What are the most challenging and rewarding aspects of your job and why?
As a small, black-owned business, a longtime challenge has been competing with the large, mostly white-owned landscaping companies. It’s been tough to get in front of and receive support from community programs for small local businesses. Resources to promote and inform people of my business and all it has to offer are limited.
To this day, the most rewarding aspect of my job is customer satisfaction. It is still a driving force for my success. I have integrity and take great pride in my work and want my clients to feel the same way about their residence and/or business. It is a great feeling when a collaborative idea and plan comes together for my customers.
Who do you look up to or admire in business and why?
I admire Susan Schmitz, past president of Downtown Madison Inc. Susan is a lifelong Madisonian and has consistently proven her community commitment. I admire her business leadership, as it is based on past challenging and rewarding experiences, strong work ethic and goal standards, representing non-finite ideas, and an open mind for continued learning — all with the intent of encouragement and recognition for change to better and lift our community members.
I also admire my grandmother. She moved to Chicago from Mississippi, taught herself how to read and write, and started her own business. I worked for my grandmother after school in Chicago. She taught me to know your inventory, how to mark up for profit, and the importance of strong relationships within your community.
What has been the high point of your career so far?
I think the highlight was when I was first able to hire and help people with employment.
Thinking back on your career, what advice would you give your 21-year-old self?
Don’t be afraid to take risks. Be responsible and be sure to do the appropriate research, but the gain is limited without any risk.
What would you say are the best things about living and working in Dane County?
I like that there is always something to do and celebrate. You can never be bored in Dane County. Another great part is having four distinct seasons. It makes my job interesting, challenging, and always a chance for something new to come about.
Do you have any secret talents or abilities that people would be surprised to discover?
I love working on and repairing small engines. It’s great bringing them back to life!
What are your guilty pleasures?
Going too fast on my motorcycle. My family is still searching for an antidote.
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