TikTok Changemaker Shelly Mitchell Is Among The Women Redefining Empowerment & Inclusivity

As International Women’s Day approaches, a new wave of digital disruptors is using their platforms to challenge societal norms, redefine representation, and amplify voices that have long been overlooked. These TikTok trailblazers are breaking barriers—not just in their industries, but in the way we think about culture, identity, and inclusivity.

From reshaping traditions to sparking critical conversations about race, gender, and belonging, these creators are leading with authenticity and purpose. We spoke with some of the most inspiring women making waves on TikTok to learn how they’re turning social media into a force for real-world change. Below, our interview with Shelly Mitchell. —Noa Nichol

Your interracial Punjabi-Jamaican wedding sparked both admiration and criticism. What was the most unexpected reaction you received, and how did you navigate it?

I expected opinions, but I didn’t expect the intensity of some reactions. The love was overwhelming, but the criticism—especially from people who felt entitled to dictate how culture should be preserved—was eye-opening. Some assumed the worst, like thinking we did it just for a viral moment or for views. But the truth is, our wedding was deeply personal to us. It wasn’t about putting on a show—it was about honoring both of our backgrounds in a way that felt meaningful. I have a huge relationship with God, and our Anand Karaj wasn’t just symbolic—it was sacred. So seeing people call it fake or disrespectful was shocking. At the end of the day, though, we know why we did it, and that’s all that matters.

You’ve highlighted the double standard in how South Asian women and men are treated when they marry outside their ethnicity. What conversations do you hope your story sparks?

I hope it makes people question why South Asian women, in particular, face harsher scrutiny for marrying outside their culture compared to men. Why is it that when a South Asian man marries someone outside the community, it’s often seen as progressive, but when a woman does, it’s betrayal? I want our story to remind people that love doesn’t have to be confined by outdated expectations. Traditions should be embraced, but they shouldn’t be used as a leash to control women’s choices.

Despite the online scrutiny, you continue to advocate for love beyond societal expectations. What keeps you motivated to share your experiences publicly?

Because I know there are people out there—especially South Asian women—who feel trapped between their happiness and the fear of disappointing others. If seeing my journey helps even one person feel seen, supported, or confident in their choices, then it’s worth it. Love isn’t supposed to feel like a war between self-respect and family respect. I share because I want people to know they can have both.

Interracial relationships often require bridging cultural differences. What has been the most rewarding part of blending Punjabi and Jamaican traditions?

The most rewarding part was seeing both of our families not just accept but fully embrace each other’s traditions in ways that felt genuine and heartfelt. For my husband’s side, having a church ceremony was important, and my mother—who had never been part of a Christian wedding before—stood by me in a space that was completely unfamiliar to her. She didn’t just attend; she embraced it wholeheartedly, which meant the world to me. On the other hand, his family immersed themselves in our Anand Karaj, dressing in traditional attire, covering their heads, and truly taking in the meaning of the ceremony. It wasn’t just about showing up—it was about showing respect and being present for us. Seeing that mutual effort and love from both sides was a reminder that when two people come together, their families can come together too, not by losing anything, but by gaining something even greater.

For other women facing criticism for their relationship choices, what advice would you offer to help them stay true to themselves?

Your happiness is not a debate. You don’t owe anyone an explanation for choosing love that makes you feel safe, valued, and understood. People will always have opinions, but they won’t live your life for you. The ones who truly love you will see past their own biases and embrace your happiness. And the ones who don’t? That’s their loss. Be firm in your choices, be patient with your family, and most importantly, be kind to yourself in the process.

TikTok has allowed people to share their personal stories in real time. How has the platform helped you bring attention to the complexities of your interracial Punjabi-Jamaican wedding and the conversations about love, culture, and acceptance that followed?

TikTok has been a powerful tool in allowing me to share my story in real-time and on my own terms. It gave people a front-row seat to our wedding, the love we share, and the beauty of blending two cultures in a way that felt true to us. But more than that, it sparked conversations—both positive and critical—about the realities of interracial marriage, cultural expectations, and the double standards that still exist.

For every negative comment, there were countless messages from people who felt seen, who had similar stories but were too afraid to share them, or who finally felt encouraged to love openly despite societal pressures. TikTok made it clear that these conversations need to happen. It’s easy to dismiss love that challenges tradition, but when you see real people, real families, and real moments of acceptance, it becomes harder to ignore the importance of evolving perspectives.

This platform didn’t just allow me to share my wedding—it allowed me to connect with a global community that understands the complexities of love, culture, and identity. And for that, I’m grateful.