We were lucky to catch up with Kapri Willis recently and have shared our conversation below.
Kapri , we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
Finding my purpose has been a journey deeply intertwined with my past experiences, particularly my time serving in the military. During those years, I not only developed a profound sense of duty towards my country but also discovered a passion for helping others, a trait I believe was instilled in me from a higher source.
As I transitioned from the military to civilian life, I knew I wanted to continue making a difference in people’s lives. It became clear to me that my purpose lay in turning my passion for helping others into something tangible, something that could be my mission and my business. That’s when I founded Jefri Spencer, where I combine my entrepreneurial spirit with my philanthropic mission.
At the core of my mission to serve others is the embodiment of care and well-being, which extends to the products offered by Jefri Spencer skincare brand. With a focus on luxury body-focused skincare, our brand stands as a testament to the belief that self-care is an essential part of overall wellness. Through meticulously crafted formulations and indulgent experiences, we aim to not only nurture the skin but also uplift the spirit.
One of the key focuses of my business is serving veterans experiencing homelessness. Having walked a similar path during my military service, I understand the challenges they face all too well. Through our initiatives, we provide not just material support, but also a sense of hope and belonging to those who have served our country.
My journey has been filled with trials and tribulations, but each challenge has only strengthened my resolve to serve others. Every obstacle has guided me to move in a direction where I can bring joy and support into someone’s life, even if it’s just for a moment. And in doing so, I find fulfillment in living out my purpose every single day.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
My story is one of resilience, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of joy. As a Navy veteran, I served my country for six years, completing two deployments, including one boots-on-ground deployment. These experiences instilled in me a profound sense of duty and purpose, which I carry with me to this day. However, my journey took an unexpected turn when I became a single mother to a beautiful boy who was born as a micro preemie, weighing just 1 pound 13 ounces. Through the challenges of navigating both military service and single parenthood, I discovered an inner strength and determination that would shape my path forward.
Driven by a desire to make a difference and inspired by my own experiences, I ventured into entrepreneurship, founding Jefri Spencer skincare brand. Our mission is simple yet profound: to cultivate joy. We operate as both a service and product-based business, offering an exquisite body oil curating experience at The Curate Bar inside Jefri Spencer. Our products are meticulously crafted to be clean and innovative, with a commitment to excellence that ensures our customers receive the best for their skin. One of our latest innovations, The Touch Up body stick, embodies our ethos of effortless beauty, allowing users to address dry spots on the go with minimal effort.
But Jefri Spencer is more than just a skincare brand; it’s a platform for spreading love, joy, and damn good skin. My journey of growth and dedication to becoming the woman I am today has led me to a place where I am passionate about teaching others how to survive and surpass trauma and trials. Through Jefri Spencer, I aim to inspire others to embrace their own journey, finding joy in every moment and nurturing themselves both inside and out. Because at the end of the day, Jefri Spencer is not just about skincare—it’s about spreading joy, love, and empowering others to embrace their true selves.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
In reflecting on my journey, three qualities stand out as the most impactful: resilience, passion, and community. Firstly, resilience has been paramount in overcoming the myriad challenges I’ve faced, from military deployments to navigating single parenthood. Maintaining unwavering faith in myself and my ability to persevere through adversity has been essential in propelling me forward, even in the face of uncertainty. Secondly, passion has been a driving force in shaping my path. My deep-seated passion for serving others and cultivating joy has fueled my entrepreneurial pursuits and kept me focused on my mission, even when the road seemed daunting. Finally, the support of my circle of friends and family has been invaluable. Their unwavering encouragement, love, and guidance have provided me with strength and stability, reminding me that I’m never alone in my journey.
For those who are early in their journey, my advice is to cultivate these qualities intentionally. Build resilience by embracing challenges as opportunities for growth and learning. Develop and nurture your passions, as they will be your guiding light when the path ahead seems unclear. And most importantly, invest in your community—surround yourself with supportive friends, family, and mentors who believe in your potential and will cheer you on every step of the way. Additionally, don’t underestimate the power of faith, whether it’s in yourself, a higher power, or the journey itself. Trust in the process, stay true to your values, and remember that every setback is simply a stepping stone on the path to your ultimate success.
Is there a particular challenge you are currently facing?
The number one obstacle I’m currently facing is imposter syndrome. Despite my accomplishments and the progress I’ve made in my journey, there are moments when I doubt my abilities and question whether I truly belong in the spaces I find myself in. However, I’ve learned to recognize these feelings for what they are—self-limiting beliefs that do not reflect my true worth or capabilities.
To overcome imposter syndrome, I’ve adopted several strategies rooted in faith and self-compassion. Firstly, I remind myself that I am not alone in experiencing these feelings and that they are a common experience shared by many high-achieving individuals. This acknowledgment helps to normalize my experience and reduce feelings of isolation.
Secondly, I practice gratitude for my accomplishments and the opportunities I’ve been given. By focusing on the positive aspects of my journey and celebrating my successes, I can counteract negative self-talk and build confidence in my abilities.
Additionally, I surround myself with a supportive network of friends, family, and mentors who uplift and encourage me. Their validation and reassurance serve as a constant reminder that I am deserving of success and capable of achieving my goals.
Finally, I engage in self-care practices that nurture my mental and emotional well-being, such as meditation, journaling, and exercise. These activities help me manage stress and cultivate a positive mindset, making it easier to navigate moments of self-doubt with grace and resilience.
In terms of resources, there are several books and websites that have been invaluable in helping me understand and overcome imposter syndrome. “The Secret Thoughts of Successful Women” by Valerie Young and “Presence” by Amy Cuddy are both excellent resources for anyone struggling with imposter syndrome. Additionally, websites like Therapy for Black Girls and The Imposter Syndrome Remedy offer articles, podcasts, and other resources specifically tailored to addressing imposter syndrome and building self-confidence.
Overall, while imposter syndrome remains a challenge, I am committed to managing it healthily and with faith, knowing that I am capable of achieving my goals and making a positive impact in the world.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jefrispencer.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jefrispencer
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jefrispencer
Image Credits
The Skincare Images please credit:Dupree Armon
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