The Lioness Letter | College Safety, Maya Angelou & More
- Shannon Marshall-Hughes
- Aug 6
- 3 min read
The Lioness Letter
by Pink & Fierce
Beauty & Strength. Unapologetically Powerful.
Volume 1 • Issue 1
August 2026
Welcome to this week's edition of The Lioness Letter.
This week we are celebrating strength in more than one way. From the wisdom of Maya Angelou to practical college safety tips and a Warrior Workout challenge.
My hope is that you will leave this newsletter feeling a little more confident, a little more prepared and reminded that beauty and strength can live in the same woman.
Thank you for being here.
It means so much to me that you've chosen to spend a few minutes of your week with Pink & Fierce. My hope is that every issue leaves you inquired, empowered, and reminder of something that's easy to forget in a busy world- you are stronger than you think.
Remarkable Woman
Maya Angelou
"Nothing can dim the light that shines from within."
Maya Angelou taught us that true strength isn't always loud. It can be found in resilience, kindness, courage, and the quiet confidence to keep moving forward—even after life's hardest moments.
Her words continue to remind women everywhere that our greatest power don't come from the opinions of others. It comes from knowing our own worth.
Pink & Fierce Reflection
Every woman carries a light within her. Protect it. Believe in it. Walk confidently in it. Beauty and strength can live in the same woman—and Maya Angelou showed us exactly what that looks like.
Self Defense Spotlight
This week: Front Kick to Groin
One of the first techniques I teach in my self-defense workshops is the Front Kick to the Groin because it's simple, effective, and easy to remember.
If someone blocks your path or moves aggressively toward you and you feel threatened, drive your foot hard into the groin to create the time and space you need to get away.
How To Do:
1. Swing back leg hip forward at the same time...
2. Lift knee and point toes
3. As the hip comes forward, the foot snaps out driving through target.
4. Make contact with the top of your foot (at the shoelaces)
5. Recoil back to your fighting stance
6. Keep hands up to protect your face
7. Use your Voice! Yell loudly to draw attention so others know you need help. -
The moment you've created enough space, run to safety and call for help.
You don't need to be the biggest or strongest person in the room.
You need a plan, confidence, and the willingness to act when it matters.
Pink & Fierce Principle:
The purpose of self-defense is not to win a fight—it's to get home safely.
College Safety Corner
Program Your Emergency Contacts Before Move-In Day
One of the simplest things you can do before arriving on campus is program your emergency contacts into your phone.
I recommend creating favorites for:
Campus Police
College roommate or BF
Parents or another trusted family member)
If something ever feels wrong, don't waste valuable seconds searching for a phone number. Having the right contacts one tap away can make all the difference.
Pink & Fierce Tip
Your phone isn't just for staying connected—it's one of your most important safety tools. Set it up before you need it.
Warrior Workout
This week's Challenge: HIIT Sprints
Watch short demo on Instagram and give it a go!
This Week in Pink & Fierce
This week I had the opportunity to visit UNC Wilmington to film the very first video in our new College Safety Series. My goal is simple: help students step onto campus feeling more confident, prepared and empowered. Every week I'll be sharing practical safety tips that every college student should know before and during college.
Thank you for being here as this new journey begins. 💗
With grace & fierceness,
Shannon Marshall-Hughes
Founder, Pink & Fierce
"Beauty & Strength. Unapologetically Powerful."
Stay Pink & Fierce
Because beauty and strength can live in the same woman.
🩷 Shannon
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