Meet Joselyn Davis

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

Hi Joselyn, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Starting my business as a personal trainer and mental health advocate was driven by a deep passion for helping others achieve holistic health. My thought process was broken down into six key steps:

Identify the Need: I saw a gap in the fitness industry where mental health was often overlooked. Many people are struggling not just with physical fitness but also with their mental and emotional well-being.

Passion and Purpose: I have always been passionate about fitness, fashion, and mental health. Combining these three areas felt like a natural fit and a way to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives. They say, when you look good, you feel good, and I stand behind that concept.

Education and Expertise: In order to be successful in building relationships and educating the community, I ensure that the necessary qualifications, both in personal training and mental health are acquired and maintained, to provide comprehensive and credible guidance. I am currently in the process of being re-certified for personal training with NASM. In addition, I have an extensive background in mental/behavioral health counseling.

Creating a Unique Approach: My goal is to integrate physical fitness with mental health practices, offering a unique, holistic approach that addresses the mind, body, and spirit. During the development stages of my segment “Mic’d with Muva: Men are Muses too”, it started off as “just an idea” to honor a close relative who died by suicide. The biggest dilemma I had was figuring out how to present such a taboo topic, to the black community, that will not only keep people engaged but excited to learn more about mental and physical health, while exploring the importance of safe spaces.

Building a Supportive Community: I wanted to create a supportive environment where clients feel understood and motivated, fostering a sense of community and belonging, a safe space. Especially for the mothers and black men in the community.

And lastly, Personal Fulfillment: Ultimately, helping others achieve their best selves brings me immense personal fulfillment and drives my dedication to this lifestyle.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As a dedicated mental health and homeless advocate, I have devoted my career to making a difference in the lives of vulnerable populations. With a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Criminal Justice, focusing on juvenile delinquency and child protection, I began my journey working with at-risk youth. Over time, the demographic shifted to adult populations due to my pregnancy and the physical demands of working with adolescents.

Throughout my career, I have learned that two things can be true: everyone deserves a second chance, and many people remain stuck in the environments they know. These lessons have shaped my approach and reinforced my commitment to providing compassionate, effective support to those in need.

My greatest satisfaction comes from seeing my clients benefit from my hard work and advocacy. Whether helping someone find stable housing or supporting their mental health journey, witnessing their progress and success motivates me every day. My work is not just a job; it’s a calling to make a tangible, positive impact on the lives of those I serve.

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.
When it comes to favorite spots in the city, I don’t have any designated places. For me, it’s all about energy and good vibes. As long as the music is good, the food is delicious, and the outdoor activities are fun, I’m happy and so is everyone else. Depending on the season, some cool things my best friend and I would usually enjoy is thrifting, food tasting, and all places that allow us to create some form of art or friendly competition.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude and appreciation for my personal trainer, Tay (@savagelifetraining_). During the most challenging years of my life—navigating postpartum depression, post-grad depression, and the ups and downs of family and relationship drama—he was a constant source of support and strength.

From the very beginning, he created a safe space where I felt understood and valued. His ability to listen without judgment, offering an ear, a story, and a lesson whenever I needed it, is nothing short of remarkable. His encouragement has been a beacon of light in times when I felt lost and overwhelmed.

In moments when I doubted myself, he believed in me. When I felt like giving up, his words of encouragement kept me going. Tay’s dedication to my well-being, both physical and mental, has had a profound impact on my life.

I am thankful to have gotten more than just a trainer. I now have a mentor, a confidant, and a true friend. Tay’s support has helped me navigate some of the toughest times, and I am forever grateful for his presence in my life. His compassion and unwavering support have shown me the true meaning of resilience and strength.

Instagram: @ayomuva and @museofmuva

Image Credits
Katrell Wilson (@__heyseuss)