Linda Fondren transformed her life from poverty and disempowerment to success. She was determined to make her hometown a healthier place after Mississippi was deemed the “unhealthiest state” in the nation for several consecutive years.
For her persistent efforts and the impact on her community, Linda was chosen as a Top Ten CNN Hero. She was also selected, among distinguished leaders such as First Lady Michelle Obama, as one of The Grio’s 100 History Makers in the Making.
Linda’s efforts caught the eye of major national media, including CBS Evening News with Katie Couric, NBC Nightly News, MSNBC, Foundation for a Better Life, The Tom Joyner Morning Show, Dr. Oz, and CNN. She has been featured in numerous magazines, including Essence, Jet, Glamour, Woman’s World, Shape, Success, and Southwest Airline’s Inflight Magazine.
In 2011 and 2018, Linda was named Woman of the Year by her community.
In 2014 Linda published her first book to spread her message and tips to a wider audience. Shape Up Sisters is a get-healthy prescription for everyday women with jobs, families, and real-life obstacles.
Linda is a certified health coach, personal trainer, yoga instructor, and owns an all-female gym called Shape Up Sisters. She is 65 years old, a mother, grandmother, married to her husband Jim for 38 years.
