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

Hi Daisyiona, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I knew how it felt to silently struggle with mental health issues but pretend that everything is okay. I also felt like as a woman who is a person of color there is still a negative connotation on mental health and wellness and I wanted to help debunk that notion from my community. With my business, I am able to teach women of color that they are not alone and also help them acknowledge their feelings.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I am an Author of the Self Love Journal titled, “Worthy I AM.” I am also the owner of a mental health and wellness platform where I provide mental health resources for overpopulated communities. I feel that what sets me apart is the love and desire I have to provide these resources to people who may not know about them otherwise. I got to where I am today by having an amazingly strong support system. One, in particular, being my older sister Chrysanthemum. She’s always been someone who has encouraged me and believed in me even when others may have given up on me. The hardest part was having enough confidence in myself to overcome and keep going even when I felt insecure. Some of the lessons that I learned included making sure you are surrounding yourself with the right types of people. People who support you, encourage you, and love you through your shortcomings but also encourage you no matter what. I want others to know that there is nothing wrong with asking for help with your mental health. Certain traumas and triggers can only be dealt with through therapy and that’s completely okay.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well, I’d have to say hopefully they are in town on the second Thursday of the month. That way they could go to The Outlet LA. Which is a live rooftop jazz event that is the must-go-to event. I would recommend The Funnel House at the Long Beach Pike. They create amazing dessert combos. I’d recommend Walk Good LA which is a yoga event that takes place every Sunday which is an inclusive space for men and women of color to practice yoga and wellness. I’d also recommend heading over to Doll Haus LA for a facial or other beauty treatment. For self-defense training with I’d recommend training with Lioness Tactics or one of our 3 ZR Martial Arts gyms. For a five-star catering experience I would recommend Live Masterful cuisine. Also, Mr. Fries Man is a great eatery for on the go.

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 wouldn’t be where I am today without the people who believed in me, inspired me, and pushed me even when I felt my dreams were out of reach. First, I have to thank God for allowing me to live out my dreams and for all of the things that I have. My sister Chrysanthemum, who allows me till this day to call her with my ideas and inventions, and instead of scolding me she finds a way to bring my dreams into reality. My parents who I wouldn’t be here without. My best friends always speak positivity and cheer me on. And for my teammates that encourage me both on and off the mat.

Website: www.worthyiamjournal.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/daisyiona

Facebook: www.facebook.com/daisyiona

Youtube: www.youtube.com/daisyiona

Image Credits
Odyssey Easley Photography

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