Who or what is your inspiration in business?

My inspiration comes from my life experiences, my mother, and the people in my community. I’ve experienced loss, rebuilding, and starting over, so I understand how important opportunity and support can be. That’s why I created The Meraki Collective™ and the Meraki House initiative—to build spaces where people can connect, create, and rebuild through food, creativity, and community.

How do you stay motivated?

I stay motivated by purpose. I know what it feels like to rebuild your life, so I’m committed to creating spaces where others can grow and find opportunity. The Meraki Collective brings people together through food, creativity, and networking, while the Meraki house initiative focuses on helping women rebuild stability and independence. Seeing lives change keeps me moving forward.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would invest the $25,000 into strengthening the Meraki Collective and supporting the development of the Meraki House initiative. Funding would help with equipment, operations, and programming that supports community events, entrepreneurship, and resources for women rebuilding their lives. The goal is to expand a space where creativity, opportunity, and community support come together.