Slma Shelbayah

Founder/Chief Executive Officer, Shelbayah Consulting

Slma Shelbayah is a visionary leader in strategic communications, business development, and executive branding, with a proven track record of driving impactful narratives and positioning organizations for success. A former CNN journalist, corporate communications executive, and adjunct professor, she brings more than 20 years of experience shaping global narratives across media, public relations, and strategic advisory.

Recognized for her excellence in inclusive storytelling and leadership, Slma was honored with the CNN Diversity Ovation Award and named one of the Top 50 Women Leaders in Georgia (2023 & 2024) by Women We Admire. She has covered major international stories spanning the Middle East, Asia, and Africa, bringing critical issues to the forefront and influencing public discourse.

In 2015, Slma founded Shelbayah Consulting, LLC, a premier global communications agency that delivers tailored executive strategy, media relations, public speaking coaching, intercultural training, and business growth solutions. Her firm has served an elite roster of clients across sectors, including The Carter Center, Flatiron Health, Fidelity Information Services (FIS), and American Express, helping leaders and organizations strengthen their market presence, refine messaging, and navigate complex global landscapes.

Most recently, Slma served as Chief Communications and Marketing Officer at DSG Global, where she led branding, marketing, and public relations strategies across the firm’s expansive portfolio. She played a pivotal role in the brand building, acquisition, and integration of Yardstick Management, ultimately leading communications across the entire firm within just six months. Previously, as Corporate Director of Public Relations at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), she elevated the university’s visibility through strategic media initiatives and global partnerships.

A passionate educator, Slma has taught public speaking, intercultural communication, and leadership at Brenau University, Clayton State University, and Georgia State University. She is a LEAD Atlanta graduate and a 2023 New Leaders Council Atlanta Fellow, committed to advancing equity, diversity, and social impact through leadership and advocacy.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Slma has served on the Board of Directors for Atlanta Interfaith Broadcasters, Harvard Debate Diversity Project (currently Veritas), and SGM Allience, reinforcing her commitment to inclusive storytelling and community engagement. She holds degrees in Journalism (BA) and Linguistics (MA) from Georgia State University and earned a Global Media Policy certificate from Oxford University and a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion certificate from Cornell University.

In her spare time, she enjoys exploring international cuisines, traveling, hiking, curating writing and wellness retreats at her mountain cabin, and creating meaningful experiences with her two teenage daughters. A dynamic leader with an unwavering dedication to amplifying underrepresented voices, Slma continues to redefine the landscape of communications, strategy, and business leadership.