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

Hi Michelle, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Creativity comes naturally to me. I’ve always been the girl who can see beyond what others see. It’s no wonder why I proudly wear the title, Creative. It’s impossible to overlook or omit “The” Creator who makes it all possible. An integral part of creativity is the usage of imagination. We are all uniquely blessed with a blank canvas. I’m using my canvas to elevate, educate and motivate women to live OUT LOUD, courageously own and master her dreams while using her creative gifting to ignite other women. I curate events, discussions and conferences that provide a place for creativity, growth and fun. I’m not sure if I pursued a creative career or if I simply accepted it. Like a comfortable pair of well-worn leather shoes, it fits. I don’t wanna open doors for other women, I wanna take off the hinges.

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?
What a great question! I used to shy away from listing my “jobs”. I’m reminded of a comedy sketch (Hey Mon) from one of my favorite TV shows, “In Living Color”. The actor claimed to have NINE jobs (hahahaha). I’ve got 3 or 4. I’m the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of She Is Magazine. I am so proud of this. She Is Magazine was created to highlight women of color. I love celebrating women and providing a platform to share their stories. I’ve always loved journalism and writing. This magazine is a dream come true — well at least until I’m on TV. I believe my journey began when I was just a girl. I always loved teaching, connecting and encouraging people. My life has been filled with challenges. My biggest challenge was navigating high school as a teen mom. I did that! I believed if I could do that I could do ANYTHING! I’ve got an honorary PhD in “push through”. I always knew that I was more than my situation. I could see clear past my present and yearn for my future. I was created to show other women what’s possible. Along the way I’ve learned that God has provided every single thing I need in order to succeed.

She Is International exists to unite women while building platforms to expose their creativity, talent and brilliance. She Is Magazine is a division of the brand. The monthly online magazine offers subject matter relevant to women’s issues and interests. I want to use my voice, my brand and my influence to help a woman see “what’s possible”. There’s a seed of greatness inside every woman. Our responsibility is to find a woman and water her! Together we’re better.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m certainly the “hostess with the mostest”! Our trip will be filled with great food, live music, fun and some outdoor dining. I love live music so we’ll visit El Camino and St. Elsewhere for an evening of music, chair dancing (it’s just that–dancing in your chair) and an endless choice of food trucks. Our attractions will include the usual; River Walk, The Alamo and The Tower of Americas. One of my favorite escape spots is The Japanese Tea Garden. It’s such a gem. Although nestled right in the heart of the city; it looks and feels like a place out of a travel magazine. One of our outings would include a trip to Little Woodrows. I love the outdoor seating area. Hopefully my BFF is visiting when it’s cold because they have over-sized Adirondack chairs and fire pits. We could sit and talk for hours! Oh, and they have the best burger buns. Our trip would end with a trip to the winery. How can you go wrong with Karaoke, great appetizers and wine?

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to give a shoutout to a few people. My mom who is the epitome of a lady adorned with grace and strength. My dad who kept me abreast of current affairs, politics, colloquialisms and “free game”. My husband who accepts the different versions of me and chooses to love me daily. My favorite daughter, Brittany Bosco who models BOSS energy, Black girl magic and 5-Star vibes. I’m forever your plus one. My BFF, Brenda L. Jackson-Brown who supports me in word and deed. My accountability partner and purpose pusher, Shaniequa Washington who gets me. My list is definitely longer and I certainly hope that they know what they mean to me.

Website: https://michellerouche.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellerouche/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rouche-44b46021a/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/michellerouche

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michelle.rouche

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/TheMichellerouche

Image Credits
Celeste King

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