Veteran, mother, and entrepreneur Shamena Nurse-Kingsley gives the gift of the ever-elusive work-life balance with Cowo & Crèche. Her journey raising three children while working for the government sparked her idea to open a boutique co-working space where parents and professionals can thrive.
Nurse-Kingsley’s 20-year career in government illuminated the importance of fostering inclusive and efficient work environments. The Alexandrian resident served in the Air Force for five years, followed by 15 years as an employee for the federal government, all while raising her three children, Aiden, Aniyah, and Alanna. “We often say work-life balance. You must find balance. It’s like, who is finding it for you?” said Nurse-Kingsley. “You have to create the work-life balance, whatever that looks like for you.”
The idea of helping others find their own work-life balance started to take shape during the pandemic over a conversation with her husband. The self-described “community builder” envisioned a place where professionals could work while their children are cared for nearby.
Today, Nurse-Kingsley has transformed the dream of work-life symmetry into a reality with Cowo & Crèche. The facility, located at 330 John Carlyle Street, is designed as a collaborative haven that offers tranquil workspace and community—as well as on-site childcare—for busy professionals.
Residents of the co-working space include a clinical psychologist, international lawyer, graphic designer, digital marketer, and executive coach. To help foster community and support, the Cowo & Crèche team organizes events throughout the year and opens them to existing and prospective members.
Cowo & Crèche serves both parents and non-parents with membership options to suit different business and childcare needs.
The family-like atmosphere among members is palpable walking through the space. You’re immediately met with a sense of warmth among the vibrant decor. “I’ve always been passionate about family and community. It’s so interwoven within my life. Now I’ve found a way to bring it to other people,” Nurse-Kingsley explains. Cowo & Crèche also offers event space rentals for nonprofits, corporations, and the surrounding community. Benefits include open seating, on-site bathroom facilities, kitchenette access, and tech assistance for hosting a wide range of events with a capacity of up to 150 people. The facility can accommodate a myriad of gatherings from workshops to board meetings.
Cowo & Crèche stands out as a pioneering business model that blends professional coworking spaces with quality childcare. Founder Nurse-Kingsley’s authentic leadership and military background have led to a thriving community hub in Alexandria. Making space for all areas of life is what Cowo & Crèche is about, bringing home Nurse-Kingsley’s mission of making work-life harmony a dream come true.
Interested in signing up for membership at Cowo & Crèche or booking space for an upcoming event? Email info@cowocreche.com to get in touch.