We had the good fortune of connecting with Ja’Von Anderson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ja’Von, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My thought process behind starting my own business started by asking myself, “how can I make an impact in the community, along with fulfilling my purpose, and express my creativity aside from being an athlete?” My ultimate goal is to be my own boss, have the freedom to be myself, and work on my own terms. In this process, there comes a demand of maturity and wisdom in order to achieve the vision I have cultivated. I believe every one has a story, but not everyone has accumulated the skillset of turning their trials and tribulations into lessons of empowerment through visuals, quotes, and eventually–merchandise. The journey of starting your own business is not easy nor is it meant to be rushed for monetary purposes. With that being said I have been blessed enough to be able to take my time and embrace the initial stages of my businesses.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
If I had to describe my work in one word, it would be “versatile.” I am a collegiate athlete soon to achieve a bachelor’s degree in biological science, training myself and other athletes, mentoring a small following, and building an empire for my brand, “Regiis Lotos,” all while aspiring to become a professional athlete. Throughout the many teachings and aspirations my path has exposed me to, I have channeled my creative talents toward entrepreneurship. Although far from easy, the journey is less strenuous because I am promoting what I believe in—myself.

I started a personal training business about four years ago called “Juice Wellness.” Initially, it was a platform for documenting my workouts during the basketball off-season, but it grew to attract a following of aspiring wellness advocates who took the first step toward a healthier and more fit lifestyle with my assistance.

Aside from Juice Wellness, Regiis Lotos is my brand focused on creating your throne despite life’s circumstances. Regiis Lotos, Royal Lotus in Latin, is inspired by the ideology of a lotus growing in harsh conditions, with its roots getting nutrients from muddy soil. Symbolically, the muddy soil refers to hardship, originating from the slang expression “getting it out of the mud.” This expression indicates that through diligent, smart, intentional work, you can cultivate yourself and your potential to a maximized caliber of royalty through a divine light guiding your steps (God).

I’ve experienced many losses and defeats in my life that have strengthened me for my purpose today, and I am grateful to have the opportunity to continue on this journey of purposeful fulfillment. Stay tuned for something special. This is just the beginning—mark my words.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting the area for a week, we would have to stop at a couple eating spots in town such as:
-Surfs Up Acai
-Red Sake
-The Grand
-Good Life Cafe
-Pon Di River
-Kiki’s Chicken and Waffles
-Taziki’s Mediterranean
-Miyabi’s

To hang out:
-West Columbia Riverwalk
-Riverbanks Zoo
-Columbia Museum of Art
-Tubing or Jet Ski’s on Lake Murray
-Roller skating at Skateland
-Sesquicentennial State Park
-The Vista

To name a few!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First, I would be nothing without my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ along with God, my almighty Father. The dynamic duo has been the energy source of perseverance throughout my endeavors. Next would be the love and support of my mother La Cresha, sisters La Toya and Logan, my late father Jason, and my bestfriend Cierrah. They have been the light and inspiration to my journey; whether it has been the love they exert, the resources they’ve provided, the verbal motivation they’ve instilled into me, etc. In addition I would like to shoutout my mentors that have taken me under their wings along my journey to generate wisdom and structure towards my future success.

Instagram: Personal- @juicewitdabutta | Wellness- @juicewelln3ss | Brand- @weareroyallotus & @regiislotos

Youtube: @weareroyallotus

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSouthCarolina 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.