We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Petrona Joseph. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Petrona below.
Petrona , 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.
I found my purpose through discovery, trial, and error. Ever since I can remember, I have always wanted to be in business. I recall playing with my Barbies as a kid, and they were always the bosses, doing big things, even though I wasn’t quite sure what that meant at the time. In hindsight, I didn’t realize that I was emulating an entrepreneur—something I am today.
My journey to entrepreneurship was unplanned. I always wanted to be a lawyer. After completing my first degree and obtaining a few certificates, I attended law school but ultimately dropped out. I then tried my hand at real estate but struggled to pass the board exam after three attempts! However, during my time in the real estate program, I purchased a luxury vehicle, which, unbeknownst to me, would lead me to my next calling.
I stood out as a rare pearl in the luxury car industry, being one of the only women of color at every dealership where I worked. I climbed to the top of the industry, and when I reached a point where I couldn’t go any further, then took the leap into entrepreneurship.
My first business was a grocery store. I was the third owner, and the business was already in disarray. As my funds dwindled, I decided to close the store. At that point, I felt I had accomplished everything I set out to do. Seeking my next challenge, I began writing a blog, which led to a television segment and ultimately to my current profession as a publicist, a role I have held for the past ten years.
My journey has been long, winding, and filled with trial and error, but that is how I discovered my true purpose.
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?
My PR agency is hybrid. While we are a hybrid agency, we work the same as the “work from home” model instead – we can also work from anywhere in the world. Our job is to make sure brands are able to gain the visibility needed on media platforms. I am self-taught, learning everything from the bottom up.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
To succeed as an entrepreneur, you need to develop a tough skin and have faith in your abilities. You must be willing to act even when you’re afraid. Embracing discomfort is part of the journey; setbacks and disappointments are inevitable.
Resilience stems from having that tough skin, and believing in yourself is essential. Throughout my journey, I have often been underestimated and labeled as an underdog. Although I disliked being referred to in that way, I turned it into my superpower. If I hadn’t believed in myself, I would have given up long ago. This self-belief has allowed me to thrive in Public Relations for ten years.
Ultimately, you have to take action despite your fears. The entrepreneurial path will push you out of your comfort zone. I’ve walked into meetings feeling scared, but I’ve always faced those challenges head-on.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
We are always looking to collaborate. There is success in partnership and collaboration. We always have opportunities for freelancers, opportunities for copywriters, and vice versa. I can be reached at petrona@twentysixcomms.com
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