Connect Who or what is your inspiration in business?

Growing up in Parkway Gardens (aka 'OBlock') on Chicago’s South Side, raised by a single mother, my past inspires everything I do. I’m part of a small group of individuals who made it out. Through struggles with skincare, mental health, and a suicide attempt in 2019, I chose to fight. I dedicated my second chance to healing both physically and mentally, using my journey to serve others and inspire them to find their own path to wellness and strength.

How do you stay motivated?

I stay motivated by prioritizing self-care, keeping my cup full so I have the energy to give my best. Despite facing many challenges, I push through because this work feels like breathing—it’s my purpose. Each day, I’m inspired to do what I love while helping others along the way. The more I nurture myself, the more I can pour into others, creating a cycle of growth, healing, and service. This alignment with my purpose fuels me daily, making motivation feel effortless.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would focus on two main aspects: 1) Marketing, to build brand awareness and connect with my audience, and 2) Outsource production of my skincare products to a lab. Everything is internally produced, but outsourcing would allow me to scale efficiently and ensure consistent, high-quality formulations. It would free up time for innovation, growth, and customer engagement. Additionally, it would increase my capacity, ultimately boosting revenue while maintaining the integrity of my products.