A Conversation with the Tenacious & Unstoppable Annette Matthews

At Photos by LJK, we celebrate women who embrace their authenticity, move through life with resilience, and redefine success on their own terms. Today, we’re sitting down with Annette Matthews, a woman who proves that quiet strength can shake the world. Let’s dive into her inspiring story!

Photos by LJK: What’s your full name?

Annette: Annette Matthews.

Photos by LJK: Who is the woman that inspires you the most?

Annette: Issa Rae. I relate to her awkwardness, as she shares in her book and her work on Insecure. She has the ability to embrace that part of herself and turn it into something relatable and empowering. It reminds me that my quirks are my strength.

I can be a little awkward in social settings, and watching Issa’s journey is proof that I too can be a quiet storm and make an impact in my own way, without shouting for attention. She inspires me to lean into my authentic self, embrace the fun side of my personality, and trust that I can create my own version of success.

Photos by LJK: That’s such a beautiful lesson in self-acceptance! If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

Annette: Give yourself grace. When things don’t work out the way you planned, it’s okay. Pivoting is often necessary to succeed in your endeavors.

*Don’t let anyone talk you out of what you have in mind for yourself. Don’t let their fears of bold forwardness cower over you. Continue to be bold, creative, and command the room you walk in—every time. *

Photos by LJK: That’s a powerful reminder! What’s your go-to song when you need to feel empowered?

Annette: “Survivor” by Destiny’s Child. Or “Golden” by Jill Scott.

Photos by LJK: Those are the ultimate anthems of confidence! What’s a passion or hobby that brings you joy outside of work?

Annette: Painting and making creative photos.

Photos by LJK: Love that! If you had to describe yourself in one word, what would it be?

Annette: Tenacious.

Photos by LJK: Why did you choose that word?

Annette: Because it conveys determination and persistence—I never back down from what I believe in.

Photos by LJK: That’s what makes a woman unstoppable! How do you celebrate your wins, big or small?

Annette: I hate to say it, but I don’t celebrate them—big or small. I take my wins and appreciate them quietly.

Photos by LJK: That’s real. But you deserve to celebrate YOU! What does strength mean to you, and how do you embody it?

Annette: To be able to move mountains of challenges out of my way and emerge on the other side greater than before. Being able to find my way through the darkness that life can bring ultimately makes me prepared for what’s next.

I focus on aligning my mindset, building resilience, and cultivating my inner peace. I have a great support system that I nurture. I recognize my journey and honor the fact that with every mountain I’ve moved, I’ve shaped myself into a stronger, more resilient woman.

Photos by LJK: That’s a testament to your strength! If you could make one change in the world for women, what would it be?

Annette: To always be protected by other women—and especially by men of our own race.

Photos by LJK: That’s a powerful and much-needed change. What’s one accomplishment you’re really proud of?

Annette: One thing I’m really proud of accomplishing is individuality. I walk in my own lane and follow my own pathway.

Photos by LJK: That level of self-trust is everything! Last question—if you had a billboard for one day, what would it say?

Annette: *Not avoiding the storm, but learning to dance in the rain. I keep climbing because I am unstoppable. *

Photos by LJK: And that is the energy we LOVE! Annette, your tenacity, quiet confidence, and resilience are truly inspiring. Thank you for sharing your journey with us!

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