“We can teach people how to treat people by being an example of strength, love, and positive attitudes.”
Q: What are you passionate about?
A: I am passionate when it comes to helping others. Educating people to help them with informed decisions is my passion. I wish someone taught me half of what I have recently learned. Being single with no financial help, I learned over the years to empower myself and others. Now, I have the tools to take that to a greater level and it starts with a FREE financial analysis. I want to empower people to help themselves in their hard work. I am also a Realtor and love helping families find a home. I volunteer at my church as well.
Q: What were your younger years like?
A: In my younger years, I grew up in a good community of friends and family. I was very active in hiking, biking, cheerleading, dance, drill team, volleyball, softball, basketball, roller skating, and bodybuilding. My parents divorced when I was 14, and I grew up fast, taking on adult responsibilities.
Q: What is something valuable you’d like others to know?
A: I have had many challenges in life and worked through them. I have had my car stolen, my home broken into, a stalker (very dangerous), blood clots in my lungs (survived), and a husband who put me in debt thousands of dollars.
I have learned that life is not fair; however, you can change your circumstances. I choose to thrive not just survive. Life happens and you cannot change that, but how you react makes all the difference. I have a village of people. I wanted a fun and friendly neighborhood, so we had a block party and got to know each other. I wanted good friends, so I became a good friend. I found a place of work that has similar values, so we built each other up. I volunteer at church, so I can give back. I make it happen. Life is hard enough. We can teach people how to treat people by being an example of strength, love, and positive attitudes.
One of the greatest gifts I have been part of was giving a child up for adoption. It was the hardest decision I have ever made. I gave the baby as a gift to two wonderful parents.
Q: What does feminism mean to you?
A: Feminism is being the beautiful person you are that is unique, embracing the strengths you have, and continue growing. We all have a different gift, and we need to empower each other to use it for good. That is why we build the village by utilizing one another’s strengths to lift everyone up.
“The obstacles I’ve encountered have taught me more about my craft, my business, and myself than any success ever has.”
Q: What are you passionate about?
A: My passion for photography ignited from a simple desire to capture the fleeting, beautiful moments of life. It’s grown into a lifelong journey of documenting the tender first days of a newborn, the loving glances of a family, and every precious moment in between. My work is more than just photography—it’s about preserving memories that last a lifetime.
Aside from my professional life, I’m deeply engaged in urban gardening and actively participate in the local arts community here in Saint Paul, Minnesota. These personal pursuits enrich my creativity and keep me connected with my surroundings.
Recently, I’ve expanded my focus to include mentoring and developing an educational platform for photography. This new venture allows me to give back to the community by sharing my knowledge and experiences with aspiring photographers. I’m currently creating a series of online courses and one-on-one mentoring sessions designed to help photographers at various stages of their careers. Whether they’re just starting out or looking to refine their skills, I’m here to guide them. It’s incredibly rewarding to see my students grow and succeed in their own photographic endeavors. In all, my work and personal interests are deeply intertwined, each feeding into and enriching the other, creating a fulfilling circle of creativity and community engagement.
Q: What were your younger years like?
A: Growing up, my world was full of color and creativity, thanks to a family that loved all things artistic. I remember getting my hands dirty with paint and clicking away on a small camera I was gifted. These weren’t just hobbies; they were my first steps toward seeing the world through a creative lens—literally and metaphorically.
School played a big role, too. It wasn’t just about the grades; it was where I learned to look at problems and think, ‘There’s a different way to do this.’ That kind of thinking is what I bring to my photography business every day—looking for the unique angle or the untold story.
I also spent a lot of time helping out at community events, where I’d often be the unofficial photographer. It was more than just taking photos; it was about capturing the spirit of the moment. Those early snaps of community gatherings weren’t just practice; they were my first lessons in storytelling.
All these threads from my past—art, education, community involvement—wove together to guide me to where I am now. They taught me the importance of not just capturing images but capturing stories and emotions. And that’s what I strive to do at Giliane E. Mansfeldt Photography, LLC. It’s also why I’m so passionate about mentoring and teaching photography—to help others learn how to tell their own stories through the lens.
Q: What is something valuable you’d like others to know?
A: One valuable lesson I’ve learned through my journey with Giliane E. Mansfeldt Photography, LLC is the importance of resilience and adaptability. In the world of photography, and business in general, things rarely go exactly as planned. Whether it’s a sudden change in the weather during an outdoor shoot, unexpected technical issues, or navigating the highs and lows of running a business, being able to adapt quickly and stay focused on your goals is crucial.
I’ve also learned the significance of staying true to your vision while being open to growth and new ideas. This balance has not only helped me refine my craft but also expanded my business into new areas like education and mentoring. I encourage others to remain open to learning and evolving, no matter how established they might feel in their career or personal life.
From my story, I’d like others to learn that every challenge is an opportunity for growth. The obstacles I’ve encountered have taught me more about my craft, my business, and myself than any success ever has. I hope my journey inspires others to embrace their challenges as stepping stones to their dreams.
Q: What does feminism mean to you?
A: To me, feminism is essentially about fairness. It’s about everyone having the same shot at success and happiness, no matter their gender. This idea influences everything I do, from how I frame a shot to how I run my business at Giliane E. Mansfeldt Photography, LLC.
In my studio, it means creating a space where everyone—clients and staff—feels respected and valued. It’s about capturing photos that truly reflect the person’s strength and spirit, whether they’re a CEO, a stay-at-home parent, or a high school grad just starting out.
Feminism also drives my commitment to mentoring, especially for women who are often underrepresented in our field. I want to help open doors for others that were once closed and create opportunities for all aspiring photographers to thrive. At the end of the day, feminism to me is about striving for a world where everyone has the freedom to be themselves and the opportunity to succeed. That’s the world I envision through my lens and in my actions every day.
Q and A with Jai from West of Melbourne, Australia, in a little town that means “red ground” in Indigenous Australian language.
“Taking action leads to clarity–it’s either the right step or a lesson learned. Inaction paralyses. One small step can make all the difference.”
Q: What are you passionate about?
A: The short answer is women. The long answer is women!
Truly the thing that lights me up the most, aside from sparkles, cuddles, and all things business, is when I see transformation in the women that I work with. To see them go from cloudy, unsure, and worn out, having lost their zest for life to certain, clear, and energized with a sense of direction and peace. My passion is helping women fall back in love with themselves (and more importantly stay there) and regain their mojo again. That is what makes life worth living for me.
I think my whole career to date has been helping women feel better about themselves whether on the outside or in my career as a makeup artist, beauty therapist, and global educator for many beauty brands.
Or on the inside with the Reiki plus personal breakthrough and mindset and business coaching work I do. The modalities I use are truly magical and the transformations are long-lasting and profound.
This iteration of my career is more personal because I went through a personal transformation myself, leading me to re-evaluate and start again. Completely.
This gave me a unique perspective, remembering to be back at the beginning again, but with the experience of years on this planet. I feel so blessed to have had the life I have, and now to help others along their journey too.
Q: What were your younger years like?
A: As a young child, I moved around a lot, from country to country, leading me to foster coping skills as an introvert who had to be more extravert so that I could fit in.
Q: What is something valuable you’d like others to know?
A: Oh my goodness, I am hopeless at remembering the “golden nuggets” when I am asked like this! Let me think of a few things :
Finally from my own life, I would say it is possible to pivot; or even start again when things change. Embrace the change. Life is richer for it. And always remember “This too shall pass,” most unpleasant things are temporary, and that the world is here for you. The universe wants you to succeed. You are never alone.
Read. It changes your perspective, opens your world, improves your imagination, and enriches your life. Audiobooks changed my life! I have a reading list of books I’ve curated if anyone would like it https://boards.com/a/oY5kQ.OZscJT And also have a “Storytime with Jai” on my YouTube channel where I read a chapter from some of my favorites–you can find the link at the link above.
Journaling has made a huge difference in my life. Getting the thoughts from your head to the page serves you.
Taking action leads to clarity–it’s either the right step or a lesson learned. Inaction paralyses. One small step can make all the difference.
A smile can shift your emotional state. It’s true. Try it now. You can’t help but be a higher vibe.
Compliment others and carry out random acts of kindness–it’s those small gestures that can really make a difference in someone else’s life with minimal effort on your part. Be genuine. Kind and honest.
Be willing to be willing–sometimes when we meet resistance within, it might be too much of a leap to do the thing. So, I say be willing to be willing, and that gets you one step closer. Being vulnerable and asking questions moves you closer to your goals as well. I always ask lots of questions until I fully understand.
Be curious.
Q: What does feminism mean to you?
A: I only just realized that I could be classified as a feminist! Though I have always been for women, men, and children–my entire life. I believe in equality and strive for that balance in my life, beliefs, and actions.
Women have suffered inequity throughout history and still today. And as a feminist, I will always highlight inequities and fight for change.
Recently, I have been diving deep into the Burning Times during the Witch Trials and I have come to believe that the Witch Wound is a real thing, having social, economic, and personal ramifications. It’s a fascinating study that reflects often in life today.
Q and A with Sashane from Portmore, Saint Catherine, Jamaica
“It does not matter what your color, shape, or size because it is about you and your purpose.”
Q: What are you passionate about?
A: I’m passionate about motivating and empowering people, especially late-blooming women like myself. I was always motivating and encouraging people from a young age, but when I looked at my struggles as a later bloomer, I realized that I could use my story to empower and motivate other women.
I love spending time with my family, especially my girls, watching anything about women empowerment and romantic movies, and just chilling at home. I am currently a full-time office manager, and I am a serial entrepreneur, published author, and an advocate for late bloomers. I am currently working on my second book and developing my motivation merch clothing line.
Q: What were your younger years like?
A: I was a late starter, but I never quit. I completed an associate of science degree in hospitality management, and I have certificates and diplomas in entrepreneurship, general administration, early childhood education, and coaching.
I came from a single-parent home with other siblings.
I always loved volunteering as a teenager. I am a former vice for the Portland Aides Committee Youth Group, Secretary of the Ascot Basic School, and Mentor with HEART/NSTA Trust and Women of Destiny Big Sister Little Sister mentorship program. This volunteering prepared me for where and who I am today. Because I’m more passionate about giving back. Today, I’m a part of the Women of Destiny family as an assistant mentorship coordinator.
Q: What is something valuable you’d like others to know?
A: I have learned that no matter how hard your journey gets, never give up on yourself because, with God, nothing is impossible once you put your mind and soul into it.
Never ever give up on yourself because you are here for a purpose, and your purpose will never die until you die. Keep going no matter what.
Q: What does feminism mean to you?
A: For me, feminism is about owning your space and claiming it BOLDLY. Confidence in oneself is key. It does not matter what your color, shape, or size because it is about you and your purpose.
MORE ABOUT SASHANE: I have been married for 10 years with three beautiful girls, aged 16, and twins seven years. My husband is my tower of strength, we are business partners, movie partners, prayer partners, and most of my go-to person.
Q and A with Heather V. from Northumberland, England, UK
“Each day, we have a choice to reach beyond, to do just enough, or to complain about our lot. Where we focus our energy goes. In my experience, the longer you resist the harder things become.”
Q: What are you passionate about?
A: I am passionate about so many things; the core being that every human being learns who they truly are and operates from that powerful place. I am passionate about humans helping humans and understanding that we are all the same in terms of energy and dust. I love coaching and serving folks in breaking through their limitations. It’s a beautiful and magical thing.
I am passionate about advanced techniques such as Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), hypnosis, provocative coaching, and intuitive coaching. I am passionate about continuous learning, spirituality, and consciousness and uncovering truth. I am passionate about securing a hopeful future for our children and future generations. I am passionate about freedom, Natural Law, and Free Speech. Freedom comes with massive courage and responsibility. I am not sure there are really that many people willing to take on freedom and all it requires.
I also have a love of writing and technology. I grew up in a town near Newcastle Upon Tyne in the UK at a time when computers were just becoming a thing. I decided that’s what I wanted to do and become a computer programmer. The subject was just being introduced to schools and I loved it. It was quite a struggle for me to achieve a role as a programmer. I finished school at a time when unemployment in the Northeast UK was at its highest. I got offered a job in a neighboring city for a Retail Bank, so I skipped college and a degree and moved away from my parents and family for work. I was 18 and embarking on my life under my own steam.
After a couple of years working in admin for banks, I transferred to the IT Department as a trainee programmer for a local building society and my IT career began. I worked in IT from trainee to VP of professional services for over 15 years. I then trained in business/executive coaching, NLP, and hypnosis and worked with women in business in London. I continued as a coach, trainer, and tech/business consultant over the next 20 years as life unfolded in extraordinary ways.
My career took me around the world and I worked for three years in South Africa, as well as training in India, USA, and Europe. I fell in love with South Africa–it felt like I had found home.
Q: What were your younger years like?
A: My father was very influential in my life and career. He was a very dominant man and really wanted me to have a career in accounting. I think computing was the next best thing. I think being the youngest in my family really challenged me to prove myself. I spent most of my early years believing I was stupid and not good enough, yet the desire to prove my family and myself wrong is what drove me into my IT career. As a woman, it was easy to use a lack of qualification as a reason not to give equal pay or officially promote me while I was actually fulfilling the role of a team leader. I decided to study for a master’s degree while working in order to remove that excuse. If an obstacle was put in front of me, I would find a way to overcome it. I had this fire in my belly to meet any challenge.
I think being the youngest also taught me to read people and situations. I had three brothers and a sister, so the dynamic growing up was always fluctuating. Some of my siblings were master manipulators and being able to spot this was one way to survive and keep from being at the wrong end of any conflict. That helped me in my leadership roles and as a coach. Being able to read people and understand the structure of their thinking was a powerful tool to have.
In my teenage years, I studied Judo. I do think that helped me in not only reading people but also getting comfortable being the minority female in a male-dominated world. That experience of really served me for my time in IT. I kind of got on with things and looked for ways around any blocks rather than playing the victim or sexism card.
Did it always work? No. The boys’ network can be a powerful force and I feel fowl of that on occasion during my career. That was one of the main reasons for moving away from IT in any sort of leadership role and retraining in coaching.
I now coach online entrepreneurs and assist them with technology and systems. I have a particular focus on the revolution that is taking place with AI, Web3, Blockchain, NFTs, etc., and how entrepreneurs can learn to use the technology to differentiate themselves, grow their businesses, and make life easier. At the same time, becoming aware of the potential pitfalls.
Q: What is something valuable you’d like others to know?
A: Don’t give up on your dreams. The journey to what you want is rarely a straight line, and often the universe wants to give you more than you’ve asked for. Don’t get too attached to the how of things.
The difference between effort and struggle is that struggle is effort with attachment. Learn to like yourself and respect yourself.
Build routines, habits, and systems in your life that nurture you, honor you, and stretch you to keep growing and becoming.
Find something greater than you, something that gives your life meaning and a ‘why’ that keeps you alive and passionate.
I cared for both of my parents until their deaths ( over four years). Honor them, love them, refuse to take anything personally, and accept that they are flawed people, just as we all are.
Treat those you love as if it’s their last day, and resolve issues as soon as you can. You really never know the minute.
Release survivor’s guilt by focusing on the ‘why’ that you are still around. The Creator never makes mistakes. You count. Your life counts. Be the best you can be.
I know life is challenging. I know there can be so many things thrown at you that you might think you can’t take it anymore. When you ask yourself Why me?” just know there is a bigger purpose for you and you just don’t see it yet.
We’re all in the university of life. We’re on an apprenticeship for the future version of ourselves. Each day, we have a choice to reach beyond, to do just enough, or to complain about our lot. Where we focus our energy goes. In my experience, the longer you resist the harder things become.
Learn about yourself and don’t give up on you. Know how you prefer to operate and stick to your way when it works for you. Don’t change for others because they don’t understand your perspective or system. If something works for you, stick with it.
The person who insists you do something that goes against your better judgment is rarely around when things go very wrong. In my experience, you’ll be alone to pick up the pieces.
Keep your boundaries, be true to you, and learn what you truly love. Then do more of it.
Look after your body because it’s the only one you’ve got. Look after your mind and your soul and find peace and grace in each day. Make friends with your intuition and learn to trust it. It really is there to make life easier. Following it when you really don’t know why can turn your life into a magical mystery tour.
Q: What does feminism mean to you?
A: This is an interesting question. I used to believe it was about equality and being rewarded on a level playing field. I have discovered so much about the true origins of feminism, and I now have a very different perspective. I feel it’s about having a choice. It feels like our choices have been eroded over the years without us realizing it. I feel women have been gaslighted into a position of having to work just to make ends meet. I would like to see a world where everyone is paid enough for the work they do so that mothers can make the choice to be full-time mothers if they want to, without being judged. So that women aren’t working three jobs just to survive while trying to bring up their children.
I got it wrong. I am one of the women who thought she was paving the way for others, when really, I was paving the way for the government to double its labor force and double its tax income. An unpopular view I’m sure until you dig a bit deeper. The truth was a wake-up call for me.
Embrace the feminine, make choices on your terms, and resist being gaslighted by a system that has been set up to disenfranchise women under the guise of feminism.
I love women. I celebrate women, and I want to see us make choices based on a full understanding of what got us to where we are today. I want women to thrive. I want our daughters to have more choices than anyone. Without sacrificing their divine feminine to fit someone else’s agenda.
The Woman Wednesday Blog 