Meet Meredith Johnson-Evans

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Meredith Johnson-Evans. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Meredith, so great to have you with us and we want to jump right into a really important question. In recent years, it’s become so clear that we’re living through a time where so many folks are lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. So, we’d love to hear about your journey and how you developed your self-confidence and self-esteem.

**Stage 1:** In my formative years, my self-assurance was nurtured by my parents. Their encouragement was supportive rather than imposing, creating an environment where I was told that I can and should pursue my goals. This upbringing instilled in me the courage to take risks, knowing that even in the face of failure, I would not be judged or criticized by those who loved me the most. With a strong family background, I had the assurance of a safety net, allowing me to embrace challenges with the knowledge that I would be supported if I faltered. This hands-on approach taught me the value of learning from mistakes, fostering the confidence to venture into new endeavors with the security of knowing I had a safety net.

**Stage 2:** Transitioning into late teens and university life, my self-esteem further flourished as I became more self-aware. During this period, failures were not shielded; instead, I was given the space to analyze and understand the reasons behind setbacks. Embracing the inevitability of occasional failures, I learned the importance of resilience—getting up, assessing the situation, and persisting in the face of challenges.

**Stage 3:** As a young adult, particularly when living independently and shouldering full responsibility for my interactions, my self-esteem was anchored in my ability to be accountable to both myself and others. While moments of uncertainty and doubt arose, I recognized that not trying is equivalent to conceding failure. In this stage, I developed the skill to plan for potential setbacks and stepped up to admit when I was squarely in the wrong.”

**Stage 4:** Presently, my self-confidence is in the fact that I am a shadow of the person I was even five years ago and growing more into the woman I need to be.  I acknowledge that I suffer from imposter syndrome which reflects my self-awareness that contributes to continued personal growth. Maintaining relatability is one of my core values, so as much as I have changed many parts of me remain the same. My self-esteem is shaped by internal resilience and a commitment to remaining authentic and relatable in my personal and professional endeavors.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am Meredith, and defining what I do is a challenge as I find fulfillment in diverse roles. I playfully refer to myself as “Jane,” embodying the spirit of being a jack of all trades. This term often goes unfinished, but it continues with “A jack of all trades is a master of none, but oftentimes better than one.” Here’s a glimpse into why I embrace the label of “Jane”:

I inherited sewing skills from my father, a skilled tailor, though I wouldn’t claim expertise. My sewing journey began by assisting my father, and while I haven’t perfected this craft, I’ve created garments, altered clothes, and even crafted costumes, revealing the part of me that enjoys hands-on creativity.

Being an avid traveler has influenced my perspective. I have travelled to more than 15 countries and lived in 3 other countries other than my home, at 3 very different times in my life made me see travel as a trade. I am able to adapt to diverse cultures, and have developed an appreciation interest in foreign policy, and immigration laws. Travelling connecting with individuals from varied backgrounds made me conscious and respectful of others cultures and way of life.

My upbringing surrounded by communicative parents molded me into a natural communicator. My ability to interact with people stems from observing my mother in tourism and joining my father in his tailor shop. This skill, a double-edged sword of diplomacy and straightforwardness, continues to evolve with age. As I get older, I’m learning a true understanding of the phrase, “A journey of 1000 words usually begins it 1”.

I am an assembler, finding joy in putting things together, whether it’s a puzzle, music notes, or movements in dance. This reflects my desire to live a useful life, and I constantly explore how this aspect can be further developed.

Gardening, a therapeutic venture, aligns with my love for seeing growth and bearing fruit. This extends beyond plants to nurturing individuals, providing valuable life lessons through failure and success.

While holding a degree in civil engineering and certified project manager, I am on a continuous journey to become a Professional Engineer. Despite challenges in examination taking, I’ve managed teams, worked on significant projects, and learned from talented individuals, shaping my ongoing engineering narrative.

I am an Entrepreneur. To fully explain how this became the most prevalent part of my life, I need to start from the problem I faced. At the age of 14, I was placed on birth control because my period pains were unbearable, and the bleeding was extremely heavy. The discomfort extended into my time in university. One day, it was recommended by one of my university friends that I try organic pads. I did not even know that was a thing until that day. Switching to organic products changed my entire experience with my menstrual cycle for the better. It did not happen overnight, but through time, using organic products and adopting a healthy eating routine, my menstrual cycle drastically improved. Through my elementary friend, I met my business partner in university; she later became his wife. Upon returning to The Bahamas permanently some years later, I found it challenging to source organic feminine care products. They were not found easily or were extremely expensive. One day, I saw her promoting an organic product in her home country, the Cayman Islands, for a cheaper price than I was finding the product here at home, and the journey to Women’s Haven’s expansion began. Women’s Haven has brought many aspects out of me that I did not know I had, such as creativity and risk aversion. I am now also a product developer, testing products and providing proper feedback so they can be improved for a wider audience for purchase. I go behind a camera to videotape how products can and are used. I use my ability to speak with anyone to tell them about the product in any setting or any platform. My business partner and I have learned to play to each other’s strengths. We’re both leaders with very different styles; mine is much more laid back, hers more assertive. It’s a dynamic that works. I enjoy being behind the scenes. Women’s Haven has given me a sense of pride and confidence that is unmatched. I’ve also learned about the downsides of owning and operating a business, especially in a small island country. As the daughter of a man who has never worked for anyone in his life, I understand the life and sacrifice of an entrepreneur in The Bahamas. A small, mighty nation with so many subsets of communities, it can be hard to make business work and reach the masses. I have successfully secured Women’s Haven products on the shelves of every major supermarket and pharmacy in The Bahamas. My reach into the out islands is not as pronounced, but that will change this year. It’s been 5 years since Women’s Haven moved away from Cherish M & M (6 years ago), Women’s Haven exponential growth continues as we will be launching two new products this year, the Women’s Haven organic thong liner and the Women’s Haven organic tampons.

I am a friend with a laid-back demeanor but am fiercely supportive. I cherish long-lasting connections and appreciate the role of friendships in personal development, recognizing that some bonds weaken or break over time.

As a daughter, I value and appreciate my parents, understanding their humanity and leveraging their lessons to improve my life. This reciprocal growth is the greatest gift to them.

Motherhood introduced a love like no other. I aspire to provide my son with tools for positive contributions, protection from negativity, and the understanding that his potential is limitless.

I am a wife. I intentionally saved this aspect for last because, amid all my diverse roles, being his wife is at the core. As I navigate through the various dimensions of my life, breathing life into my husband for his continued success becomes a priority. He is not only an entrepreneur, steering the growth of K. S. Moses, but also a dedicated family man. I aim to be his driving force, the motivation behind his persistence and resilience. In return, I find solace in being protected and revered as the mother of his children.

Choosing just one focus would make me better at that one thing, but I prefer the richness of being true to all facets of myself. Even in doing all of the above, I am open to the journey ahead, knowing there is more in store for me.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Reflecting on my journey, three essential qualities have significantly shaped my path, two of which evolved from my experiences in project management, while the other aligns with my ability to connect with people. These skills include:

1. **Knowing how to Prioritize:**
When embarking on my journey with Women’s Haven, juggling a full-time job made fulfilling orders a challenging task. Faced with the dilemma of choosing between the security of a stable job with a guaranteed salary and the growing demands of my business, I adopted a methodical approach. I created a comprehensive list weighing the pros and cons of each option, factoring in the associated risks and benefits. Contemplating my aspirations for the next five years, I assessed how I envisioned spending my time and strategized how to achieve my long-term goals. Through this process, I recognized that, despite the financial stability offered by my job, the future outlook was not as promising. Acknowledging the need for a change, I made the bold decision to prioritize Women’s Haven. This involved sacrifices and strategic planning to sustain the business’s growth through enhanced customer satisfaction, accessibility, and outreach.

2. **Being Determined and Resilient:**
Throughout my career, I have navigated predominantly male-dominated environments, often finding myself in rooms where managerial roles were not reflective of my ethnicity. In these situations, asserting one’s educated opinion can be challenging. Determined to prove my worth and secure a seat at the table, I persevered. When faced with adversity, I ensured my voice was heard. This determination led to opportunities such as managing over 40 men for a multi-million dollar project. Translating this tenacity to Women’s Haven, I may not always forcefully enter a room, but I persist until I secure a meeting with someone who can contribute to the advancement of Women’s Haven.

3. **Being Self-Aware and Emotionally Intelligent:**
Self-awareness and emotional intelligence have been guiding lights during my journey. Recognizing when to let go of an opportunity that no longer serves me has been a valuable skill. Understanding when to exit a room or situation that may not be conducive to my personal or business growth has proven crucial. This level of emotional intelligence empowers me to make strategic decisions, ensuring that every interaction aligns with the overall well-being and advancement of both myself and Women’s Haven.

For those embarking on their journey, I would offer the following advice to advance the skills that have been instrumental in my own path:

1. **Prioritizing Your Who:**
Beyond weighing the pros and cons, it is crucial to prioritize your network. Align yourself with individuals who share similar aspirations and values. Surround yourself with people who can motivate and inspire you, not merely “yes” individuals but those who challenge you to think critically without discouragement. Having like-minded individuals in your corner adds value to your list of priorities, helping you streamline your strategy more efficiently. These connections become a vital support system as you navigate your journey.

2. **Being Determined and Patient:**
In a world driven by instant gratification, it is imperative to remember that not everyone is running the same race. While determination is key, patience is equally vital. Avoid getting caught up in the frenzy to “keep up.” Stay true to yourself and your goals, recognizing that success takes time. Be patient and steadfast in your course of action. It’s crucial not to let determination morph into impatience, where the desire for immediate results can overshadow the importance of the journey. Patience, coupled with determination, forms a powerful and enduring combination.

3. **Practicing Self-Awareness and Celebrating Small Wins:**
In the pursuit of goals, being self-aware is paramount. Recognize when to congratulate yourself on small victories along the way. It’s easy to overlook progress when continuously striving for more significant achievements. Taking a step back, relaxing, and acknowledging what you have accomplished is essential. Allow yourself moments of reflection and gratitude for the progress made. Celebrating small wins doesn’t imply a halt in momentum; instead, it provides an opportunity to find joy in the journey and appreciate the positive steps taken. This practice enhances overall well-being and encourages a positive mindset for continued growth.

Do you think it’s better to go all in on our strengths or to try to be more well-rounded by investing effort on improving areas you aren’t as strong in?
I firmly believe in cultivating a well-rounded skill set and continually improving in areas where one may not be as strong. Embracing the idea of being “Jane” rather than a specialist allows me to navigate various circumstances with flexibility and adaptability. The pursuit of continuous growth and learning is fundamental to human nature, fostering evolution and improvement.

Expanding my skills, even in areas where I may not excel, provides a broader perspective on life and deepens my respect for others and their strengths. For example, delving into the intricacies of sewing heightened my appreciation for my father’s expertise. The dedication and effort required to master the craft became apparent through firsthand experience. Similarly, my venture into gardening unveiled the scientific intricacies of agriculture, fostering a greater appreciation for the delicate balance between sunlight, water, and nutrients needed to yield a bountiful harvest.

While investing all efforts into one’s strengths can lead to excellence in a specific area, I find joy in knowing a little about many things. For instance, focusing solely on engineering may have earned me a Professional Engineer’s license, but my penchant for variety and continuous learning takes precedence. This approach allows me to seamlessly transition between subjects, finding solace and inspiration in diverse fields without losing momentum in my overall learning journey.

Variety is intrinsic to my identity, and the joy of always learning fuels my passion. I firmly believe that the day we cease to learn new things is the day we cease to truly live. Embracing a well-rounded approach not only enriches my understanding of the world but also ensures that my journey is characterized by perpetual growth and curiosity.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.womenshaven.com
• Instagram: @thewomenshaven or @merevj
• Facebook: facebook.com/thewomenshaven
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meredith-johnson-bsc-eng-pmp-214b4347/
• Twitter: @thewomenshaven
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@WomensHaven
• Other: https://linktr.ee/mvjjohnson