Life & Work with Tonya Cowan of Raleigh-Durham

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tonya Cowan.

Hi Tonya , so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My name is Tonya M. Cowan, though many know me as Ms. Positivi-T. My journey began with a heartfelt vision: to uplift and encourage people from all walks of life. Driven by my passion for positive change, I founded Ms. Positivi-T as a platform dedicated to inspiring others and supporting them as they discover their own strength and potential.

My path was shaped by my education at East Carolina University, where I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Education. The leadership, organizational skills, and multitasking abilities I developed in my studies and career empowered me to pursue my dream of becoming an entrepreneur.

With a strong sense of purpose, I established DesignKind Studio (formerly As You Wish websites|engagement|marketing), where I offer marketing services to small business owners, helping them grow and thrive. I also expanded my mission by founding Designed With A Purpose cfs, an organization devoted to empowering young ladies and women—encouraging them to lead with confidence and intention. Through every phase of my journey, I have remained dedicated to helping others embrace their capabilities and make a positive impact in their own lives.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Coming from a small town, I faced unique challenges that shaped my resilience and determination. As a divorced single mom, I balanced the demands of working full time while traveling, all as I pursued my bachelor’s degree. During that time, I also earned my certification as a Certified Trade Show Marketer (CTSM), pushing myself to grow both professionally and personally. These experiences were not easy, but they fueled my drive to overcome obstacles and inspired me to work even harder to become the woman I am today. Through my perseverance, I aimed to set a powerful example for my now adult daughters, showing them that with determination and dedication, they too can achieve their dreams no matter the circumstances.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As a senior marketing professional, I have built a distinguished career managing and planning successful campaigns and events for a diverse range of stakeholders in corporate America. My journey along the leadership path has allowed me to blend strategic vision with hands-on creativity, positioning me as a creative visionary within my marketing business. With each project, I strive to understand my clients’ unique goals and challenges, providing tailored marketing solutions that drive real results and set their brands apart.

When I reflect on my journey, what makes me most proud is my ability to persevere through challenges while staying true to my values. There have been moments when obstacles seemed impossible, but I found the determination and creativity to keep moving forward. This resilience has not only helped me accomplish my goals but has also shaped who I am as a person today.

Another source of pride is the positive impact I have had on others. Whether it’s offering encouragement to a friend, collaborating with colleagues on a difficult project, or volunteering in my community, I take great satisfaction in knowing that my actions can inspire and support those around me. Seeing others benefit from my efforts reinforces my commitment to making a difference.

I am also proud of the growth I have achieved, both personally and professionally. Every new experience—whether learning a new skill, adapting to a new environment, or overcoming a setback—has contributed to my development. Embracing change and pursuing self-improvement have allowed me to reach milestones I once thought were unattainable. Ultimately, what I am most proud of is not just a single accomplishment, but the mindset and character I have cultivated along the way. My journey is ongoing, and I am excited to continue building on these foundations as I strive for further achievements.

Balancing my professional career with entrepreneurship has required strong organizational skills and a gift for juggling multiple projects simultaneously, which I feel sets me apart. I take pride in maintaining a calm demeanor even when facing tight deadlines or complex challenges, which not only strengthens trust among clients and colleagues but also ensures a smooth, positive experience for everyone involved. This ability to manage complexity with grace, while delivering innovative marketing strategies, truly sets me apart in the industry and allows me to consistently exceed client expectations.

Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned along my journey is the value of balance, setting boundaries, and the power of saying no when necessary. Over the years, I discovered that prioritizing my mental and physical health isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential for sustained growth and fulfillment. By honoring my limits and making self-care a non-negotiable part of my routine, I’ve been able to show up as my best self for my family, clients, and community, while also protecting my own well-being. These practices have taught me that true success is not just about what you accomplish, but about nurturing yourself along the way so you can keep making a positive impact for years to come.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.mspositivi-t.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspositivi_t/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tonya.m.cowan2015
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyamcowan/
• Other: https://linktr.ee/MsPositiviT