Patrice Cameau, Founder -CAMPspace

How'd you get into the industry you're in?

I majored in PR in undergrad and landed a job at a huge NYC firm right after graduation. While there, I started PR consulting for small business owners and nonprofits (mostly my friends) and just built my portfolio from there. After working with clients, I realized that there was a very evident void of cowork and event spaces in Prince Georges’s County, MD, and decided to open CAMPspace. CAMP is a place where people can grow their personal and professional business ventures TOGETHER, and I’m so happy I decided to create the space. 

I also own a brand and talent management company that represents entertainers, creators and athletes.

What woman has inspired you throughout your life?

Of course my mom, an extremely strong woman who works hard for everything she has and loves her kids to the end. She was always classy and well-spoken, and ensures that my sister and I are able to stand on our own two feet. I'm inspired by a lot of people though - men and women. We can learn from so many things... we just have to be open to seeing and receiving.

What's one of the biggest challenges you've had and what lesson did you learn from it?

Full transparency moment here: marriage was hard for me for a long time. When things were going so well professionally, my home life was in shambles (and much of it was due to my mistakes). After being separated twice, my husband and I decided to get our shit together and really commit to trying our hardest to make it work. I’m thankful we did and pray that we continue to grow with one another... not just for us, but for our kids, our legacy and anyone else who sees us and is inspired.  

No doubt that my entire life came full circle once I took care of home!

Why do you think having a village of friends who supports you is important?

Support is important and plays a huge role in all I do.  From friends (and family) attending events I host to them patronizing my clients... it all matters and is appreciated. I just hope that I'm able to show them the same love in return. 

What are your favorite ways to self-care?

I'm a simple girl. A good Bikram session followed by dinner at home watching some reality TV makes me happy, LOL. But, daily things like drinking water, getting sunshine and cuddling with my husband and kids whenever possible also go a long way.  I also travel, when possible, and have committed to having a smart conversation with someone every week. This helps me stay focused, step out of my comfort zones and challenge myself to asking tough questions/receiving even tougher advice and critiques. 

What do you love most about D.C.?

I was born in D.C., but raised in Prince George's County, Md., where I've very deliberately decided to build my business and raise my family.  Growing up, I spent a lot of time with family in D.C., and while change is good, I can't help but be frustrated with how the city's change has negatively affected natives (primarily people of color). Prince George's County is a beautiful place that offers everything I need - professionally and personally.  We're seeing economic growth, tons of attractive residential options, and I hope that spaces like mine will help to engage a community of creatives and small business owners who've also committed to keeping their resources in the county.

What's your ultimate goal career wise?

My ultimate career goal is to be able to build something that can be cultivated and passed on to my children, while also helping clients grow to their fullest potential.  I used to get discouraged when I realized that the corporate ladder wasn't one I'd likely climb. Then, I embraced my natural entrepreneurial spirit - with all of it's ups, downs and uncertainties - and found that, for me, no title or accolade can replace the feeling of creating something that matters and helps others be great!

 What do you want your legacy to be?

When you mention me, I pray that it's synonymous with giving fully to what I believe in, working hard to reach goals and helping whenever I could. My children are also an extension of me, so, while I can't control the future, my husband and I are still working hard to do our part in raising compassionate, thoughtful and independent humans who value themselves and love God.