Joanna Deshay

Professor Joanna de'Shay is an International Fashion Designer, Entrepreneur, and Educator with over 15+  years of experience in the Fashion Industry and 20+ years in Corporate America.  She has been a University level professor for 10 years and loves to share her passion and expertise in Fashion Marketing, Branding, and Design with the many students she coaches and teaches. This ASU alumnus is also a dynamic, global leader with expertise in overseas manufacturing and sourcing, as her collection pre-pandemic was manufactured in Bali, Indonesia. She has since brought her manufacturing stateside and is proud to be producing her collection right here in Arizona.

Born in Accra, Ghana, on the Western Coast of Africa to a Nigerian father and a Russian mother,  Joanna deʼShay grew up heavily influenced by her homeland's exotic people, cultures, and textures. Inspired by her international upbringing and her mother's chic European fashion sense, Joanna created Black Russian Label in 2013 for the global woman who is unapologetic, bold, and empowered by their individual style. Her intense focus on innovation, adaptability, and inclusivity continues to be a hallmark of her unique collections.

Bravely leaving a 15+ year career in Corporate America, Joanna is the epitome of a passionate Entrepreneur who was driven to lead an intentional life filled with success on her terms.  Joanna is also an avid Servant Leader who believes in Community Service as a way to change this world for the better.  She currently also serves as the Executive Director of Diversity Leadership Alliance, a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Education non-profit, and has been in this role for the past 8 years.  A mother of two amazing young men ages 16 and 20 (An ASU Film major), Joanna is determined to shine as a beacon of light for Warrior Moms, who strive daily to balance passion, family, and community.