Pamela Dowel
My creative career began in 2000 with the launch of Crafts Unique & Creative Design, where I’ve spent more than two decades creating handmade crafts such as repurposed china dolls, blue jean purses, milkweed Christmas trees, and custom Barbie dollhouses.
In 2020, I began my children’s book series, Saucey’s Adventure. I’ve written nine books, with the first published and two more ready for release. My award‑winning seek‑and‑find book uses real insect photos and Iowa skyline scenes to teach children about feelings, perseverance, and the beauty of nature.
After my mother was killed in an auto accident on October 1st, 2024, songwriting became a way for me to heal and to help others heal. In less than a year, I’ve written over 200 songs, gained more than 12,600 views on YouTube, and built a growing community of listeners. My faith guides my music, and I write for anyone who is hurting, healing, or seeking comfort.
In 3D design, I use Paint 3D and 3D Builder to create detailed models in hours—work that often takes others far longer with expensive software. One of my largest projects is a complete restaurant concept called Grandma’s Country Cook, a 100% closed‑loop system with no dumpster. At 61 years old, I am finally seeing my dreams come to life, and I’m grateful for every opportunity to share my gifts with others.
My long‑term goal is to build organic greenhouses that provide fresh, sustainable food for my community. The sale of my restaurant concept will help fund this vision.
• International Impact Award for Children's Education
• Business Professionals of America awards
What do you attribute your success to?
I would attribute my success to determination and a constant desire to keep learning and improving. I don’t know if that fully makes sense, but I’m always pushing myself to grow and do better.
I started getting into 3D design, and that’s become another part of my creative journey. I’m putting my work out there through my creative design, sharing it on CGTrader.
One of the pieces I’m most proud of is a full tea—or coffee—set that I designed. It includes the creamer, sugar bowl, coffee cups, sugar spoon, stirring spoon, and a tray to bring it all together. It turned out beautifully, and you can customize it in copper, silver, or gold.
For me, it all comes back to creating, learning, and always finding ways to improve what I do.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would tell women to listen to their heart and not give up. There is always a way to get what you want, and there is always a way to get help or to learn—so don’t be afraid to learn. Use tools like Microsoft Copilot, or search online to find the paths that will help you stay determined and reach your goals.
If you have family, lean on them. If not, lean on your friends. And remember, the Lord is always there for you to lean on too. Don’t give up on your dreams—keep going after them. I’m living proof that it’s never too late; my dreams are coming true at 60 years old
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
God, honesty, trust, Family
Locations
Pamela Dowel
5532 205th st, Mediapolis, IA 52637