FARMINGTON, Conn., Sept. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Shayla Williams Fender prominently featured as a  Pinnacle Professional Member Inner Circle of Excellence, for advancing human-centered business transformation through AI and UX Strategy.

Shayla Williams Fender has built a dynamic career at the intersection of technology, strategy, and human centered design. As Chief Strategist and founder of The Groundswell Strategy, she helps entrepreneurs and founders harness artificial intelligence and thoughtful systems design to build businesses that operate efficiently while remaining aligned with their purpose, values, and personal well-being.

Ms. Fender specializes in UX and AI transformation consulting, user experience research, experience strategy, workflow architecture, automation, and neuro-affirming business design. Through The Groundswell Strategy, she works with founders and coaches to identify operational challenges, automate repetitive responsibilities, and create AI-driven systems that improve productivity and provide greater freedom to focus on meaningful, high-value work.

Her professional journey began in public service with the Mayor's Office in Hartford, Connecticut, where she worked in community relations and constituent services. She later served in state government supporting AmeriCorps programs through grants administration before advancing into nonprofit and federal government positions focused on program management and strategy. These experiences strengthened her understanding of how systems, policies, and organizational structures directly affect the people they are intended to serve.

After earning a User Experience Design Certification from Bentley University, Ms. Fender transitioned into UX research and consulting. She subsequently joined Slalom Consulting, where she supported Fortune 500 companies and government agencies on experience strategy and transformation initiatives. Drawing on this multidisciplinary background, she launched The Groundswell Strategy as a consulting and coaching practice dedicated to helping entrepreneurs align technology, operations, and purpose.

Ms. Fender earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Williams College. Her professional and community affiliations include Growth Hub 360 and Black Girls Achieve. She is also the founder of Claiming Williams Day, reflecting her longstanding commitment to community engagement and creating spaces where diverse perspectives and experiences are recognized.

Looking ahead, Ms. Fender plans to continue expanding The Groundswell Strategy and advancing AI-driven, human centered approaches to business transformation. Her work is centered on helping founders create sustainable systems that support both organizational performance and quality of life.

Guided by a philosophy that technology should serve people rather than overwhelm them, Ms. Fender champions soul-aligned, neuro-affirming systems that deliver meaningful results and peace of mind. She remains committed to helping entrepreneurs build businesses that feel as good as they perform while creating greater time, financial, and personal freedom.

Contact: Katherine Green, 516-825-5634, editorialteam@continentalwhoswho.com

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SOURCE The Inner Circle