We had the good fortune of connecting with Roshyn L. Lewis and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Roshyn L., how did you come up with the idea for your business?
It’s deeply rooted in my personal journey and observations of the world around me. Growing up in a challenging environment on the South Side of Chicago, I witnessed firsthand the struggles and stigma that women faced, particularly the notion that women couldn’t support each other. This misconception fueled my determination to create a space where women could come together, support one another, and thrive.
My own experiences, marked by adversity, taught me the importance of resilience and compassion. Despite facing numerous hardships, I held onto a dream of a better future not just for myself, but for others like me who needed support and guidance. Through personal battles and challenges, including struggles within my marriage and family, I remained steadfast in my belief in the power of community and the need for women to uplift each other.
I turned my vision into reality by founding the Phenomenal Women’s Empowerment Organization in Houston, Texas. Drawing inspiration from my own journey, I envisioned a platform where individuals could find empowerment, support, and guidance to overcome obstacles and reach their full potential. Obtaining 501(c)(3) status was a significant milestone, affirming our commitment to making a positive impact on individuals and communities worldwide.
At the core of our organization is the belief that women are the backbone of society, capable of incredible resilience and strength. By providing a supportive network and resources, we aim to empower women to embrace their worth, realize their potential, and contribute positively to their communities. Our mission is not just to uplift individual women, but to foster a culture of support, trust, and empowerment among women everywhere.
In essence, the idea for my business stemmed from a desire to challenge stereotypes, break down barriers, and build a community where women can thrive together. It’s a journey fueled by my own experiences, a deep sense of purpose, and a commitment to creating a more inclusive and empowering world for all women and communities.
Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to empower individuals from all walks of life, drawing inspiration from my own journey of overcoming adversity. We provide a holistic approach to empowerment, offering resources, support, and programs that address various needs, from financial education to personal development.
I am incredibly proud of the impact we have made thus far, from achieving full 501(c)(3) status to receiving a Proclamation in recognition from the Mayor of Houston for our contributions. Our organization has touched countless lives through programs that provide essential resources, support, and opportunities for growth from giving away 100 plus backpacks for back to school, 100 plus care packages to senior citizens, assisting with young ladies during prom season, scholarships to high school senior students, assisting with Christmas to numerous families, feeding the homeless, giving away dinners and turkeys for Thanksgiving and having Mother’s Day Brunch for mothers who have lost a child, along with countless other generous acts of kindness to assist the community.
The journey to where we are today has not been easy. We faced numerous challenges along the way, from financial constraints to logistical hurdles. However, through perseverance, resilience, and the support of our dedicated team and community, we have overcome these obstacles and continued to grow, while touching the lives of many individuals and communities.
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the power of resilience and the importance of surrounding oneself with a supportive network. My personal struggles and triumphs have fueled my determination to create change for others facing similar obstacles. Empathy and compassion drive our work, ensuring that we meet the needs of those we serve with understanding and care.
Ultimately, I want the world to know that the Phenomenal Women’s Empowerment Organization is more than just a nonprofit. We are a movement dedicated to empowering individuals to reach their full potential and creating lasting change in our communities. Our story is one of resilience, empowerment, and unwavering commitment to serving others, and we are honored to continue making a difference in the lives of women and families everywhere.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Having lived in Houston, Texas for 31 years now, after being born and raised in Chicago, whenever my family and friends come to visit Houston, their first request is always to go to The Turkey Leg Hut. It’s an essential destination with a fantastic vibe, especially when they feature live music or entertainment. The food and drinks never disappoint. Additionally, I’d recommend Thirteen Restaurant by James Harden, an upscale establishment renowned for its cool atmosphere, New American cuisine, raw bar, and cocktail lounge. It’s the ideal spot to savor good food, enjoy music, and indulge in drinks with friends and loved ones. If they’re up for it, I’d also take them downtown and third ward area for a bar-hopping adventure.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
1. I must first express my deepest love, gratitude, and appreciation to my husband Michael Lewis. He is truly my rock and my biggest supporter in every aspect of my life. I am endlessly grateful to him for being there to listen, to encourage me, and to push me to be my best self, even during the toughest times. He has witnessed my tears, my struggles, and my doubts, yet he has never wavered in his belief in me. We have been together since we were both 17 years old, and now, at 52, our bond has only grown stronger with time. I will never forget the pivotal moment when my life was in turmoil at the tender age of 17, I felt like I did not want to live anymore. I sat on the porch, pouring my heart out to him, and he held me in his arms all night, comforting me and guiding me through the darkness. His love and support that night were truly genuine, and I will forever be thankful for his unwavering belief in me. It is because of him that I am the woman I am today. His faith in me that night has given me the strength to persevere, to overcome obstacles, and to never give up on myself. He is my anchor, my confidant, and my greatest ally, and I am blessed beyond measure to have him by my side.
2. I must also acknowledge my four children, Michael, Maurice, Mary, and Miyah, who deserve immense recognition in my story. They have been the greatest blessings in my life, as they made me a mother and have journeyed with me through every high and low. Despite facing challenges and navigating a world where their parents weren’t perfect and were learning along the way, they have shown remarkable resilience, love, and compassion. My children have experienced moments in their lives that I wish I could erase, yet they have continued to love and support their parents unconditionally. Their unwavering love and forgiveness have been a source of strength and inspiration for me, reminding me of the power of family and the importance of unconditional love. To Michael, Maurice, Mary, and Miyah, I want you to know that Mommy loves you all beyond measure. You are my greatest joys, and I am endlessly proud of the compassionate, resilient individuals you have become. Thank you for your love, your patience, and your unwavering support throughout our journey together. You deserve all the recognition and appreciation in the world for the love and light you bring into my life.
3. Credit and recognition must also be extended to the dynamic board of directors and the dedicated women who form the backbone of our non-profit organization. Without their tireless efforts and unwavering commitment, none of our achievements would have been possible. The board of directors brings invaluable expertise, guidance, and strategic vision to our organization, steering us towards success and ensuring our continued growth and impact. Additionally, the remarkable women who comprise our organization are the driving force behind our mission, working tirelessly to uplift and empower others. Their passion, dedication, and hard work keep us afloat and enable us to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve. Together, they embody the spirit of our organization and exemplify the power of community and collaboration in creating positive change. They deserve immense credit and recognition for their invaluable contributions to our story.
Website: www.phenomwmn.com
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Twitter: Phenom_Empower
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Yelp: phenomwmn.com