Meet LTomay Varlack-Butler | Chief Transformer & Restorative Equity Educator

We had the good fortune of connecting with LTomay Varlack-Butler and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi LTomay, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My journey to founding Brand Me Beautiful was not just about creating a business; it was about transforming my life and affirming my worth. This venture was birthed from each small win I achieved during my profound mental and spiritual healing process. After enduring childhood trauma, domestic violence, sexual assault, and an attempted suicide, I reached a point where I felt like a poster child for pain, unworthy of living because of the unrelenting hardships I faced. My reactions and coping mechanisms were far from what I desired—they were often messy and painful- outright ugly.

However, as I started to come up for air, to breathe beyond the suffocation of life’s trials, I began to truly embrace who I was and reconsider my relationship with God, which had been strained and marked by deep anger and unanswered questions. During this tumultuous period, a passage from Ecclesiastes resonated deeply with me: ‘He will make all things beautiful in its time.’ This scripture became a cornerstone of my recovery and redefinition.

My initial steps towards healing involved blogging on WordPress, where I shared my journey and connected with others. But it was through prayer and deep introspection that the concept of ‘Brand Me Beautiful’ came to me. I asked God to strip away the labels that life had imposed on me, and in that moment of clarity, I knew I had a new mission. I had to declare to God, the universe, and most importantly, to myself, that I was worthy and declared, Brand Me Beautiful—a life marked by beauty, resilience, and dignity.

Brand Me Beautiful was thus born out of a necessity to transform my pain into purpose, have a hard conversation with God, engage in courageous self talk and in 2018 I expanded that vision to help others see their worth through the lens of compassion and empowerment. It stands as a testament to the power of healing and the beauty of reinventing one’s life story.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As a consultant and the Director of Restorative Equity and Racial Justice at Worth Justice, Inc—where we affirm that humanity is worth fighting for—I am known as the Sage Waymaker. In this role, I extend my reach beyond my business, Brand Me Beautiful, driving initiatives that deeply engage with themes of equity, justice, and healing. My unique position allows me to integrate professional leadership development into every facet of my work, ensuring that education and transformation go hand in hand.

Acknowledging my dual experiences as both a survivor and a person who has caused harm, I anchor my work in the understanding that individual truths are often deeply tied to personal perspectives. This insight inspires me to create spaces where multiple truths can coexist, fostering the exploration and interrogation of these truths in ways that deepen understanding and empathy.

In my role, I focus on creating ‘sacred spaces’ where truth-telling and uncovering root stories pave a restorative pathway for liberation and deeper communal connections. These principles are also integral to my role as Chief Transformer at Brand Me Beautiful, where I guide women in reclaiming their sacred selves and narratives, empowering them through transformative healing, work-life balance, and expanding their wealth.

I take great pride in my journey from a high school dropout to a first-generation PhD candidate as a scholar survivor and grateful for being influenced as a teen by my sister, Anissa Norford to attend college. Now I’m fighting for humanity through transformative discourse aimed at healing hearts, mindsets, personal biases, intergenerational harm, and communities in conflict. I am especially proud of my academic roles as a previous visiting professor at Eastern Michigan University and an adjunct professor at Vermont Law School, where I bring the sacred principles of restorative justice, rooted in Indigenous culture, into educational settings. This work shapes future leaders who are equipped to foster cultures of courage, community building, and repair.

Each element of my work, from direct consulting to educational roles, is infused with a commitment to professional leadership development, reflection, equity, and access. My goal is to prepare individuals and organizations to lead with integrity, compassion, and love as an unwavering commitment to justice.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When my best friend visits or vice versa, I’m all about having a good time through a blend of nature, culture, and fantastic food, since reconnecting with these elements was crucial for me, especially after experiencing isolation during the initial months of the pandemic.

In Atlanta, we’d start by indulging in some culinary delights. We’d have lunch at True Kitchen to enjoy contemporary dishes with a twist and then head to Roc South Restaurant for a taste of exquisite Southern cuisine. Both places offer not just meals but experiences that are sure to impress. For a change of pace and a dose of history, I’d recommend a day trip to Alabama to visit the Equal Justice Initiative. It’s not just a place; it’s a profound experience that provides insight into the civil rights struggles and triumphs in America.

Back in New York, where I have deep roots, we’d explore diverse culinary spots. While the city holds layers of my personal history, including some challenging times, it also boasts vibrant culinary gems. We might end a day at City Island for a seafood feast or head to a local spot above 215th and White Plains Road for authentic Jamaican cuisine, immersing ourselves in the flavors that define the boroughs.

Since starting my PhD at the University of San Diego, I’ve fallen in love with casual yet iconic eateries. We’d definitely hit The Girl’s Deli for some hearty sandwiches, JVs Mexican Food for authentic Mexican bites, and Paradise Yogurt or Nothing Bundt Cakes for some delightful desserts. For relaxation, we’d just find a sunny spot to unwind and soak in the Californian vibes. Maybe even check out Bowlegged BBQ for some of the best barbecue around. Throughout the week, whether we’re exploring historical sites or savoring every bite, the focus will be on enjoying each moment and making memories in these spaces that have offered me solace and joy.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
In reflecting on the many hands that have held me up through my journey, I am profoundly grateful for the guidance and mentorship from both cherished individuals and God’s faithfulness.

Firstly, I must give a special shoutout to my husband, D’Ajani Varlack-Butler, my two adult children- Melvin Reddick, his wife, Astrid Reddick, and daughter Kitana Jervis who have been my rock and greatest supporters. My husband reintroduced me to my beautiful black self, helping me embrace and celebrate my identity with pride and joy. My children were the first ones to teach me how to really listen. Their love and belief in me have been unwavering and life inspiring.

I am immensely thankful for the wisdom imparted by my mother, Dorothy Douglas, her sister, Bishop Mamie Raji, Dr. Lessie Branch, Dr. Peter Vaughn, Dr. Robert Wright, Dr. Ball, and Dr. Maya Kalyanpur whose guidance has been pivotal in shaping my understanding and approach in my work. Their mentorship has enriched my perspective and fortified my commitment to service.

Apostle Ron Toliver, Rev. Dr. Mark Chapman and Bishop Brunson’s spiritual leadership has profoundly impacted my faith journey, providing me with strength and clarity in my mission. Their teachings continue to inspire and guide me in all aspects of my life.

Coach Christina Martin has been a beacon of motivation and insight, helping me to harness my potential and elevate my mindset. Her coaching has been transformative, pushing me to achieve greater heights and to remain steadfast in my goals.

My mindset coach, Anastasia Shkretova, and Darlene Mangane, Esq whose insights on healing, vulnerability, and courage have deeply influenced my approach, deserve a huge thank you. Additionally, Indigenous knowledge systems and research have helped me navigate challenges and lead with authenticity and integrity.

I also want to celebrate the ‘unseen sisters’ around the world, making profound impacts on humanity in quiet but powerful ways. Your work does not go unnoticed, and your efforts are the backbone of true societal change. You inspire us all.

In terms of literary influences, ‘All About Love’ by bell hooks and ‘Strength to Love’ by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., alongside the Holy Bible, have not only guided me spiritually but also deepened my appreciation for the power of love and faith in overcoming adversity.

Each of these mentors and texts has left an indelible mark on my life and career. They have not just taught me—they have transformed me. I am eternally grateful for their influence and for the lessons they have imparted, which continue to inspire and propel me forward.

Website: www.brandmebeautifulinc.com

Instagram: @brandmebeautifulinc

Linkedin: LTomay Varlack-Butler

Facebook: Brand Me Beautiful Inc

Other: www.worthjustice.org

Image Credits
Kimmie James iyqimages@gmail.com for photos with black jacket on and pink shirt; sitting in yellow floral dress- @KitCaptures on IG; group photo after a session, D’Ajani Varlack-Butler; photo sitting in a u-shaped setting, conference photographer at the National Catholic Conference on Restorative Justice; photo in red, event photographer-Amplify Voices speaker showcase. Pictures with the step n repeat and me in black shirt- Phillip Jackson.