In 2016, branding guru Sherwanna Livingston was five months pregnant and suddenly unemployed.
What could have been a moment of despair instead became a defining turning point—one that would launch her into a bold journey of entrepreneurship rooted in purpose, faith, and resilience.
Now, Livingston is the founder and CEO of LLYP Studios, a fast-rising branding agency focused on helping nonprofits and mission-driven organizations build powerful, authentic brand ecosystems.
Her work has gone beyond visual identity—it’s about amplifying the impact of organizations that serve communities.
“I realized that no matter how loyal you are, companies will always prioritize their bottom line,” she told Loud Women Lead. “I couldn’t afford to let my future rest in someone else’s hands.”
A Business Born From Purpose
With a degree in Public Relations from the University of Texas at Arlington, Livingston originally aimed to work in marketing and PR.
But after facing difficulty landing traditional roles, she pivoted—launching her own venture: Live Love Your Passion LLC, which evolved into LLYP Studios.
What makes LLYP different? It’s more than logos and taglines.
“We don’t just create visuals. We build brand ecosystems from the inside out,” she says. “Our work aligns internal culture with external messaging.”
A Turning Point: Focusing on the Mission
For years, Livingston juggled multiple ventures. But in 2023, she made a game-changing decision: to go all in on LLYP Studios.
“I was moving in so many directions that I wasn’t actually moving forward,” she reflected. “Once I committed to mastering one thing, the business flourished.”
That clarity paid off. In 2024, she graduated from the Goldman Sachs Black in Business: One Million Black Women Program, a prestigious milestone that helped her sharpen operations while balancing life as a single mom and business leader.
Major Milestones and New Growth
LLYP Studios recently landed one of its largest contracts to date—designing branding for a Texas-based nonprofit focused on affordable housing.
“Our designs will be seen on properties throughout the state,” Livingston shared. “That’s a huge step for us.”
She’s also planning to expand LLYP’s offerings with:
- Mission-aligned merchandise
- Digital courses and a product suite for nonprofits and entrepreneurs
- Social impact initiatives supporting causes close to her heart
- A relaunch of her YouTube and podcast platform focused on community, faith, and leadership
Boundaries, Balance, and Bold Faith
Livingston is intentional about maintaining boundaries—starting with her phone.
“My assistant doesn’t have my phone, so the only way she can fully support me is if people email or go through our website,” she explained. “That boundary keeps me sane.”
After health scares tied to overworking, she now protects her peace, health, and family time. Her mantra is clear: “I’m not dying for this.”
She also leads her business with unapologetic faith.
“Christ is my CEO. I’ll never be quiet about that,” she says. “It wasn’t just strategy that got me here—it was God’s favor.”
A Message for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Livingston’s advice is simple, yet powerful:
“It’s not who you believe you are that holds you back—it’s who you believe you’re not. See the vision of who you’re becoming and move like you’re already her.”
Sherwanna Livingston is proof that when purpose meets perseverance, the result is more than a brand—it’s a movement.
Through LLYP Studios, she’s building more than visuals. She’s helping mission-driven leaders show up boldly, impact deeply, and build legacies that last.
