Meet Tonya Evans | Influencer and co-founder of Gurl U R Not Alone

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

Hi Tonya, what do you attribute your success to?
I love this question! I truly believe that the success of my brand is because of my focus on significance over success. Early in my career it was really all about shooting for the next step on the corporate ladder or next career goal and there is nothing wrong with that. But ‘ve always tried to find roles that help me grow both professionally and personally. You will never fail if you focus on that. Of course, we have financial and other goals for the brand but our North Star is significance -creating content of significance that to empower women.

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 taken some really amazing twist and turns but at my core I am a writer and a storyteller. I’ve done that over the course of my career from my start as a publicist, then in executive communications, and as a marketing director. So becoming an influencer and content creator really brings all of those previous roles together. Now I get to write, serve as creative director, photographer, stylist, writer and more to bring an influencer campaign to life. It’s fun and challenging all at the same time but so rewarding to see the final product.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would definitely start by staying near Wynwood & the Design District. The vibe there is just incredible and I think you get a real glimpse of Miami’s personality. There are so many great restaurants here but I would make sure to take any guest to Mandolin Aegean Bistro; Joe’s Stone Crabs (iconic); Coyo Taco; Phuc Yea and Morgan’s. I would schedule a beach day to get some sun and do some people watching at one of South Beaches beautiful hotel pools like SLS South Beach, or the Sagamore Hotel. And finally I just discovered the farms down in South Miami! The fresh baked goods at Knaus Berry Farms are off the beaten path but more than worth the drive.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many that have helped me thrive. First my husband has always had my back and that is so important to have the support of your significant other – that’s key. Secondly, I am involved in a few women’s business groups but Femcity by far has been the most crucial to my success. Next, was choosing collaboration over competition in partnering with Abbie Samuel as the co-founder of Gurl U R Not Alone. We really leaned in to that and our skill sets were just a perfect fit. I love having a creative partner. And finally it is important to find mentors. Ronne Brown is a hugely successful entrepreneur and her mentorship and just watching how hard she works has bee game changing. And my coach Gina Rudan really pushed me to be my best me. Mentorship is key.

Website: www.tonyaseaversevan.com/blog

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamtonyarochelle/?hl=en

Linkedin: Tonya Seavers Evans

Twitter: _TonyaRochelle

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gurlurnotalone

Youtube: GurlURNotAlone

Other: Podcast Gurl U R Not Alone: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/gurl-u-r-not-alone/id1499219319

Image Credits
Courtney Studios MSP Photography