Who or what is your inspiration in business?

Daymond John - I’m fascinated by his journey from humble beginnings to his present achievements. Daymond overcame dyslexia and didn’t let it stop him from being successful. He exemplifies how determination, hard work, and consistency can lead to great success. As a deaf entrepreneur, I’m inspired by Daymond’s tenacity.

How do you stay motivated?

I read a lot. I love to learn. Learning empowers me. I’ve acquired a bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degree. I haven’t allowed my deafness to stop me from gaining knowledge and establishing a business. Disability doesn’t equate inability. I also love to support other people, either by sharing my knowledge or using my experience to encourage them. Our skills, our talents, and our successes are meant to be shared with others. This is how growth happens.

What would you do with the $25,000?

First, $10,000 will be used to expand my clothing line. The other $10,000 will go towards supporting underprivileged deaf children in Africa, specifically to purchase much-needed educational supplies, clothing, and hygiene supplies for them, including starting the foundation for building a school for the deaf children. Lastly, $5,000 will go to the Afrotika DevNation Scholarship, which I established for outstanding deaf students from developing nations who are enrolled in American universities.