Pursuing Passion with Purpose: My Journey from Nonprofit to Business and Beyond

Doing what you love while serving others is one of life’s greatest gifts. My journey has been shaped by passion, resilience, and the unwavering belief that our talents should be used to uplift those around us. From working in nonprofit advocacy to launching my own business, and now transitioning into real estate, my path has been anything but conventional—but every step has been purposeful.

From Advocacy to Entrepreneurship

I grew up in the Portland/Seattle area and earned my Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Portland State University. Right out of college, I dedicated eight years to working for a nonprofits as a youth and family advocate, helping individuals navigate challenges and build stronger futures. My work in advocacy was fulfilling, but I knew there was more I wanted to explore.

After working at several other nonprofit organizations, I decided to take a leap of faith and launch my own beauty business. What started as a passion quickly grew into a thriving company, allowing me to open and operate two salons. For years, I poured my energy into building a space that not only provided services but also empowered others to build their own businesses in the beauty industry.

Turning Setbacks into Opportunities

Then, like many entrepreneurs, I faced an unexpected turning point—COVID-19 forced me to close my salons. While it felt like an ending at the time, it was actually a new beginning. I pivoted my business model, shifting my focus from brick-and-mortar operations to education and business development. I began coaching aspiring entrepreneurs, offering classes, and helping others build sustainable businesses.

In 2021, I took on a contract as a business coach, working directly with small business owners to provide technical support, develop strategies, and create business plans. Through this work, I case-managed multiple businesses and helped generate over $115,000 in revenue for my clients in just one year.

A New Chapter: Real Estate and Financial Empowerment

Now, I’m stepping into a new chapter—balancing my role as a program manager for a youth tech program while building my network in Dallas. Though I remain passionate about my beauty business and continue to operate it part-time, my ultimate goal is to become a mortgage advisor and real estate investor.

This next phase is about more than just personal success—it’s about equipping others with the knowledge and resources to build generational wealth. Homeownership and real estate investment can be powerful tools for financial stability, and I want to help individuals, especially first-time buyers and entrepreneurs, navigate this space with confidence.

Building a Legacy

Every stage of my journey has reinforced the importance of adaptability, learning, and community. Whether through advocacy, entrepreneurship, or real estate, my mission remains the same: to use my knowledge and experience to uplift others.

The road ahead is exciting, and I look forward to making a lasting impact—helping people turn their dreams into reality, just as I continue to chase my own.

If you’re an entrepreneur, aspiring homeowner, or someone looking to take your next big step, let’s connect. Together, we can build something great.