Meet Shahnah Holt | CEO/Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Shahnah Holt and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shahnah, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
The thought process behind starting my business was rooted in my desire to support the parents of the students I taught. In the beginning, I helped families by purchasing clothes and school supplies to alleviate some of their financial burdens. As a single parent, I fully understood the challenges of ensuring your children have everything they need—whether it’s for school activities, projects, birthdays, or other essential moments. At times, I’d ask my kids if we could celebrate Christmas in January or February, so we could help other families during the holiday season, and they were always supportive of the idea.

I also spoke with many parents to find out what other help they needed, and a common request was assistance in finding jobs. That’s when my mom (Linda) encouraged me to turn my passion for helping others into a business, and I did just that. Today, my mission remains the same—to help individuals in communities where job opportunities are limited or where skill development is needed, so they can build better futures for themselves and their families.

What should our readers know about your business?
For the past 11 years, I’ve been running my company, but it wasn’t until around the sixth year that I started seeing real income that reflected true business growth. During those early years, I balanced a full-time teaching job and worked extra hours to fund my business, never relying on loans, grants, or monetary donations. There were times when I struggled to meet my personal financial obligations, but I remained committed to the vision.

What truly sets Premier apart is our mission to serve. What began as a personal passion has evolved into a business that remains deeply rooted in uplifting the community and helping individuals find the resources and opportunities they need. This journey has taught me invaluable lessons in resilience, patience, and the power of community support. Both my story and my business are centered on serving others, and that will always be at the heart of what we do.

We are not just a staffing firm. We don’t merely focus on matching companies with employees. Instead, we focus on the individual—their skills, potential, and unique circumstances. We personally assist them in their educational needs and offer guidance to ensure long-term, meaningful employment. Beyond employment, we help individuals overcome obstacles like transportation, housing, childcare, and finding essential resources to get back on their feet.

Our heart lies with those who struggle to find opportunities, which is what Premier was built on. We are dedicated to the community, to the people. We educate to employ and employ to empower.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I have become such a boring person the last 5 years. Here we go.

Monday
We’d start the week with a relaxing visit to Discovery Green. We could explore the beautiful park, check out any events happening, and maybe even join a yoga session or see some local art. For lunch, we’d head to Maestro’s, one of the best spots in town for incredible steaks and seafood. In the evening, we’d visit one of Houston’s charming small business restaurants, showcasing the diversity of the city’s food scene.

Tuesday
We’d spend the morning at the Houston Museum District, exploring the Museum of Fine Arts or the Houston Museum of Natural Science. For lunch, we’d enjoy some authentic Mexican food at a local spot—being from Wisconsin, we’d love Houston’s Tex-Mex options. That evening, we’d find a live band to enjoy, perhaps at a local jazz club or a venue like The Continental Club, for a night of music.

Wednesday
A morning spent shopping and exploring The Galleria, one of the largest malls in Texas. Afterward, we’d test our wits at an Escape Room. Since most of my friends think they’re super smart, it would be fun to see how well we do! In the evening, we’d dine at Tiny Boxwoods, a beautiful restaurant with a great ambiance, perfect for relaxing after all the puzzle-solving.

Thursday
We’d head over to Buffalo Bayou Park for a long walk or bike ride, enjoying stunning views of the Houston skyline. Afterward, we’d explore CityCentre Houston, have a late lunch at Grimaldi’s Pizza, and stroll through the shops. The evening would end with live music or a show at The Heights Theater, soaking in more of Houston’s vibrant music scene.

Friday
We’d start the day at Kemah Boardwalk, enjoying rides and games by the water. For lunch, we’d grab some seafood along the coast and relax by the water. In the evening, we’d catch a movie or enjoy a comedy night at Improv Houston for a fun and lighthearted end to the day.

Saturday
In the morning, we’d head to Hermann Park for a peaceful stroll, maybe visit the Houston Zoo or take a ride on the pedal boats. For lunch, we’d explore Houston’s Chinatown and have a fun dim sum experience. In the evening, we’d have some more fun at Main Event with bowling, games, or even karaoke.

Sunday
We’d start the day by visiting Joel Osteen’s church, as many of my friends have always wanted to go. Afterward, we’d head to a Sunday fun event, whether it’s brunch, a day party, or a local festival. We’d end the week with a quiet evening, maybe going back to Discovery Green to unwind before saying goodbye. Then I would be sure to take a nap.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would describe myself as a 2,000-piece jigsaw puzzle that’s still coming together. The support, mentorship, and love I’ve received from so many people have been instrumental as I continue to piece myself together along this journey. From a young age, I knew I wanted to help anyone and everyone, regardless of their background. As my passion grew, so did the support around me.

My children, Kailah and Andrell, worked for me for free, fully believing in my vision and understanding its importance. Coach Gene Chandler was there for me in the early stages and never asked for anything in return. My dear friend Jessica has been my go-to person when I needed to vent or shift my mindset. My sorority sisters in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, have always lifted me up and created platforms not just for me but for other small businesses to thrive—special thanks to Edwina, Monica, Dre’chelle, and Jo-Carolyn. I am incredibly grateful for the unwavering support from my family and friends who have always shared my flyers, posters, “employee needed” signs—you name it, they’ve shared it. I want to thank Teneasha, Auntie BB, Aunt Pam, Aunt Sophia, Tuniscera, Tolisha, Kim, Zenobia, Tahzse and so many others who have stood by me. And a special thank you to Mr. I Scott. Your support means the world to me.

I also owe so much to the City of Houston’s Office of Business Opportunity, Dr. Jackson, and Tim City and Houston
Housing and Community Development Dept Karen, Carolyn, Terrel and Crystal have taught me so much, making sure I was equipped and ready for the business world. And all the other government entities that provide training to small businesses like mine. I’m incredibly grateful to companies like Nerie Construction, Brown-Sterling Construction-LLC, Truly Noble, Criterion Management-MDL, Tucker-Reeves and Associates, and many of the ISDs that gave me a chance to prove my abilities—thank you especially to Yolanda-AISD (you were the first person to use my company on a larger scale). Shout outs to FBISD specifically Jeneatte (SBEP) John (Director), Joel and Mary. All of these people and organizations deserve recognition for their role in my story. There’s more I can add, but then I would never end this section. They all deserve their flowers from Premier Employment Agency, LLC.

Website: https://www.premieragencyusa.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shahnah-holt-34445510b

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/premieremploymentagency