Today we’d like to introduce you to Josh Lauriston.
Hi Josh, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I was born in the Bahamas to Haitian parents and moved to the United States in 2013 with my family in search of a better life. Adjusting to a new country came with challenges, but everything began to shift during my senior year of high school when I joined a Bible Club and had a life-changing encounter with Jesus. After graduating, I worked several jobs but struggled with a clear sense of purpose. During a season of unemployment, I spent a lot of time praying and asking God what I was truly good at. In March 2021, a mentor asked me to design a shirt for our church ministry—something I had never done before—and through that experience, I discovered a passion and gift for design. I launched my first brand, J.I.T. Apparel (“Jesus Is Transformation”), but after early momentum didn’t translate into product sales, I went through a four-year period of discouragement and stopped creating. Eventually, I had a renewed encounter with God that led me to rebrand and start fresh. That’s how Da’Vine was born—based on John 15:5, reflecting Jesus as “the Vine” and truly Divine. Today, I’m rebuilding and relaunching the brand with greater clarity, faith, and purpose than ever before.
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?
It has definitely not been a smooth road. One thing I’ve learned is that smooth roads are for people who want to remain comfortable, and growth doesn’t happen in comfort. My journey has stretched me in ways I didn’t expect. I’ve battled seasons of depression, faced financial hardships, struggled to find the right resources and support, and endured the pain of family losses. There were moments when I questioned myself, my vision, and even whether I should continue at all. But each challenge shaped me, strengthened my faith, and refined my purpose. Looking back, I can see that every obstacle was developing resilience, character, and clarity for where I am today.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I currently serve at a nonprofit organization called Branches, where I work as a Climb Coach. In this role, I have the privilege of mentoring middle and high school students, teaching life skills, and helping them grow academically, personally, and spiritually. I also lead our youth service nights, where I teach and share the message of Jesus with students in a way that is practical and relatable. Beyond my nonprofit work, I am a creative at heart and the founder of Da’Vine, a luxury faith-based clothing brand rooted in purpose and creativity. I’m known for my genuine love for Jesus, my heart for people, and my ability to blend faith with creativity. What I’m most proud of is walking in purpose—this is the most fulfilled I have ever felt, being able to serve, create, and lead in ways that align with my calling. What sets me apart is my desire to build people and pour into the next generation while also creating something that reflects faith, culture, and excellence.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
I consider myself a strategic risk-taker. I don’t take risks carelessly, but I do believe growth requires stepping into the unknown with faith and preparation. One of the biggest risks I’ve taken was launching my first clothing brand without any prior business knowledge or experience. I had never run a company, developed products at scale, or navigated marketing and sales—but I stepped out anyway because I believed in the vision God placed on my heart. That experience taught me that risk isn’t just about the possibility of failure; it’s about the willingness to grow. Even when the brand didn’t succeed the way I initially hoped, the lessons I gained were invaluable. For me, risk is about obedience, courage, and long-term perspective. I would rather take a calculated step forward and learn through the process than stay comfortable and wonder “what if.”
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @chosen.jit; @ j.i.t.apparel
