Rising Stars: Meet Roquel Bush

Hi Roquel, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today. 
Absolutely and thank you for the opportunity to share my story! I’m from Toledo, OH, but have been in the DFW metroplex since 2013. I am a first-generation college graduate and I set the bar high for my family. I graduated magna cum laude (3.6 GPA), joined the best sorority (Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.), and was the Vice President of Order of Omega (a national honor society).

After college, I lived in New York City for three years. I moved to NYC because I wanted to experience the big city, and it might sound cliché, but I knew if I could make it there, I could make it anywhere!

After NYC, I wanted to take on the big state, so I moved to the Dallas with nothing but two suitcases.

As someone who comes from a lower-income family, I strive to be an example for those who want to change their narrative. I have traveled the world, worked for large companies including Meta (Facebook), LinkedIn and Mary Kay, am breaking generational chains, and running a successful small business as an entrepreneur.

I wake up every day grateful for the favor and blessings that have been bestowed upon me and know that the best is yet to come. My ancestors would be proud.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I’m sure we all have faced struggles throughout our lives, and a few life-changing moments come to mind for me.

When I was in college, I lost my sister when she was only 18 years old. I didn’t know how to process those feelings, and I am so grateful that our campus had an on-site counselor to help me find positive ways to channel my grief. This is when I decided to do things as a tribute to the ones I lost. I went pedal to metal in college, and deep down, my move to NYC was for my sister.

In 2022, I lost my mom unexpectedly. This was devastating since we had been spending the last decade building our relationship. The silver lining was we had just had a great visit for Christmas and spent the day playing cards, listening to music, and laughing. She even got to meet my soon-to-be husband at the time through FaceTime. I’m so happy to have been given that opportunity.

In 2023, I decided to become a NASM Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) as a tribute to my mom. Losing my mom due to health reasons ignited a spark in me that wants to help people (specifically women) live longer, more fulfilling lives. I’m on a mission to get as many people engaged in their own well-being as possible.

Lastly, I recently lost my grandfather, who was more like a father to me. He lived for 78 years, always rooted for the underdog, and was as generous as they came. He’s where I get my resilience from, and I know he’s smiling down on my family as we navigate life without him.

There will always be new challenges that we have to overcome. But the thing I try and remember is that tomorrow isn’t guaranteed so I focus on how I can enjoy today and make the world a better place.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
After spending nearly 10 years in Brand Management, I switched careers to become a Project Manager and obtained my PMI Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification.

I tell my friends that my whole goal as a Project Manager is to make projects simple for my project sponsors and key stakeholders. What I love most about this role is the visibility across all departments in the organization and the ability to help the team solve their problems with minimal friction to the business.

I’ve been told that my curiosity for “the why” we do things the way we do in the company is what sets me apart from my counterparts. If you’re looking for a “yes woman,” I’ll admit that I’m not your girl. But, if you’re looking for someone who can get in the weeds to identify what’s needed to improve processes, look no further.

As a part-time Personal Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor, I have worked with clients from age 14 to 90 years old. My specializations are cardio conditioning, mobility, and strength training. Having worked with such a wide array of clients helps me tailor my approach to what each client needs specifically. I also stay connected to the community as a Dallas Fitness Ambassador, aSweatLife Ambassador, and a ZFT Run Club Member.

Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs, or other resources you think our readers should check out?
It’s hard to name only a few because I read 1-2 new books a month as part of my continuing education to maintain my certifications.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://rockiebfitness.journoportfolio.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rockie.b.fit