Who or what is your inspiration in business?

My inspiration for this business is a lack of representation for queer people of color. Usually, organizations, events, and sponsorships stem from communities within the BIPOC population or the LGBT+ population, but rarely for QTBIPOC (queer and trans people of color). Through my degree, I've been told that the QTBIPOC population is too niche, but what I see is filling the need of a neglected group of people who need a space to be themselves.

How do you stay motivated?

I stay motivated by practicing yoga, creating safe spaces for QTBIPOC youth to express themselves through dance and ballroom culture (https://www.vanvoguejam.com/ballroom-history). I also take long walks in the park to clear my head, journal, and practice sadhana in order to stay dicsiplined and motivated towards advancing my company, Afro-Tantra.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Currently, I'm hoping to launch a membership program for Afro-Tantra. For a nominal fee, members will get a daily newsletter & blogs on tantric topics & beginner-friendly poses, physical and online classes every week, as well as discounts on corporate events and larger group events. This financial contribution would not only help me launch, but help me build future offerings, such as retreats, workshops, and collaborations with other companies both nationally and internationally.