We’re looking forward to introducing you to Denise Campbell. Check out our conversation below.
Denise, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
Oh, this is a great question! Without a doubt, integrity is most important to me. Intelligence and energy on their own aren’t always positive.Someone can be very smart or full of energy, but if they lack integrity, they might use those qualities in harmful or selfish ways. Integrity puts character above capability. Intelligence tells you what you can do, energy drives how much you can do and the way you do it but integrity decides whether you should do it in the first place.
I see integrity as a personal north star, one of the most powerful values to live by. Being described as someone with integrity speaks directly to the soul of your character. It shows discipline, consistency, and the refusal to compromise on doing good. That’s why, for me, integrity will always come first!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I was born and raised on the beautiful island of Jamaica. My journey has taken me halfway across the world, where I had the privilege of living abroad and traveling to over 30 countries across Australia, Asia, Europe, and, my all time favorite; Africa.
Along the way, I developed a deep appreciation for the richness of cultural crafts and the stories they carry. This inspired me to start an online boutique that brings together unique, hand-selected pieces from around the world—all in one place. From vibrant clothing made with breathtaking African fabrics, to original Ugandan paintings, to exquisite Turkish lamps and carpets, every item in my collection tells a story of heritage, artistry, and tradition.
What makes my brand truly special is my desire to share these meaningful, storytelling pieces with others. They aren’t just beautiful items; they’re cultural treasures that connect people to history, creativity, and craftsmanship from across the globe.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
For me, it hasn’t been just one single moment, but a collection of experiences that shaped a powerful realization: no matter where you go in the world, at our core, we are all human. We may come from different cultures, upbringings and circumstances, with unique goals, dreams, and challenges, but what connects us are the shared emotions, struggles and joys that make us human.
Through my travels, I’ve met people and built friendships with people from places as diverse as Serbia, South Africa, Uganda, Argentina Ecuador and South Korea. What I’ve learned is that we are far more alike than we are different. That understanding has deeply shaped how I see the world.
That’s why I always encourage people: if you have the chance to travel, take it. Step outside of what you know, explore, learn and connect. It truly opens your eyes and heart to a world beyond your own.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
That’s such a deep and important question. For me, suffering taught lessons that success alone never could. Growing up, I often heard the saying, ‘easy come, easy go.’ and I’ve found it to be true. When something comes without effort, it rarely carries the same weight or meaning.
Through seasons of struggle, I’ve learned that the things gained through hard work, discipline, perseverance, sleepless nights, prayer and faith hold a much deeper value. Suffering shapes you; it teaches resilience, gratitude, and humility in ways success alone cannot. Success feels rewarding, but it’s the struggle behind it that makes you truly appreciate the journey and the outcome.
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. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
Definitely respect. As Jamaicans, respect is deeply ingrained in our culture, especially toward elders. In fact, you’ll often hear people say ‘respect!’ as a greeting, which is both an acknowledgment and a gesture of good manners.
From a very young age, my upbringing taught me that no matter who you encounter, you should always show basic courtesy. A simple ‘good morning,’ ‘good afternoon,’ or ‘good night’ is expected, whether you’re speaking to the CEO or the Janitor. Status doesn’t determine how you treat people; respect does.
One thing my Mom always told me, which has stayed with me to this day, is: ‘Manners will take you around the world and back.’ That phrase reminds me that respect and good manners should never be compromised. They should become second nature, because at the end of the day, you’re never bigger than respect.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I don’t live my life seeking recognition, but I do hope that when people speak of me, they remember me for leading with kindness, humility and good intentions. My greatest wish is that my actions, whether big or small, will have inspired others along the way, to be more thoughtful, compassionate, and selfless.
Recently, I’ve started intentional charity work focused on spreading kindness through simple gestures, not just to people but also to animals that are often overlooked. I believe kindness doesn’t have to be grand; even the smallest act can create a ripple effect.
If the story told about me is that my life choices encouraged others to pass on kindness and to always be humble, then I would feel I’ve lived with purpose.
Contact Info:
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