributions are recognised and valued.

Additionally, challenge any biases or stereotypes you encounter, whether in yourself or others. Use your position and influence to promote equitable opportunities, advocate for gender diversity in leadership roles, and mentor women in their professional growth.

But as women, we also need to have the opportunity to educate our male counterparts to help create this change. Your support and actions can significantly contribute to creating a more inclusive and empowering environment for women.

What is the best piece of advice you have been given?

If you’re not enjoying what you’re doing for three consecutive days, you should think about changing it. I learnt this from my entrepreneurial house mates, I spoke about earlier – its ok to have a few bad days but if every day is turning onto a bad day, you probably need to go back and reconsider, find what your purpose and fulfilment is.

START UP. START NOW.

In our conversation, it was clear Sharena's passion for supporting women in business. One particularly poignant moment that continues to resonate with me was when she emphatically said, "Stop thinking about it, stop talking about it, just do it! If it doesn’t work out, that’s okay, but you’re not going to live a life of regret."

As women, it's all too easy to feel hesitant about pursuing our passions or fear leaving the safety of a steady job. However, we must ask ourselves, as Sharena so poignantly does: Does our current path bring us happiness, or do we feel a higher calling drawing us towards our true passion?

A big thank you to Sharena for her time and sharing her passion for supporting women alongside her serial entrepreneurial journey with us.