We caught up with the brilliant and insightful DeJhanie Brown a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

DeJhanie, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s kick things off with talking about how you serve the underserved, because in our view this is one of the most important things the small business community does for society – by serving those who the giant corporations ignore, small business helps create a more inclusive and just world for all of us.

As a creative, a female creative, a black female creative, I faced a significant challenge in pursuing my goals. Despite my talent and ambition, I met a severe obstacle in finding a co-working space where I felt comfortable and that provided an environment that inspired my creativity. Many co-working areas proved to be bland, lacking in intimacy, and dominated by men—the few available women-only spaces needed to be more inclusive, with women of color feeling left out.

I spent countless hours at Starbucks, at WeWorks, and Breather locations, and was not productive to say the least. At first I thought it was just me. I thought maybe it’s my mindset. Maybe I’m too much of a free-spirit and that’s why I’m not excelling. But then I met other creatives who felt the same way. Then I started researching women-based co-working spaces and I found one. I became really excited about and decided to ask a colleague who visited a few times how she liked it. She informed that although the aesthetic was beautiful, she often felt unwelcomed and uncomfortable as a women of color.

Because of this struggle, I addressed this issue by creating my own co-working space designed specifically for women, considering the needs of women of color and women in the creative industry. In my new space, I aimed to create an environment where women from all walks of life could collaborate, learn from each other, and achieve their goals.

DeJhanie, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’ve dedicated over 12 years of my life to the art of branding and marketing, and it’s been a journey of unwavering passion and commitment. In 2015, I took the leap to start my own branding agency. Over time, it has grown into a powerhouse, specializing in turning small businesses into profitable ventures, ready to conquer their target markets.

For me, success has always hinged on transparency and giving my all. Every project, every client, receives nothing short of my absolute best. I don’t shy away from the tough conversations – in fact, I thrive on them. I believe in pushing people to reach their full potential, both personally and in the realm of their brands.

Through extensive collaborations with clients and fellow creatives, I’ve come to realize the necessity for a haven of authenticity. This insight led to the creation of the “Girl Code Lounge,” a co-working space designed to foster a community where individuals can be wholly themselves, unburdened by expectations.

My advocacy for women’s empowerment goes beyond business. It’s a fervent belief in the potential of every woman to shatter ceilings and blaze new trails. My journey is a testament to the transformative power of authenticity, perseverance, and the unwavering belief in the potential of every brand and individual.

I’m not just a creative entrepreneur; I am a force of nature, leaving an indelible mark on the world of branding, marketing, and empowerment.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

I believe there are a few key factors that have contributed to building my reputation within the market. Firstly, transparency and a wholehearted commitment to each project have been crucial. Clients appreciate knowing that they’re getting my absolute best, and that level of trust is invaluable.

Additionally, my willingness to have the hard conversations that others might avoid has set me apart. This approach not only leads to more effective solutions but also demonstrates a dedication to pushing both individuals and brands to reach their full potential.

Moreover, the establishment of the “Girl Code Lounge” co-working space has created a tangible community around the values of authenticity and creativity. This venture has not only provided a unique space for collaboration but also resonated with a wider audience, bolstering my reputation as a champion for empowerment and inclusivity.

Lastly, my longstanding commitment to women’s empowerment has garnered support and admiration from those who share this vision. This advocacy has extended beyond business, demonstrating a genuine belief in the potential of every woman to break barriers and achieve greatness.

In essence, it’s been a combination of dedication, transparency, a willingness to confront challenges head-on, and a deep commitment to empowerment that has solidified my reputation within the market.

Have you ever had to pivot?

Absolutely, there was a significant moment in my journey that required a substantial pivot. It all started with a dream, a business name that held so much promise, yet its potential was still a mystery to me. At that point, I had no inkling of what it could become.

After years of diligently saving profits from my thriving branding agency, I unexpectedly stumbled upon a location that seemed too good to pass up. The price was so compelling that I couldn’t resist leasing it. This decision marked a monumental pivot, both in my personal and professional life.

As a creative at heart, the concept of providing a safe haven was crystal clear to me. However, delving into the realm of owning a commercial space was uncharted territory. It was a leap of faith, driven by a deep belief in the vision and the potential impact it could have on a community of like-minded individuals.

Since then, it’s been a continuous journey of learning, growing, and adapting. Every day brings new insights, challenges, and opportunities. I’ve embraced critiques with open arms, understanding that they are invaluable stepping stones towards improvement. Each piece of feedback serves as a catalyst for change, propelling me forward in this venture I never could have anticipated.

This pivot has not only expanded my horizons as an entrepreneur but has also enriched my understanding of the diverse facets of business ownership. It’s a testament to the power of taking risks and being open to continuous learning, even in realms where you may feel like a novice. The journey is still unfolding, but I’m excited to see how this pivot will shape the future of my business and the lives it touches.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.girlcodelounge.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/girlcodelounge
• Facebook: DejhanieB
• Linkedin: Dejhanie Brown
• Other: TikTok @girlcodelounge

Image Credits
Pictures of Space – credit @rawmusemag Michael Vining Pictures of Me – Tatyanna Chamere @tatyannachamere