Connect Who or what is your inspiration in business?

My inspiration comes from my personal awareness on how communities thrive when they come together and share resources, knowledge, and opportunities with one another. When I was growing up, I was only around individuals that looked like me, talked like me and shared the same family background stories as me. In 10th grade, I entered an environment where individuals were living out their life’s purposes and seek greater lifestyles. This grew my dreamer’s mentality.

How do you stay motivated?

Seeing the small wins in life has always kept me motivated to achieve more. I have witnessed individuals in my community and circle gain hope when I share new perspectives that they never imagined for themselves until I share them. As a teacher for ten years, I became aware of how individuals grow when give opportunities to do so. Through giving these opportunities, they start to develop a mindset that they are capable of putting their skills and personal experiences to good use.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If given a chance to win $25,000, it would help fund the first major steps of owning my brand. I would first legalize my business and brand name through government copyrights and trademark my community brand name. I would then hire a marketing team to help improve my brand’s online and in-person credibility presence then a nonprofit accountant to make sure money is spent effectively and tax preparations. Lastly, I would hire a virtual assistant who will collaborate with the team.