Gena Culler-Green of Detroit on Life, Lessons & Legacy

Gena Culler-Green shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Hi Gena, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What is a normal day like for you right now?
My day starts typically at 4am. I thank God before I get out of bed, I stretch then read the daily devotional from my Bible app. I pray stretch some more then workout. I then pray again and post. I read articles on problems I’m trying to solve I answer emails. Check meetings and see what I need to make, order or look for my business. I go to work for a few hours pick up my kiddos from with school or after school activities,go home and work on my brand sewing, brainstorming, preparing for a project etc…

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Gena an artist designer, mom, welder and costumer. Yes I do them all ever since I became a widow. I became a designer after my husband passed away unexpectedly and as a way to connect him to our children I upcycled his clothing for their special occasions. It became my therapy and a way to share our story with ours. Fast forward I love having a sustainable business and lifestyle. My goal is to offer products that empower, inspire and motivate women welders and workers alike. Upcycling jackets and pants into PPE and wearable art so when a women gets off work to pick up her kiddos is my favorite thing to make. Currently we’re working on our jewelry and candle collection. And defining our work ware products.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
When I had my designs in a show for the first time and people loved them and understood the meaning and purpose behind it. I knew I was doing what I was supposed to be doing no matter where I was at the time it could only get better and it has.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
I wanted to give up when my husband died and I had no clue how I was going to raise our children, work and heal. The blessing was God had me repurposed for purpose I was doing things that I would have never done and it was healing and a way to help others. I became fulfilled. I’m grateful I didn’t let my lack of knowledge in sewing and being a single mom stop me from moving forward even in the hardest of times. Looking in my children eyes I knew it wasn’t an option to give up. And I knew God had my back no matter how horrible no matter how bad my circumstances seemed.

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
Seeing my welding/ working women PPE collection come to fruition.
It’s been challenging and hard figuring everything out but I refuse to let go and know it will be helpful and inspiring to women. I will continue to work on this branch of the brand until it has impact on those it’s intended for.

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people continue to say I loved Lord and my children. I’m kind, genuine and see people and make them feel seen. I don’t do it for praise I do it when led by the spirit to do so because I know how it feels not to be seen overlooked and ignored . I pray they continue to say I’m passionate and live what I do and love to serve others.

Contact Info:

• Website: [email protected]
• Instagram: @gculle
• Linkedin: @gculle
• Twitter: @gculle
• Facebook: @gculle

Image Credits
Lesage Photography
Legend Of Teddy
1221 Photography
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