We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Madiana Margao a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Madiana , we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?
Where do you get your resilience from?
My resilience is deeply rooted in the rich tapestry of my upbringing. Growing up in inner-city Washington, DC, within a vibrant Sierra Leonean household, I was immersed in a culture that values strength, perseverance, and community. The stories of my ancestors, who faced and overcame tremendous challenges, instilled in me a profound sense of determination. My family, having navigated their own adversities, imparted invaluable lessons about hard work, the importance of education, and the power of hope.
My mother, a single parent, exemplified strength and unwavering commitment. Her relentless dedication to our family taught me the value of hard work and the transformative power of education. Inspired by her example, I embraced the principles of discipline, self-esteem, pride, and valor. I learned that resilience is not just about enduring hardship; it’s about rising with dignity and purpose.
However, my journey was not without its missteps. I faced a challenging chapter marked by a substance addiction that consumed five years of my life—a formidable adversary that threatened my vitality and dreams. Yet, even in the depths of that struggle, I discovered a wellspring of resilience within me. I channeled my experiences into something positive, confronting my demons and emerging stronger on the other side.
From the ashes of addiction, I founded Sober & Chic, a brand that embodies my commitment to recovery and empowerment. This initiative not only reflects my personal journey but also serves as a beacon of hope for others navigating similar challenges. My resilience is a testament to the belief that our past does not define us; rather, it is our response to adversity that shapes our future. This journey, marked by triumphs and trials, continues to inspire my drive and fuels my passion for helping others find their own paths to resilience and success.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Thank you for the clarification! Let’s weave that essential information into a compelling narrative about Red Sprinkle and its mission.
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Please tell our readers about what you do, what you feel is most exciting or special about it, as well as anything else you’d like folks to know about your brand/art/etc. If relevant, please also tell our readers about anything new (events, product/service launches, expansion, etc): Red Sprinkle & Sober & Chic.
I am beyond excited to share the work I’m doing through my two brands: Sober & Chic and Red Sprinkle. Each brand reflects my journey and commitment to empowerment, creativity, and community.
Sober & Chic is a movement dedicated to celebrating sobriety and redefining what it means to live a vibrant, fulfilling life without substance dependency. Through this initiative, I provide resources, support, and a platform for individuals seeking recovery or embracing a sober lifestyle. We host a variety of events, workshops, and discussions that foster connection and shared experiences. What excites me most about Sober & Chic is the opportunity to inspire others and create a safe space where people can openly share their journeys, cultivate resilience, and find strength in vulnerability.
On the other hand, Red Sprinkle is where my passion for creativity truly shines. This brand facilitates innovative youth programs aimed at providing career options within creative industries. We collaborate with educational institutions, government agencies, community-based organizations, and private sector partners to equip young people with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in creative fields. The most exciting aspect of Red Sprinkle is our published book, “30 Days of Style: Crafts & DIY,” which has been integrated into the curriculum of several educational institutions. This book features a range of projects that can be monetized, showcasing the incredible talents of our students. It’s not just a resource; it’s a testament to the creativity and potential of the young minds we work with.
By blending hands-on activities with real-world applications, we empower youth to explore their passions and discover career paths in the arts, design, and other creative sectors. The projects in our book are designed to inspire and educate, providing students with tangible skills they can use in their future careers.
Looking ahead, we have exciting plans for both brands! For Sober & Chic, we are launching a new line of wellness products designed to support individuals on their recovery journey, focusing on mindfulness and self-care. Meanwhile, Red Sprinkle will host workshops and events that not only highlight our curriculum but also celebrate the creativity of our students and community members. These events will be a platform for showcasing their work, allowing them to share their talents and foster connections within the creative industry.
Additionally, we are exploring partnerships with local businesses and artists to further expand our programming. These collaborations will include mentorship opportunities, internships, and live demonstrations that connect students with professionals in creative fields. We believe that by providing this kind of exposure and experience, we can help bridge the gap between education and career readiness, empowering young people to pursue their dreams with confidence.
I am incredibly passionate about the impact both Sober & Chic and Red Sprinkle can have on individuals and communities. Each initiative reflects a commitment to fostering resilience, creativity, and hope. By sharing my own story of overcoming adversity and channeling my creativity into meaningful work, I hope to inspire others to embrace their journeys and recognize their potential.
In conclusion, I invite everyone to join us in this exciting endeavor. Whether you’re looking to get involved with Sober & Chic for support and inspiration or want to participate in our youth programs through Red Sprinkle, there is a place for you in this thriving community. Together, let’s celebrate the power of creativity, resilience, and connection as we uplift one another and create a brighter future for all!
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?
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities stand out as profoundly impactful: discipline, commitment, and mindfulness. Each of these traits has played a crucial role in shaping my path and helping me navigate the complexities of life and business.
1. Discipline: This is the backbone of my success. Discipline involves the ability to stay focused on your goals and maintain consistency, even when motivation wanes. It’s about making choices that align with your aspirations, even when they are challenging. For those early in their journey, I recommend establishing a structured routine. Set a morning ritual that includes waking up early, exercising, and dedicating time to reflect in a gratitude journal. This sets a positive tone for the day and reinforces your commitment to your goals.
2. Commitment: Commitment is the unwavering dedication to a cause or purpose, and it’s what fuels perseverance. It has allowed me to push through obstacles and setbacks. To cultivate commitment, it’s essential to clarify your “why.” Understand what drives you and why your goals matter. When you have a clear vision, it becomes easier to remain dedicated to your path. Surround yourself with supportive individuals who share your aspirations and can help hold you accountable.
3. Mindfulness: Practicing mindfulness has been transformative in my journey. It encourages self-awareness and helps in managing stress, allowing for better decision-making. Mindfulness can be cultivated through daily meditation and reflection. Set aside time to pause, breathe, and connect with your thoughts and feelings. This practice not only enhances your emotional well-being but also enables you to approach challenges with a calm and clear mind.
In addition to these qualities, I highly recommend incorporating daily planning into your routine. Create a schedule and task organizer to prioritize your activities. Completing each task you start, no matter how small, builds momentum and reinforces the discipline you’ve cultivated. By breaking down larger goals into manageable steps, you can track your progress and celebrate your achievements along the way.
Ultimately, the journey is uniquely yours, and while these qualities can guide you, it’s vital to remain flexible and open to learning. Embrace the process, stay committed to your growth, and remember that every step, no matter how small, brings you closer to your aspirations. By cultivating these qualities and implementing structured habits, you’ll not only enhance your personal and professional development but also build a strong foundation for resilience in the face of challenges.
What has been your biggest area of growth or improvement in the past 12 months?
In the past 12 months, my biggest area of growth and improvement has undoubtedly been my journey through recovery. Checking into rehab on October 3, 2023, marked the beginning of a transformative chapter in my life—one that has profoundly reshaped both my personal and professional identity.
Initially, I approached this journey with uncertainty, unaware of the depth of transformation that awaited me. The commitment required for deep work therapy was rigorous, and it necessitated taking a sabbatical from my business. While stepping away from my role was challenging, it proved to be an invaluable opportunity for growth. This time off allowed me to reflect, gain perspective, and ultimately return to my work with renewed energy and insight.
One of the most significant lessons I learned during my recovery was the importance of trust and delegation. As I focused on my own healing, I had to rely on my team in ways I had never done before. This reliance not only empowered them but also fostered a stronger sense of collaboration and community within our organization. I discovered that effective leadership doesn’t mean doing everything alone; it means recognizing the strengths of those around you and trusting them to contribute meaningfully.
The principles I learned in recovery directly informed the development of Sober & Chic, my latest initiative. Drawing from the insights gained through Red Sprinkle, I sought to create a space that embodies resilience, creativity, and support for individuals navigating their own journeys. I realized that my experiences could be leveraged to inspire others, and I became passionate about fostering a sense of community and empowerment through this new venture.
Through this transformative process, I have also developed a deeper sense of mindfulness and self-awareness. I’ve learned to prioritize my well-being, set healthy boundaries, and practice self-compassion. These qualities not only enhance my personal life but also positively influence my leadership style and the work culture within my business.
As I continue to grow, I am committed to using my experiences to uplift others and create a supportive environment for those in recovery or facing their own challenges. My journey has taught me that vulnerability can be a source of strength and that sharing my story can help others feel seen and understood.
Looking ahead, I am excited about the potential for further growth and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact through Sober & Chic and Red Sprinkle. I believe that by embracing my journey and the lessons learned, I can continue to evolve as both a person and a professional, inspiring others to embark on their paths of healing and growth. This past year has been a testament to the power of resilience and transformation, and I am more committed than ever to embracing the journey ahead with an open heart and mind.
As I move forward, I recognize that growth is a continual process. Each day presents new challenges and opportunities for learning. I am dedicated to maintaining the practices I developed during my time in recovery—mindfulness, self-reflection, and open communication. These practices not only support my personal well-being but also enhance my effectiveness as a leader. I want to ensure that my team feels valued, empowered, and supported, creating an environment where everyone can thrive.
I’m also eager to share my experiences with others who might be facing similar struggles. Building Sober & Chic has allowed me to create a platform where I can advocate for mental health awareness and recovery. I want to break the stigma surrounding addiction and recovery, showing that it is possible to emerge stronger and more resilient. By sharing my journey, I hope to inspire others to seek help, embrace their own paths of recovery, and ultimately lead fulfilling lives.
Additionally, I am passionate about integrating the principles of compassion and understanding into my leadership approach. I’ve learned that everyone has their own battles, and fostering an empathetic workplace culture can lead to greater collaboration and innovation. Encouraging open dialogue about mental health and well-being not only strengthens our team but also enhances our collective creativity and problem-solving abilities.
As I reflect on this past year, I am grateful for the lessons learned and the growth achieved. I am excited about the future and the potential for Sober & Chic to make a positive impact in the lives of others. This journey has taught me that true success is not solely defined by professional achievements but also by personal growth and the ability to uplift those around us.
In closing, I encourage anyone embarking on a journey of recovery or personal growth to embrace the process with patience and compassion. There will be ups and downs, but each step, no matter how small, is a part of your unique story. Surround yourself with supportive individuals, seek out resources that resonate with you, and never underestimate the power of vulnerability and authenticity.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.redsprinkle.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/redsprinkle; www.instagram.com/soberandchic
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/redsprinkle
- Twitter: www.instagram.com/redsprinkle
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