Starting a business is a commitment and requires dedication, resources and sacrifice. We asked some of the rising stars in our community how they thought through the idea of starting their own businesses.

Lupita Reyes | Self Taught Baker

I believe I started showing interest in baking around middle school but back then I wasn’t that great yet. I had many, many fails but my family was always very supportive and kept encouraging me to practice and be better. During high school I began trying to decorate cakes and expand to other sweets aside from just cakes and brownies. I had friends that would want to order cakes from me. Read more>>

Diane Murray | Owner of Grands LLC (Grands Rentals)

First and foremost I have been a collector for decades. While teaching high school business courses I sponsored the business club, Business Professionals of America. My students competed in business related events. One student chose Entrepreneurship and struggled to come up with a concept for her business. Read more>>

Davina Ugochukwu | President + Founder + Attorney

Since learning about the extent of human trafficking in our communities 16 years ago while in college, I’ve wanted to find a way to be a part of the solution without replicating services and resources that already exist. During my Master of Laws program, where I was studying the intersection of business and technology with human trafficking, I spoke with survivors who did a lot of advocacy work with little to no compensation. Read more>>

Chelsea LaFitte | Candle Maker

Starting my own business was not ever in my thought process. I have always been obsessed with candles. I was consistently purchasing them from stores or local businesses. I truly wanted to learn the process of creating a clean burning candle to pour for myself. I was not interested in using dyes or any additives. Read more>>

Monica Nieves | Owner & Master Esthetician

Through my years of experience as an esthetician and working with a plastic surgeon in Puerto Rico, I gained a deep understanding of medical-grade skincare. Fueled by passion and drive, my goal was to empower others to feel confident in their skin. I built a loyal client base by taking the time to provide top-quality service. Read more>>

Shondrika Cook | Braider and Natural Hairstylist

I was solely thinking in faith. I found myself out of a job after my mom had a stroke and was in the hospital, so I asked God if I should just branch out and get my own space. He said yes, and I had to have faith that I would be fine, especially starting with no clients. Read more>>