We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Rayvon Griffin-Bright. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Rayvon below.
Hi Rayvon , appreciate you sitting with us today to share your wisdom with our readers. So, let’s start with resilience – where do you get your resilience from?
As a young gifted black girl with eczema, asthma, and glasses. My journey was been marked by numerous challenges, including bullying, low self-esteem, and even a traumatic experience of being sexually assaulted. However, I refuse to let those hardships define me. Through therapy, determination, and consistency, I have emerged as a successful business owner.
The first step in my transformation was seeking therapy. I realized that healing required addressing the emotional scars left by bullying and assault. With the help of a compassionate therapist and familial support, I learned to navigate my trauma, rebuild my self-esteem, and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Therapy became a safe space where I could process my experiences and find strength within myself.
Determination became my guiding force. I refused to let the negative opinions and actions of others define my worth. I embraced my uniqueness, celebrating my beautiful black skin and channeled my creativity through photography and makeup. I recognized that my differences were my strengths, not weaknesses. With a resilient spirit, I set goals for myself and worked tirelessly towards achieving them.
Consistency played a vital role in my journey. I established daily habits that nurtured my physical and mental well-being. I prioritized self-care, taking care of my skin, managing my asthma by playing sports, and after over 20 years of wearing my glasses/contacts I was able to get Lasik. I engaged in activities that brought me joy and boosted my self-esteem. Further pursuing my passions and connecting with supportive communities.
Through my unwavering commitment to personal growth, I transformed my pain into purpose. I took a leap of faith and embarked on the entrepreneurial path. Starting my own business allowed me to combine my unique experiences, passions, and help bring out the best in others. I created a platform that celebrates others uniqueness, promotes self-acceptance, and empowers others who have faced similar challenges.
My journey has not been easy, but it has shaped me into the resilient, compassionate, and successful woman I am today. I want to inspire others, especially young girls who may be facing similar obstacles, to believe in themselves and embrace their own journey of healing and success. Together, we can overcome anything that stands in our way and create a brighter, more inclusive future.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
What’s up good people! I’m Rayvon (Raven), the proud founder of Rayvon Creates LLC, a photography and makeup business established back in April 2014, right in the heart of my senior year in college. Being a black woman, this venture was born out of a deep passion to showcase positive images of people who look like me, while simultaneously empowering individuals through my unique creativity.
As a graphic design student I realized the immense impact that visual representation can have on people’s lives. I wanted to challenge the existing narratives and stereotypes, and instead, capture the beauty, strength, and diversity within my community. Through the lens of my camera and the skillful strokes of my makeup brush, I strive to highlight the unique qualities that make each person shine.
In my journey through entrepreneurship I believe in the power of representation and the ability to inspire others. By creating stunning visuals and enhancing natural beauty, I aim to empower individuals to embrace their authentic selves, regardless of societal expectations.
With each click of my shutter and every stroke of makeup, I am dedicated to bringing joy, confidence, and a sense of empowerment to all those who trust me with their image.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
In my journey I understood the importance of developing and improving key qualities like discernment, adaptability, and consistency. Here’s some advice to help you nurture these qualities within yourself:
Discernment: Train yourself to see beyond the surface. Cultivate a deep understanding of your goals, values, and the direction you want to take. Learn to listen to your intuition and make thoughtful decisions based on what aligns with your vision. Seek out mentors and surround yourself with people who will provide valuable guidance and insights. Continuously evaluate and reflect on your choices to refine your discernment over time.
Adaptability: Embrace change and view challenges as opportunities for growth. Be open to new ideas, perspectives, and experiences. Develop a mindset that thrives in uncertainty and sees setbacks as valuable lessons. Cultivate resilience and learn to pivot when necessary. Build a strong network of support that can provide guidance and help you navigate through different situations. Remember that adaptability is a skill that can be honed through practice and exposure to diverse situations.
Consistency: Establish clear goals and create a roadmap to achieve them. Develop routines and habits that support your progress. Stay committed to your vision, even during times when motivation wanes. Break down your goals into smaller, manageable tasks, and consistently work towards them. Celebrate small wins along the way to stay motivated. Surround yourself with accountability partners or mentors who can provide support and keep you on track. Remember that consistent action over time is key to achieving long-term success.
In your journey, embrace the process of growth, be open to learning, and stay focused on your path. With time and effort, discernment, adaptability, and consistency will become second nature, propelling you towards your goals.
What is the number one obstacle or challenge you are currently facing and what are you doing to try to resolve or overcome this challenge?
Currently, my biggest obstacle is learning how to navigate and establish meaningful connections with other business owners. This challenge has been magnified by a deeply painful experience of being scammed by someone I once trusted. Unfortunately, resolving this situation and moving forward has proven to be difficult. In the current economic climate, it feels like many people’s true colors are being revealed, making it even more challenging to trust and build relationships.
Despite these setbacks, I remain hopeful and rely on daily prayers for guidance. My ultimate goal is to find my tribe, a group of like-minded individuals with whom I can genuinely connect, support, and grow together. I am actively seeking ways to rebuild trust and establish new connections. I am cautious but open, willing to give others a chance while also being discerning. I understand that not everyone is the same, and it is essential to find individuals whose values align with mine. Through patience, perseverance, and a commitment to self-growth, I am determined to build a community where I can flourish and showcase my true potential.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.rayvoncreates.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rayvoncreates/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therayvoncreates/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rayvoncreates/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@rayvoncreates
Image Credits
Rayvon Creates, LLC
