Meet Deja Johnson | Author & CEO

We had the good fortune of connecting with Deja Johnson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Deja, the decisions we make often shape our story in profound ways. What was one of the most difficult decisions you’ve had to make?
One of the most difficult decisions I’ve ever had to make was determining whether to continue pursuing a path that I was deeply passionate about, even when it seemed like I was losing faith and the avenue I was on wasn’t yielding the results I hoped for. This crossroads required me to evaluate if I should keep pushing forward despite the setbacks or pivot and explore a new direction. Balancing my aspirations with the practicalities and challenges of the situation made it an incredibly tough decision.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As an author, my journey has been one of profound self-discovery and unwavering determination. Writing has always been a way for me to explore the depths of the human experience, to uncover the hidden layers of our emotions, and to connect with others on a deeply personal level. My debut book, “An Orphan’s Mind,” is a reflection of this journey, encapsulating the themes of faith, identity, and the transformative power of self-discovery.

What sets me apart as an author is my ability to weave personal experiences and universal truths into compelling narratives. My writing is marked by a deep introspection and a commitment to authenticity, qualities that resonate with readers who are on their own paths of self-discovery. I strive to create stories that not only entertain but also inspire and provoke thought, encouraging readers to look within themselves and find their own strength and purpose.

Getting to where I am today as an author was not a straightforward path. It was filled with challenges, moments of doubt, and the constant struggle to balance my creative aspirations with the practicalities of life. However, it was in these very challenges that I found my voice and my resilience. I learned that the road to success is often winding and unpredictable, but it is also incredibly rewarding when you stay true to your vision.

The support of my family and friends has been invaluable on this journey. Their encouragement and belief in my dreams have been a constant source of strength, pushing me to keep writing even when the road seemed tough. Through their support, I have learned the importance of a strong support system and the power of community in achieving one’s goals.

The lessons I’ve learned along the way are many, but perhaps the most important is the value of perseverance. There will always be obstacles, but each one is an opportunity to grow and become better. I’ve also learned that vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness. Sharing my own struggles and triumphs through my writing has allowed me to connect with readers in a meaningful way.

Ultimately, what I want the world to know about me as an author is that my work is a testament to the power of faith and self-discovery. I am passionate about telling stories that inspire and uplift, encouraging readers to re that the blessing is in becoming who they were created to be.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were coming to LA for a week, I’d plan an incredible adventure that truly captures the city’s spirit. We’d start with a fun night at Cinepolis in Inglewood, where we can chow down on great food while catching a blockbuster movie. It’s the perfect mix of dining and entertainment to kick off our LA experience.

The next day, after a leisurely brunch, we’d head over to Pips on La Brea for a cozy jazz night. We’d groove to the music and enjoy some tasty bites in the heart of LA’s vibrant music scene.

Of course, we’d have to hit up the Laugh Factory for a night of belly laughs and comedy gold. It’s always a blast, and we’d leave with our sides hurting from laughter.

One of the highlights would be our day trip to Malibu. Picture this: lounging on the beach in the morning, soaking in the sun and surf. Another option; we’d explore the scenic hiking trails or tackle the Culver City stairs for those killer views of the city.

To get our cultural fix, we’d visit Hauser & Wirth art gallery, checking out the latest exhibitions and getting inspired by the diverse artworks.

And being in LA without catching a game? Unthinkable! We’d grab tickets to see the Lakers, Rams, or Dodgers in action, depending on the season. There’s nothing like the energy of a live game to amp up the LA experience.

Throughout the week, we’d dive into LA’s food scene, from trendy spots to local gems, savoring everything from street tacos to gourmet bites. It’d be a whirlwind of flavors and experiences that showcase why LA is such an amazing city to explore.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to my family and both my old and new friends who never discourage me from dreaming. Their unwavering support, encouragement, and belief in my vision have been instrumental in my journey. They deserve immense credit and recognition for always being there for me, inspiring me to keep pushing forward and pursue my dreams relentlessly.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dejareginej/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dejarjohnson/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deja.johnson.7311

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@dejareginej

Other: Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CLJ1WMYY

Image Credits
Frank Johnson | Capturing Beauty Photography