Shawna N.M. Barnes
Digital Accessibility Educator • Author • Consultant • Speaker
I'm Shawna Barnes, founder of S. Barnes Designs.
I help businesses, entrepreneurs, and creatives create websites and digital experiences that are easier for everyone to use through barrier-free design, accessibility consulting, education, and practical guidance.
My path into web design and accessibility wasn't a straight line.
Like many veterans, I expected my military career to define much of my future. After being medically retired from the Army in 2011 following injuries and disabilities connected to my service, I suddenly found myself navigating a completely different life than the one I had planned.
One of the biggest challenges wasn't physical. It was learning how to learn again.
The disabilities I acquired changed how I processed information, solved problems, and absorbed new concepts. Tasks that once came naturally suddenly required new strategies, new patience, and a new way of thinking. For a while, that was incredibly frustrating.
But it also taught me something important: When systems aren't designed with real people in mind, barriers appear.
Sometimes those barriers are physical. Sometimes they're digital. Sometimes they're simply a lack of clear communication.
Instead of giving up, I began teaching myself graphic design and website design one step at a time. What started as a creative outlet eventually became a profession. Along the way, I learned firsthand what it's like to be both a website creator and a small business owner trying to make sense of technology, marketing, and online visibility.
That's one of the reasons I connect so strongly with my clients today.
I understand what it's like to feel overwhelmed by technology.
I understand what it's like to face barriers that others don't see.
And I understand that most business owners aren't looking for more jargon, more complexity, or another list of things they're doing wrong. They're looking for practical guidance from someone who can help them move forward.
I understand what it's like to feel overwhelmed by technology.
I understand what it's like to face barriers that others don't see.
And I understand that most business owners aren't looking for more jargon, more complexity, or another list of things they're doing wrong. They're looking for practical guidance from someone who can help them move forward.
