In the Black and Brown communities (and where I grew up in Trinidad and Tobago), we are often guided by our parents to get a “proper” education and a “good” job. It is how the generations before us spoke about financial stability because our parents, grandparents, and great grandparents fought against a system that was not favorable to Black and Brown people. They often lived paycheck to paycheck, and unfortunately, that streamed into my generation. I wanted to help break this cycle, and change the narrative and go after my dreams and build within my community. Outside of launching this blog, and writing and publishing a children’s book with my daughter, I launched Chaconia Candles in the middle of the pandemic. Taking that first step was one of my biggest challenges.
I had so much fear and was concerned about the risks. These are unprecedented times. I looked around and saw healthcare disparities, food insecurities, unemployment, and racial injustices. But most of all, I saw mental and emotional struggles and challenges with community. I saw a lack of self-care, especially for moms. For that same reason, I launched my business. There’s a need, and I can fulfill it, using my blended knowledge and experience of wellness, project management, communications, writing, social media, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. I conquered my fears and believed in myself, my dream, and the communities I serve. I asked myself, “If not now, when?”
Mental and emotional health, just like physical health, require you to put in the work. The sense of smell plays a vital role in your emotions and moods and can help reduce stress and anxiety. My goal is to provide a non-toxic, clean-burning, high-quality, cruelty-free, and vegan candles that can be added to someone’s emotional and mental wellness routine to help provide a natural way to help heal your mind, body, and soul.
I also want to help break the cycle and provide the tools and resources to support the next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs. I am looking into ways to offer workshops to the youth community to teach them about
1. Entrepreneurship
2. Mental and Emotional Wellness
3. Public speaking, speech fundamentals, and communications
4. Sustainability
As a writer and editor, I will also like to use my platform to share young entrepreneurs’ inspirational stories within the community. Each one teach one!
I am also planning a few social wellness events next year. When we think about wellness, we think about it holistically!
I love walking my five year old daughter Jasia through the process. She has been helping me in various areas of the business and she loves every minute of it. I am not only fueling her entrepreneurial spirit, I am also building generational wealth.
Check out our site at www.chaconiacandles.com, and follow our journey on IG and Facebook! Thank you all for your support!
