We had the good fortune of connecting with Carla Anderson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Carla, what do you want your legacy to be?
I want my legacy to be that I inspired someone , even if it’s just one person . I want people to remember that I never gave up , I worked hard and chased my dreams until it became reality. I want people to remember “each one teach one “ , I stand by that . Our younger generation need us to lead them in the right direction and I’m here to do my part , while encouraging other entrepreneurs to do the same . I’m a serial entrepreneur, I have several businesses but the one that I love most right now is mentoring . My mentoring program “Dope teens with Dreamz “, was created to help and inspire young entrepreneurs to chase their dreams while teaching hands on braiding lessons and give knowledge on starting businesses in retail , haircare , hair braiding & more . When I was younger I didn’t have the knowledge or tools to help me get where I wanted to go in life . I was the first entrepreneur in my family to accomplish all that I have accomplished thus far . I had to do a lot of researching falling down and failing till I fail forward . If I would’ve had the help and or knowledge that I give others , It would’ve definitely helped me .

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What keeps me busy is My art of being a hairstylist and running my online retail store . I get to enhance the beauty of a diverse group of women from weaves , braids & natural hair using different styles of creativity. What sets me apart is I can provide all of these different services to women while creating bonds , mentorship and dependability. Being a hairstylist allows me to wear multiple hats. Some days I’m a therapist and others I’m a confidant . I got to where I am today by being dedicated providing  top tier products & services . Was it easy lol NO ! The journey has been long and tedious , but without the challenges I wouldn’t be the artist I am today . It has taken so many sacrifices, long days and nights and a lot of effort and willingness to learn from my failures .
The very lesson I’ve learned is , there’s no short cuts to success !! I’ve learned that consistency is key to any successful business . . Finances are very important , as well as building the right relationships and partnerships . I’ve learned that having the ability to remain adaptable in business and personal life as life has it trials and errors.

I want the world to know that your dream can become your reality. With the right mindset you too can become an artist mentor and or business owner . My brand will always mirror who I am as a creator . My story is filled with some broken pieces, ugly truths and a lot of grace that saved my life .

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would definitely do a lot of day events . My favorite time is hang is brunch ! Kamp Houston , island 1515 , the breakfast club and Prospect Park they have great vibes , food & music . For dinner I like Turkey Leg Hut , Flavas and Steak 48 ! That’s a mixture of bougie and a lil ghetto lol

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?

I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to my first mentee, my daughter Comora ! She has been my inspiration and driving force behind my will to succeed. Also , I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to my friends & clients especially my Bestfriend of 21 years Kiounna! She has been my biggest supporter & first customer . My dad who set an example for me becoming an entrepreneur at a young age . My father was the owner of a soul food restaurant when I was younger for many years . I vividly remember going there watching him run his business effortlessly.
If you would like to sign up for my mentoring classes in Houston or Chicago , purchase hair extensions wigs , haircare products or women’s clothing please feel free to visit my websites & follow my social media’s for the latest updates .

Website: Www.dopeteenswithdreamz.org ,Www.comoracollection.com

Instagram: ComoraCollection_extensions

Facebook: Dope teens with Dreamz , The Comora Collection

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