We were lucky to catch up with Alva McMillan recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alva , thanks so much for taking the time to share your insights and lessons with us today. We’re particularly interested in hearing about how you became such a resilient person. Where do you get your resilience from?
My resilience has been refined by life’s unpredictable waves. It stems from a series of new beginnings marked by numerous corporate relocations. Each move demanded the strength to uproot, adapt, and reinvent not just my surroundings but myself. These transitions, though scary, have instilled in me an unparalleled adaptability and a profound understanding of the transient nature of life. They taught me that while change is constant, the courage within me can face new horizons with optimism and determination.
Resilience is not just born out of necessity, but it is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to rise, rebuild, and re-envision a future when the past or present seems overwhelming. My enduring spirit is cradled and nurtured by the unwavering support of my loving husband of over 25 years, whose presence has offered strength and comfort through life’s highs and lows. Together, we’ve navigated the turbulent seas of grief, facing untimely departures of beloved family members to terminal illnesses. These painful losses, though heart wrenching have fortified our resolve, teaching us to cherish each moment and support one another with compassion and understanding. Our shared journey through sorrow has emphasized the invaluable nature of love and companionship in healing and moving forward. We have two children that we hope to have given the same sense of resiliency in their lives as they began to embark on their journey into adulthood.
My academic pursuits and achievements have provided me a solid ground, equipping me with knowledge and perspective to face life with a critical and analytical mind. This foundation has empowered me to approach challenges with a balanced perspective, seeking solutions and growth opportunities within every obstacle for lifelong learning. Furthermore, my faith and beliefs have been the cornerstone of my resilience, providing a source of comfort, hope, and inner peace. They remind me that I am never alone, that each struggle is a lesson, and that grace can be found in the most unexpected places. My experiences and pillars of support continue to teach me that with love, learning, and faith, I can get through any of life’s storms with grace and emerge stronger when the storm passes.
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?
At Abellathena Life LLC (Abellathena), I am dedicated to the art and science of skincare focusing on both corrective and relaxing treatments for the skin and body. As the founder and owner, my mission is to provide a space for healing and rejuvenation, offering personalized care that addresses each client’s unique skincare needs. As a female, Black-owned business, my dedication to serving all skin types is with the utmost respect and understanding. My diverse experiences ensure that every treatment is rooted in a deep understanding of both the science and art behind skincare and holistic well-being. Abellathena provides one-on-one appointments, ensuring each client receives personalized, undivided attention tailored to their beauty goals.
Expanding beyond individual client sessions, I have embraced the role of an Aesthetic Trainer and Account Representative, where I share my passion and knowledge with fellow professionals. I aim to elevate the standard of care within the beauty industry, especially in the realm of multicultural skincare. This commitment to education extends to hosting informational seminars, where I discuss the importance of tailored skincare practices that honor diverse skin types and conditions. I am excited to say that I also offer informational seminars and sessions to the public. Organizations and groups can connect with me to educate adults and youth on skincare.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back on my journey, the first quality that significantly impacted my path was the courage to speak in front of people. This skill was extremely overwhelming at first but became easier over time. The ability to communicate effectively, share knowledge, and express ideas with confidence has given me the opportunity to make connections. For those early in their journey, I recommend starting small – perhaps speaking in front of friends or in small intimate settings. Gradually increase the size of your audience as your confidence grows. Remember, every speaker started somewhere, and practice makes better outcomes. I don’t think anyone becomes perfect. Always ask for feedback and most importantly, believe in the value of your own voice. I am still growing as a speaker and embrace all that comes with that growth.
Secondly, acquiring a proper educational foundation has been indispensable. Education, in my case went beyond formal schooling; it encompassed a continuous pursuit of knowledge and a commitment to staying updated with what is going on in my industry. For newcomers, my advice is to view education as a lifelong journey. Look for resources, mentors, and communities that align with your interests and professional goals. Embrace every opportunity to learn, whether it is a formal course, workshop, reading, or real-world experiences.
Lastly, empathy and the belief that there is room for everyone to succeed have been fundamental in shaping my approach to business and personal interactions. This mindset fosters a collaborative rather than competitive atmosphere, encouraging mutual growth and understanding. To those at the beginning of their paths, I would emphasize the importance of cultivating empathy and building genuine relationships. By supporting others, you can begin a path of collective achievement. Practice active listening, show genuine interest in others’ success, and remember that kindness and professionalism go hand in hand.
In summary, these three pillars-public speaking, continuous education, and empathy-have not only shaped my journey but also defined my character and professional spirit. To those embarking on their own journey, embrace these principles with an open heart and mind.
How would you describe your ideal client?
The ideal client for Abellathena possesses a collaborative spirit and a keen desire for mutual success. They are committed to their own learning and development, actively engaging in the educational aspects of their care and beyond. This client is eager to embrace diversity and adaptable to change which are essential qualities of personal growth. As I train others in the industry and the public, the ideal client supports these endeavors, understanding that their success and learning contribute to a larger culture of wellness and professional development.
My ideal skincare client embodies honesty and authenticity, traits that are foundational to a successful partnership and transformative skincare journey. To develop there customized, effective skincare regimen, the approach must be transparent with open communication. This type of client not only values the importance of being genuine in their interactions but also understands the significance of trust and sincerity in having a productive and positive relationship. Success is a two-way street that requires an eagerness to learn. The ideal client will appreciate that my growth and success contributes to theirs, creating a mutualistic relationship where knowledge and achievement are shared and celebrated.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.abellathena.com
- Instagram: www.instragram.com/abellathena
- Other: www.instagram.com/skintherapy247
linktr.ee/abellathena
