Connect Who or what is your inspiration in business?

Entrepreneurship is true empowerment and that is my inspiration. The fact that at 18, through business I can make a difference feels incredible. At age 17, I got the idea to create my own dolls after growing up as a young brown girl with no representation in my toys. With my entrepreneurial mindset I’ve worked with international manufacturers for 9+ months and brought DreaMe Dolls to life. I think the very possibility of making a difference through business is my biggest inspiration.

How do you stay motivated?

Life has its ups and downs. In my lowest moments I remind myself of my dreams. I’m a big dreamer and a big doer so to remind myself that no matter what, how slow, how long, or how much it takes, I’ll get there one day at a time, keeps me going. I’ve been building a more disciplined lifestyle that lets me show up for my dreams every day. It’s not easy but I got big dreams, huge goals, and I keep working towards them no matter what, and that’s what matters.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I want to give back to our community and donate my dolls to children in need. Unfortunately, toys are a luxury to many. All children deserve toys and I hope to make a difference. With $25,000 I’d be able to expand my initiative and range of dolls to represent various cultures and ethnicities. I want to make sure every child is represented by our dolls. A huge goal of mine is to see my dolls in retail stores and $25,000 would absolutely take DreaMe Dolls to the next level.