My Why
Dr. Fatimat Shotande—known by many as Dr. Sho—is a dual board-certified physician in internal medicine and pediatrics (Med-Peds). She was born in Miami and raised in Pembroke Pines, Florida, and is the proud daughter of Nigerian immigrants who instilled in her the values of hard work, compassion, and community.
She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida 🐊 in Gainesville. Although she initially planned to go straight into medical school, by the end of her undergraduate journey, she was burned out and needed a break. Making the decision not to apply for medical school at that time was difficult—but ultimately, it was the right one.
During this period, she worked, tutored, and volunteered—including at a free clinic in South Florida—and also served with InterVarsity, a Christian fellowship organization. This chapter of her life gave her clarity, strengthened her faith, and sharpened her purpose.
After three years away from academia, Dr. Sho applied to medical school. She didn’t get in the first time. Undeterred, she reapplied the following year and was awarded a full-tuition scholarship to Florida International University (FIU). After graduating, she matched into the Med-Peds residency program at the University of South Florida (USF).
A Doctor Who Practices Differently
Dr. Sho doesn’t follow the traditional path—and she’s proud of it.
As a locum tenens physician, she works on her own schedule, serves where she’s needed most, and takes ownership of her career. She has completed both agency-based and direct contracts, and practiced in outpatient, inpatient, urban, rural, and telehealth settings.
Her work has taken her to underserved communities, small towns, remote clinics, and busy urban centers. Through it all, she has learned that there is no “one right way” to be a doctor—and that flexibility, autonomy, and alignment with your values matter.
Now, she is building a consulting practice and course to help other physicians explore locums and independent practice for themselves.
Family First. Always.
Dr. Sho grew up with her three younger siblings. Her close-knit family has always been her foundation.
Her younger brother, who has autism, is one of her greatest sources of inspiration. In fact, Dr. Sho graduated from medical school on his birthday—a full-circle moment that reminded her exactly who she was doing this for.
Her sisters have always been supportive of her goals and her nontraditional path. Together, they represent strength, resilience, and the power of generational progress.
More Than Medicine
When she’s not on assignment, Dr. Sho is probably on the road—traveling in her leisure travel van with her partner, James, who she describes as her #1 motivator. Together, they explore new places, reflect on life, and challenge each other to grow.
Dr. Sho also enjoys attending live music events, plays, and cultural shows—experiences that fuel her creativity and bring joy outside of her career.
What She Believes
Dr. Sho believes that:
-Medicine should work for doctors too.
-Travel is a form of healing.
-Investing in the Black community is a responsibility.
-A legacy is built day by day, choice by choice.
Whether she’s in scrubs, behind a screen, or behind the wheel of her van, Dr. Sho shows up fully—as a healer, a leader, and a woman of purpose.
