Issue link: http://maconmagazine.uberflip.com/i/1518483
54 maconmagazine.com | April/May 2024 SHE (SHORT FOR SHEILA) KEENE is the artist and creative force behind Redefining She, a small art-based business that encourages women and girls to be brazen and to make "HERstory." Keene was a shy girl throughout her Central Georgia childhood, she said. After graduating from Southwest High School, she wanted to do something bold. So, she pursued engineering at Georgia Tech, where only 21% of the incoming class were women. Though she felt a sense of "not quite belonging" in the male-dominated space, she persevered and became a robotics engineer and software developer for the Department of Defense. Inspired by her experience as a lone woman in conference rooms, she said she knew she wanted to challenge stereotypes with her post-retirement "Chapter Two." She settled into a quiet, country home in Monroe County and began her first art business, A Girl Like Me Art, designed to empower young women and girls to embrace their authentic selves and talents. Keene shared, "As young girls and women, many of us spend so much time trying to 'fit in.' At some point along the way, I learned that being different with a different viewpoint is not a bad thing; it's my superpower." As her business evolved, she wanted to inspire adults too. She recently rebranded the business to Redefining She to represent women and girls of all ages. NewTown Macon is an independent nonprofit, making Downtown Macon safe, beautiful, fun, affordable, and locally led. Their comprehensive approach to downtown development has resulted in 80% storefront occupancy, 94% loft occupancy, and 1M+ annual event attendance. In this series, we turn to the passionate Maconites, those who call this vibrant city home, to curate their very own guides to experiencing Downtown Macon. Whether you are a resident seeking to rediscover your city or a curious visitor eager to immerse yourself in the local culture, these guides will open doors to new ideas and lasting memories. Discover what defines Downtown Macon: from feeling the energy of our bustling streets and exploring historic landmarks to savoring the mouthwatering cuisine and engaging with the vibrant arts and music scene. We'll let the insiders share more. M y M a c o n I N P A R T N E R S H I P W I T H N E W T O W N M A C O N I N S I D E R G U I D E S T O D O W N T O W N M A C O N Photo courtesy of She Keene.