Meet Faustine McDonald | Entrepreneur/motivational speaker/mentor

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

Hi Faustine, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My decision to start my own business was driven by a deep sense of purpose and survival. Defying medical odds, I outlived a prognosis that predicted I wouldn’t see my twelfth birthday. This extraordinary journey instilled in me a powerful message: the resilience and strength that come from facing life’s toughest challenges. I realized my experiences, particularly living with sickle cell anemia, could inspire and empower others facing their own battles. Beyond this, the traditional 9-to-5 work model was impractical for me, given my frequent hospitalizations. Establishing my own business emerged not only as a viable option but as the most fitting path to take — it allowed me to share my story, inspire others, and create a life that accommodates my unique circumstances.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Balancing the dynamism of an entrepreneurial mindset with the realities of business is both exhilarating and challenging. It’s a journey marked by a stream of ideas, where prioritizing becomes key. As Faustine C. McDonald, I am proud to have broken barriers as the first African-American to own a store in downtown Sylva, North Carolina, establishing the first clothing brand from western North Carolina. This milestone was a beacon of black excellence in my community, a role I embraced with pride and responsibility.

My venture, Survivors Journey Clothing, transcends being just a Christian lifestyle brand; it’s a way of life. It acknowledges a higher power and our part in representing positivity to the world. The brand’s success stems from staying authentic and resonating with what it means to others.

In addition to Survivors Journey, I founded A.C.E. Inc (Aspire, Create, Elevate) This enterprise is built on the principles of aspiring high, creating with purpose, and elevating beyond limits. It’s a platform for nurturing future entrepreneurs and community activists, providing mentorship and more. Each project here follows the three-pillar stages: Aspire, Create, and Elevate, ensuring a blend of profitability and purposeful impact.

Then there’s Soul Destiny Design, a venture that epitomizes innovative thinking in property management. Specializing in designing and managing tiny homes, it reflects a unique blend of creativity and practicality, adding diversity to my entrepreneurial portfolio. This endeavor, like my others, is a reflection of out-of-the-box thinking, turning unique concepts into sustainable businesses.

Navigating these diverse businesses hasn’t been easy. The challenges have been as varied as the ventures themselves – from addressing representation gaps in my community to balancing creativity with business strategy. The key lessons? Stay true to your vision, embrace your identity, and understand the transformative power of a positive message. My story, through these brands, is a testament to faith, perseverance, and the impact we can have – a message I wish to share with the world.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting the Raleigh area, I’d craft an itinerary filled with the best local experiences. We’d start our mornings at the Ugly Mug Cafe, a charming spot ideal for breakfast and brunch. Their cozy atmosphere and delicious meals provide the perfect setting for catching up over great coffee.

For dinner, Logan’s in Garner, NC, would be our go-to. This restaurant is a culinary gem, known for its delightful ambiance and delicious dishes, ranging from their famous rolls to succulent chicken tenders and steaks.

Our days would also include visits to historic downtown Garner, offering a mix of relaxation and cultural exploration. We’d take leisurely strolls, admiring the vibrant murals on the building sides that add character to the streets. But the highlight would be spending time at the local park. It’s not just an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors; it’s a place where my son Victor can play and have fun. Watching him enjoy the playground and engage with the environment would add a joyful and personal touch to our visit.

This itinerary offers a blend of culinary delights, cultural exploration, and family-friendly activities. It encapsulates the essence of the Raleigh area, showcasing its charm and warmth, making it a memorable experience for my best friend and my family.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I wholeheartedly dedicate my shoutout to my unwavering partner, Joe Crimmins, my confidant Sammy Crawford, and God, who is the cornerstone of my life. Joe has been a constant presence during my most challenging moments. Our countless late-night discussions, often during my bouts of intense pain from sickle cell anemia, have been pivotal. He has witnessed me channeling my pain into brainstorming and innovation, a testament to his strength and support. Sammy, on the other hand, has been my sounding board for the myriad of ideas I conceive. She has the unique ability to discern between what’s merely ‘crazy’ and what’s ‘Faustine crazy’ – the kind of innovative and out-of-the-box thinking that turns the impossible into reality. And above all, my faith in God anchors me. I bring all my ideas and challenges to Him in prayer, and His guidance has been my guiding light. Their collective support, love, and belief in me are integral to my journey and deserve immense credit and recognition.

Website: Www.caseyparadisetinyhome.staydirectly.com

Instagram: @survivorsjourneyclothing

Facebook: www.facebook.com/survivorsjourneyclothing

Other: Soul Destiny Design – www.souldestinydesign.com Sickle Cell Goddess – www.sicklecellgoddess.com