We reached out to some of our favorite entrepreneurs and asked them to think back and tell us about how they decided to start a business. Check out their responses below.

Jalisa Baskin | Content Creator/cosmetics business owner

I am now working on a cosmetic business. My reasoning for wanting to start a beauty business is to mainly help other women feel beautiful. I actually just started taking things more seriously after I was hospitalized and realized I had nothing in the hospital to make me feel like that girl while I was there. Things such as lipgloss, mascara, lashes and more. Read more>>

Trenton Carson | Corporate Video Producer

Starting my own video agency came from a mix of passion, vision, and wanting more control over my work. I had spent years working on video projects, and at a tv station learning how to tell great stories and use visual media to make an impact. But I always felt I could do more and bring something of my own to the industry. Read more>>

Vick M. | Small Biz Development Coach & Engineer

When I started The Ignite Dev Lab, I wanted to find a way to quit my engineering day job but that vision has since evolved into wanting to help my community and ensure that financial literacy was being taught to those that need it most. The fastest way to financial freedom is through entrepreneurship. Read more>>

Kendall McCluney | Photographer & Creative Consultant

From an early age the art of photography captivated me as a means of artistic self-expression. My passion lies in encapsulating memories, both on film and digitally. Whether it involves capturing the beauty of a vast landscape, the intimacy of a spontaneous interaction between individuals or candid content my aim has always been to capture enduring images that hold sentimental value. Read more>> 

Donna Dyson | My thought process reflects a blend of passion, strategic planning, and a strong commitment to making a positive impact in the arts and fashion industry. I started as a haisr stylist and i produced my first fashion and hair production 40 years ago. I opened my business 38 years ago

Donna Dyson started her own business out of a profound passion for beauty and art, driven by a desire to express her creativity and make a positive impact on others. She envisioned creating a space where innovation thrived and talented individuals could find the opportunities and support they needed to succeed. Read more>>

Theresa Marguerite Lacy | Spiritual Influencer, Brand Owner, and future author

I wanted my brand since I was in highschool. I had no game plan just the vision I kept holding onto from an actual dream I had! So all of highschool I talked about all these style ideas, the way my stores would be set up and what states would get a store. So immaturely, straight out of highschool I started designing graphic shirts and selling them. Read more>>

Koffi Selom Egbeto | Pasty Chef & Engineer

Driven by a passion, I founded my business to share my gift for crafting exquisite, artisanal French pastries. Made with love and care, using only the finest ingredients and no artificial flavorings, my creations aim to bring joy and delight to every customer. Through my business, I strive to make a positive impact, foster connections, and build a reputation for exceptional quality and service. Read more>>

Lauren Mattison | Multifaceted Creative & Dermatology Technician

Simply, I wanted to create something that I could own. I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit, originating at the age of eight. I helped my dad run his shoe store in Maryland and I believe that representation planted a seed. By the time I got to undergrad I was fortunate enough to sit in on a class based on the book: The Autobiography of Malcolm X. Read more>>