Faustine (aka Tina) McDonald was born and raised in Sylva, NC. She is a graduate of Smoky Mountain High School and studied Graphic Design at Southwestern Community College. Faustine is an entrepreneur. In 2008, Faustine established herself as a brand owner by founding "Survival Pride" rebranded as "Survivor's Journey" in 2019. Survival Pride also has the distinction of being the first locally owned and established clothing brand to come out of Western North Carolina.

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