Meet JUANITA, CEO/President of Personify Entertainment
Tell us a little bit about yourself and what you do professionally.
Hi, this is Juanita Johnson [aka JUANITA]. I am a singer, motivational speaker, entrepreneur, and activist. Also, I am the former co-founder of G&J Consulting Services, a successful creative services firm that provided copywriting, brand development, and marketing consulting to start ups, small businesses, and Fortune 500 companies. Currently, I am the CEO/President of Personify Entertainment (“PE”), a global entertainment company that provides creative event solutions.
What do you enjoy most about your profession and why did you choose it in the first place? What was the inspiration for your company/project?
Great question! I believe that my profession(s) chose me. I was an entertainer as a young child and performed my first professional gig at age 12. Early in my entertainment career, I started singing in church, school, and local talent shows. However, in addition to being an artist, I have dual art and business degrees in Human Services: Mental Health and Marketing, as well as a passion for business. As a result of my business acumen, I did not focus on performing or a recording until I completed school and other business ventures. I have had the wonderful opportunity to work in various aspects of entertainment, and other creative industries, so I was able to gain incredible insight on how to run a business and manage people, while working on my musical craft. I am so appreciative of my journey because it has made me very well-rounded and provided a diverse skill-set. Personify Entertainment is a representation of all my passions: entrepreneurism, entertainment, music, motivational speaking, humanitarianism, and activism.
Tell us about any new projects you have coming up (or recently completed).
I am working on new music to be released soon. I am constantly evolving, so I am excited to hear what I come up with. Also, I have some interviews, appearances, shows, special events, and speaking engagements on the schedule. I was recently highlighted on the The BOSS Network with my write-up feature, “Get In The Driver’s Seat!” that provided business tips and action plan for success. In addition, I have partnered with the human rights organization CARE to help fight global poverty. As part of the Music For Good campaign, proceeds from my song Better Dayz will be donated to CARE and I received the prestigious honor as “Spotlight Artist” for my sales and dedication to the movement.
What is a typical day like for you?
Oh my, very busy!!! I don’t even know where to begin. It starts early, as I run a business and have a great team of talented business professionals that I employ that keeps it running. Each day is unique with its set of opportunities and challenges. I travel a great deal, but I have been able to manage work-life-balance effectively. It is very important for me to stay connected to family, friends, extracurricular activities, and reinforce strong personal and business relationships.
Tell us about your community involvement – what you are passionate about outside of work and home and why/how you participate?
I am very passionate about making a positive impact and being productive through community involvement. I have been active with many organizations which include the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Susan G. Komen For The Cure and have raised money to fund education, research, and suicide prevention programs. I participate in walks, fundraisers, empowerment conferences, and outreach initiatives. I have been fortunate to achieve great things and I think it is important to pay it forward.
What is the biggest risk you ever took professionally and/or the biggest obstacle you have overcome?
The biggest risk and greatest achievement personally and professionally has been to believe in myself and honor my own principles. Though the road hasn’t been easy, it has been the most rewarding.
From where do you draw inspiration? Who have been your role models, mentors, etc.?
LIFE is my inspiration. Every day I strive to be my best self. It is never too late to learn new things. I appreciate my life lessons because I wouldn’t have become the person I am today without them. I believe everyone who comes into your life teaches you something—positive or negative—but provides an invaluable experience. I have had several mentors at various stages of my personal/professional development. In addition, I come from a very strong family foundation with great support.
What do you do to keep yourself sharp? What one thing have you done in the past year that has made a significant difference in your life/your business?
I am a person who consistently seeks out growth opportunities. I do not rest on my laurels or stay complacent, I keep moving forward. My flexibility and versatility in all areas of my life keeps me sharp and is key to my success. I am not afraid of change, I embrace it.
What one thing would you like to learn this year?
I am open to all possibilities. Sky is the limit.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? RETIRED!
What do you do for fun/relaxation/entertainment?
I am an avid traveler and enjoy international excursions. However, when I am not jet-setting, I simply like quiet time at home watching my favorite television shows, spending quality time with family and friends, or working out at the gym.
Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers?
I would like to encourage everyone to stay focused on your goals and follow your dreams. Let the challenges act as a guide to push you towards your success. Without them, you will not know what you are capable of achieving. You are powerful and no one can stop you, but you. Onward and upward!
What’s the best way for our readers to connect with you?
I look forward to hearing from you. I can be reached at JUANITAInc.biz .
