The 2016 Pivot | Day in the life RCD

 

Hello RCD readers,

Happy Hump Day! Lately, I’ve been noticing a trend in my own thoughts—a pull to look back at where this all started. I had to take a step back and really evaluate what happened in 2016. At the time, it didn’t feel like a year to "clap about," but looking back, I realize it was the year my foundation was poured.

A Miracle and a Reminder

The year began with a powerful blessing. My sister’s baby girl—my goddaughter—was finally released from the hospital. She was a miracle baby, the youngest born that week, and one of the few who survived. I remember the doctor looking at her with disbelief, telling us to our faces that she wouldn't make it through the week.

That was a moment of profound clarity for me. It showed me that God has the only power. Nobody else. Witnessing that miracle was a reminder that when the world says "no," God can still say "yes."

The Freelance Struggle & The Marketing Myth

In 2016, I was trying for the second time to find my footing. I had been a freelance junior architect for two years and was desperate for a steady job. I sent my diplomas to architects I admired right here in Suriname—people I knew personally.

Not one response. I didn’t beg, and I didn’t speak badly of them; I just let it be. Back then, many architects believed the concept that "the work speaks for itself" and that promotion wasn't necessary. I quickly realized that isn't true. Marketing is vital for us, especially because so much misinformation is spread in our field. Eventually, two teachers responded. One became a mentor who took me on as a freelance drafter—someone I still go to for advice today.

The Birth of RC Designs (RCD)

I honestly don’t remember if I convinced myself to start RC Designs or if someone else pushed me. I just know I was told to do it and not be scared. My original plan was to get a "steady job" first, but God had a different timeline.

I remember my uncle taking me to the Building Department to register so I could get permits approved under my own name. I was so shy, so overwhelmed, and I felt completely out of place. I’m still an introvert at heart, but that step was crucial. It’s funny looking back; out of my big family, I can count on one hand who actually followed and supported that journey from day one.

The Critics and the "Lazy" Label

While some people gave "polite" support—promising advice they never actually delivered—others were outright judgmental. Some friends and family were jealous that I would even try. As my vision grew, so did the backhanded compliments.

Because I was working for myself and building a brand, some saw me as "just a lazy daughter." They tried to push me back toward the people who had already ignored my resumes. It hurt. I think they expected me to fail, and in their minds, they were "protecting" me. But I wasn't lazy; I was building.

Finding Support in Unexpected Places

By August 2016, I launched my Facebook page. Ironically, my biggest supporters were online strangers and a select few family members: my siblings, my cousins, my aunt I’d never met, and my mother—my biggest cheerleader.

I started using Facebook Notes to blog about my process. I learned that showcasing your work creates familiarity and trust. People get invested in the brand before it even is a brand. I even created my first 3D house drawing back then—a sentimental piece that eventually became my official logo in 2022!

The Silent Years Were a Gift

2016 was a year of low income and high fear. I was juggling roles as a ballet assistant and a junior architectural engineer, often feeling like people saw me as "just a blogger" rather than an architect. But those silent years gave me the luxury of time:

• to work on my craft, 
• to invest in my business that was still a dream, 
• to make mistakes with the help of my freelance bosses to correct me, 
• to learn about marketing
• to become more assertive without losing the essence of who I am
• the luxury to have an on and off again relationship with the Lord and finally knowing how to hold on to the Lord by fully trusting Him
• to learn about taxes, about finances, about administration, about architect must haves
• to learn about what kind of services I can offer 
• To learn to be professional while not backing down with your point of view 
• to stay vocal and let nobody try to discouraged your character

Thinking back, I wouldn’t change a thing. Each struggle was necessary to build the mindset and strength I have today. Now, almost four years into this being my full reality, I know I’m on the right path.

I know who is in control. The Lord above.

"God voorziet, niets ontbreekt." (God provides, nothing is lacking.)