Shanovia (NoNo) landed in Champaign after being taken out of Chicago with the intention of a happier upbringing. She left behind sadness, poverty and ailing or deceased caregivers.  With little food and living conditions unfit to thrive in, Shanovia and her sisters moved to Champaign to face a new set of challenges. 

 Listen to why NoNo didn't let her environment define her. Why her inner light would shine on the path that would lead her to a future of service for others, further education and the desire to be a mother her daughter would look up to. NoNo credits many people who gave her a shoulder to cry on, a voice to express herself with, an ear to listen to and a warm, safe home to sleep in. Abby Hobbs, longtime Champaign resident, is one of these people. Abby is a well-known philanthropist and self-appointed second mother to Shanovia. Abby saw NoNo's potential and knew she was destined to take advantage of any opportunity given to her. With all of the cards stacked against her, Shanovia heeded everyone's advice, humbled herself and listened to others. She found a way to become the best version of herself despite the adversity she faced.

Emily Harrington, here! Mom, wife, retired communications liaison and host of the HyperLocal(s) Podcast. Each week I bring you a pod where townies and transplants share their tales of tears and triumphs, losses and wins. In an effort to provide a way for those that don’t want a public podcast, but still have a story to tell friends and family, I’ve created, In Retrospect: A HyperLocal(s) Project, a private podcast. Visit hyperlocalscu.com/in-retrospect

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