Ashley-Victoria Smith is a trailblazing serial entrepreneur and creative powerhouse, recognized as one of Charlotte, NC’s Future Leaders in 2013 and crowned Ms. South Carolina American Beauty in 2017. Smith’s career highlights include being an internationally published model, Marketing Director, and owner of a production company that featured luxury lingerie and swimwear at New York Fashion Week and Miami Swim Week.
In 2020, Smith launched Voglia Swimwear, an award-winning brand known for bespoke, sustainable luxury swimwear. She has empowered female-owned brands by leading their marketing, branding, and PR efforts, turning their stories into profitable successes.
Dedicated to an eco-friendly lifestyle and supporting female entrepreneurs, Ashley-Victoria also contributes to charities focused on higher education, women’s rights, and pet rescue. Her work reflects a vision for a more responsible and inclusive future.
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How did you get to where you are today?
It’s all about trial and error and never giving up. I believe in putting in the work because you truly reap what you sow.
Who has made an impact on you?
I’m inspired by countless trailblazing women, including my Aunt Valerie Jackson, my mother, and powerhouses like Marie Forleo, Melanie Duncan, Sophia Amoruso, Aliza Licht, and Terresa Zimmerman. The list goes on and on.
What do you think has helped you the most with your success?
Again, working for it. Researching, networking, attending online courses, going to the library and picking up a book. When I was younger my Dad said, “If you want something, you work for it.” Nothing has ever been handed to me. Call me old school, but I’ve never hesitated to roll up my sleeves and get my hands dirty.
What has been the biggest challenge you have overcome in order to achieve your goals?
I am deaf and this is a hearing world, which meant I had to work 100 times harder growing up – just to be involved in Drama Club, Showchoir, Debate Club, and Journalism Club. Those experiences developed my grit, work ethic, and determination, which continue to drive me as I pursue my dreams.
What are you most proud of?
Becoming the woman I am today.
What are three pieces of advice you could give to our readers?
1. Stop Making Excuses
2. Figure It Out
3. Put In the Work
How do you try to make an impact?
I focus on reminding others they’re not alone in whatever journey they’re on. Rather than offering generic advice, I prefer to share real events and how they’ve impacted me or others, as it provides a clearer picture.
How do you reward yourself when you’ve reached a goal or after a hard day of
work?
I thank the Universe. I couldn’t do it with Her guidance.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
I wholeheartedly believe that each of us has a unique purpose. We all need to take time for a digital detox, reflect on ourselves, and start living out that purpose. My mentor, Marley Rose, said “if you’re not using your gifts & talents, you’re doing a disgrace to the Universe” – that hit hard. We all have gifts and talents that the world deserves to experience.
You can learn more about Ashley-Victoria Smith and her business by following her on Instagram and checking out her website!
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