Shequeena McKenzie, 28 has become the first ever black female judge in home city of McComb, Mississippi.
“It was a surreal moment because I work hard, I have faith,” McKenzie told WJTV, “The next thing you know you start reaping the benefits of the things you have invested into. It was definitely a full-circle moment for me.”
She also recently became judge in the City of Magnolia as well.
McKenzie found her passion quite early, even as a child she knew she wanted to become a lawyer to bring about change and ensure justice. She first studied Political Science with Human Rights minor at the University of Southern Mississippi, before proceeding to Jackson and went to Mississippi College School of Law where she received her law degree and graduated Cum Laude.
At that time, she also practiced law part-time.
“I went to law because I did not want to talk about what wasn’t being done,” said McKenzie, “I did not want to sit there and dwell on the negativity. I asked myself what I could do to help out the world.”
According to McKenzie, she was inspired by Vice President Kamala Harris, the first female and first Black vice president of the United States who shattered barriers with her attainment of the position, so she was driven to give hope to other young women.
“Sometimes you will enter the room and no one will look like you,” said McKenzie, “Do not let that overcome your abilities. You belong in that room. You deserve to be in that room. It is a mindset you have to get. Once you get that mindset, do not let anyone stop you.”
City of McComb Selectman, Devante Johnson, said he is happy the city hired McKenzie.
“It is something to be very proud of,” said Johnson,”It is a great example to every young lady or young girl that you can really be all you want to be.”
