Connect Who or what is your inspiration in business?

My inspiration in business comes from my own journey and the opportunity I was given to change my life. At 17, I was arrested and incarcerated, a moment that could have defined my future in a negative way. Instead, it became a turning point. Being given a second chance made me realize that my life didn’t have to be limited by my past. I had the ability to rebuild, grow, and create something better.

How do you stay motivated?

I am motivated by how far I have come and how much more work is to come. I know that because I have put in the work I got the results and that has served to be what I needed. So often you hear things like hard work pays off but if you haven't experienced it for yourself it just sounds like a good quote. When you actually put the work in and get the results you know the formula works and you learn how to produce the outcome.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If awarded the $25,000 grant, I would use the funding to strategically grow and strengthen my business so it can become sustainable and create long-term impact. A portion of the funds would go toward expanding operations, including purchasing equipment, inventory, or tools needed to improve the quality and efficiency of my product or service. This would allow me to better serve customers and increase overall capacity. I