Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Devisha Johnson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Devisha, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

What started as a mother’s mission to help her daughter feel confident in her own skin has turned into something so much greater. I created AutistRae in honor of my daughter Raelynn—my vibrant, fashion-loving little girl who just so happens to be autistic. Watching her light up when she dresses herself, chooses her favorite colors, and expresses her unique personality through fashion made me realize how many other kids like her are out there—kids who deserve to feel seen, comfortable, and celebrated. AutistRae was born to meet that need. It’s more than just a clothing line—it’s a movement rooted in love, inclusion, and purpose. I’m working hard to create affordable, sensory-friendly clothing and, even more importantly, to build a community for families navigating similar journeys. That’s why I’m also planning our very first AutistRae Family Fun Day—a day filled with joy, support, and connection for special needs children and their families. This journey is personal, powerful, and just getting started, and I’m so excited to finally bring this vision to life and share it with the world.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Hi, I’m Devisha Johnson, but most people call me Coach Vee. I’m a full-time mother of five, a community leader, and the founder of two nonprofit organizations that I built from the heart: AutistRae and The Oasis Pinxx.

AutistRae was inspired by my daughter Raelynn. She’s autistic, bold, confident, and loves fashion. She enjoys standing out and expressing herself through her clothes—but finding fun, stylish, and sensory-friendly outfits in stores was almost impossible. That’s what led me to start AutistRae. I wanted to create clothing that kids like Raelynn—and many others—could feel proud and comfortable in. Clothing that helps them shine without breaking the bank. But AutistRae is more than just clothes. It’s a nonprofit that builds community, offers support, and shows families with special needs that they are never alone.

The Oasis Pinxx, my other nonprofit, is a youth dance and empowerment organization for girls ages 6 to 16. I’ve loved dance since I was three years old. When I was growing up, we didn’t have dance teams—only cheer squads. I always dreamed of starting a team of my own, and now that dream has become a powerful movement. I love choreographing routines and watching them come to life. It makes me feel complete—it’s truly my passion.

I started The Oasis Pinxx to give girls an opportunity—even those who may not make traditional tryouts or who just need a little more time and attention. We don’t believe in turning anyone away. We train, encourage, and develop dancers into the young women they dream of becoming. We also focus on academics, offering tutoring and life skills workshops to help our girls grow in every area. We believe in them—and I personally believe in each and every one of them. This is more than a team. We’re a sisterhood, we’re besties, and most of all—we’re family.

What sets me apart is how personal this all is. I’m a full-time mom—morning to night—and my children are my world. They’re all in honors and extremely talented, and I’m so proud of them. Balancing motherhood, leadership, and community service isn’t always easy, but I’ve learned how to multitask and pour love into everything I do. I treat my Coach Babies like they’re my own, and I’m deeply committed to both of my organizations.

I want people to know that AutistRae and The Oasis Pinxx are rooted in real love, real life, and real impact. We are changing lives—one outfit, one dance, and one child at a time. And this is only the beginning.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

Yes, absolutely. My mission has always been about creating safe, uplifting spaces where children—especially those who are often overlooked—can thrive, shine, and feel seen. Whether it’s through fashion with AutistRae or empowerment through The Oasis Pinxx, my goal is to make sure every child knows they matter, that their differences are beautiful, and that they have a place where they belong.

AutistRae is about more than clothing—it’s about confidence. I want children with autism and special needs to feel stylish, comfortable, and proud of who they are. I also want to take the pressure off families by making these clothes affordable, accessible, and full of personality—just like our kids.

With The Oasis Pinxx, my mission is to mentor and mold the next generation of young girls—especially those who’ve been told they’re not “good enough.” I believe in giving chances, building character, and celebrating growth. We’re creating strong, smart, graceful young women who support one another like sisters.

At the heart of everything I do is love, purpose, and the belief that we are raising future leaders. My journey is driven by the desire to change lives—and I won’t stop until I do.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

Yes, definitely. I think one of the biggest things non-creatives may not fully understand is just how personal this journey is. When you’re a creative—especially one who builds from real-life experiences—it’s not just “work” or a “project.” It’s your heart, your story, your struggles, and your purpose poured into everything you do.

People often see the outcome—cute clothes, fun performances, happy moments—but they don’t always see the late nights, the emotional investment, or the pressure of wanting to get it just right because you know it really matters. I’m not just designing clothes or leading a dance team—I’m building hope for families like mine, creating chances for kids who are usually counted out, and trying to show the world that different doesn’t mean less than.

Being a creative means being vulnerable. It means pushing through doubt, lack of support, and even burnout—but still showing up, still dreaming, and still creating because you know someone out there needs what you’re building.

So if you’re not a creative, just know—we’re not just “making stuff.” We’re telling stories, healing through our work, and fighting to make a difference in a world that doesn’t always make space for us. And that’s a journey that deserves understanding and respect.

Contact Info:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Acyrw66AH/?mibextid=wwXIfr
• Other: https://www.facebook.com/share/1AkXCrwxQk/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Image Credits

Devisha Johnson
The Oasis Pinxx
Me and my daughter Raelynn
My daughters (Tranyha , Londynn, Raelynn , DeToria, and Wynter)