Meet Raven Tolbert | Dance Studio Owner

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

Hi Raven, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
The most important factor behind my success/the success of my brand is prayer and keeping God in the center of not only my life but also my business. There have been many times when I did not know how I would get things done or where I would get my personal and business necessities from and I have no doubt that it was God, who sustains and supplies all of my needs. Also just knowing that the entrepreneur career life was not a choice of my own, but the will of God for my life. Just knowing that I am doing what He has called me to do gives me that extra push and motivation to keep going because this is not just for me, but is about impacting those who come in contact with me personally or through my business.

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.
I am most proud of my students’ growth. I have had the pleasure of being able to teach and train students that have been with me for almost a full year now. Even the new students who recently joined are keeping up and blending in as if they have already been with me before. Because of that, I am super excited to see how far all of my students will be able to go in dance. I got to where I am today, professionally, by not stopping. In the past, I would start things and never finish them. Since opening my business, I know that I am doing this for more than just myself and I have students of all ages who are depending on me and that alone gives me the strength to keep going and exceed in all of my endeavors. No, this has not always been easy. There have been many challenges along the way, but I face those issues and do what is necessary to get through so that I can keep going. I overcame these challenges by accepting them for what they are and going into prayer about them. Because although I may not be able to change things, I know that with God, anything is possible. He always wants what is best for me, so I must always seek Him first. Some lessons that I have learned along the way are putting myself first. I have to remember that what I put in is what I get out. Whether that be physically, financially, or spiritually. Being an entrepreneur does not guarantee you a certain pay or benefits, so I have to work for not just what I need personally, but also for the effectiveness of my business. What I want the world to know about me, my brand, and my story is that it is all God. I give everything to Him and trust that He works everything out for my good.

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.
If my best friend was visiting the area I would definitely take her to downtown Opelika and downtown Auburn. It’s the closest to some good, fun locations. We would get food at the Sushi Boutique because we love a girl’s sushi date. For drinks, we would go to Resting Pulse Brewery. They have good drinks and even let you try samples before deciding which drink you want. There are great spots to visit as well, but I would have to choose Game Time Sports Bar and Grill. They have all the vibes. From food, drinks, and good music. It’s definitely a one stop for it all. Some of the most fun places to check out are Cyber Zone for laser tag and arcades and of course Toomer’s Corner for that fun, campus feel with everything right in walking distance.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First, I have to give all praises to God. Secondly, my family. Mom mother, Ruby Tolbert. Father, Calvin Tolbert. Sister, Zelenka Boyd. Auntie, Judy Slaughter. They are the core of my support system. Lastly, my friends who are also super supportive of everything I do. Collectively, they all always encourage me, give me words of wisdom, and pray with me and for me.

Instagram: www.instagram.com/raventiesha

Image Credits
Zelenka Boyd