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Empowering Self Employment
Rasheda Kamaria Williams is a mentor turned social entrepreneur with a passion for helping youth and young adults realize their power. She is the author of “Be EmPOWERed: How to Live Above & Beyond Life’s Drama” as well as the founder and chief empowering officer for Empowered Flower Girl, a social enterprise on a mission to transform the way young people relate to one another and themselves.
Rasheda has nearly 20 years’ experience in the education, nonprofit and philanthropic sectors having worked with and advised several national and global organizations in the areas of community outreach and engagement and public relations.
When and why did you join the NASE?
I joined NASE in 2021 for the support it offers to self-employed individuals as well as opportunities to network with others who operate in this unique space.
What inspired you to enter the field you are in?
I have always been inspired to help others. As a child and teen, I found opportunities to volunteer and give back – whether assisting other students as a tutor or helping out at fundraising events in my community. As I transitioned from college to career, this resonated with me and I became a mentor. My experience as a mentor led me to start Empowered Flower Girl and use my platform to advocate for mentors for youth as well as offer support to those who work to uplift and empower young people.
When and why did you start your business?
I started my business in the summer of 2010 to help young people realize their potential and live above drama they may be facing in and out of the classroom.
How do you market your business?
I utilize earned media to market my business as well as social media. I believe that storytelling is powerful and there’s a certain credibility when your story is published by a third party. I also rely on referrals. That is an important marketing tool in my business.
What challenges have you faced in your business?
As a solopreneur who works with vendors/contractors, it can be a challenge to focus on every aspect of your business. I work as a communications consultant in addition to the work I do with Empowered Flower Girl, so having reliable systems is a must.
Do you have any employees?
I currently do not have full time employees. I work with a few contractors, volunteers and interns for special projects. My goal in the next 5 years is to launch a spin off business – a consulting company for individuals inspired to make a difference as social entrepreneurs.
What’s your schedule like, what’s a typical day for you?
In real life, there is no typical day for me! I wake up and give gratitude and work to set intentions for the day. I do often spend time conducting research and reviewing my company’s and my clients’ strategic and tactical documents.
What’s the best thing about being self-employed?
The best thing about being self-employed is the freedom. It isn’t easy to be your own boss, but it is definitely rewarding. I have the opportunity to live for a living.
What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received from a client?
The biggest, most heart-warming and inspiring compliments I have received are from the amazing women who’ve completed our Girl World Peace Academy course. One participant in particular mentioned me as her mentor and inspiration during an event we were attending. I was touched and moved by her words.
What’s the most important piece of advice you would give to someone starting their own business?
I would advise anyone looking to start a business to speak with as many entrepreneurs, self-employed individuals and freelancers as possible before launching. It is vital to have a network of folks who understand your passion, struggles and aspirations. We all need a good vibe tribe.
Which NASE member benefit is most important to you?
There are several benefits that are important and useful. But I definitely utilize the expert advice resources and recommend that other members take advantage!
Any other information you would like to share?
I appreciate the opportunity to share about my business and passion and I am grateful for NASE’s support.