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

Hi Marlena, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
Greetings Readers! Marlena here and I was born and raised in Miami, FL in a single parent home. Growing up we didn’t have what we wanted but my mother definitely ensured we had what we needed. My mother has always been the driving force of who I am today. She taught perseverance, how to strive for excellence, and responsibility. Every extra-curricular activity, dance practice, JROTC, Delta Sigma Theta Debutante Meetings/Trips, SGA, etc., my mother made it her duty to be there. She always told me that nothing in this world would be given to me and I had to work for what I wanted. My mother constantly set the bar. Living on a college campus can get pretty expensive, however, in order to support me financially my mother took up a second job cleaning houses all while going to school to get her bachelors! So while supporting me in college, my mother managed to get her Bachelors and Masters! Whew! My mom is definitely a superhero. Currently, she still gives me moral support and is always there when I need her. Anytime I set a goal for myself, she lets me know that nothing can hinder me from obtaining it except me. Throughout my life, I have carried her tenacity, independence, and her ability to always excel. Without my mother, I wouldn’t be the woman I am today!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am digital creator and I create digital content, video, photography, logos, websites, etc. My drive to always strive for the best is what I believe sets me apart from others. I constantly try to think outside the box and ensure I deliver quality content. There were many setbacks however, to overcome them I constantly reminded myself where I wanted to be and what I needed to do to get there. If I could go back and tell my past self what I know now is to stay consistent and don’t let anyone stop you from your goals. I created my brand for women who look like me, who are afraid to unlock their inner queen. I want to show them that they can express themselves unapologetically!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
So if you ever come to South Florida, you must go to Organic Food Kings (vegan eatery), Wynwood Walls (artsy vibes), and if you want a good night out, definitely hit Downtown Miami or Downtown Fort Lauderdale (Las Olas).

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to my mother Bridgette Wilson Nmekini.

Website: www.bosslifebabe.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/essenceoflena  www.instagram.com/boss.life.babe
Facebook: www.facebook.com/essenceoflena  www.facebook.com/bosslifebabe
Youtube: www.youtube.com/LenaIvoryXO

Image Credits
Evolure Beauty Ronald Phil

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