WHO IS SHE? – Raquel Riley Thomas

Raquel Riley Thomas is an Entrepreneur and Humanitarian who has made waves in the PR and Beauty industries to name a few. She is the owner of An Officer and Gentlewoman, LLC, a media and entertainment company, and a veteran whose path has already created a distinguished legacy that can and does inspire others. Let’s meet her…

What was the catalyst that contributed to your business launch (and interest) in Public Relations? What was missing from the industry that you hoped to fill?

The catalyst for my journey into Public Relations was the realization that there was a need for authentic storytelling and effective communication strategies across various industries. I wanted to bridge the gap between businesses and their audiences, ensuring that their stories were heard and resonated. My aim was to bring a fresh perspective to PR, one that combined my military discipline, media experience, and entrepreneurial spirit to create impactful narratives that truly connect.

 

Tell us about your cosmetics line, Raquel Riley Thomas Beauty. As you envision the future aligned with your goals, where do you see it going in 5 years?

Raquel Riley Thomas Beauty is not just a cosmetics line; it’s a celebration of strength, beauty, and endurance. Looking ahead five years, I envision it evolving into a global movement that empowers individuals to embrace their unique beauty and express themselves confidently. Through expanded product offerings, partnerships, and community engagement, I see the brand becoming a beacon of self-expression and resilience, inspiring everyone to conquer their days with unwavering grace.

 

As a humanitarian what moment of giving are you most proud of and why?

Among the moments of giving, I’m most proud of my involvement with the American Federation of Suicide Prevention. Sadly, my mother’s own struggle with suicide deeply impacted me. Through raising awareness and support, I strive to prevent others from experiencing the pain my family endured and advocate for mental health, reminding us all of the importance of compassion and understanding.

 

As a Veteran, why is it important to you to continue to support your fellow Veterans with events like Queen V Day?

Being a Veteran, I hold a profound duty to support my fellow veterans. Queen V Day is a way for me to give back, honoring these brave individuals who have sacrificed so much for our country. It’s a day to uplift their spirits, celebrate their resilience, and provide a sense of camaraderie that reminds them they’re not alone on their journey.

 

You now currently reside in Georgia. How do you balance running businesses and home life that both continue to thrive even in your absence?

Yes, I am from Maryland and recently moved to Georgia. Balancing my business and home life is undoubtedly a challenge, but it’s a challenge I embrace. By fostering a strong team and cultivating a supportive home environment, I’ve managed to create a harmonious synergy. While I may be physically absent at times, my dedication to efficient processes, clear communication, and effective delegation ensures that both my business and family continue to flourish.

 

How do you want your legacy to inspire your daughters or young girls/women in general?

My legacy is rooted in inspiring my daughters and young girls everywhere to fearlessly chase their dreams, break barriers, and embrace their individuality. I want them to know that they can achieve greatness regardless of societal expectations, and that their strength lies in their authenticity and determination. They also have to be able to protect themselves, thus they are enrolled in Taekwondo and jujitsu.

 

Knowing what you know now, what would you say to 18-year-old Raquel to motivate and inspire her?

To my 18-year-old self, I would say, “Embrace every challenge as an opportunity, and never underestimate the power within you. Stay curious, never stop learning, and always believe in your ability to create positive change.”

 

At your core, who is Raquel and what is one recent headline that has had the most impact on you as a person?

At my core, I am a resilient and passionate individual driven by a desire to uplift others and make a lasting impact. A recent headline that profoundly affected me was “Empowering Women Entrepreneurs to Lead the Future.” It reinforced my mission to inspire and empower women to seize opportunities and reshape industries.

 

Think about a moment when you had to pivot in your career or business. What happened and how did you handle it and what tough decisions did you have to make? How did those decisions or the moment in general shape the way you navigated life or business after that?

A pivotal moment in my career was when I decided to expand my business into new territories. While it came with uncertainty, I navigated it by surrounding myself with a supportive team and making strategic decisions. This experience taught me that embracing change with a clear vision and unwavering determination can lead to remarkable growth.

 

Tell our readers where they can find out more information on you and your endeavors.

For more information about our company and its services, you can visit our website at www.aoagwllc.com and follow the company on Twitter and Instagram @aoagwllc. My personal Instagram is @raquelrileythomas.

 

What drives you daily to keep pushing forward with the grace and style that you exude?

What drives me daily is the belief that my actions can create a positive ripple effect. The opportunity to inspire others, drive change, and uplift those around me fuels my passion and keeps me moving forward with grace and style.

Anything to add?

I just want to emphasize the importance of believing in yourself and your potential. Each of us possesses the ability to overcome challenges and achieve greatness. Stay committed to your dreams, and remember that every step forward, no matter how small, contributes to your journey of success.