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

Hi Victoria, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
I wouldn’t naturally consider myself a big risk taker, but when I reflect on the risks I have taken – such as moving across the country a few times and leaving my full-time job to start a business – I suppose you could say I’m a calculated risk taker. When I decide to take risks, I’ve put tons of thought into the risk vs. the reward. In the end, what drives me to take a risk is the understanding that the only way for me to change my current circumstance is to take a leap of faith – whether it be drastic or minimal. Taking risks requires me to trust that I will be able to handle whatever is thrown my way, and that I’d rather face a new challenge than continue on in my current state. Risk equals change. Change equals growth! Without the risks I’ve taken in my life, I wouldn’t be as cultured, wise, or confident as I am today.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I provide written content and creative consulting services for small businesses, creative entrepreneurs, and non-profits. My services are unique because I bring skills and strategies from both corporate and creative perspectives – the best of both worlds! I am most proud of the work I do to share Black stories in my writing, while helping new entrepreneurs reach their goals by removing any roadblocks standing in the way of their success.

It hasn’t been easy as an entrepreneur, since I never know what each month will bring. However, I keep an open mind, I trust in my skills, and I honor my values along the way. So far, this has kept me afloat. Many, if not all, of my clients today stem from referrals and prior relationships. Building trust and delivering great work has been the key to my business’ growth.

My biggest lesson on this journey has been to let go of what I feel like I should be doing, and accept and embrace what comes naturally to me. This has helped me become more productive, efficient, and clear about what services I truly enjoy offering. I want the world to know that my business is a manifestation of my God-given purpose. The work I do comes purely from my heart and soul, and I hope I can continue to reach and help many more small business owners along the way.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If I had a friend coming to visit, we’d wake up early and go for a quick hike on South Mountain before the day gets too hot. Then, we’d have smoothie bowls at Nektar, or a hearty brunch at Snooze. I’d take them for a quick shopping trip at the Phoenix Premium Outlets before devouring birria tacos at Unos Tacos (my favorite).

Another day, we’d get coffee and breakfast burritos at Cartel Coffee before exploring downtown Tempe and the ASU campus. I’d also take them to Changing Hands Bookstore to grab some new reads and stock up on incense and cute trinkets. Other than that, you’d probably find us chilling by the pool – as long as there’re no bees!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to shoutout my tribe for guiding me every step of the way. This includes my partner, Trey, for his unwavering support and encouragement, my mother for her daily emotional support, my father for helping me overcome fears, and the rest of my family for their advice, support, and resources.

I was inspired to become an entrepreneur by my former boss, friend, and mentor, Patrick Jenkins. His down-to-earth, humble spirit mixed with his passionate work ethic showed me that I, too, can make a living for myself if I work hard enough and stay true to my values.

Having this support system to nurture my growth has been an essential part of my success.

Website: www.veehelene.com

Instagram: @veehelene

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