A prominent figure in contemporary theater, Shawntai McCall-Brown has made significant strides as a playwright, poet, and educator. Her journey into the arts began early, inspired by her older sister's achievements. While her sister ventured into visual arts, Shawntai found solace in writing, crafting her own path. Encouraged by her grandfather, who introduced her to performances like plays, musicals, and ballets, she embraced the performing arts despite her initial shyness. High school marked a pivotal moment when she discovered spoken word poetry through CityWide Poets with InsideOut Literary Arts, leading her to explore theater further at Cass Tech. In college, her passion for playwriting flourished, blending her skills and igniting a love for collaborative storytelling.

Inspiration drives Shawntai’s creative endeavors, evident in her admiration for works such as Christina Anderson's "the ripple, the wave that carried me home." This play resonates deeply with her personal experiences as a Black girl navigating freedom and resistance. Her artistic aspirations extend beyond writing; she dreams of portraying Raven-Symone in a biopic, celebrating nuanced narratives often overlooked. Shawntai draws inspiration from diverse role models, including her father, whose construction skills transformed their family home and instilled in her an appreciation for creating meaningful spaces. Another influence is Madelyn Porter, whose dedication to community and artistry serves as a guiding light. Reflecting on childhood ambitions, Shawntai acknowledges her journey aligns closely with her youthful aspirations, albeit with unique twists.

Shawntai envisions a vibrant future for Michigan's arts community where accessibility and inclusivity reign supreme. She advocates for neighborhoods to become artistic hubs, ensuring everyone can engage with performances within walking distance. By prioritizing education and resources, communities can flourish artistically, promoting healing, joy, and enlightenment. Her memorable projects, like the play series "eLLe: Kalamazoo," underscore the power of collaboration and shared experiences in fostering impactful art. Through her work, Shawntai McCall-Brown not only enriches individual lives but also contributes significantly to building a more inclusive and thriving arts ecosystem.