Connect Who or what is your inspiration in business?

My daughter is my biggest inspiration in business. She motivates me to work hard and build a future that provides her with a good life and the opportunity for a college education. While I haven’t had many direct business role models, seeing missed opportunities among loved ones pushes me to do better, recognize opportunities, and create something meaningful for my family’s future.

How do you stay motivated?

I stay motivated by focusing on my daughter and the future I’m building for her. Knowing my work can help provide her with a good life and a college education keeps me pushing forward. I’ve spent most of my life working for others, and now I’m ready to bet on myself. I’m also driven by missed opportunities I’ve seen in the past and use them as motivation to make the most of every opportunity.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With $25,000, I would invest in growing my business, Tony’s Fresh Squeezed Lemonade. The funds would go toward upgrading equipment, improving my stand setup, purchasing bulk supplies, and expanding into more locations and events. I would also invest in branding and marketing to build awareness and attract more customers, helping turn the business into a sustainable source of income to support my daughter and myself.