Meet Miss Destini Perkins | Creative, Multimedia Journalist, Event Producer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Miss Destini Perkins and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Miss Destini, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Recently, I was approached by a man during an Essence event, and he asked me, “What is your talent? Do you sing or act?” I responded, “I have the gift of speaking.” At that moment, I realized how much self-awareness I had gained by understanding that my talent may not be as physically obvious, but it energetically touches people’s souls.

Goddi By Dess LLC was inspired by my journey of truly discovering my worth. Through my business, I offer Media & Entertainment Services, including creative direction, public speaking, event production, emceeing/hosting events, and interview facilitation. I also collaborate with companies on a freelance basis to bring projects to life!

The foundation of my business was built on becoming confident in my creativity and recognizing that my presence and my voice can truly amplify so many companies!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My career path has been incredibly unique—one I never expected to take, but I am so proud that I did.

I graduated high school in the Class of 2020 and attended Utah Valley University during the peak of the pandemic. Living in Utah County for two years as both a student and a creative taught me that I could bring my visions to life. At one point, I had to choose between focusing more on my classes or taking on a student job that gave me the freedom to execute projects funded by COVID mental health grants. By redirecting my focus to producing networking mixers, photoshoots, and events, I ended up being interviewed on KUTV at just 19 years old. Through my successes as a college student and creative director, I ultimately decided to take a gap year to align my focus with what I truly wanted.

During my gap year, I worked full-time as a community organizer with the North County NAACP Youth Council and local Black Student Unions. I was also a paid intern for the Friends Committee on National Legislation, flying back and forth from San Diego and Washington, D.C., for policy training, lobbying members of Congress, and creating opportunities for constituents. Additionally, I became Miss Black Global 2022-2023, reigniting my pageant journey.

Fast forward to 2023, I produced my second event, Know Thyself: Divine Woman, securing over 20 sponsors and uniting a national committee to bring this women’s empowerment event to life in Oceanside, CA.

Currently, I am a student living and taking online classes in San Diego County while spending significant time in Los Angeles, all while navigating life as a new entrepreneur in the media and entertainment industry.

I am sharing a piece of my journey to say this: there is no “perfect path”—only the path that feels right for you. Could I compare myself to others who finished university and earned their degrees? Sure. But I am incredibly proud of the experience I’ve gained over the past five years, and I know my future is bright and full of promise.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my friends were visiting my city for a day, I’d start by taking them to Carlsbad Village for a refreshing açaí bowl from Beach City Smoothies or Better Buzzed. We’d then take a relaxing walk to Carlsbad State Beach, where we could swim, and create beautiful memories by the ocean. After spending the morning at the beach, we’d head down to Del Mar for lunch at Tamarindo, where we could enjoy delicious food with a beautiful ocean view. If we wanted something more casual, we’d grab Mexican food from The Original Mr. Taco in Vista!

After lunch, I’d take them to Kyoto Japanese Market, in Oceanside, to grab some snacks and drinks before heading to Chicano Park to admire the vibrant murals and culture in Barrio Logan.

To end the night, we’d grab dinner in Downtown San Diego and enjoy Gaslamp’s nightlife. If we were feeling adventurous, I’d suggest a quick trip to Tijuana for authentic street tacos and shopping!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to recognize Ms. Debbie Matthews, my North County NAACP Youth Council Advisor, for empowering me to use my voice since my junior year of high school! She created opportunities for me to lobby for the CROWN Act in Sacramento at just 17 years old and to attend NAACP National and State Conventions.

I also want to express my appreciation for Ms. Salah, my high school AVID teacher, for opening my mind to the possibility of owning a business.

Sometimes, it only takes one person to inspire you and positively change the trajectory of your life. Lucky for me, I have plenty of those people in my life!

Website: https://destiniperkinsentertainment.my.canva.site/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/destiniperkinsofficial

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/destiniamarisperkins/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@destiniperkins