Young Professional Keithleen S. L. Mathavious runs a family business called Cre8tive Arts Branding Specialist and is using the COVID-19 pandemic as an opportunity to diversify and grow. Photo: Provided

Along with her husband, Cleteist A. Mathavious, she is one of the founders of Cre8tive Arts Branding Specialist working as the Chief of Operations. Photo: Provided

She said outside of business, she always had a passion to teach, “not necessarily as a professional teacher but as someone who can empower by educating others. Me explaining something to someone isn’t just giving the answer. I am long-winded; I have to make sure that you understand the finer details, the background etc. My soft spot is youths!,” Mrs Mathavious told VINO. Photo: Provided

Mrs Mathavious encourage aspiring business owners to be true to themselves and remember to always maintain the standards you seek in others or higher. Photo: Provided

COVID-19 & Business

“My position is one that requires major versatility. As owner and lead in operations, you make the sacrifice to ensure that you place yourself in a position where you can maintain your staffing even if it means that you are without. Like most business owners, our hearts are heavy and the numerous thoughts of the unknown are mind-boggling,” she said regarding the COVID-19 pandemic.  

Currently residing on Tortola in the British Virgin Islands, Mrs Mathavious says she has deep Virgin Gorda roots and lives with her husband and three (3) children, along with a few adopted nieces and nephews.

“The pandemic gave us more ‘us time’. We communicate a lot with each other and we are able to openly and honestly share our thoughts and be supportive of each other. For our children, we assure them that this is not the end but we have to continue to pray, make a few adjustments with how we do things, and that we always remain open with our feelings to each other.”

Mrs Mathavious said with regards to the Government, she hopes they continue to maintain honest and open communication with the Territory.

“The health and economic survival of this Territory and its people (all people) should be a priority and they should continue to make decisions that are best for everyone.”

Education & Business

Keithleen attended the Bregado Flax Educational Centre, then the Althea Scatliffe Primary School and graduated from the British Virgin Islands High School, Class of 2000, before it became Elmore Stoutt High School.

With a drive to learn more, she recently completed a Master of Science Degree in Management from Walden University, after graduating from the University of Central Florida with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration in 2006, and from the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC), Associate's Degree in Business Administration in 2003.

Spending time with her family and close friends, "watching American football with my hubby, movie watching (no horror movies!), playing steel pan, event planning, travelling and fitness,” remain some of her hobbies outside of academia.

Along with her husband, Cleteist A. Mathavious, she is one of the founders of Cre8tive Arts Branding Specialist and works as the Chief of Operations.

“Other than the fact that I can proudly say that my husband and I own Cre8tive Arts? Perhaps the fact that we continue to build an empowering learning environment where even in intense moments we can capitalise on the seeds we have sowed,” she told Virgin Islands News Online (VINO).

Keithleen said life remains the most challenging part about her business journey, “Honestly, life! Life and all that comes with it creates unique challenges. It’s a challenge to ensure that our team speaks and exudes the same passion that my husband and I have and that they maintain stellar customer service no matter the circumstances.”

In order to overcome those challenges, she said it is important to stop overthinking and remember that in all things there is good no matter the situation you might find yourself in.

“In overcoming, I have certainly learned to step back and recalibrate. Sometimes it’s as simple as pulling out a pen and paper and analysing situations for what they are.

She said that each situation has its unique characteristics and therefore may require a unique approach.

Finding a career

Keithleen said before starting her own business, she was employed at Supa Valu Ltd for 17 years before being employed for short periods at the British Virgin Islands Ports Authority and The Boca Raton Resort and Club, a Waldorf Astoria Resort.

“I have personal aspirations of my own but, with the support that my husband and I give each other our, joint ownership was destined to happen. I call this move a bonus!”

She said outside of business, she always had a passion to teach, “not necessarily as a professional teacher but as someone who can empower by educating others. Me explaining something to someone isn’t just giving the answer. I am long-winded; I have to make sure that you understand the finer details, the background et cetera. My soft spot is youths!,” Mrs  Mathavious told VINO.

While business is booming for Creative Arts; however, she said another passion, which is a children’s apparel store called Pumpkin Children Apparel and Accessories, is now on hold in an effort to prioritise a few things in life.

“My husband and I have school-aged children and we are committed to them wholeheartedly; some sacrifices are automatic. I now have Beauty Services Boutique and other joint ventures with my Mom, Rose Gardener,” she said.

Parting Advice

Mrs Mathavious encourages aspiring business owners to be true to themselves and remember to always maintain the standards you seek in others or higher.

“Don’t ‘piggyback’ on anyone; be unique, be authentic. Don’t settle for mediocre; do your research and remember that learning should be continuous. Never feel as if you have arrived. Most importantly be realistic with your goals and your approach.”

She said loving what you do makes all the difference in the journey for the pursuit of passion, even through the challenging times.

You can learn more about Cre8tive Arts by visiting www.cre8tiveartsbvi.com.