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

Hi Yolanda, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I am from Tuskegee and Tuscaloosa Alabama. Daughter of a preacher and with that came the reputation and stigma. I grew up with all eyes on me, especially with me being the oldest I had a lot of pressure on me on how I was supposed to be according to those that were looking. I grew up sheltered and curious. I did alot of things that I carry shame for just to fit in. Alot of those things included experimenting with drugs, being sexually active in shameful ways, and living a criminal lifestyle. All which led me to leaving home and living life in a destructive manner. While growing up people always saw more in me than I saw in myself. They saw my potential when all saw was my failures and low self worth. Ended up in prison with 6 years to serve. While in prison I was able to pause my life and truly look at me. I found my potential and was release with a total different mindset. I was determined to succeed in EVERYTHING I put my mind too. I hit the ground running. Not only to make my parents proud but to make myself proud.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
She Do Graphics started in 2005 under the table as a side hustle. My first job when released from prison was at FastSigns and it was there that I learned my craft of sign making. While in prison I took a class and earned a certificate in Graphic Design and Visual Communication which made the creative side come to life while at FastSigns. Because of who I am naturally my care and concern for customers became my priority. One thing I have learned is its more about the relationship with the customer than the profit of the project. Alot of clients at the store returned becasue of my customer service. I in return use that in my own business and it has been what helped my company grow when I was not marketing my business.

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?
Here in Atlanta there is definitely alot to do. Becasue I believe in self care and and nature I would take them to places like the Zen Bar in the Westend, Little 5pts, The Gathering Spot, The Apache Cafe for a poetry night and Vickery Creek trail for the waterfall.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First I want to recognize GOD because if it want for him nothing would be possible. The following have impacted my life but not in a specific order: My life partner, Daria Lewis, who love, motivates, inspire and pushes me to not only chase my goal put to go get them. She stands with me thruogh out my growth process of being a better me. Girl Trek added to my life in so many ways and it all started from walking 30 minutes a day. Girl trek fed me spritually mentally and physically, I built relationships with women that have made my foundation solid as I grow. My life mentor, Linda Danavall, who gives me the best suggestions and is my human diary where things I tell her are safe. I listen to affirmation artist such as Zii & Toni Jones.
I am always learning and listening to podcast that teaches and help me live my life to the fullest such as 19 Keys, WallStreet trapper, EYL.
I stay learning.

 

Website: www.shedographics.com

Instagram: @she_so_graphics_llc and @I_am_the_evidence

Linkedin: SheDoGraphics Williams

Twitter: shedographics

Facebook: Yolanda Williams

Youtube: SheDoGraphics

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