2021 muses to follow: Tiona Deniece

Please introduce yourself and your business to our community.

Hi, I’m Tiona Deniece. I’m a singer-songwriter, content creator, and sneaker aficionado. I also have a merch line called, “She Likes to Kick it” I’ve been singing ever since I could remember and I’ve been in love with sneakers ever since I was 13. 

At what point in your life did you realize your passion?

When I was 14 my mom put me in a summer music theatre program. In that program we did a production of “Big River” and I had one of the biggest signing roles in the play. After I got on stage every night and sang my heart out, I knew that I wanted to be a singer and perform on stages for the rest of my life. 

What did you learn about yourself in 2020?

2020 tested my faith and I learned about how strong my faith really was. I also learned the power of speaking things into existence. 

What do you attribute to your success in life and business?

My success comes from God. But I also allow myself to fail. I have failed so many times throughout my journey and I’m okay with that because through each failure I learn something either about myself or about life in general. 

It is important for us to nurture a community of black women that share, learn, and thrive together. Please share a story of failure that taught you a valuable lesson.

When I first moved to Atlanta, I had big dreams. I quit my job, took out all my savings, packed up my car, and hit the road to move to Atlanta. I listened to some people in my circle and I decided to open a business. I used most of my savings and did not do the research. When it was time to pay the bills there was no one there to help me so I kept losing money. When we had to close the business I was left with nothing. From that experience, I learned that you should always do your homework for YOURSELF. Always make sure you know all the details and don’t just jump into a situation feet first. 

Please let us know the woman you were 5 years ago and who you’re becoming?

5 years ago I wanted to have control of everything and I also worried about everything. I wanted to be on the go and I didn’t like to be by myself. Nowadays, I’m learning how to be more comfortable in my space and I actually enjoy being at home with my own company. Most importantly I’m learning to only worry about the things I can directly control and to worry about my own energy. 

What women in your life have been a source of inspiration?

I would say, my Grandmother. She is an amazing woman and she has always been a pillar of the community. I am also inspired by so many other women, who go out everyday and make it happen. 

Celebrate your wins! Brag, sis. What are you most proud of?

I purchased my first home in April 2020. I’m so proud of myself for setting the goal and making it happen for myself. In addition to buying my place, I also created a Sneaker Room and I love it so much! 🙂 

Quoting Audre Lorde, “Caring for myself is not self-indulgence. It is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.” Please share your self-care routine. 

I listen to my body. If I’m tired I make sure to rest, and I believe you have to rest in order to give your body a chance to recharge and nbe sharp. I also try to do things that take my mind off of stress, for me that’s going window shopping.  Walking gives me a chance to reset and clear my mind. The goal isn’t to buy anything, it is to focus on nothing and let that clear my mind. 

You are part of our melanin muse tribe. How can we help you on your journey?

Support doesn’t always mean buy something ( but you would like to own some of my merch please feel free).  I would love for my new tribe to follow my journey and offer encouragement along the way! 

Provide links to your website and social

www.tionadeniece.com

@tiona_deniece

Written By

melanin muse

We’ve created safe spaces for Black women to gather, inspire, work, celebrate, and educate one another. We believe in the genius and magic in every Black woman! Our vision is a world where all Black women are safe, free, and own their narratives.