Meet Jhanille S. | Digital Marketing & Branding Strategist

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

Hi Jhanille, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Since the start of my career, I’ve always poured passion into every project, whether it was during an internship or a full-time role. But over time, I realized that no matter how much you give to a company, you’re often just a number on a payroll or a title on an org chart. That realization shifted everything for me. Instead of chasing the next big marketing role, I made the decision to take everything I’ve learned and pour it into my own business, helping small business owners brand and operate their companies with a similar strategy and intention as larger corporations. It was a way to reclaim my value and build something that truly reflects who I am.

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.
My career has been anything but linear, and that’s honestly what I love about it. I started out as UX Researcher, then a designer, working on everything from email campaigns to websites. But what really set me apart was the ability to combine strategy with visuals, to not just make things look good, but to make sure it worked for the goal of the campaign.

A lot of entrepreneurs have amazing ideas, but they don’t always have the resources or roadmap to build a solid brand presence. That’s where I come in, not just as a designer, but as a strategist, a storyteller, and someone who genuinely cares about helping them grow.

Getting to this point wasn’t easy. There were times I questioned everything, if I was good enough, if I should go back to a 9-to-5 (still going back and forth lol). But I kept showing up. I learned to take imperfect action, to bet on myself, and to trust that consistency would carry me even when confidence wavered.

Some of the biggest lessons I’ve learned? Don’t wait to be chosen, create your own seat at the table. Don’t undervalue your work and most importantly, don’t be afraid to pivot.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend came to visit, I’d make sure she got the full South Florida experience (my version). We’d lunch at YOT Bar, explore Sunny Side Up Market and Wynwood Marketplace. On chill days, we’d binge-watch shows and order in from Dutch Pot. For a little pampering, we’d spend the day at Evara spa. And of course, it’s not South Florida without a party weekend, so we’d go to the Bodega in Fort Lauderdale and Rise & Toast in Miami. We’d also make it a mission to try all the dessert spots and cafes in my Instagram saved folders!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I wouldn’t be where I am today without the unwavering support of my family, especially my sisters. They’ve been my sounding board, my biggest cheerleaders, and the ones reminding me of my worth when I’ve doubted myself.

Website: https://www.beunorthodoxbranding.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jhanille.s

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhanille-smith