The Power of Resilience From Vickie Joseph: Thriving as an African Diaspora Entrepreneur
As an African diaspora entrepreneur, always remember that you carry a unique blend of culture, ambition, and a wealth of experience. Those are only part of the incredible attributes the African diaspora entrepreneurs bring to the global business landscape. From Paris to Rome, London, and New York to Montreal, the spirit of African diaspora entrepreneurs has continuously been felt. But, like any other entrepreneur, your journey will not be without trials and tribulations. You must be aware of that.
Want to learn more about storytelling? Start by downloading the first chapter of The Storytelling Series for Small Businesses.
This morning, I came across an interesting article on CBC (Canadian Broadcasting Corporation) and I just couldn’t pass by without taking the time to share it with you, hoping that you can learn something from it. The story is about Vickie Joseph, a Montreal fashion designer, and the founder of her own makeup brand. You can check out her website, Vickiejoseph.com if you want to learn more about her works. Now, the story of Vickie Joseph.
Turning her job loss into a business opportunity
The article, written by Holly Cabrera is titled, “This self-made CEO has helped launch hundreds of other Black entrepreneurs on their path to success”. The story highlights the journey of Vickie Joseph, an African diaspora entrepreneur, and her resilience in the face of challenges.
In the early 2000s, she faced discrimination and job loss when she announced her pregnancy. However, her husband encouraged her to turn this obstacle into an opportunity. She launched her own clothing line, Nu.I. by Vickie, and co-founded V-Kosmetik International, a makeup company focusing on underrepresented skin tones and conditions.
In 2012, Vickie and her husband founded Groupe 3737, a non-profit business incubator that has provided coaching and support to over 1,000 business owners of African diaspora entrepreneurs. She emphasizes the importance of creating space and voices for African diaspora businesses and encourages buyers to support them.
The article also highlights Vickie’s role as a mentor and role model for other female entrepreneurs of African descent, helping them to demystify business administration and providing guidance. She believes in elevating and supporting other women and emphasizing the need for proper resources to empower female entrepreneurs, particularly women of African descent, across different industries.
The key message here is that resilience in business for an African diaspora involves turning obstacles into opportunities and supporting, and elevating fellow entrepreneurs of African descent. It equally means advocating for resources and representation to ensure sustained success and cultural preservation. This is an argument we are particularly vocal about, whether in AClasses, in our weekly audio LinkedIn events on storytelling, or in Obehi Podcast interviews.
If you read the full article, you will agree with me that Vickie Joseph’s story truly serves as an inspiring example of how to navigate and thrive in the face of adversity. Perhaps, you might be wondering about how to strengthen your resilience as an African diaspora entrepreneur. If that is the case, consider the following five recommendations. And please, pay attention to every single one of them.
Five ways to strengthen your resilience as an African diaspora entrepreneur
Strengthening resilience as an African diaspora entrepreneur can be a powerful asset in navigating challenges and building a successful business. Here are five effective ways to go about it:
1. Cultivate a Growth Mindset:
Embrace a growth mindset, which involves seeing challenges and setbacks as opportunities for learning and growth. Understand that failure is a natural part of the entrepreneurial journey and does not define your worth or potential. Approach obstacles with curiosity, a willingness to adapt, and the belief that you can improve and overcome challenges.
2. Build a Support Network:
Surround yourself with a supportive community of mentors, peers, and advisors who understand your unique experiences and challenges as an African diaspora entrepreneur. These individuals can provide valuable guidance, share insights, and offer emotional support during tough times.
Seek out business organizations, networking events, and online communities that cater to your specific needs and interests.
3. Resilience Through Self-Care:
Taking care of your physical and mental well-being is crucial for resilience. As an entrepreneur, it’s easy to become consumed by work, but regular self-care practices can help you recharge and stay resilient. Prioritize exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and stress management techniques such as meditation or mindfulness.
Additionally, consider seeking therapy or counseling to address any emotional or mental health challenges that may arise.
4. Embrace Cultural Heritage:
Celebrate and leverage your cultural heritage as a source of inspiration and strength. Embracing your roots can provide a unique perspective and creativity that sets you apart in the business world. Use your cultural background to develop products, services, or narratives that resonate with a global audience, fostering a sense of connection and authenticity.
5. Continuous Learning and Adaptation:
Stay adaptable and open to change in the ever-evolving business landscape. Invest in your education and skills, keeping up with industry trends and emerging technologies. A commitment to lifelong learning ensures you can pivot when needed and remain relevant in your chosen field, making you more resilient in the face of economic and market shifts.
By embracing a growth mindset, cultivating a support network, and prioritizing self-care, you can strengthen your resilience. All these will help you as an African diaspora entrepreneur, to better cope with adversity, and continue to grow your business successfully, despite the challenges you may encounter.
Conclusion on the power of resilience
Always remember that as an African diaspora entrepreneur, resilience is not just a trait but a powerful tool in your business journey. Embracing a growth mindset, building a robust support network, and prioritizing self-care are the keys to unlocking your potential and overcoming the unique challenges you may face.
Don’t forget to take every setback as an opportunity for growth, and with the right mindset and support system, you can not only thrive but also inspire others to follow in your footsteps. That is the message to take away.
Want to learn more about storytelling? Start by downloading the first chapter of The Storytelling Series for Small Businesses.
