Your growth and well-being are our priority.

Meet Our Team

Shelby Smith-Wilson, Founder & CEO

A professional woman with shoulder-length black hair, wearing a beige blazer over a white top, gold layered necklaces, and a confident smile.

Our origin story begins on Fendall Avenue in Richmond, Virginia, where the founder spent most of her childhood.  

If you break down the word “Fendall,” the Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines fend as a verb, to defend or support; all is a noun, the whole of one’s possessions, resources, or energy. A partnership dedicated to creating something new or reimagining what already exists is how we define collaborative. The Fendall Collaborative’s mission is simple: to work together in building something greater.

Our founder, Shelby Smith-Wilson, is a former senior government executive. Shelby specializes in executive and life coaching. She worked and lived in five countries as a U.S. diplomat, building cross-cultural relationships and managing crises. Co-host of the Leadership Tea Podcast, she develops leaders and motivates executives to keep their toolkits fresh. She is also the author of the blog Shelby Said What?

Learn more about Shelby

Subscribe to the Leadership Tea Podcast 

A bald man with glasses dressed in a dark suit, blue shirt, and red patterned tie posing against a plain white background.

Vincent R. Wilson, Immigration Consultant

Vincent Wilson brings more than two decades of expertise in visa and immigration policy. Having worked in visa operations overseas and domestically at the U.S. Department of State, he is a subject matter expert on visa requirements for student and exchange visitor visa applications.

A trusted analyst and specialist in all visa matters, Vincent has substantial experience in congressional relations, interagency coordination, and program development. His background also includes special investigations with law enforcement agencies to conduct background checks for applicants seeking employment with the U.S. government.

Born in Brooklyn, NY and raised in Fayetteville, NC, Vincent is an Army brat. He is a proud alum of North Carolina Central University, a Free Mason, and a Life Member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc.

Learn more about Vincent

The Fendall Collaborative Can Help.

Personalized Strategy

We don’t believe in generalities. Our approach is tailored to clarify your goals, develop a strategy that fits your unique journey, and take actionable steps.

Partnership

You are not alone in this process. We work alongside you as a partner, providing support, accountability, and insight to help you build confidence and control your path.

Progress, Sustained

Success isn’t just about quick wins—it’s about long-term solutions. We equip you with the mindset, tools, and strategies for sustainability.

  • Start with a 30-minute call to see if The Fendall Collaborative can meet your needs.

  • Our services include 1:1 coaching programs for 12 weeks or more, or situational coaching after you complete an initial package.

  • Our services include consulting for individuals on visa and/or immigration matters on an hourly basis or longer term, dependent on your needs.

Services