Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Onteaya Tate. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Onteaya, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
I Believe Representation is Key first and foremost! I promised myself to always show up my most authentic self! I try to step into every room like I have the right to be there and having a daily self-care routine helps me do that;
Breathwork – to calm my Nervous System.
Journaling – set goals and write affirmations.
– Brain-dump: write obstacles (physical, emotional, spiritual, mental) and leave them on the paper until I am
ready to address them.
Meditation – Set positive intentions for the day.
I balance myself every day.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I have a unique blend of passions and expertise that has led me to create a meaningful impact on my community. As a herbalist and interior designer, I firmly believe in the profound influence of a harmonious environment on overall wellness.”
Herbalist and Interior Designer Background:
My journey started with a background in herbalism and interior design. These seemingly distinct fields have come together to shape my perspective on how a holistic approach to well-being can be achieved. I’ve spent years understanding the interplay between natural elements, design aesthetics, and their effects on our physical and mental health.
Creating Wellness Spaces:
I’ve always been driven by the concept of creating spaces that nurture the mind, body, and soul. As an interior designer, I’ve had the privilege to craft environments that promote tranquility and positivity. This passion naturally led me to become a herbalist, allowing me to infuse natural elements into these spaces to enhance the overall wellness experience.
Entrepreneurial Ventures:
Recognizing the transformative potential of these ideas, I founded a unique concept that combines my passions. I opened a house plant boutique that not only offers aesthetically pleasing plant decor but also fosters a connection to nature indoors. Simultaneously, I launched a plant-based coffee and wellness drink company, bringing the benefits of herbal remedies and healthful ingredients to my community’s daily routines.
Community Impact:
My aim was to offer a comprehensive approach to well-being from the inside out. Through my ventures, I’ve been able to create a community hub where individuals can explore the healing properties of plants, embrace sustainable design, and enjoy nourishing beverages. Witnessing the positive impact on people’s lives as they engage with these offerings has been incredibly rewarding.
Balancing Entrepreneurship and Passion:
Running these ventures requires a blend of creativity, business acumen, and a deep understanding of human needs. I’ve learned to balance my role as an entrepreneur with my commitment to advocating for wellness and sustainability. Every decision I make is guided by my belief in creating spaces and products that empower individuals to lead healthier, more fulfilled lives.
Future Aspirations:
As I move forward, I’m excited to continue expanding my influence in both the wellness and design spheres. I envision further collaborations that seamlessly integrate nature and design, and I’m committed to contributing positively to the well-being of even more communities.
Lastly, my journey as a herbalist and interior designer turned entrepreneur reflects my unwavering belief in the potential for wellness to be cultivated in every aspect of life. I am truly dedicated to making a lasting difference, and I’m excited about the opportunities that lie ahead!
Onteaya Evelina
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Reflecting on my journey, there were three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that proved to be particularly impactful. For those who are early in their journey, here’s some advice on how to develop or improve on these aspects:
1. Multidisciplinary Expertise:
In my journey, having a breadth of knowledge across different fields, such as herbalism and interior design, allowed me to see connections and opportunities that others might have overlooked. My advice is to explore diverse areas of interest, even if they seem unrelated at first. Read widely, attend workshops, and engage with experts from various disciplines. This will equip you with a unique perspective that can help you innovate and stand out in your chosen field.
2. Vision and Innovation:
Having a clear vision and the ability to innovate was essential. In my case, I envisioned creating spaces and products that blended nature, design, and wellness. To develop this quality, focus on honing your creative thinking and problem-solving skills. Look for ways to combine existing concepts in new and exciting ways. Don’t be afraid to challenge conventions and embrace experimentation. Surround yourself with diverse thinkers who can inspire you to think beyond the obvious.
3. Community Engagement and Impact:
Engaging with the community and creating a positive impact was crucial in my journey. Understanding the needs and desires of your target audience allows you to tailor your offerings effectively. To develop this skill, practice active listening and empathy. Attend local events, workshops, and networking opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals. Seek feedback from your audience and adapt your approach based on their input. Remember that genuine relationships and community trust are integral to sustained success.
Advice for Early Journey Explorers:
Embrace Curiosity: Don’t shy away from exploring new areas. Your curiosity can lead you to unexpected intersections where your unique contributions can thrive.
Continuous Learning: The journey is ongoing. Commit to lifelong learning and stay up-to-date with trends and advancements in your fields of interest. This will keep your ideas fresh and relevant.
Build a Diverse Network: Surround yourself with people from various backgrounds. Engaging with diverse perspectives will broaden your horizons and inspire creative thinking.
Fail Forward: Embrace failures as learning opportunities. Each setback teaches valuable lessons that contribute to your growth and resilience.
Seek Mentorship: Connect with experienced individuals who can offer guidance based on their own journeys. Their insights can save you time and help you navigate challenges more effectively.
Stay Committed: Consistency is key. The journey might have its ups and downs, but staying committed to your vision and goals will drive you forward.
Adaptability: Embrace change and be willing to pivot when necessary. Industries and trends evolve, and being adaptable will keep you relevant and responsive to shifting demands.
Measure Impact: Regularly assess how your work is impacting your chosen community or field. Use feedback and data to refine and improve your offerings over time.
Looking back over the past 12 months or so, what do you think has been your biggest area of improvement or growth?
Better People Management
Contact Info:
- Website: www.plantcandycollective.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/plantcandycollective/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/plantcandycollective/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-green-bean-coffee-chattanooga
