In Myrtle Beach, Davina Lloyd is owner of dual-ventures People for Profit Lloyd Foundation and Diamond Dynasty Productions. Her journey began under the wings of her grandfather, who dedicated his life to serving men at a local shelter. She recalls her youthful days accompanying him, filling his car with toiletries and clothing for those in need. Those moments taught her the profound impact of compassion and community service. Her work in a prison ministry further advanced her mission, equipping formerly incarcerated individuals with job-readiness tools to guide them into stable lives.
"I realized early on that helping those going through difficult times was not just a service, but a calling," she shared. This sense of purpose not only honors her grandfather, but also drives her to create equitable opportunities for the underserved.
Her relocation from Pennsylvania to Myrtle Beach marked a significant pivot in her life. Eager to escape the snow and harsh winters, she found herself observing the struggles men faced which ranged from unemployment to mental health issues. She recognized a pressing need for supportive spaces and resources for men — which ranged from unemployment to mental health. The concept of her business started as a friendly conversation in the gym with a friend and quickly turned into a mission to address these systemic issues.
With encouragement from a friend, Lloyd organized a conference at Freewoods Farm, a site rich with history, symbolically significant as it was purchased by freed slaves. The event not only gathered around 60 participants but also fostered an energy of unity as chefs, DJs, and volunteers stepped forward to contribute their time and resources.
The success of her initial conference propelled her to organize a second event to further expand its reach. By then, partnerships with prominent speakers and local businesses amplified the impact. Participants engaged in workshops on mental health, financial literacy, and even practical skills — such as professional development in preparation for future interviews.
For Lloyd, these gatherings are less about crowded venues and more about meaningful connections. “It’s not just about the numbers. It’s about the lives we touch,” she said. She has expressed her focus on sustainable change rather than surface-level success.
Despite her progress, Lloyd has faced significant challenges, particularly in navigating the competitive landscape of Myrtle Beach. The divide within her own community has been a considerable hurdle. “The pride and ego often overshadow the collaborative spirit that we so desperately need,” she addressed. Yet, she remains undeterred, focusing her efforts on those willing to collaborate rather than dwelling on resistance.
She emphasizes the importance of mentorship, citing her relationship with Rob Clemons, a local business leader, as instrumental in breaking down cultural divides. “It’s crucial to foster open dialogues and partnerships that transcend boundaries,” she said, highlighting her belief in unity.
Looking ahead, she is determined to extend her reach. While her primary focus is on empowering men, she acknowledges the importance of supporting women and young people, creating a balance that fosters holistic community growth. Her dual ventures allow her to bridge gaps, providing financial literacy and resources to those who need them most.
“My hope is to build generational wealth within the community,” she shared, unmasking her aspirations to create pathways to financial independence and stability.
Through Davina Lloyd’s foundation and business venture, she stands for the cause of the underrepresented, all while holding true to the lessons learned from her grandfather. As she continues to build bridges and foster connections, Lloyd not only transforms lives but also carves a path toward a brighter, more equitable future for all.
Her journey illustrates a profound truth: When we prioritize people over profit, we cultivate a community where everyone thrives.
To connect with Davina Lloyd and learn more about People Over Profit or Diamond Dynasty Productions, LLC, reach out to her directly.
For People Over Profit, contact her at poplloydfoundation@gmail.com.
For Diamond Dynasty Productions, contact her at diamonddynasty10@gmail.com
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