America, Let's Talk Volume 1 | Page 9

MY BUSINESS Although I have worked since I was 13 years old, I started my own business when I was 18 years old, selling books door‐to‐door during the summer time after my freshman year in college, however, in May 1989, I brought together over 23 women to begin a social and charitable organization to support each other and their aspiring businesses. Essence of a Lady, Inc has been in existence for over 26 years. The E’Ladies Network, a program of Essence of a Lady, was created in July 2003. Young Essence Ladies... Learning(YELL!), a mentoring program for school girls was created the same year, which is also the year Essence of a Lady became a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation. Essence of a Lady provides tools and resources to women‐owned business and mentoring and program support to girls. Our goal is to EDUCATE, MENTOR, and EMPOWER women and girls. My Philosophy on Life.... Develop a positive mindset, surround yourself with like‐ minded people, and become a life‐long learner, and you are on your way to LEVERAGING YOUR LIFE based on GOD’S PURPOSE for YOU!! Her volunteer work includes schools, churches, nonprofit organizations, Volunteer Houston, Big Brothers, Big Sisters, Spiritual Life, how I stay healthy... I stay healthy mentally by attending church, reading positive, uplifting books and magazines, and saying positive affirmations daily. I attend workshops, conferences, and professional development events for constant growth. I use a personal trainer and