Today we’d like to introduce you to Mikhayla Hughes-Shaw.
Hi Mikhayla, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I was always the student who got in trouble for talking too much. I always had good grades, but this was the main concern for all of my school years. So, I decided to use my voice for good. I knew early on that I loved writing and storytelling, and I found my first journalistic opportunity at age 15. It was actually before I even understood what journalism was. After writing that first story, I never stopped. After many internships and exploring different mediums of storytelling, I am now settled in Cincinnati as a television host and reporter for a show called Cincy Lifestyle. Personally, I also have a podcast called “The HOPE Mindset” through my mental health awareness nonprofit How About H.O.P.E., which is where I have found a burning passion for storytelling that makes a difference.
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?
Statistically, I am not supposed to be in the position that I’m in.
I’m the first of my family to graduate from college. Being a first-generation college student meant carving my own path in more ways than one.
My father was incarcerated during my time in highschool, and it greatly impacted my mental health.
My family unit fell apart during this time too, and I experienced the heartbreak of divorce, and what it does to a family.
My mother’s health deteriorated, and I had to grow up very fast.
This time was filled with depression, sadness, and thoughts that suicide would be better than dealing with all of the pain in my life.
When I won Miss Iowa in 2018, I was the 5th woman of color to hold the title. In a time where curly hair and brown skin were being uplifted in the national and international pageant space, being that representation was a heavy weight to carry, but one I am forever grateful for.
The odds were surely stacked against me.
But, I am still here. And I use my story as a force for change. And I use my life as a testimony to show that things do get better. You can overcome and persevere.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a television host and a storyteller for a show called Cincy Lifestyle that airs on WCPO 9 weekdays at 10am. Getting to wake up with the Tri-State is a gift.
My job allows me to connect with the cool people and places that make Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky a great place to live. From getting a tattoo on air to climbing to the top of the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge, I’ve done just about everything to showcase this awesome community.
Although it is a lot of fun, it is certainly a lot of work. As multimedia journalists, we write, shoot, edit, and present our own stories. I take a lot of pride in delivering great stories that uplift my interviewees. Sometimes, it just takes someone listening to make others feel truly heard. And we all have something amazing to share with the world.
Whether in studio or in the community, I love the opportunities that come with this gig. It’s truly special, and it is my dream job.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
Although we may have a plan for how our life is going to go, life usually has other plans. I have learned to enjoy the ride, to be present, and to try to find joy in the small things. Life is also very short. It’s so important to tell people that we love them when we get the chance to. So, never miss an opportunity to share how much someone or something means to you. Live with passion and purpose.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/howabouthope
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikhaylahughesshawtv/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mhughesshawtv
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mhughesshaw/
