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

Hi Nigest, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I do not typically consider risk. What I do consider is the positive outcome as it pertains to my decision making. I have been an Entrepreneur for over 30yrs and making the best decision in a timely manner has benefited me a great deal. The biggest risk is doubting yourself and waiting to long to make a move. It would be remise of me to stay that all my decisions went according to plan, however you cannot win at all if you do not get into the game while it is gametime. Entrepreneurship is not a spectator sport!

What should our readers know about your business?
So as with anything one usually starts a business either from necessity or an opportunity. For myself it was both, I was a hairstylist/salon owner but I knew that while I was successful I was one injury away from my business being in jeopardy. I actually thought that nursing would be my second act, but boy was I wrong I ended up in the Life insurance and finance industry and I’m grateful as I later had an injury that would’ve derailed a nursing career. The decision was made by me to take a chance on myself and I obtained the proper licenses required and put my head down and worked. I will not say it was easy ,however since I knew I wanted a business that I could build and step away from unlike a stylist/nursing career I was determined to follow those who set the path in front of me. As I mentor others the biggest lesson I have learned is that you must trust in your own willingness to make it happen and less on what those around you think about your choices as most negative comments are based on their fears. The industry that I am in creates and manages the worlds wealth and it is important that you have a plan that you are executing consistently and I want to help my community retain at the same level that we spend.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Wow, that is not easy to answer as Atlanta has grown tremendously! I do not go out as much as I used too, however I do like the Starling Hotel its ambience is great as well as their drinks. I really enjoy Jikkssa Ethiopian Cuisine as it reminds me of my Father’s cooking when I was younger I am a first generation American. Pascals is an institution and their seafood is superb. The Slutty Vegan has made me a believer and I take everyone I can in an attempt to convert them as well. My close girlfriend’s and I love to shop so we are going to definitely going to hit Phipps Plaza everything you need is under one roof. I truly miss Sweet Auburn’s they had the best cajun pasta I love the area and I going to the Apex museum is a must. There is nothing like the nightlife in Atlanta and I’ve done it all from murder mysteries to adult entertainment.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
O my where do I begin! I come from a small family it was just my Mother Margaret and myself most of my younger life. She was the first person I saw and worked closely with. As a youth she either had me with her at the flea markets selling clothes, home items, or BBQ. Looking back this was the 80’s and she had a food truck! It is because of her that I’ve only had one job in my lifetime from 17-20.

I also owe a great deal to another mentor, Oscar winner Jamika Wilson she helped me and gave me a chance when I entered the hair industry by allowing me to assist her and eventually manage her bustling salon! She taught me to be kinder and that customer service and the details were key! She allowed me to literally stand next to her and watch her do precision cuts and color. These things helped me immensely when I earned my own chair and the success of my salon years later.

Lastly, the book “Rich Dad , Poor Dad” changed my life in the fact that it showed you that if you are not the owner you cannot claim the title.

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Image Credits
Photo courtesy of Nigest Solomon

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