Connect Who or what is your inspiration in business?

My inspiration/my why will always be my children, but my youth, and the families I serve also contribute. My children because legacy means everything to me as a single mom, my youth because they're our future leaders, and the families I support to remind me of community. Legacy, Leadership, Community are the heartbeats of my work, the fuel behind my vision, and the reason I refuse to settle for anything less.

How do you stay motivated?

I stay motivated because I never forget who’s watching. My children are watching how I move, my youth are watching how I lead, and my families are watching how I show up. I also stay motivated because I’ve lived the challenges I’m helping others overcome. I know what it feels like to need support, to need guidance, to need someone to believe in you. So every time I pour into my company, I’m pouring into the version of me that once needed the same thing.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If awarded $25,000, I would pour it directly into expanding the impact and overall rebranding of Essence of Diamonds & Pearls Youth Group. Every dollar would be used with intention, purpose, and accountability. My goal is always to create opportunities that shift the trajectory of a young person’s life — not just for a moment, but for their future.