Persistence, Authenticity, and Intentional Growth

Davonne Reaves shares her journey from starting as a front desk agent at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta to becoming a hotel owner, entrepreneur, and founder of both Vesterr and The Vonne Group. She describes key turning points, including taking an unpaid internship, moving for a job to Boston, a city she had never seen before, and eventually leaving corporate life to become an entrepreneur. She explains how each risk contributed to her goal of hotel ownership and how persistence, sacrifice, and determination shaped her path.

Reaves discusses her evolution in networking, mentorship, and leadership. She explains the importance of being intentional in building relationships, learning from influential mentors, and becoming comfortable in her authentic self. She also highlights advocating for oneself, embracing diversity in leadership, and treating employees with respect, drawing from her early experiences in hospitality.

Notable Quotes/Highlights

• “I was being persistent and not taking no as an answer.”
• “If I wouldn’t have taken that non-paid internship, then I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
• “Everything has to be intentional.”
• “A champion is someone who’s going to look after you when you’re not in the room.”
• “It’s okay to be yourself, be unapologetically yourself.”

Closing Reflection

Davonne encourages others to speak up, ask questions, and pursue roles aligned with their values. She emphasizes bringing others along once you succeed and choosing environments that celebrate who you are.

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