We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Josefa Shields a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Josefa, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
I learned being successful by paying attention to my surroundings, learning from mistakes, and taking note on what works for me as a person and as a business owner. I look through the cracks on what ever it is I’m trying to accomplish. Self reflection works for me as well because I can go back and think what has work for me to become successful.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I was born/raised in Grand Rapids Michigan but currently lived in Houston Texas. Being in the big city was an eye opener compared to being from a small town. It was so much to see and explore when I got to Houston. I started going to these thrift events where everyone comes and sell vintage clothing that they found. This is where I got inspired that I wanted to do the same. In 2024 I started sourcing out clothes , going to thrift stores, garage sales , estate sales anywhere I can find vintage clothing. Finding clothes is what I was looking for to the most because it’s like a scavenger hunt you never know what you will find. Going to places that feel like you are stuck in 90s, 80s or even the 70s. When 2025 came and I saw all the clothes I collected. I told myself it was time that I will do a pop up. I was hesitant at first because I didn’t if this will work out for me but it’s all about taking risks so I went for it! I saw there was going to be a big thrift event in February and that they were looking for vendors. I instantly click the link to pay for a spot and message the host. There it was I was accepted and welcome to be a vendor at the “Resilient Flea” . The day of the event came and it was very successful not only for me but for everyone who was apart of this event. Which was pretty amazing so far in 2025 I have done 5 markets and it’s such amazing journey to be apart of. As I continue to be on this business journey I’m still learning along the way and I’m always open to new opportunities and avenues. My name of my business is Swift Thrift Vintage and you can find me on instagram @swift_vntg
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Passion, Consistency , and Patience are the three qualities I would say was most impactful on my journey. Passion being the first because in order to start something you got have to passion to do it. You got to have it in your heart that this is what you want to do. You the desire to achieve whatever you are trying to achieve. I believe being consistent is what going to make you achieve your goals. Waking up everyday working towards that goal will make you see results. Once you see results that’s what gone keep you going and continuing to make you successful. Lastly being patient is what will make you succeed. Results will not happen overnight but being patient and consistent will result in you seeing the results you want to see. Some days it won’t be your day but once your time comes it will put a smile on your face. My advice to whoever is reading this and who is also starting on their business journey is to never give up! Keep pushing and thriving into what you have passion for and I’m sure many doors will open for you!
Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?
My ideal client is anyone who loves fashion and who loves it at a low cost! When it comes to fashion there is always a trend or style that has come out. And it’s very cool to everyone who comes out to these markets see what type of fashion or style they are in too. Whether if it’s Y2k, modern, trendy we here at Swift Thrift Vintage will have it for you!
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