For most of my life, I thought I knew what challenges were. But nothing prepared me for becoming a mom at 18. I didn’t have a diploma. I didn’t have a plan. And I came from an unhealthy childhood where love felt scarce. On top of that, people I respected and loved looked down on me. I was scared. I was overwhelmed. And yet, when I looked into my baby’s eyes for the first time, something clicked. I didn’t feel shame. I felt determination.
Learning Against the Odds
I dropped out of high school, but I refused to stop learning. With the help of my aunt and uncle, who tutored me like a 5-year-old, I took my GED. Then I enrolled in college, accelerated through a medical program, and graduated. Every step I took was fueled by one thing: wanting a better life for my son. Through all the challenges, I made sure he always felt loved and cared for. No matter how hard life got, I showed up for him.
A Dream Takes Shape
At 26, I started making soap in my kitchen. What began as a hobby turned into a thriving natural skincare business. Nine years later, we have a store in the Avenues Mall, a loyal online community, subscription boxes, and a brand that reflects everything I believe in — pure, natural, effective products made from God’s ingredients. This business has been like raising another child. It has demanded attention, growth, discipline, and passion. And just like raising my son, every moment of hard work has been worth it.
Lessons in Determination and Growth
We’re not rich. But we live well. And my son has grown up watching what ambition, determination, and discipline look like in real life. Life worked out exactly as it was meant to. If I had waited to have my son, I might never have started this business. The timing, the struggles, and the growth — it was all perfect. Sometimes, the challenges that scare us most are exactly the ones that shape us into the people we’re meant to be.
A Message to Anyone Feeling Judged or Overwhelmed
If you’ve ever been told you couldn’t do something… if you’ve ever been underestimated… if the world made you feel small… know this: you are stronger than you think. Your determination, love, and persistence can rewrite any story. And sometimes, life’s toughest moments lead to the most beautiful outcomes.