What Lies Beneath.... Velma Simmons

Few people understand the power of community quite like Velma Simmons. From shaping cultural spaces at Soho House to building meaningful relationships across the worlds of creativity, hospitality and entertainment, her work has always been about bringing people together. But beneath the professional titles is something more personal;  a deep belief in friendship, faith and the quiet rituals that keep us grounded.

In this chapter of What Lies Beneath, Velma reflects on the foundations that shape how she moves through the world. From the values instilled by her family to the role faith plays in resetting her perspective. She speaks candidly about success, loyalty, and the importance of creating spaces where people feel lighter, more connected and truly seen.

Here's What Lies Beneath, Velma.

TSB - Which part of your identity feels most deeply rooted in your heritage?
VS - The way I value community and friendship is deeply rooted in my upbringing, especially through my father. Growing up, I always saw my family support and show up for one another and for friends. That example shaped who I am today, and it’s something I take pride in. I always try to be there for the people I love.

TSB - What environments make you feel most like yourself  and why?
VS - Whenever I’m with my friends. I’m so blessed to have a circle of women and men I can truly be myself around - the good and the not so good, haha. I think it’s because those friendships are so authentic that they give me the space to be completely myself. That said, I do try to remain myself in any environment I’m in, but the most raw version of me definitely shows up with my friends.

TSB - What rituals or practices help you reconnect with yourself when life becomes busy or noisy?
VS - Going to church on Sunday. There isn’t a week,  no matter how busy or noisy it has been, where church doesn’t reset me. God is always my go to when I need answers or clarity in anything.

TSB - If someone spent a day experiencing the world through your senses, what would they notice most about how you move through life?
VS - They would probably be overwhelmed, haha! My mind is constantly moving. Thinking about what I need to do next, whose WhatsApp I still need to reply to, what I’m planning next. But alongside that, I’m always aware of how people are feeling. Are they smiling when they’re walking down the street? Does someone feel a little different from their usual self? I carry a lot of emotions and awareness of others with me.

TSB - When people encounter you  through your work, your spaces, your presence , what feeling or atmosphere do you hope they leave with?
VS - Light. I want everyone who leaves my presence to feel light, happy, and with a sense of belonging. That they leave feeling just a little lighter than when we first connected. I never want to make anyone feel heavy.

TSB - What do you think our generation gets wrong about success, and what do you hope we’re beginning to redefine?
VS - The idea that success means leaving the people you started with behind, or that you have to do things you’re not proud of to climb to the top. I hope people always treat others the way they would like to be treated, even when they’re in positions of power. Build with your people. If you can give someone an opportunity, give it to them. It’s always better to climb to the top with your circle.

TSB - Is there a piece of art, film, music, or literature that fundamentally changed how you see the world?
VS - A Return to Love by Marianne Williamson. A phenomenal read. It makes you see everything through the eyes of love rather than fear, which reflects God’s love for us. Everyone should read it.

TSB - Which artists, creatives, or cultural movements have most influenced your sense of taste and aesthetics?
VS - There are so many incredible artists and creatives I could name, but one that feels especially meaningful right now is my best friend ; my sister in every sense of the word. Her brand, IYA, is a jewellery line she recently launched, and it has influenced me so heavily. I now have nine piercings in my ears and you’ll rarely see me without her rings and gold jewellery everywhere. Check her out!

TSB - Finally, can you share three things -  they can be anything — that have brought a smile to your face recently?

VS -  Michael B. Jordan winning an Oscar.
A random stranger stopping me on the train to ask about my IYA ring.
And showing up for myself. I'm finally back in the gym consistently!