Meet Janiyah Johnson

We were lucky to catch up with Janiyah Johnson recently and have shared our conversation below.

Janiyah, 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 marked by trials, tribulations, and constant obstacles that the world seemed determined to throw in my path. There were moments when I felt completely shut out, especially by those closest to me, leaving me to navigate life’s challenges without the physical or mental support that many take for granted. Despite the pain and struggles, I have always managed to find a way to give back, to help others, and to find fulfillment in creating opportunities for those who, like me, have faced their own battles.

Through it all, I discovered that my purpose was not merely to overcome these challenges for my own sake but to use my experiences as a way to mold and mentor the youth. I realized that every obstacle I faced, every trial I endured, was shaping me into someone who could create spaces for others—spaces where kids and adults alike could be themselves, where they could find support, understanding, and the freedom to grow.

In my work, whether teaching students, guiding clients, or interacting with the diverse array of people I have met in school and in various environments, I have found that my purpose extends far beyond my personal journey. It lies in being a beacon of resilience and hope, a living testimony that no matter how much the devil or the world may throw at you, you can prevail. My life, with all its ups and downs, serves as a lesson and an inspiration to others, showing them that they, too, can overcome and find their own purpose in the process.

My purpose is to show others that adversity does not define us—it refines us. It is to mentor and support those who need it, to create opportunities and safe spaces where people can thrive, and to use my life as a testament to the power of perseverance and faith. In doing so, I not only fulfill my own purpose but also help others discover theirs.

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?

I wear many hats in my life—I’m a full-time dance choreographer, an entrepreneur in the beauty industry, a dedicated college student, and I’m preparing to embark on my journey to law school. Balancing these diverse roles are challenging, but each one fuels my passion and drives me forward.

As a choreographer, I have the privilege of bringing stories to life through movement, pushing the boundaries of creative expression, and helping dancers tap into their full potential. My work in the beauty industry allows me to empower others, helping them feel confident and beautiful through personalized services and innovative products.

In addition to these roles, I’m also fully immersed in my college studies as I prepare for law school after graduating undergrad. The knowledge I’m gaining will be invaluable not only for my future legal career but also in advocating for artists, protecting creative rights, and shaping policies that impact the fields I’m passionate about.

This fall is an especially exciting time for me. I have several new projects in the works, including groundbreaking choreography and expansions in my beauty business. I’m also launching a mentorship program that I’m incredibly passionate about. This program is designed to support young artists and entrepreneurs, providing them with the guidance, resources, and encouragement they need to succeed. Through mentorship, I aim to help others navigate their paths with confidence and creativity.

In everything I do—whether it’s in the studio, with clients, in the classroom, or in my future legal endeavors—my focus remains on creating meaningful, impactful work that empowers others and fosters a sense of community. My journey is about more than just personal success; it’s about giving back, creating opportunities, and inspiring others to pursue their passions.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Looking back on my journey, I believe the three qualities that have been most impactful are humility, charisma, and a strong work ethic. These qualities have shaped not only who I am but also how I approach my work, my studies, and my interactions with others.

Humility has kept me grounded, allowing me to learn from every experience, no matter how challenging or humbling. It’s about recognizing that there’s always room for growth and that every setback is an opportunity to learn and improve. Humility allows you to stay open to feedback and new ideas, which is essential for personal and professional growth. Charisma has been vital in building connections and fostering relationships. It’s not just about being likable; it’s about being genuine, approachable, and inspiring others through your actions and words. Charisma helps in creating a positive environment around you, whether you’re leading a team, teaching a class, or networking with peers and mentors. Work ethic is the engine that drives everything forward. No matter how talented or charismatic you are, without the dedication to put in the hard work, success will remain out of reach. A strong work ethic means showing up consistently, persevering through difficulties, and always striving to deliver your best, even when the odds are against you.

For those early in their journey, my advice is to let the hardest times push you to be your best. Challenges are inevitable, but they are also the moments that will mold you into a stronger, wiser person. Be open to hard times because they will teach you resilience, patience, and the true value of your goals. To grow in life, it’s crucial to gain wisdom and discernment. Wisdom comes from experience, from learning from both successes and failures, and from seeking knowledge and understanding in everything you do. Discernment is the ability to make sound judgments, to see situations clearly, and to know when to push forward and when to pivot. By cultivating humility, charisma, and a strong work ethic, and by embracing challenges as opportunities for growth, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate your journey with confidence and purpose.

What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?

When I feel overwhelmed, I turn to two essential parts of my life: prayer and dance. My faith allows me to find rest, providing a sense of peace and reassurance that no matter how chaotic things might seem, there is a greater plan at work. Prayer helps me center myself, reminding me that I am not alone in my struggles and that there is strength in surrendering my worries to a higher power. Dancing, on the other hand, gives me the freedom to release all my emotions. It’s my way of letting go, of expressing what words cannot, and of finding a sense of balance and calm amidst the storm. Dance is my passion, and through it, I am able to channel my energy, clear my mind, and regain my focus.

My advice to anyone who feels overwhelmed is to lean into whatever passion you have. Whether it’s art, music, writing, or any other form of expression, use it as a way to ignite your inner strength and let go of the stress. Don’t fall victim to the pressure and anxiety—remember that much of it is in our heads. To live a peaceful life through the chaos, you must first choose yourself.
Allow yourself to be a little selfish when it comes to your mental health. Put your well-being first, and don’t be afraid to step back and take care of yourself. It’s not about neglecting your responsibilities but about ensuring that you are in the right state of mind to handle them effectively. Always remember that everything will work out in the end. Trust the process, have faith in yourself, and know that you have the strength to overcome whatever comes your way.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Headline Picture by :
L’amour Productions

https://www.instagram.com/l.amour_productions?igsh=M2c0YWhnN3c1dnVq

Keno Brown photography
https://www.instagram.com/ohsohigh195?igsh=MWZleGpwcnFsNnY3ag==

Suggest a Story: BoldJourney is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems,
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
Leadership Development
Empathy Unlocked: Understanding how to Develop Emotional Intelligence

“Empathy is the starting point for creating a community and taking action. It’s the impetus

Productivity
Where do you get your work ethic from?

We’ve all heard the phrase “work hard, play hard,” but where does our work ethic

Productivity
Boosting Productivity Through Self-Care

When you have a never-ending to-do list it can feel irresponsible to engage in self-care,