Meet Andrea Williams: Entrepreneur & Project Manager

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

Hi Andrea, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Starting my own business came from a place of sadness and angry. My thought process was a whirlwind of emotions that landed into a business plan that formulated my non-profit BeastRob. Prior to starting my business, I tried everything under the sun to channel my angry from losing my father to Colorectal Cancer, a preventable disease. In 2015, seven years after my father’s passing and struggling to cope with his death I could not stay quiet any longer. Knowing that others could combat this deadly yet preventable cancer I launched BeastRob, a non-profit focusing on raising Colorectal Cancer awareness through fitness and social events. In launching BeastRob I thought back to my own experience not knowing anything about Colorectal Cancer and questioning why I had never heard of this type of cancer. Was it a lack of information in the communities in which I lived? Was this cancer not as glamorous as breast cancer, based on many celebrities and public figures holding walks and annual campaigns surrounding this type of cancer? The was answer YES! No one wants to talk about their bathroom habits. Colorectal cancer is a cancer that forms in the tissues of the rectum; more specifically, it forms in the last 5-6 inches of the large intestine closest to the anus. The thought process originated from angry and loss but the follow through transpired from a need in communities at large.

What should our readers know about your business?
I got to where I am today by reading everything, I come across regarding Colorectal Cancer and nonprofits. Throughout the years I have established relationships with other nonprofit owners with similar missions. Having a strong network with like-minded individuals is an important factor to building a successful business and staying sane in times of ups and downs. Even with tons of knowledge and support from other business owners I continuously run into challenges, Colorectal Cancer is not sexy, and no one wants to talk about their bathroom habits. Trying to raise awareness about this preventable cancer within the community has been interesting, to say the least. As soon as any of the BeastRob board members utter the words colon or rectum folks shy away or walk away from the conversation altogether. To overcome these uncomfortable conversations, we build up to them during our fitness and social events. Additionally, we deliver important and fun messaging via social media and email campaigns. I have learned some powerful lessons along the way that have shaped the outlook of our overall marketing strategy and reach. The first lesson learned early on is that a “free” event does not equal attendees, putting in the work to market the event is a must. The second biggest lesson learned was that everyone does not want to hear what you have to say no matter how passionate you are about the message. You must gain the interest of your target audience and engage them with a relatable story. Lastly, I have learned if we just help one person from dying from Colorectal Cancer we’ve fulfilled our mission in raising awareness. I want the world to know that BeastRob’s mission is simple. We are strong. We are powerful. We are BEASTS! We are prepared to do whatever it takes to beat Colorectal Cancer.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Wow, I love when my best friend visits. Let’s walk through our week long visit! It’s Sunday afternoon so first things first, brunch! I’d take her to Historic Old Fourth Ward to Poor Calvin’s we’ll enjoy mimosas and the best Thai Fusion brunch in Atlanta! On Taco Tuesday we are headed to Kirkwood to indulge in margaritas and Mexican cuisine at Elmyriachi. Later in in the week we’ll have dinner in Decatur at Ms. Icey’s Kitchen & Bar while listening to a local DJ span our favorite 90’s hip hop. We’ll close out the week at Ponce City Market for some shopping and more drinks. If we are up for it, after all the food and drinks, to end the visit we’ll rent bikes along the Atlanta Belt Line and enjoy the many wonders of the Atlanta. The Belt Line is filled with art, musicians, and amazing restaurants.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to shoutout James Williams, co-founder of BeastRob. Without his continuous ideas and relentless dedication none of the events we put on would be successful.