We had the good fortune of connecting with India Young-Johnson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi India, what is the most important factor behind your success?
I believe the key to my success lies in my persistence. Regardless of the situation, I’m not hesitant to embark on new ventures, bring others along, and shift course as needed. My experiences in entrepreneurship have underscored the importance of flexibility and the necessity to adapt.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I proudly embrace the role of a mental health therapist, a choice deeply influenced by my own experiences with trauma and loss stemming from my time in the foster care system. These experiences have ignited a passion within me to support others on their life paths.

I earned my bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University and my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Michigan Ann Arbor. Serving vulnerable populations in various capacities has been a profound honor for me, with a particular focus on creating safe and supportive environments where individuals feel valued and heard.

Beyond my professional life as a therapist, I possess a creative spirit. One that delves into wardrobe styling, creative consulting and makeup artistry. My persistence and openness to pursue my passions have blessed me with opportunities to work in the fashion industry alongside celebrities such as Tahj Mowry, LAYA, Marlo Hampton, Cynthia Bailey and Garcelle Beauvais, among others.

The role of being a creative, has historically presented challenges in integrating it with my therapeutic identity. However, I’ve come to understand that at the core of both is a simple goal: to help people feel good, thereby enabling them to look good, and vice versa.

Many suggest that focusing on a single endeavor is necessary, yet when your interests intersect, it’s possible to achieve success in multiple areas. I want the world to know that I’m on my journey of discovery, fueled by resilience, wisdom, and determination that will eternally sustain my inner fire. And if I can do it, you sure can too.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m a real enthusiast for food and spontaneity. For breakfast, I’d love to take my best friend to “See You Tomorrow” on Woodward. Maybe explore an art gallery or visit a shopping mall afterwards. Come dinner, Sweetwaters in Detroit is a must-visit for some top-notch wings. Then, we might enjoy a bit of bar hopping in downtown Detroit, for charming cocktails for their cute aesthetics. To cap off the day, I’m contemplating a visit to Topgolf or the new comedy club by Mike Epps.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My fiancé DaJon deserves a shoutout for remaining my number one fan at all times. He’s also one of the most humbled, creative photographers I know.

My friend Oliver Brown has inspired me to lead more with my creative endeavors. Because of him, I’ve been in rooms networking with high profile clients which empowers me to establish my presence in an industry I didn’t think I could.

Website: https://www.indiecreates.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/msindiayoungj?igsh=NXkwNTJmaWRscnRv

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Msindiayoungj

Image Credits
DaJon Johnson – Images 1, 3, 4 and 5 Bijon Stigger – Image 2

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMichigan is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.