Meet Joslyn Portillo

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

Hi Joslyn, how does your business help the community?
As a Christian artist, I have a unique opportunity to make a difference in my community and the world by weaving messages of hope, faith, and love into my work. My music, versatile in style and expression, reflects both my past experiences and my current spiritual journey. Through my art, I aim to inspire and uplift those who encounter it, offering comfort and encouragement during challenging times. By exploring themes of morality and spirituality, I hope to foster reflection and meaningful dialogue, enriching cultural conversations and promoting a deeper understanding of Christian values. My work also serves as a catalyst for positive social change, drawing attention to important issues and encouraging compassionate action. Sharing my personal journey of faith through my music allows me to connect with others on a profound level, bridging divides and building a more empathetic and united community.

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 wasn’t raised in the church; my early life was marked by struggles and hardship. I was a fighter, finding myself in situations that could have led to incarceration or worse. Homelessness was a harsh reality for me at one point, and I bounced from house to house, juggling two, three jobs just to survive. I faced mistreatment and abuse, with little emotional support or connection. My past was also marred by addiction to smoking weed and involvement in witchcraft, and I was heavily immersed in secular music. However, my encounter with the Holy Spirit during a church service has led me to where I am today with an unforgettable testimony to share with the world.

Navigating life as a young woman in today’s world has been far from easy. At one point, money became an idol for me, and I found myself hustling in ways I wasn’t proud of, driven by a relentless desire to survive and succeed. The challenges were overwhelming, and I often felt lost and broken. It was through this struggle that I realized I couldn’t face it all on my own. I came to understand that I needed a deep, intimate relationship with God. In my search for meaning, I discovered that Jesus Christ is the savior of the world, who took away our sins and offered us the chance to be joined with Him in everlasting glory. This revelation has been transformative, guiding me from a place of hardship and confusion to a path of faith and redemption.

I want the world to know that my story is one of profound transformation. From struggling with homelessness, addiction, and a relentless pursuit of material success, I found true purpose through a deep relationship with God. Discovering Jesus Christ as my savior has transformed my life, guiding me from brokenness to hope. Redemption Music embodies this journey, sharing the message of Jesus through uplifting music that connects and inspires others. My story is a testament to the power of faith and the possibility of finding purpose and renewal, no matter where you start.

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 were visiting for a week, I’d make sure they had the best time ever with a mix of food, fun, and exploration! Here’s what I’d plan:

Day 1: Arrival & Local Flavors
Morning: I’d pick them up from the airport and take them to a cozy local café for brunch. We’d enjoy some artisanal pastries and great coffee to kick off the trip. While reading a quick devotional or having a in-depth Bible Study.

Afternoon: We’d explore a trendy neighborhood filled with unique shops and vibrant street art.

Evening: For dinner, I’d take them to a popular farm-to-table restaurant, then we’d unwind at a rooftop bar with amazing city views.

Day 2: Cultural Immersion
Morning: We’d dive into the local culture with a visit to a renowned museum or record store

Afternoon: A stroll through a historical district or an iconic landmark would be perfect for soaking up the city’s rich history.

Evening: We’d catch a live music performance or a theater show at a local venue to end the day with some entertainment.

Day 3: Adventure & Outdoors
Morning: I’d take them on a hike or to a nearby nature reserve for some outdoor fun.

Afternoon: After a morning of adventure, we’d relax with a picnic lunch or chill at a local park.

Evening: Dinner would be at a vibrant food market or street food festival, offering a taste of the city’s diverse culinary scene.

Day 4: Food & Drink Tour
Morning: We’d embark on a guided food tour to sample the city’s best eateries and hidden gems.

Afternoon: I’d take them to a local brewery or distillery for a fun tasting session.

Evening: We’d dine at an upscale restaurant known for its innovative cuisine.

Day 5: Offbeat Attractions
Morning: We’d explore quirky and offbeat attractions like a vintage arcade, a secret garden, or an karaoke bar.

Afternoon: A visit to a local market or artisan fair would be a great way to experience the city’s local flavor.
Evening: Dinner at a quirky, themed restaurant would add a fun twist to the evening.

Day 6: Beach or Lake Day (if applicable)
Morning: We’d spend the day at a nearby beach, lake, or river—soaking up the sun, swimming, and enjoying some water sports.

Afternoon: We’d grab a seafood lunch or fresh bites from a beachside café.

Evening: Choose to eat at my place or go anywhere she has in mind.

Day 7: Relax & Reflect
Morning: I’d treat them to a leisurely brunch at a charming café with outdoor seating.

Afternoon: We’d explore any remaining spots on our list or enjoy a relaxing spa day.

Evening: To wrap up the week, we’d have a farewell dinner at a restaurant with a view or a cozy, intimate setting, reflecting on our week of adventures.

This itinerary blends culture, adventure, and culinary delights to ensure a memorable and exciting week!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
As a member of Redemption Music, I’m part of a dedicated team committed to crafting edifying music that centers on Jesus Christ and the transformative power of faith. Together, we collaborate closely to create songs that not only reflect our individual journeys but also resonate with listeners on a deep spiritual level. Our collective vision is to produce versatile, inspiring music that uplifts and encourages our audience, offering them a profound connection to Christ through every lyric and melody. By working harmoniously, we blend our unique talents and perspectives, ensuring that our music speaks to both the heart and soul. Redemption Music is more than just a project—it’s a mission to share the love of Jesus Christ and the messages of hope and redemption through our art, making a positive impact on our community and beyond.

Instagram: saved.souljah, machosouldeep, vi_zion, SouthsideJoz

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

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SouthsideJoz

Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/298PjvlXBVauDcpCjrl257?si=u0wxzwyMQ3aDByOatsMWWw https://linktr.ee/southsideJoz?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=b36ade5c-5053-4d31-b0a2-4104aa49e56e 

Image Credits
instagram: paradise__prod (2 under scores)