Before I am an owner of Banton Media, I am a human being,” Brandie says. Her story reflects a profound journey of faith, family, and personal transformation.
Brandie’s life changed dramatically when she married Rafael Perez, a retired Marine who served for 20 years. Rafael’s dedication is notable; he enlisted in the Marine Corps at just 17, a week after 9/11. This union brought together Rafael’s three daughters and Brandie’s two adult sons. Brandie welcomed this new family dynamic with open arms.
“I’ve always believed in the power of faith, although I am not perfect by any means,” Brandie reflects. Her career achievements were internally overshadowed by deep depression and suicidal thoughts when Rafael and his daughters came into her life. “Mental trauma is a serious issue,” she admits. ‘I thought people made this stuff up until it attacked me.” she says. Her past struggles with drug addiction in her early 20s fostered a deep empathy for others facing similar challenges. Four years ago, Brandie made a life-changing decision to stop drinking alcohol—a crucial step not just for survival but for truly living. “Sobriety is so freeing,” she adds.
Brandie recounts how Rafael’s two oldest daughters in his custody were deeply impacted by drug addiction as small children and shared traumatic experiences with previous step-parents, mirroring challenges her own sons faced in childhood. “God provided me with an opportunity to change their narrative and change the evil stepmom stereotype, as my sons are now thriving adults and doing great for themselves.” she says. “They despise substance abuse, which I am grateful for!” Brandie adds.
One of Rafael’s daughters, Kayleah, is now in the Air Force in England, having joined the military at 17, just like her father. Shyann, now 17, shares a special bond with Brandie. “Shyann is remarkable—a savage. Her desire to use my middle name, Jean, as a tribute to my grandmother and me, is a gift money cannot buy,” Brandie notes. Shyann and Brandie’s connection is evident and inspiring.
Shyann Perez, a senior at St. James High School, navigates life with enthusiasm and maturity. Describing herself as an “artistic kid,” she finds joy in drawing and animation. “I’m always going to be drawing,” she says. “I want to become a veterinarian and explore animation as a second degree,” she explains. Shyann is researching the best veterinary programs to turn her dreams into reality.
Shyann’s journey has been shaped by Brandie, who entered her life when Shyann was just 12. “I look up to her a lot. She’s my first mother figure,” Shyann shares. Brandie’s guidance was welcomed, from teaching Shyann how to do her hair to encouraging her to reach for the sky. “She told me, ‘Don’t settle for simple; you are way better than that,’” Shyann recalls. “I am her Mini-Me,” she laughs. “She needs me, and I need her. I’m lucky my dad found her. I have struggled a lot, but she has taught me to be myself.”
Shyann’s empathy extends beyond her own experiences. She offers a message of self-acceptance to those with low self-esteem: “You’re made exactly how you were meant to be. I’m beautiful, and so are you!” Her advice is simple but profound: “Just be yourself, don’t be a front.”
Having seen the impact of drugs early in her life, Shyann speaks with compassion. “I know firsthand what drugs do to families,” she says. “Drugs or suicide are never the answer!” She urges those struggling to seek help.
Despite facing personal attacks and ridicule, Brandie remains firm in her faith. “I’ve been mocked and called many things that I am not, which is both disgusting and sad,” she says. Her stress and struggles culminated in a neurosurgery last January. Though the surgery was canceled minutes before, it was a wake-up call. “Having my sons and husband present when the surgery was called off felt like a miraculous escape from death,” Brandie reflects.
“I really could care less what people who don’t know me think. Life is short—embrace it, but keep your circle small. There are always those ready to tear you down!” Brandie stays strong and continues to embrace life to the fullest. Brandie’s unwavering dedication to her family and her team at Banton Media is a testament to her values. “Money cannot buy peace,” she asserts. “What truly matters is faith and taking care of yourself first.” Her advice to women is profound: “Know your worth, tune out the hatred, and trust in God; with faith, you can overcome anything.”
Looking ahead, Shyann is excited about her senior year, getting her driver’s license, and starting her first job. “Establishing a good work ethic will be important!” she notes. Her optimism and determination are evident. “I’m looking forward to the future,” she concludes with a hopeful smile.
Shyann Perez’s passion, wisdom, and empathy set her apart. As she continues to pursue her dreams and inspire those around her, her future holds great promise. “I am incredibly proud of my daughter, Shyann, for inspiring this article, and I hope it reaches just one person,” Brandie says. “Shyann is a force to be reckoned with. Just watch!”
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please text 988 or go to 988lifeline.org.
Banton Media
151 McDonald Ct.
Myrtle Beach SC 29588
(843) 299-1221
bantonmedia.com
