Connect Who or what is your inspiration in business?

After 15 years in the fashion industry (entrepreneurs need day jobs), I found myself yearning for something more. Born into my grandmother's home, the kitchen has always been a place where I felt deeply connected to my roots. I’ve poured in my love of bold, savory, and unique flavors, drawing inspiration from my Asian heritage while creating something versatile enough to pair with any cuisine.

How do you stay motivated?

I prescribe to the idea that sharing food is one of the greatest ways to share love and community - from my hands to your heart. Hotgirlsauce is my passion project turned reality. Designed to elevate everything you drizzle, marinate, or pour it over, we're your new kitchen staple. We're also all-natural: no additives, preservatives, or sugar, and feature a zero-waste recipe. I won't stop until I can share this with everyone.

What would you do with the $25,000?

What started as a daydream has turned into an unimagined journey: sold-out launches, a fiery handful of wins, and double the number of stumbles. Now, a year later, Hotgirlsauce has moved production to a larger facility, is stocked in retailers, and has earned a humble cult following. Managing this growing business alongside a full-time career has been as exhilarating as it has been exhausting, and I would invest into scaling up my supply chain to take Hotgirlsauce into every kitchen there is.