We’re looking forward to introducing you to Erneshya Ray. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Erneshya, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: Are you walking a path—or wandering?
I’m definitely walking a path. Lately, that path has been all about being real with myself — owning my feelings, acknowledging my flaws, and asking my Higher Power for guidance. I start each day with prayer, asking for clarity and the strength to make decisions that help me grow and serve others. It’s a path of purpose, not perfection.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Erneshya, but most people call me Erny. I’m originally from Compton, California, and I’ve called Birmingham, Alabama home for the past ten years. I’ve always loved the idea of a “Southern Belle,” but my grandmother used to tell me I couldn’t be one because I wasn’t from the South. Instead, she said, “You can be a California Belle.” That idea stuck with me — and it became the heart of my brand.
I founded SohGent CA’Belle, an online copper jewelry boutique that represents the meeting of cultures — a Southern gentleman meets a California Belle. My designs embody what I like to call “quaint luxury” — timeless, refined copper jewelry that feels elevated yet approachable. I vend at festivals and pop-up markets from California to the South, connecting personally with customers who value craftsmanship and story as much as beauty.
Beyond jewelry, I’m also a licensed insurance agent with a mission to bridge the gap between my community and the financial industry. There’s a real lack of knowledge around insurance and financial literacy in Black and Brown communities, and I want to change that — to help families build protection, confidence, and generational stability.
Outside of business, I’m recently divorced and the proud mother of two amazing sons, ages 5 and 18, who keep me grounded and inspired. Everything I do — from crafting jewelry to educating my clients — is rooted in growth, purpose, and service.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
The part of me that has served its purpose is the version of myself that felt the need to shrink, to dim my own light. For most of my life, I’ve carried a kind of “fake resilience” — pretending to be okay, even when I wasn’t. That season is over. I’m learning to be honest about my feelings — when I’m hurt, offended, or even depressed. That honesty allows me to look deeper, to understand the root of my emotions, and to invite my Higher Power to guide me through them — or simply to give thanks in those moments. Vulnerability has become my new strength.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
Honestly, it’s been fear of success, fear of failure, and fear of the unknown — all of it. Sometimes I’ve been afraid of what would happen if things did work out, just as much as if they didn’t. I’ve had to learn that fear and faith can’t live in the same space. So now, when fear shows up, I take it as a sign that I’m growing and moving closer to where I’m meant to be.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Is the public version of you the real you?
Absolutely. The public version of me is the real me — I’m a spirit walking around in flesh, and my spirit always shines through. That’s why it can be hard for me to admit when I’m feeling down. My natural energy is obnoxiously optimistic — I’m always looking for the good, seeing the glass half full, and giving people the benefit of the doubt. What you see is what you get — light, faith, and a heart that genuinely believes in better days.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
If I knew I had ten years left, I’d stop caring so much about other people’s opinions. Right now, I carry the weight of considering everyone — my kids, my family, my friends, my customers, my team. I’m always thinking about how my choices might affect them or my bottom line. But if time were limited, I’d let that go. I’d live with complete freedom — trusting that the people who love me would understand, and that my authenticity would take care of the rest.
Image Credits
Marcus Evans
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