Honest and Fearless Tina Knowles Enthralls Houston at TWEF

For over a decade, the Texas Women’s Empowerment Foundation (TWEF) has served the community and helped over 100,000 people from all walks of life reach their fullest potential in the areas of personal development, business, education, finances, and socio-economic development.

Founded in 2002 by entrepreneur and philanthropist Deavra Daughtry, the non-profit was established as a resource for families that provided the tools necessary to achieve and maintain a sense of empowerment while being inspired to reach their personal and professional goals. Deavra herself, as a young adult, started a healthcare and management business which now employs over 500 individuals throughout Texas. As a successful business owner, she created the Foundation to focus on the entire family unit with a “heal the community” approach.

At the 8th Annual International Financial & Leadership Summit, TWEF focused on the theme of Economic Empowerment Through Diversity & Inclusion. Hosted at the JW Marriott Galleria, the event included a Million Dollar Round Table, a Women & Money Leadership Luncheon, International Leadership Awards Gala, and a star-studded music inspired soiree.

Lights Camera Action was on hand at the Luncheon which honored one of the State’s most well known and influential success stories: Tina Knowles, entrepreneur, business woman, and mother of music star Beyonce. Ms. Knowles gave an inspirational speech about her story and struggles as she made her way to success, her divorce and her now amazing committed relationship. She joked about dating and how hard it is, with an overall message that you should never give up.

Tina Knowles in conversation with Ruchi Mukherjee

It was such an honor to get an exclusive interview with the gorgeous Tina Knowles. During our interview, Ms. Knowles spoke about her classic personal wardrobe style and the influence of Indian sari fabrics in her designs. Hailing from Galveston, she feels most at home in this part of Texas and enjoys the weather, food, and cultural influences of one of America’s most diverse cities.

What’s your style statement?

My style statement is classic. I like things that are tailored and fitted. So that’s my style.

What do you like to do when you are in Houston?

I love to go to Frenchy’s Chicken and get the red beans and rice. I also love my church here, St. Johns, it’s an amazing place.I see my friends and go to the beach in Galveston. I’m actually from Galveston. Houston is home for me. It’s like one of the best places in the world. When I need nurturing, this is where I come.

Do you see any Indian or Bollywood influence in your designs?

One of the first things I designed, I used to get sari fabrics and make costumes for the girls (Destiny’s Child). It’s just the most amazing colors and fabrics of any fabrics I think out there. I love them.

Houston is just thriving with all good things and rising women from various communities. Your thoughts?

Houston is one of the fastest growing cities. It has amazing restaurants and people are always surprised how amazing the arts are and it’s got the most incredible people, balanced people, that are just good people, that not only achieve these great things and are good role models, but they are good people who give back to the community, and that’s something I love about Houston.

For more information on Texas Women’s Empowerment Foundation (TWEF) visit: twef.org.

Photos by Sandeep Khandelwal.