Launching a business in today’s competitive landscape is no easy feat. For entrepreneurs, it’s a journey full of challenges, grit, and determination. But for Black women entrepreneurs, the obstacles can sometimes feel even more daunting. As we celebrate Black History Month, I’m thrilled to share the powerful stories of three inspiring women from Staten Island. These entrepreneurs have faced adversity, embraced their hustle, and built successful businesses that are changing the game. Their journeys highlight resilience, passion, and the power of community, making them a beacon of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs everywhere.
Anika Tarasiewicz: From Struggling Immigrant to Interior Design Entrepreneur Anika Tarasiewicz, founder and CEO of CRAFT by Anika, is a living testament to the power of perseverance and self-belief. An immigrant from Trinidad, Anika arrived in the United States at the age of eight, facing tough circumstances that many would have found overwhelming. Her family lived in a modest $500-a-month apartment above a bar in Mariners Harbor. With her mother working tirelessly as a housekeeper, Anika learned the value of hard work early on.
After years of working in various jobs, Anika felt unfulfilled and yearned for more. Her breakthrough moment came when she designed the Christmas display at Richmond University Medical Center. The overwhelming positive feedback she received sparked a fire in her to pursue her passion for interior decorating seriously.
Anika’s journey wasn’t without its challenges. From moving away from a stable paycheck to becoming a solo entrepreneur managing everything from client work to finances, she encountered numerous hurdles. But her determination paid off. In 2022, Anika launched CRAFT by Anika, a business that offers interior design, project management, and home improvement services. Through this venture, she found a way to turn her grief, following the tragic loss of her son, into something meaningful and therapeutic.
Key Takeaways from Anika’s Journey:
- Never underestimate your potential: Anika took a chance on herself, despite the fear and uncertainty that came with it.
- Embrace your passion: The success of CRAFT by Anika began with a simple love for decorating.
- Perseverance pays off: By staying committed, Anika has turned her dreams into reality.
- Support systems matter: Networking and leveraging available resources for small business owners were critical to her success.
Shana Taylor: Creating a Plant-Centered Haven with Koze Vibes Plant Shop Cafe Shana Taylor’s entrepreneurial journey began in a way she never expected. Initially working at the U.S. Post Office, Shana discovered a deep passion for plants after a gift from a friend helped her cope with anxiety and stress. This personal healing experience turned into a business idea that blossomed into Koze Vibes Plant Shop Cafe on Staten Island’s Jersey Street.
Before settling in Staten Island, Shana had first launched a business called Soil Vibes in Manhattan. However, the pull of her roots brought her back home. Partnering with her parents, who had their own business experience, Shana’s business quickly grew into a vibrant space that combines plants and community with a café twist.
Yet, Shana’s journey hasn’t been without its struggles. As a Black woman entrepreneur, she faces extra hurdles in gaining respect, exposure, and resources. But her perseverance shines through in every step she takes. Shana’s commitment to creating a welcoming space where people can relax, learn about plants, and connect with others has been at the heart of Koze Vibes’ success.
Key Takeaways from Shana’s Journey:
- Turn passion into purpose: Shana’s love for plants became the foundation of her thriving business.
- Be resilient: Despite challenges, she continues to push forward with determination and optimism.
- Community support is invaluable: Shana’s partnership with her parents and the local community helped her business grow.
- Business challenges are real: Navigating the grant application process and attracting customers are hurdles that come with the territory.
Hala Maroc: Empowering Entrepreneurs with Build A Dream Incubator Hala Maroc’s entrepreneurial story is about reinvention. After spending nearly a decade in the entertainment industry, Hala found herself at a crossroads, unsure of her next step. Rather than letting uncertainty define her, she launched BADASS BOOTCAMP, a wellness-based space for entrepreneurs. But when that venture shuttered, Hala didn’t give up; instead, she reinvented herself again, this time with the Build A Dream Incubator.
Located in Tompkinsville, the Build A Dream Incubator is a co-working space with a focus on wellness, mentorship, and networking. Hala’s vision is to create a collaborative space where entrepreneurs and creatives can thrive. With flexible desk spaces, private offices, and wellness amenities like saunas and a juice bar, the incubator serves as a sanctuary for individuals looking to balance work with self-care.
But building this business hasn’t been easy. As a woman of diverse ethnic background, Hala often felt excluded from key conversations. Yet, her persistence in joining boards, attending meetings, and seeking out resources helped her overcome these barriers. Today, the Build A Dream Incubator stands as a testament to Hala’s resilience and dedication to empowering others.
Key Takeaways from Hala’s Journey:
- Adaptability is key: Hala has reinvented herself multiple times, each time coming back stronger.
- Create spaces for others to succeed: The Build A Dream Incubator offers more than just workspace; it offers community and support.
- Self-care is vital: Hala’s focus on wellness shows that entrepreneurship doesn’t have to come at the expense of your health.
- Don’t be afraid to break barriers: Hala’s story proves that resilience and persistence can overcome exclusion.
Conclusion: Lessons from Three Empowering Entrepreneurs The stories of Anika, Shana, and Hala are proof that entrepreneurship is not for the faint of heart, but it is incredibly rewarding. Their journeys reflect the importance of perseverance, passion, and community. For aspiring entrepreneurs, especially Black women entrepreneurs, the road may be tough, but success is attainable. The key is to keep going, even when it feels impossible. As Anika wisely put it, “If you work hard and go after your dream, it will become a reality.”
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Photo credit: SILive.com
