Dominique Jones
Trailblazing Women
EMPOWERING BOSS LIFE
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your background?
Dominique Jones: My name is Dōmo, and I have a unique journey shaped by resilience and determination. I navigate life with a disability, requiring the use of a walker and leg brace to assist with mobility. My personal experience includes surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation, which inspired me to focus on empowering the disabled community.
Through my own journey, I aim to break the stigma surrounding our conditions, demonstrating that individuals with disabilities can overcome challenges. I hold the title of a Master Certified Disability Confidence Coach and am a two-time self-published author. Alongside these achievements, I manage three businesses. In August 2021, I embarked on a groundbreaking venture as the host of "One Billion Brave," the first disability talk show hosted by someone with a disability. This platform allows me to amplify the voices and stories within the disabled community.
My most recent business, "KnuYou Services," emerged from the insights gained from my previous ventures. With KnuYou Services, I extend my knowledge to assist new small businesses in mastering the basics of brand promotion. Unveiling this purpose-driven path has fueled my determination, proving that no hindrance can thwart progress when fueled by a profound sense of purpose. I live by the ethos that you can't tell me it can't be done because I am actively making it happen!
Style with Purpose
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If you have a business, could you describe it and how you started it?
Dominique Jones: My business is named "WalkingByDesign," and it specializes in customized medical accessories. The idea for this business originated from a personal experience. At the age of 28, I found myself needing to use a walker, a prospect I wasn't initially thrilled about due to its plain appearance. However, recognizing it as a necessity, I decided that if I had to use it, I would do so boldly and stylishly.
This personal journey inspired me to create custom medical accessories that not only serve a functional purpose but also allow individuals to express their unique style. I wanted to instill confidence in others facing similar situations, proving that medical accessories can be both practical and fashionable. "WalkingByDesign" was born out of this desire to empower individuals who might think they can't be stylish while using medical accessories. It's a business grounded in the belief that personal expression and confidence should extend to all aspects of life, including the tools we use for our wellbeing.
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What challenges have you faced as a woman in your field, and how have you overcome them?
Dominique Jones: As a woman living with chronic pain and muscle weakness, I encounter challenges that manifest on unpredictable days when my body may unexpectedly shut down. These moments pose significant hurdles, especially when I have specific goals I aspire to achieve. The frustration can be overwhelming when faced with the realization that accomplishing those goals becomes temporarily elusive due to the unpredictable nature of my condition.
To overcome these challenges, I've learned the importance of self-awareness and self-compassion. Recognizing the limitations imposed by my health, I proactively allocate designated days for rest and rejuvenation. Rather than waiting for my body to dictate a pause, I take the initiative to reset before reaching a point of physical exhaustion. This approach allows me to navigate the challenges posed by chronic pain and muscle weakness with a proactive and self-care-oriented mindset. It reinforces the importance of listening to my body, acknowledging its needs, and strategically planning moments of reprieve to optimize my overall well-being.
Walking By Design
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What accomplishments are you most proud of since being featured in Empowering Boss Life magazine?
Dominique Jones: My proudest accomplishment since being featured in Empowering Boss Life magazine is the opportunity to share my journey. I'm profoundly grateful for the chance to inspire others on how to break the stigma beyond their conditions. The act of sharing my experiences and insights is a privilege in itself, and I take immense satisfaction in being part of a collective effort to empower and uplift others. For me, the accomplishment lies in contributing to a narrative that encourages individuals to overcome challenges and embrace their journeys with resilience and confidence.
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How have you continued to empower and mentor other women in your industry?
Dominique Jones: I continue to empower and mentor other women in my industry through a weekly livestream show. This platform serves as a spotlight for showcasing the stories and achievements of diverse women with disabilities or medical conditions. By featuring these incredible individuals, the show aims to demonstrate the inherent strength and uniqueness each woman brings to the table, despite societal perceptions of being "different." The discussions and narratives presented in the livestream show contribute to breaking stereotypes, fostering a sense of empowerment, and providing a supportive community for women facing similar challenges. It's a tangible way to uplift and mentor others by celebrating their individuality and highlighting the extraordinary qualities that make each woman remarkable in her own right.
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Could you share an impactful story or experience that has shaped your journey and outlook on life?
Dominique Jones: Defeating the odds has been a profoundly impactful story that continues to shape my journey and outlook on life. Recognizing that I've overcome numerous obstacles, each challenging moment has reinforced the idea that I'm still alive for a reason. Every hurdle, setback, and hardship I've faced serves as a testament to my resilience, and emerging from these experiences alive and resilient has become a source of unyielding strength.
This realization has fundamentally shifted my outlook on life. It instills a deep sense of purpose and determination, reminding me that there's a reason for my existence and a narrative to share. The understanding that I've triumphed over challenges because I'm still alive to tell my story is a powerful motivator. It fuels an unwavering belief that, at this point, nothing can stand in my way. This impactful perspective reinforces my commitment to keep pushing forward, embracing life with a tenacious spirit, and inspiring others to overcome their own challenges.
Stylify.
Explore personalized medical accessories at WalkingByDesign, where functional purpose meets unique style, inspired by a journey of resilience. Our mission is to empower individuals by challenging the notion that medical accessories can't be both practical and fashionable, inviting you to elevate your wellbeing with confidence and personal expression.
EMPOWERING BOSS LIFE
How has your life and career evolved since being featured in Empowering Boss Life magazine?
Dominique Jones: Since being featured in Empowering Boss Life magazine, my life and career have evolved positively. The exposure from the feature has led to increased visibility, and people are recognizing the resilience and impact of our business. This recognition has instilled a sense of permanence and credibility, and I am grateful for the growing acknowledgment that our venture is here to stay and make a lasting impact.
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What have you learned about yourself and your leadership style since being featured in Empowering Boss Life magazine?
Dominique Jones: Being featured in Empowering Boss Life magazine has taught me that confidence looks good on me. Through this experience, I've gained a deeper understanding of my own abilities and the impact of my leadership style. The recognition and exposure have affirmed that embracing confidence enhances both my personal growth and effectiveness as a leader.
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How have you continued to challenge yourself and grow as a leader?
Dominique Jones: I continue to challenge myself and grow as a leader by embracing the mentality of "going for it scared." Despite any fears or uncertainties, I believe that numerous opportunities exist, and the journey is worth experiencing. Embracing the unknown and stepping into opportunities with courage allows me to continually challenge myself, fostering personal and leadership growth.
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What does being an empowering boss mean to you, and how do you strive to embody that in your everyday life and interactions with others?
Dominique Jones: Being an empowering boss, to me, means staying authentic and being remembered for staying true to myself. I believe in the power of authenticity, and I strive to be known for not changing. In a world where carbon copies fade into the background, I aim to be an original — someone who stands out and leaves a lasting impact. This philosophy guides my everyday interactions, emphasizing the importance of genuine leadership and the unique imprint each person can make by embracing their authenticity.
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How do you prioritize self-care and maintaining a healthy work-life balance? what tips can you offer other busy women?
Dominique Jones: I prioritize self-care and maintain a healthy work-life balance by recognizing the importance of forcing it when needed. It's crucial not to burn yourself out trying to keep up with others. My advice to other busy women is to embrace the power of self-care—sometimes, it's okay to prioritize sleep or indulge in a movie. Don't succumb to the pressure of comparisons; instead, focus on what truly rejuvenates and restores your well-being.
STEP STYLE IN EVERY
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How do you stay motivated and inspired, even in the face of adversity?
Dominique Jones: I stay motivated and inspired by anchoring myself in my purpose. Beyond the hype and excitement, it's the underlying reason for what I do that sustains me and keeps me moving forward in the face of adversity.
EMPOWERING BOSS LIFE
What new projects or initiatives are you currently working on?
Dominique Jones: Currently, I'm focused on maintaining and perfecting existing projects and initiatives. Rather than taking on more just to appear busy, I believe in prioritizing excellence in what I already have on my plate.
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What are your future goals and aspirations, both personally and professionally?
Dominique Jones: My future goals and aspirations, both personally and professionally, revolve around staying humble, content, and embracing every situation with a sense of fun. I remain open to any opportunity that presents itself, ready to explore and embrace whatever comes my way.
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What changes or advancements do you hope to see for women in your industry in the next 5-10 years?
Dominique Jones: In the next 5-10 years, I hope to see more confidence and a sense of contentment among women in my industry. It's important for women to recognize that they belong and are capable in their respective fields. I envision a future where women feel secure, knowing that there's ample space for all of us, and we're not in competition but rather lifting each other up.
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What do you envision for the future of women in your industry, and how do you plan to contribute to that vision?
Dominique Jones: For the future of women in my industry, I envision a landscape where they can achieve everything their hearts desire. My contribution to this vision is unwavering support for whatever passions they pursue. I strive to create an environment where women feel empowered to follow their dreams and where their diverse aspirations are not only acknowledged but actively supported.
EMPOWERING BOSS LIFE
What advice would you give to women who are just starting out in your industry?
Dominique Jones: My advice to women just starting out in the industry is to embrace being different and to stay true to that uniqueness. Differentiation is a strength that can set you apart and contribute to your success in the long run. Embrace your individuality, and let it shine in your work and endeavors.
EMPOWERING BOSS LIFE
How have you continued to empower and inspire other women in your industry or community?
Dominique Jones: I continue to empower and inspire other women in my industry and community by simply being myself and refusing to change for anyone. Authenticity has a powerful impact, and I believe that by staying true to who I am, I encourage others to embrace their uniqueness and authenticity as well. This creates a supportive and empowering environment for women to thrive.
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Lastly, what message would you like to share with the Empowering Boss Life community and its readers?
Dominique Jones: To the Empowering Boss Life community and its readers, I'd like to share this message: When you recognize that the challenges you've faced are not just for yourself but for someone else, you'll grasp the significance of your journey and the unique value you bring to the table. Your experiences and resilience have the power to inspire and impact others positively. Embrace your journey and the lessons it carries, knowing that it contributes to a greater purpose.