Kwanzaa: Honoring African Heritage

Kwanzaa is celebrated from December 26 to January 1 and is a relatively modern holiday, created in just 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga. Its roots in the African harvest, centers around traditions and emphasizes the seven principles, including Umoja (unity), Kujichagulia (self-determination), Ujima (collective work and responsibility), Ujamaa (cooperative economics), Nia (purpose), Kuumba (creativity) and Imani (faith). During the celebrations, families light a kinara, exchange handmade gifts, and share meals featuring African-inspired dishes.

If you want to get into the spirit of Kwanzaa, for this year’s celebrations, host a Kwanzaa dinner that combines your family’s traditional dishes, whether it be a stew, okra, yams or spoonbread with some of your modern favorites. You can even create your own traditional meal as long as your goal is to share and be in community with others. Don’t be afraid to share these principles with younger family members by creating vision boards together for the new year to continue passing along to future generations.

Diwali: The Festival of Lights

Although Diwali is typically celebrated in October or November, its essence of light triumphing over darkness resonates throughout the holiday season. Originating in India, it’s marked by decorating homes with oil lamps (diyas), wearing traditional Diwali garb, and sharing sweet treats.

To incorporate Diwali’s light-centric symbolism into your December festivities, consider enhancing your holiday décor with string lights or hand-made Diwali candles. You can also combine traditional mithai (sweets) with your favorite modern holiday-themed desserts to create fusion treats. Don’t forget to dress up! There are a number of places to rent this clothing if you do not have easy access to it. 

Las Posadas: A Latinx Celebration of Faith

In many Latin American countries and Latinx communities, Las Posadas re-enacts Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem. The name Las Posadas translates to “The Inns,” symbolizing Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter in Bethlehem before the birth of Jesus. This nine-day celebration, typically spanning from December 16th to December 24th, involves processions, prayers, and lively gatherings with food, music, singing and celebrating with family, friends or even your small community.

You can adapt the essence of Las Posadas to your holiday schedule by hosting a one-night celebratory event. You can include modern touches like a holiday playlist that mixes traditional villancicos (Christmas carols) with contemporary Latin music while organizing a small group of friends or family to represent the journey of Mary and Joseph. Remember to incorporate festive and colorful papel picado (paper decorations) and serve dishes like tamales and ponche to guests while singing over candlelight for authenticity.

Hanukkah: The Festival of Dedication

Hanukkah, an eight-day Jewish celebration, commemorates the rededication of the Holy Temple, originating from the Maccabean Revolt. It is a time for family, community, and the celebration of freedom and faith. Families light the menorah, a nine-branched candelabrum, play dreidel games, and enjoy traditional Jewish foods, such as latkes and sufganiyot (jelly doughnuts). Special blessings are usually recited followed by the singing traditional songs such as Maoz Tzur. 

If you are celebrating Hanukkah traditions, try modernizing your traditional recipes by experimenting with different flavors by adding global spices to latkes or creating fusion doughnuts. You may also consider using technology to connect with family and friends who may not be able to join using a digital menorah during video calls. 

Indigenous Winter Solstice Ceremonies

For many Indigenous communities, the winter solstice marks a time to honor the cycles of nature through deeply spiritual traditions and the wisdom of ancestors. These ceremonies mark the Winter Solstice, the shortest day and longest night of the year, which usually falls around December 21st or 22nd in the Northern Hemisphere. The solstice is a time of transition, reflection, and renewal, rooted in the cycles of nature and a profound connection to the Earth. While customs vary widely among different Indigenous groups, common themes include honoring the changing seasons, celebrating the return of the sun, and fostering gratitude, community, hope for the future and encompass storytelling, drumming, and communal feasts. 

Because Indigenous customs vary by region, it is common for customs to be quite different across the board. Modernizing Indigenous Winter Solstice ceremonies can involve blending a few traditional practices with contemporary elements in ways that maintain cultural integrity while resonating with modern lifestyles such as blending holiday traditions, youth-led ceremonies, promoting conservation efforts and blending new and old traditional recipes that reflect your community influences.

If you’re looking for ways to incorporate more diverse practices and customs into your holiday celebrations this year, remember to keep in mind a few things:

• Ensure to educate yourself and others: Take time to learn about your own cultural traditions and share with friends and family through understanding the origins and meanings behind rituals which can deepen their significance.
• Incorporate Technology: Use video calls to include distant relatives in celebrations or create digital scrapbooks to document your family’s unique holiday blend.
• Create New Traditions: Don’t be afraid to innovate. Combine elements from different cultures or add a modern twist to traditional recipes and rituals.
• Invite Others In: Share your traditions with those closest to you. The exchange of cultural practices can enrich everyone’s holiday experience as long as you stay respectful and honor the heritage being celebrated.

By blending the old with the new, you’re not just honoring your heritage — you’re keeping it alive for generations to come.

The post Celebrating Heritage: Exploring Culturally Diverse Holiday Traditions In The Modern World appeared first on The Bold Maven™️.

This was true for Tiffany Cobb, a young girl who grew up in Detroit, who eventually evolved into an entrepreneurial powerhouse. By being thoroughly inspired by the grandeur of her childhood neighborhood, Tiffany carried this appreciation for detail and beauty into her studies at Morris Brown College, the Art Institute of Atlanta and eventually to owning her own interior design firm, Tiffany René Interior Design, LLC. 

“During some of my toughest days in the classroom, I leaned on design to create a peaceful space,” Tiffany recalls. “That’s when I realized the transformative power of design and decided to pursue it full-time.” 

Although bustling with passion and a determined spirit, Tiffany’s transition from student to entrepreneur was no easy feat. She faced countless challenges, including just how to marry her deep desire to serve those who may not be exposed to the impact of how transformative a good designer can be with her drive to bring beauty and purpose to everyday spaces.   

“I wasn’t fully prepared for the business side of design,” Tiffany admits. “While I had the passion and confidence, I lacked the knowledge. It was challenging, especially when my professors weren’t forthcoming with answers [about running a business]. But I learned by doing and stayed determined to educate my community about the value of hiring a designer.”  

Tiffany’s perseverance paid off. Over time, she not only built her business but also developed a mission to create spaces that inspire well-being and creativity. As someone who grew up not seeing many people in her circle hire designers, education to her clients became vital in establishing her place within the field. 

“Breaking into an industry where I didn’t see many people who looked like me required a lot of resilience,” she shares. “But I learned to trust my unique perspective and stay true to my style.” 

For Tiffany, the struggle to understand just where she fit in, while simultaneously establishing her own original technique and aesthetic, presented one of her biggest hurdles…overcoming self-doubt. By staying true to herself and by consistently delivering high-quality work to her clients, Tiffany has been able to not just start her business, but thrive in it. This commitment to authenticity led to her most cherished accomplishment, participating in a Designers Showhouse in the very neighborhood where her design journey began. 

“It was a full-circle moment,” Tiffany reflects. “Bringing my love for design back to my roots and making an impact in my community was incredibly meaningful.”  

Tiffany takes immense pride in her Detroit roots, therefore working on a project for designing a space where her passion first sparked was the opportunity of a lifetime. In Tiffany’s eyes, being able to contribute to her community in this way has served as the biggest reward for not only her career, but her own personal voyage towards success. 

While Tiffany has truly hit her stride, maintaining balance is essential to her creative process. She prioritizes yoga, journaling, and therapy to stay grounded and focused, recently adding her sprinting journey with the Atlanta Track Club. Pursuing this personal goal has activated a new level of discipline that she believes will seamlessly transfer into her design practice, further enhancing her creative vision for clients. By prioritizing activities that nourish her mind and body, Tiffany can truly dial into her inspirations from travel and fashion while drawing on cherished childhood memories of her grandmothers, who instilled in her an appreciation for elegance and detail.  

“My grandmothers were my first design influences,” Tiffany explains. “One always had Better Homes and Gardens magazines in her home, which I loved exploring as a child, and the other has an impeccable eye for luxury goods. Their unique styles and values have undoubtedly shaped my love for design.”

Looking ahead, Tiffany has ambitious goals that include growing her design firm and expanding her Love Thy Teacher initiative, a program aimed at supporting educators. She’s also committed to mentoring the next generation of designers, advocating for greater diversity in the industry, and fostering Detroit’s creative community as co-founder of Rivet Design Collective, a membership organization empowering local creatives through collaboration and education.  

“I want to create spaces that inspire and make a meaningful impact. I hope to see more designers of color leading the way in this field,”  Tiffany reveals. 

This desire for mentorship in the next generation of designers only aids in Tiffany’s commitment to purpose-driven work. At her core, Tiffany believes that we are all accountable for the gifts we’ve been given, a responsibility she doesn’t take lightly. Tiffany strives to continue lifting up others and being an example of proven success. With her mantra, “Live Fancy,” she encourages others to approach life with intention and creativity, redefining what it means to live beautifully. 

“Trust your voice and vision,” she advises those inspired to follow in her footsteps. “Your unique perspective is exactly what the industry needs. Keep learning, stay passionate, and never underestimate the power of your creativity.”  

For Tiffany, design is not just about aesthetics. It’s about creating spaces that are functional, impactful, and meaningful—a philosophy she has carried from her historic Detroit roots to every space she touches.

Stay connected with Tiffany Cobb:

• Website: www.tiffanyrene.com
• Instagram: @tiffanyreneinteriordesigner

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• Embrace Designer Dupes

Many brands are now offering affordable versions of iconic luxury items, allowing you to indulge in the designer look without the designer price tag. For example, brands like Kaitlyn Pan have become go-to sources for high-quality, designer-inspired heels, creating chic alternatives to expensive names like Valentino’s Rockstud or Louboutin’s So Kate for less than $80. It’s amazing how these dupes can give you the same stylish look, with a fraction of the cost. And it’s not just shoes—websites like Etsy and Amazon are treasure troves for all kinds of dupes, from trendy handbags to jewelry and accessories, often made with similar materials and designed to mimic high-end pieces. 

• Go for Preloved Chic

Secondhand platforms like The RealReal, Poshmark, and eBay are absolute treasures for anyone looking to score luxury items without the luxury price tag. These sites are packed with gently used designer pieces—from timeless Chanel wallets to iconic Burberry scarves—at a fraction of their original cost. Plus, many sellers ensure items are authenticated, so you’re not sacrificing quality for savings. Shopping secondhand isn’t just kind to your wallet; it’s also an eco-conscious choice, giving pre-loved items a second life and reducing waste. Think of it as a win-win: you’re gifting something luxe and sustainable, all while staying on budget. And let’s be honest, there’s something extra satisfying about snagging a designer piece for less—it’s the thrill of the hunt and the joy of a thoughtful, budget-friendly gift rolled into one!

• The Mini-er, the Merrier 

Miniature luxury beauty products make the perfect gift, offering that high-end feel without the hefty price tag. Brands like Charlotte Tilbury and Pat McGrath Labs offer mini lipstick sets under $50, making it easy to indulge in some luxury while staying on budget. These mini versions let your loved ones enjoy iconic products like Tilbury’s Pillow Talk shades or Pat McGrath’s famous lipsticks, all in a convenient, giftable size.

For skincare lovers, mini products can be just as special. Chanel’s ultra-nourishing hand cream, priced around $60, offers a luxurious experience in a compact size. The smaller packaging makes it a thoughtful and affordable way to give the gift of indulgence without overspending. 

• Elevate the Essentials 

When in doubt, you can’t go wrong with luxe-feeling basics that elevate the everyday. Think silk pillowcases for a better night’s sleep, aromatic candles to set the mood, or indulgent bath products that turn a regular soak into a spa-like experience. Diptyque’s iconic candles, starting at $50, are a chic addition to any home and bring an air of understated elegance to any space. Similarly, Byredo’s hand lotion sets combine functionality with style, making them the perfect gift for someone who appreciates practical luxury.  

For those who love travel or organization, stylish essentials like Smythson leather luggage tags can be both thoughtful and practical. These details make even the simplest routines feel indulgent, showing that luxury doesn’t always have to come in extravagant packaging. Whether you’re gifting a jet-setter, a homebody, or someone in between, these items strike the perfect balance of beauty, utility, and sophistication.

• Subscriptions that Keep on Giving 

Another smart way to gift luxe on a budget is by keeping an eye on premium subscription services that offer exclusive deals or curated gift boxes. For instance, beauty subscription boxes like Ipsy or Birchbox often include luxury samples and full-sized products from high-end brands for a fraction of the retail price. These make excellent gifts because they feel personalized and indulgent while keeping your spending in check. Similarly, subscription boxes for wine lovers, like Winc, or coffee enthusiasts, like Trade Coffee, offer premium experiences without breaking the bank. Pairing these subscriptions with a thoughtful note or a small accessory—like a chic wine stopper or a reusable coffee tumbler—adds an extra touch of care. The best part? These gifts keep giving beyond the holidays, reminding your loved ones of your thoughtfulness long after the celebrations are over.

The post Here are 5 Tips to Gifting Luxe on a Budget this Holiday Season appeared first on The Bold Maven™️.

To begin with this approach, consider defining your “why.” Reflect on your career. What brings you joy and fulfillment in your work? Is it creativity, leadership, or making a difference? Let your goals flow from this understanding. Instead of solely focusing on leveling up and getting a promotion, aim to enhance your skills while networking to align with your passions. To make this task less daunting, break larger aspirations into smaller, actionable steps, such as taking on one challenging project each quarter and that you can apply your enhanced skills to. If you document your progress in a career journal, it can help you recognize your achievements, big and small, which ultimately motivates you to keep pushing forward.

When it comes to finances, shifting your focus to values rather than numbers can be truly transformative for your mindset around your financial health. Instead of setting a strict, broad goal like saving $10,000, create a financial plan that supports your long-term well-being. This involves you to review your financial habits to ensure they reflect your current priorities. For example, if travel brings you joy, consider creating a travel fund rather than cutting corners everywhere. You may also start improving your overall financial literacy by reading a book or attending a workshop that empowers you to make better choices. You can also simplify the process with automatic transfers to savings or investment accounts which can reduce decision fatigue and make progress feel effortless and attainable.

Getting healthy always seems on the list for a new year. For health, start embracing wellness as a lifestyle rather than chasing a specific outcome; that mindset shift leads to more sustainable change. Just by shifting your focus from your appearance to how you feel while prioritizing energy and strength leads to an overall state of wellbeing. You may also find that exploring various forms of exercise until you find what you genuinely enjoy can be beneficial to staying on track; whether that’s dance classes, hiking, yoga, pilates or even weight lifting with a trainer. By pairing this with mindfulness practices like meditation or journaling, you are naturally supporting your mental health alongside physical goals.

Personal growth is another area where intentions can make a profound impact. Dedicate time each week to activities that nourish your mind and spirit. You can set aside specific moments for introspection and self-reflection to understand what personal growth means to you—whether it’s learning, exploring your creativity, or establishing a stronger connection in a specific area of life. Step out of your comfort zone by joining a class, learning a new skill, meeting new people or even volunteering your time. Growth often happens in unfamiliar spaces so the more you try, the greater your chances are at recognizing your growth. Strengthening your personal relationships by being intentional with your time and energy can also contribute to your overall sense of fulfillment, with quality over quantity being key.

Success is not a destination but a journey. By focusing on intentions instead of uncompromising resolutions, you create space for unexpected opportunities and evolution. Regularly reflecting on what’s working well in your life and practicing gratitude can fuel further growth but remember to be gentle with yourself; life is unpredictable, and perfection isn’t the goal. Just because you’re staying your course, doesn’t mean unexpected set backs in life may not occur. Give yourself grace and adjust your path accordingly. Celebrate the effort and persistence you’re applying to each area of your life, even if plans shift.

As you step into the new year, remember that you have the power to shape your life in ways that feel meaningful and authentic. By setting thoughtful intentions and remaining open to the journey, you can create a year that’s not just successful but deeply fulfilling.

The post Beyond Resolutions: Setting Genuine Intentions for a Fulfilling New Year appeared first on The Bold Maven™️.

Q: What does it mean to you to be a Black woman working in the tax industry?

A: It means a lot and I think it’s important because we’re starting to see a lot of other faces getting really big in the tax world. Of course, Caucasian people have been in it. A lot of them are my mentors and I’ve learned a lot from them, but I think it’s important to have faces and people that you know you can trust. I’m a big advocate for small business owners in general, but specifically Black-owned businesses. A lot of times we’re the first in our family to own a business so we don’t always have the training or the education on how to run a business. We’re often figuring it out as we go along. The average business lasts a max of five years because they can’t sustain the roller coaster ride that comes with being in this industry. My goal is that I want us to be able to see us and know that there’s one of us that they could trust. I think it’s important to be able to build with us so that’s why I bring a level of relatability to other Black-owned business owners. We’re just a little bit more familiar with our own struggles.

Q: What is the biggest lesson that you’ve learned about yourself since either starting a business or doing this type of work?

A: I’ve learned a lot. When I first started, I had a sense of imposter syndrome, which sometimes comes with being an entrepreneur, especially with social media amplifying everybody doing great things. What you don’t see a lot of times is the struggle before you get to a certain point. As I was going through my journey when I first started a lot of people felt like I needed a CPA. I always felt like people needed somebody that knows what they’re doing. So I was concerned. The tax side of my business was doing well. Even though I went from working at home in my basement to having an office, I was not doing the big jump that I needed to in order to sustain so I went through really tough times.

I’ve done a lot over the years, and I’ve progressed. I’ve learned how to be strong and really believe in myself. I know what I bring to the table. I had to be okay with letting certain clients go in order to open my hand up to receive who is supposed to be for me. It was a learning curve but once you get through the bumpy moments then you’ll start getting your avatar client. You’ll start getting your people…your village. So after my 10 years of being a full time entrepreneur, I’ve learned a lot. Now, I’m able to understand why God wants me to take this road to get to what I truly want to do, which is help small business owners. I got all the intel during the process, and now I’m building out my community that will help small business owners on a grander scale. 

Q: What is the biggest dream you have for your career? 

A: I’ll say it’s multi-layered. I have a great passion for wanting to help the person who wants to start their business, like mentorship and guidance. A lot of times, small business owners don’t have someone come in and ask the important questions about how to make money and whether to start an S-Corp. So my goal is to help small business owners survive. Nobody starts a business to close a business. I want to be that trusted resource and business coach that helps entrepreneurs build and grow their business to whatever level they want for their business. 

Q: Who or what is your biggest motivator?

A: My biggest motivator is my sister. Taisha. She passed away in 2021 but she always believed in me. She’s always believed in me even when I didn’t believe in myself. She was my battery pack and fed me what I needed. She always told me ‘you’re the one, you got this.’ Dealing with that loss is a continuous process. 

Q: What would you say is your superpower?

A: Over the years what people appreciate about me is my listening skills and being able to explain to them the technical things in layman’s terms so that they can understand. When I was in the corporate world, my supervisor used to get upset with me for not speaking in accounting technical terminology. I would tell him all the time that I’m not speaking to accountants, so they’re not going to understand certain things. When I meet people, I have an ability to get them to understand, even when it’s just a consultation. Being able to take the time to be relatable with small business owners  is my superpower. 

Stay connected to Tarryn Sampson:

• Instagram: @tstaxservicesatl
• Website: visit here

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Q: What has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned thus far?

A: My biggest lesson has been that everything will be fine. I’m not going to break, no matter how bleak things may look. 

I’ve also learned how to work in this space as a Black woman. Because there are so few of us, people have the misconception that when one of us gets in, others expect you to carry all of the Black products, just because you’re Black. Unfortunately, I can’t carry the product, if it’s not a good product for our customers, however I get it. There are not a lot of avenues for us to do down, so finding someone who looks like us to give us a shot is difficult. 

Q: What does it mean to be a Black woman working in a business dedicated to healthy baby products?

A: It feels great! There’s not a lot of people of color in our space. There are very few baby stores that are owned by Black women or even baby products that are made by Black women or black people in general which makes it an interesting space to be in. 

And then it can also be really difficult on the other side, because there are not a lot of us in this space. There are lots of doors that I’m knocking on that haven’t been knocked on by people who look like me before, and it’s harder to get in. 

Q: What do you consider to be your superpower? 

A: My creativity and ability to push forward. Because we are a Black-owned business, we are often judged more harshly as a business. We’re just perceived differently and sometimes that can be really hurtful to see played out so we have to push past that. We’ve had customers leave Google reviews that their product didn’t work correctly because we were a Black-owned business. We have to be so much better that it’s unfair. How we’re perceived out in the world, follows us everywhere, even when we should be celebrated. 

Q: What has been your greatest impact since starting this business?

A: One of the greatest impacts I make is through the flexibility I offer my employees to also be parents. At Happy Mango, I strive to create a workplace that genuinely supports working parents, with “school shifts” allowing employees to arrive after school drop-off and leave in enough time for pick-up. This scheduling is a lifeline for moms with younger children, while those with older kids can opt for full shifts if they prefer. With the store closing at 6 p.m., all employees still have the chance to be there for their families in the evening. This approach is redefining work-life balance for our team, making this business a space where parenting and professional fulfillment go hand in hand. 

Q: What is your biggest dream for Happy Mango?

A: My dream is that we can become an entity that is helpful for parents everywhere to set up a different trajectory for all families moving forward. Even though I’m in retail, I’m a Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST), so I’m also licensed to do car seat installs. There is so much lack of information that we take pride in being able to impact the lives of others through information transfer. That’s how we start to make true change across the board with everything, with information.  

I also strive to create a legacy my children and descendants can be proud of.

Stay connected to Phnewfula Frederiksen:

• Instagram: @phnewfula @shophappymango
• Website: visit here

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Maïré’s journey starts from humble beginnings in her home country of Guadeloupe, a small French territory in the southern Caribbean Sea. Maïré believes her upbringing greatly influenced her path forward along with her perception of success. 

“My background is very important because often people overlook us because we are French– we are Black French. People automatically think that life is easier for us because we’re French, but it’s not,” emphasizes Maïré. 

While being raised in Guadeloupe offered no favors for Maïré, it only strengthened her deep desire to be in service of others. Upon leaving her home country at the tender age of 17, Maïré pursued a career in social work after studying Criminology in Canada. While there, she experienced her first taste of working for the greater good by helping young people transition away from street life and connecting them with tools and resources to land jobs and start small businesses.   

“Helping these young people start their own business was the most exciting for them. Usually, if you do well doing illegal things in the street life, you’re likely to do well as an entrepreneur because it’s the same type of mindset and struggle,” reveals Maïré. “It’s very linked.”

Some could say that Maïré’s work with leading others to the path of entrepreneurship was an omen to her own destiny, however she had other plans for her future. 

“I always knew I didn’t want to be an entrepreneur. Growing up, I watched my parents struggle to run their own business,” admits Maïré. “My parents also didn’t want me to be an entrepreneur, that’s why they sent me to Canada.”

But as life works, fate had other plans. Upon falling in love with the city of Atlanta during a layover visit, Maïré was so infected with the desire to be around Black excellence that she made her own move to the city in 2011 and never looked back. She realized that out of all the places she had planted roots, Atlanta was one of the only places she felt comfortable enough to spread her wings and fly. She instantly felt at home, which would set the stage for her own journey to come. 

“I don’t want to live somewhere where it’s not exceptional to do great things and be Black,” says Maïré. 

For Maïré, her journey to entrepreneurship happened completely by chance, perhaps the best foundation for an extraordinary success story. After ordering a pair of shoes she didn’t like, Maïré decided to sell them through Facebook. To her surprise, she received an outpouring of interest from friends in Guadeloupe and France, who couldn’t find similar styles locally, leading to an intense demand for these types of products. This prompted Maïré to start a Facebook page, listing products, handling payments, and learning the ropes of drop-shipping—all from her bedroom

As demand grew, Maïré launched a more formal parcel forwarding business, which allowed her clients to purchase goods from the United States and have them shipped to countries that lacked such fulfillment options.

“I quit my job and I was like, this is it, this has to work, states Maïré. “Mind you, I didn’t have any background in logistics and my English was still not all the way there but the business was growing. So much so, that I upgraded from my bedroom to the living room, then to the garage.”

Maïré was now a full-time entrepreneur with a growing client base. Maïré eventually was forced to move to a larger commercial space, which only intensified her journey. Although business was continuously growing, the isolation combined with Maïré’s lack of guidance caused her to make many missteps and lose significant amounts of money. Without a community or mentors to lean on, every decision felt like navigating in the dark. 

“Back then, there weren’t many resources for someone like me—a Black, immigrant woman in business,” she explains. “It was only recently that I realized how essential it is to have a mentor or join an accelerator program. Guidance can make or break your business.”

Despite the many setbacks, Maïré stayed the course and continued to believe in herself, her mission and her vision for the future. The business became more than just a meal ticket for herself, but it blossomed into an opportunity for others to forge a path towards an expansive future. 

In 2020, after years of building her network and capital, Maïré launched ECOMSPACES, a business incubator and fulfillment center designed to support other aspiring entrepreneurs. What started as sharing her space with entrepreneurs who couldn’t afford their own grew into a full-fledged business that now supports over 75 members with logistics, content creation, and mentorship.

Looking towards the future, Maïré’s ambitions are global. With her sights set on Africa, she aims to establish a supply chain hub in Ethiopia that will enable products to be manufactured and shipped directly to global markets. By building these connections, she hopes to disrupt the direct-to-consumer supply chain and empower African economies, a vision that’s fueled by her observations of untapped potential in emerging markets.

“Africa is filled with resources and talent,” Maïré explains. “I want to ensure that people in our communities don’t wait for others to step in and shape our economies. We can build and control our supply chains, with our own standards and pricing.”

For Maïré, balance doesn’t mean separating work from life—it’s about weaving them together. Her passion remains rooted in community support and helping others build their dreams. One of Maïré’s most rewarding moments came last year, when large logistics companies began adopting her efficiency-boosting processes. She also placed second in her first pitch competition, thanks to the Black Ambition program founded by Pharrell Williams, which helped her secure her first formal mentorship.

Maïré’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of community, and the necessity of building each other up as we climb. Maïré exemplifies what it means to persevere and build a destined path for others to follow.

For those starting out, she offers a simple piece of advice: “Ask, negotiate, and don’t be afraid of a ‘no.’ Each step brings you closer to your goal.” Maïré’s path is both a celebration of the American dream and a roadmap for those seeking to create impactful, community-centered businesses.

Stay connected with Maire Bavarday-Rosa:

• Website: www.ecomspaces.com  
• Instagram: @maire.b.rosa

The post The Destined Gem: Maïré Bavarday-Rosa appeared first on The Bold Maven™️.

“I was just five years old when my mother was diagnosed with stage-four invasive breast cancer,” Anisa recalls, her voice a mixture of fondness and gravity. “The doctors gave her six months to live. Her cancer had metastasized to her lungs. Despite the odds, she lived longer, but eventually, she passed when I was still very young.”

Despite the grim prognosis, her mother fought fiercely for six more years before losing the battle, leaving her daughter with more than just memories.

“It wasn’t until my second tour in Iraq, when I saw a mirage of my mother, that I knew I was being called to serve in a new way,” reveals Anisa. 

That vision became the spark for I Will Survive, Inc. — a beacon of hope for women and families grappling with breast cancer. The organization offers financial assistance, education, resources and emotional support, all while working to build healthier communities. What began as a childhood tragedy would eventually turn into an inspiring story of resilience and advocacy, thus continuously empowering thousands of individuals affected by breast cancer.

Transitioning from the military to a life of service in the nonprofit world wasn’t easy. Through her military career, Anisa learned skills that translate into crisis management, leadership, and innovation, however the emotional weight of how she serves at I Will Survive, Inc. is a different type of battle. Despite the hardships Anisa has encountered along the way,  is grateful for all of her experience. 

“[The military] made me the leader I am today. I know how to stay calm in emergencies, like when a client is on the verge of eviction due to medical bills. That military discipline kicks right in,” says Anisa. 

Anisa’s ability to empathize with diverse communities has allowed I Will Survive, Inc. to make such a significant impact, especially when encountering difficult moments that require a sensitivity Anisa knows all too well.

Anisa recalls a heartbreaking experience with a young boy whose mother was in the midst of a harrowing battle with breast cancer. “He asked me, ‘Is my mom going to die?’ I didn’t know how to answer, but I told him, ‘Whatever you do to help your mom will help her fight this.’ That boy is now thriving alongside his mother, and moments like that remind me why we do this work.”

Seeing survivors rebuild their lives, going from feeling hopeless to thriving, is perhaps the most rewarding part of Anisa’s journey. Anisa has watched survivors become authors, start businesses and even purchase their first homes, standing by their side each step of the way. 

“We teach our survivors to say, ‘I will survive,’ and truly believe it…it’s transformative. Healing starts with mental health,” reveals Anisa. 

That mantra even applies to Anisa herself. Working in such an emotionally charged field can truly take a toll, therefore self-care has become a necessity for Anisa and those who work with her as she embeds the ethos of wellness into her team, extending to the organization’s broader mission of not just surviving cancer, but thriving after it.

“We can’t pour into our communities if we’re not taking care of ourselves,” Anisa candidly explains. “Our team starts every meeting with a mental health check-in. We’ve created a culture where it’s okay to take time off, go for walks, or just sit outside and unplug.”

While wellness and self-care are engrained in the organizational culture and methodology of the organization, a cornerstone of I Will Survive, Inc’s impactful approach is mentorship. By pairing breast cancer survivors with mentors who have been through similar experiences, whether being newly diagnosed or long-term survivors, provides a network of support and practical advice. There are a host of unconventional questions that survivors may have that can only be answered by someone undergoing a similar experience. 

“One survivor shared how she wished someone had warned her about the long-term effects of chemotherapy, like permanent nail loss or bone density issues. Our mentors provide that kind of insight,” says Anisa. 

With almost 14 years of service behind them, I Will Survive, Inc. is planning big for the future. Before the pandemic, they were poised to expand globally, with plans to open health centers in Africa, South America, and the Caribbean, where women have some of the highest mortality rates for breast cancer. Despite the setback from the pandemic, global expansion remains on the horizon. By staying committed to the idea of opening new health centers, the organization ensures that women worldwide have the resources they need to fight this disease.

I Will Survive is built on the values that Anisa’s mother instilled in her: to be a good person, no matter what. This simple yet profound mantra guides Anisa’s every decision and, in turn, creates a ripple effect of good in the world.

With a mission born out of loss, and fueled by resilience, I Will Survive, Inc. continues to empower breast cancer survivors and their families to not only survive, thrive, and honor the memory of women fighting everywhere.

 “Go to our website and fill out an application if you find yourself, or someone you know, needing support. Whether it’s help with housing, mentoring, or fitness coaching to reduce the risk of recurrence, we are here for you,” promises Anisa.

Anisa’s journey of purpose to I Will Survive, Inc. is a testament to the power of resilience, community, and unwavering service. As this organization continues to grow, it is clear that they are changing lives, one survivor at a time.

Stay connected with Anisa Palmer:

• Website: IWillSurviveInc.org 
• Instagram: @TheAnisaPalmer

The post The Survivor Gem: Anisa Palmer appeared first on The Bold Maven™️.

Q: What does it mean to be a Black woman doing this work with Moms in Music?

A: I think it definitely adds a different type of notch to the belt because we are resilient in general. Although we serve members that are all ethnicities, for me specifically as a Black woman, I identify on a whole other level in terms of being a part of communities that have been marginalized while understanding how important it is to have a voice and to loudly be able to share that with other women who have felt like they’ve been rejected or placed behind closed doors. I think it just adds a different type of motivation and inspiration. Oftentimes society is quick to not only count you out as a woman, but also, count you out when you are a Black woman. We see that happening in the world today in various ways. Being a Black woman is something that I hold near and dear to my heart as I think it comes with an extra set of superpowers. While it’s not something that I feel like I have to lead with because it’s clearly obvious, it just puts a different type of battery in my back.

Q: What would you say is the most impactful part of Moms in Music whether it be with programming, events, etc?

A: When members join our organization, they get access to our member directory that has hundreds of women in various cities and various industries, from entry level to C-suite executives.We’re shared in this common thread that everyone is a mom in music. I think there’s a lot of power in that. So many of our members have told me that they’ve been able to connect with people just by being a part of the directory. That’s more of an internal benefit but externally, we are very active in the community by partnering with local organizations. We’re currently outlining who we’re going to partner with around the holidays so we can give back to moms and children that are in need. That’s something that’s a personal passion for me. I think with the power and influence of music, my goal is to be able to leverage that in ways that we can create real change and impact both internally in our industry and externally by being able to serve.

Q: Throughout this journey of being a founder, what would you say has been the biggest lesson that you’ve learned along the way? 

A: I’ve learned a lot of lessons. The biggest thing for me is to trust your instinct. I’m really big on my gut instinct which is what made me start this organization to begin with. It’s from my own personal need. I started this organization because I was craving community. I was the president of a record label at the time and also pregnant. Everyone in my company was under 25 so nobody had any clue about being a parent and so I felt like I was on an island alone. Little did I know that was the seed that was building what is now Moms in Music. I think really being able to lean into that gut instinct and allow myself to be led in that way is really powerful. We often get those little nudges of the spirit, or whatever you may call it, and you can easily question or second guess it. I have really learned to lean into that instinct and into those nudges and it continues to pave the way for me.

Q: What would you say is your biggest superpower?

A: I think I am a natural leader. I know innately how to relate to people and how to identify the best in people in terms of their strengths and helping them to see it. I think that’s a natural gift of mine that I didn’t realize until I really got into my businesses as an entrepreneur and having the opportunity to source and identify great talent. I’ve also been able to train that talent in order to identify their good qualities to help them become great. I have a list of people that come from the ‘school of Brit’ who have started as interns that are now in executive positions. It’s that ability to identify seeds in order to help people become better personally, professionally, and spiritually. 

Q: If you could give your younger self any words of wisdom or just send her a message, what would that message be?

A: I probably have a lot of messages that I would tell my younger self, one of them being that it’s not going to happen the way you think it’s going to happen, whatever that thing is. I saw myself being the president of a record label until I got in it and realized I actually don’t want that, I want something else. I want my own. Knowing that, I would tell my younger self to trust and know that it will happen but it’s not a straight path. It will be windy and curvy so just embrace the ride. Enjoy the highs and the lows and just trust the process. When I look at all of my career moves, I realize all of them were setting me up for who and where I am today. When you’re in it, you don’t understand that concept but like looking back in hindsight, it all makes perfect sense. 

Stay connected to Brittney Brock:

• Instagram: @brittneykingbrock
• Personal Website: visit here
• Moms in Music website: visit here

The post Brittney Brock appeared first on The Bold Maven™️.

Q: What led you down the path to making your own tequila?

A: It truly goes back to my husband. When we met and were dating he was what I called at the time, a ‘tequila snob’ and because I’m a pancreatic cancer survivor, I’m pre diabetic, so I need to eat mostly like I’m diabetic. There are sugars in most wine so my body can’t really tolerate too much of that so in dating him I started researching tequila. Together we started talking about having a tequila brand and researching more about it. I’m not a doctor, but it’s good to know what you’re putting into your body and if you choose to imbibe in spirits, then I truly believe you should research and know what you’re what you’re putting into your body. In our research we found that the natural sugars from the agave plant are recognized by our body so they are digested with no issue. Tequila doesn’t have all those sugars and carbs that a lot of other spirits have. I don’t add sugar to my tequila. It truly became a labor of love because I basically made a tequila I can drink with ease. For me, it’s ultimately about educating the public and our consumers about becoming more health conscious about what they’re eating and drinking. They say if you can’t find it, make it yourself.

Q: What does it mean for you to be the first Black woman-owner of a tequila brand?

A: I actually got a proclamation from the city of Atlanta two years ago when I moved here for being a pioneer in the spirits industry, but also for being an entrepreneur and a businesswoman. I think for me it is very rewarding to be able to say that, while I’m hopefully inspiring and motivating other women, especially Black women, to go after their goals and the dreams that they have. 

We believe that everyone has a legacy within them. One of our taglines for our tequila brand is, Create Your Legacy, because we truly believe that everyone has a legacy within them. They have something to offer to the world. We also have another tagline that says, Live Significantly, because even though I’ve been through cancer challenges, I still live every day with some sort of significance while making sure that I am enjoying this journey. I’m also making sure that I’m helping along the way. Making sure that I am giving back to my communities by either motivating, inspiring and supporting. I also value being a mentor as well to young women leaders. That is something that is very close to my heart. So on a daily basis I’m always trying to be my best.

Q: What is your biggest dream for Anteel Tequila? 

A: My biggest dream and goal is to be a nationally recognized tequila brand. While we’re recognized in 20 states, we want to be a nationally recognized tequila and for people to understand and know that a Black woman is leading the brand to that national recognition. There are some other Black women in the tequila space, but there are only a couple of us and there needs to be more because we all have something different to offer to the consumer.  The recipes for our tequilas are different and unique, therefore, I truly feel like there should be more women of color in this space.

Q: Who or what is your biggest motivator right now?

A: My motivator is truly me. More often than not, I’m competing against myself every day. I try to make each day better than the last but I am also human and work to create a balance in my life with the many things that I need to do. I falter in many ways and in many things because there’s so much to do.  I would also say that my daughters, who are 16-years old and 28-years old are my biggest motivators, as I know they are watching everything that I do. My 16-year old lives with me and is seeing the challenges I face every day, but she’s also seeing the great experiences that I’m having so it motivates me to continue on and be the best that I can be. 

Q: What is next for Nayana and Anteel Tequila?

A: World domination! I will continue to work on Anteel Tequila, but I will also continue to work on my inspirational speaking, as I am paid to speak at conferences and events about having faith in self and having a great mindset to get you through life and business challenges.

I will continue my story with being a national advocate for Pancreatic Cancer.  I have been in a commercial and have spoken in front of Congress for the Pancreatic Cancer Network, so I will continue to share my story for awareness and hope, especially in Black and Brown communities.  As those communities do not know that there are resources and support available for pancreatic cancer, I hope my story, as an almost 19 year pancreatic cancer survivor will offer hope. My goal is always to give hope, support and awareness to people going through pancreatic cancer and their families.  I feel that my purpose in life is to inspire, motivate and give hope to those that I meet.  

Stay connected to Nayana Ferguson:

• Instagram: @nayanaferguson and @anteeltequilas
• Personal Website: visit here
• Anteel Tequila website: visit here

The post Nayana Ferguson appeared first on The Bold Maven™️.