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.

Ronnae Williams | The State Lady, former Georgia state licensing inspector

I honestly didnt have one. I was so used to working for companies and supporting programs, it was just something I did. And one day I as dinner with a few “Childcare”friends and was told I need to start a consulting company. So many programs have issues with licensing and do not know how to pivot. Read more>>

Winnie D Talley | Founder & CEO of People Operations Services

I have a holistic perspective as it relates to ownership. I believe that mankind was created for a divine purpose. We all have that one thing that we are passionate about. No matter what we are doing, are where we are professionally, we will always find was to satisfy that passion. Read more>>

Tianna McFarlane | Entrepreneur

I was going on vacation summer 2019 and I had a bad cut my knee. I went on the hunt for a bandage that would blend into my skin and not stand out like a sore thumb. After visitng several retail stores I realized that black and brown bandages weren’t a thing yet. Read more>>

Sequoyah “DataBae” Glenn | Marketing Strategist | Culture Disruptor | Founder | Venture Activist

I wanted to create an agency I wanted to work at. Marketing agency life can be extremely difficult to navigate – there’s lots of personalities, clients, demands, and changes that will drive even the best a little crazy!  Read more>>

Bryan Majors | Modern Day Hope Dealer

In 2012, Bryan began laying the foundation for a legacy through Major Prep LLC, Bryan Majors LLC, Major Prep Apparel, and Major Prep Cycle Breakers (501C3). These ventures were built on the values instilled by his father – always being prepared for life’s opportunities and challenges. Read more>> 

Leah J | Owner & Founder

My thought process behind starting my own business VIBES ON ICE was to venture into the world of mobile bartending stemmed from my deep love for mixology and a desire to share exceptional energy and vibes with others. I truly enjoy curating cocktail experiences that lasts long after the last sip. Read more>>

ShaWanda Crawford | Event Planner

As an event planner, I’ve always been passionate about curating experiences that leave a lasting impact on people’s lives. However, my journey took a transformative turn with the birth of my own child, igniting within me a profound love for motherhood and a deep appreciation for the little moments that fill our lives with joy. Read more>>

Theresa A. Grant | Financial Coach

Starting my own business wasn’t just a decision driven by ambition or opportunity; it was deeply rooted in a personal promise and a newfound outlook on life. My journey began with a pledge to honor my commitment to God, to utilize my experiences and talents in service to others. Read more>>

Coach Rene Daughtry | Coaching our youth to be the best they can be in mind and spirit

Recognizing a prevalent lack of technical awareness and education within underserved communities across urban and rural counties in North Carolina, I founded Aisymmetry approximately a decade ago. Our organization specializes in conducting Lego robotics, scratch coding, and mini drone workshops, as well as creating STEM educational curricula tailored for youth-based non-profit organizations, schools, summer camps, and churches. Read more>>

LTomay Varlack-Butler | Chief Transformer & Restorative Equity Educator

My journey to founding Brand Me Beautiful was not just about creating a business; it was about transforming my life and affirming my worth. This venture was birthed from each small win I achieved during my profound mental and spiritual healing process.  Read more>>

Sarah Martin | Founder of Kiss & Ride

So many people have heard me say this but starting Kiss & Ride was a selfish endeavor. As I started to heal my relationship with sex, I also began exploring my relationship with sexuality and gender.  Read more>>

Lyn Collins | Tattoo Artist

I have been drawing since I was five. My mom is a painter, so I was lucky to grow up in a house full of art supplies with a parent who encouraged my artistic side. However, with my mom being a painter, I had a very realistic idea of how hard it can be to make a career out of art. Read more>>

BRODEE WIT DA 40 | PRODUCER & ARTIST

Really for me it was the ownership and having a chance to be hands on. Read more>>

Skyi Young | Loctician & entrepreneur

I’ve always wanted to be my own boss since grade school. When I entered college my mother insisted of focusing on school and school only. I knew I could not allow myself to go to her for my financial needs and wants, specially after she’s been work her butt off to make sure I have a comfortable lifestyle. Read more>>

Lorraine Richie | Owner of Lorraine’s Bake Shop

I honestly did not start out thinking that decorating sugar cookies would become a full-time endeavor, let alone lead me to open a brick and mortar in a completely different location than where I was raised. When our children were growing up, we would always bake and decorate sugar cookies, especially at Christmas.  Read more>>

Marian Hollis | Real Estate Agent

I begin my real estate career because of my children. I was a newly divorced mother of two attending college at alabama state university while also working there. I was talking to my mother one day about earning more money to support myself and the kids and she encouraged me to take a real estate course.  Read more>>

David Lee Spencer Je | Creative Video Producer/ videographer

My business thought process was to live comfortably, get away from 9-5, and start something that I can actually own. Read more>>

Sheree Long | A Beautiful Influencer

Making Everyone Beautiful & I believe when you look Good you feel Good And Just Becoming My own Boss And A Beauty Influencer. Read more>>

Mike Shina | Graduate Master Builder

I was lucky enough to work for two of the best homebuilding companies in Metro Atlanta over an 18 Year Period. In that time, I felt that I had learned every aspect of the business of building homes. My Network of Trade Partners and Suppliers were very supportive and helped me to set up accounts so I could make the transition from employee to business owner as seamless as possible. Read more>>

Gilberto Herrera | Marketing and Business Expert

I wanted to provide immense value to others while having the flexibility to spend time with those that matter most to me, my family. Read more>>

Lafayette James | Founder & Creative Director

Starting my own business was a decision born out of a deep desire for freedom and autonomy. Traditional workplaces felt confining and the rigid routines had limitations on my creativity. Read more>>

Len B. Williams, Jr. | Entrepreneur, Financial Specialist, Author

I’ve always felt that entrepreneurship will change the world. I’ve been an entrepreneur since high school. I’ve went from selling candy in the hallways of Vicksburg High School in Vicksburg, MS to closing deals with major corporations. Being an entrepreneur has changed my life, and that’s why I offer opportunities within my companies to become an entrepreneur within our organization. I’ve always lived my life by the motto, “Reach one, teach one!” Read more>>

Dear Silas | Hiphop Recording Artist, singer, writer, and producer.

My thought process was that I didn’t want to spend time helping to make someone else’s dream come true while I could be doin that for myself. It’s great experience to work for someone else starting out though, because that gives insight on how you do and don’t want to run your own establishment. Read more>>