We’re looking forward to introducing you to Tonya Jeffries. Check out our conversation below.
Tonya, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
One of my proudest recent moments was graduating with my degree in Marketing. It wasn’t just about earning a degree it was about completing a promise I made to myself years ago. There were late nights, long workdays, and plenty of moments when balancing everything felt impossible. But walking across that stage, I realized how far I’d come not just as a student, but as a creator and entrepreneur. That moment reminded me that growth takes time, discipline, and a little bit of faith in yourself.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m TJgirlslayer but you can call me Tonya a Digital Marketing and Lifestyle Creator helping women 40+ master their style, their story, and their online presence with confidence. My brand blends fashion, beauty, and strategy to prove that reinvention doesn’t have an age limit. What makes my work unique is how I mix creativity and strategy I don’t just create content; I teach women how to build influence and turn their stories into brands. I’m active across TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and LTK, working with brands that align with my message of confidence, class, and consistency while building a community that inspires women to show up boldly online.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
I think what breaks the bonds between people is comparison and ego especially in a world built on social media. When we start competing instead of connecting, we forget that there’s room for everyone to shine. What restores those bonds is community and authenticity. When women support each other, share resources, and celebrate wins together, we all rise. That’s something I remind my audience often collaboration over competition will always win in the long run. Authenticity wins every time!
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Absolutely. There were moments when I questioned if all the effort was even worth it especially when I was juggling school, work, and trying to build a brand from the ground up. I remember feeling tired, unseen, and unsure if my voice even mattered. But every time I thought about quitting, I reminded myself why I started. I wanted to create something bigger than me a platform that empowers women to see their value and potential, no matter their age. That purpose kept me going.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes and no. The public version of me is definitely real it’s my voice, my energy, and my personality but it’s also the curated version of me. I share what inspires, teaches, and uplifts, but like anyone else, I have quiet moments and off days that don’t always make it to the feed. The difference is intention. I’ve learned to protect certain parts of myself while still being authentic with my audience. The woman you see online is me just the version that’s focused on purpose and growth.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
I’ve come to understand that peace costs something usually your old habits, your people-pleasing, and your need to control everything. Most people chase success but forget to protect their peace along the way. I’ve learned that real fulfillment comes when you stop forcing and start flowing trusting that what’s meant for you won’t miss you. It’s not about having it all; it’s about having what aligns.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tjgirlslayer.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tjgirlslayer_?igsh=c3h0eHo3ZTJxM3Jh&utm_source=qr
Image Credits
Images credit from https://www.instagram.com/antoinneduanejones?igsh=bWpueHFuNXQzc290
Antoinne Duane Jones photography
