We asked the business owners: 

What inspired you to start your own business, and how has being a woman-owned enterprise influenced your journey?

Tamera:  I was inspired by my dad to start my business. Through my years in grade school, he obtained different businesses, but the one that he maintained was a business he truly loved to do. So, I began to experiment with different skin care products in middle because of my own skin issues. I loved researching about different skin conditions and diagnosis, but most of them were all based around medication. So, I searched to find natural ways to get healthier skin.

Erica: Entrepreneurship grants me the potential for financial independence, which enables me to take charge of my income and financial future. It also provides an avenue to create wealth and establish a legacy for my daughters. As a Minority/Woman-owned business, I often find myself as the unique ‘unicorn’ in the room. My passion lies in promoting greater representation and diversity within the PavementManagement Industry. I aspire to inspire other women to venture into traditionally non-diverse industries.

As a woman entrepreneur, what challenges have you faced in the business world, and how have you overcome them?

Tamera: Some challenges I've faced as a woman in business are being looked over and singled out. Starting out as a young black woman it was hard to gain reach in my community, because I just wasn't taken seriously, but let me assure you, my products spoke for themselves!

Erica: Networking and mentorship have posed significant challenges for me. In an industry predominantly composed of white males, finding a mentor has proven nearly impossible. Many mentors seek protégés who remind them of their younger selves, and unfortunately, I don’t fit the mold. To offset this, I actively seek out women-focused networking events, allowing me to connect with women in other male-dominated fields. Additionally, I’ve joined groups like ‘Women of Asphalt,’ whose mission is to empower women pursuing careers in the asphalt industry and ‘Women’s Professional Forum,’ a local organization which launched in 1977 to provide a forum for the exchange of ideas and mutual support for professional women in the Triad.

In what ways do you believe your business contributes to the empowerment and advancement of other women, particularly within the MWBE community?

Tamera: I believe my natural skin care business gives not only black women but women of different skin types and tones a safe space to love their natural selves without harsh chemicals. It gives young businesses owners encouragement that as long as you do the work your goals are in arms reach.

Erica: As a Minority/Women-owned business in the field of Pavement Asset Management, we challenge stereotypes about women’s abilities within the industry and emphasize that gender should never limit entrepreneurial potential.

Women business owners play a crucial role in driving innovation and economic growth, bringing fresh perspectives and solutions to the table. Their diverse experiences and leadership styles contribute to a more inclusive and dynamic business landscape. By breaking gender barriers and shattering stereotypes, women entrepreneurs inspire others to pursue their passions and realize their full potential. Supporting and empowering women in business not only fosters gender equality but also strengthens communities and fosters sustainable development.

To purchase from Pearls Optimum Skin Care please visit their Etsy shop or Instagram page @pearlsoptimumskin

If you would like to do business with Erica with A Fine Line Striping, please visit their official website at https://afinelinestriping.com/