We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Silianise Moise. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Silianise below.
Silianise, we’re so excited for our community to get to know you and learn from your journey and the wisdom you’ve acquired over time. Let’s kick things off with a discussion on self-confidence and self-esteem. How did you develop yours?
That’s a thoughtful question. Growing up in a Haitian household, we learn to develop resilience against bullying, as it’s often where we first encounter it. Despite facing such challenges, I never felt self-conscious about my identity. In my younger years, I didn’t fully recognize my own beauty, but I never considered myself ugly either. After college, coping with severe acne became a significant struggle. Teaching at the time, I had to explain adult acne to curious students who asked about my facial condition. One day, after cleansing my face, I looked in the mirror, and to my surprise, the scars and pimples seemed to vanish. In that moment, I felt a sense of satisfaction with the masterpiece that was reflected back at me. I thanked God for a job well done and realized I needed to view myself through His lenses to appreciate my true beauty.
Now, I confidently acknowledge my beauty without seeking validation from others. While compliments are appreciated, I wake up every day aware of my own beauty. I can proudly wear a suit without a hint of makeup, and the less makeup I wear, the more beautiful I feel. It became essential for me to embrace and own my beauty. I recognize that my once unconventional beauty standards, like cheekbones and lips, are now sought after at a high cost. I refuse to downplay the meticulous creation by God. If someone can appreciate the Mona Lisa but struggles to see my worth as a living, breathing masterpiece, that’s their issue, not mine. I proudly embrace my beauty and fully own the person that I am.
Confidence, I believe, is an ongoing journey. While I am confident in who I am, I’m also aware of my limitations. It’s a continuous process of self-improvement and acceptance, recognizing that being good at everything is not a requirement for self-assurance.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
In the realm of mental health therapy, where I’ve dedicated a decade to fostering well-being, a newfound passion blossomed amidst the challenges of the pandemic. Enter Refined Candles, a venture that evolved into the radiant tribute known as 1940 Candles—a celebration of my mother’s superheroic legacy. These candles transcend the ordinary, symbolizing a collective journey illuminated by love and dedication .
Now owned by myself and my extraordinary sisters, Anna, Georgette, and Herlande, 1940 Candles not only embodies elegance but also addresses the importance of clean-burning and sustainability. Each meticulously crafted candle, housed in unique concrete vessels, serves as a work of art, elevating your sensory experience. Our fragrances, thoughtfully sourced and consciously created, provide an exceptional olfactory journey, free from toxic ingredients.
More than just decorative pieces, our candles are a call to self-care, inviting you to create a warm and inviting ambiance in your space. Whether for personal enjoyment or as a thoughtful gift, 1940 Candles is the perfect choice—an embodiment of personalized luxury.
Beyond the realm of candles, I proudly serve as the CEO and founder of Beauty Without Borders, a 501(c)3 non-profit based in Boston, Massachusetts. Our transformative mission extends beyond conventional beauty standards, aiming to instill unwavering confidence in girls and young women. Beauty Without Borders is not just an organization; it’s a catalyst for life transformation, nurturing not only self-confidence but also intellectual growth, personal development, and leadership prowess.
We envision a world where girls and young women emerge as influential leaders, innovators, and public servants, defying societal expectations. With a commitment to listening to the voices and needs of our cherished audience, Beauty Without Borders stands as a beacon of change in a world where societal influences often shape destinies.
Our unique blend of clinical expertise fuels our leadership, setting us apart as a force for positive change. In a society where external opinions can shape personal development, Beauty Without Borders strives to empower girls to forge their own destinies and become the role models they aspire to be. It’s not just an organization; it’s a transformative journey for life, both within and beyond its confines.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Adaptability and Resilience: Why it’s impactful: Entrepreneurship often involves navigating uncertainties, setbacks, and unexpected challenges. Being adaptable and resilient allows you to bounce back from failures, learn from mistakes, and adjust your strategies in a constantly changing environment.
How to develop/improve: Engage in activities that take you out of your comfort zone, embrace failure as a learning opportunity, and cultivate a mindset that views challenges as a natural part of the entrepreneurial journey.
Effective Communication and Networking:
Why it’s impactful: Building relationships with customers, investors, partners, and team members is crucial. Effective communication helps convey your vision, persuade stakeholders, and foster collaborations. Networking can open doors to opportunities and provide valuable insights.
How to develop/improve:
Practice clear and concise communication, both verbally and in writing. Attend industry events, join relevant online communities, and actively seek opportunities to connect with professionals. Be genuinely interested in others and build relationships organically.
Continuous Learning and Adaptation:
Why it’s impactful: The business landscape is dynamic, and successful entrepreneurs stay ahead by constantly learning and adapting. Whether it’s keeping up with industry trends, technological advancements, or evolving customer preferences, a commitment to ongoing education is crucial.
How to develop/improve:
Read extensively, attend workshops and conferences, enroll in relevant courses, and seek mentorship from experienced individuals. Embrace a mindset of lifelong learning, and be open to adapting your strategies based on new information.
Advice for Early Entrepreneurs:
Embrace Failure as a Stepping Stone: Don’t fear failure; view it as a necessary step toward success. Learn from your mistakes, pivot when needed, and use setbacks as opportunities to grow.
Build a Strong Network:
Attend industry events, join online communities, and actively seek mentors. Building a network can provide support, guidance, and valuable connections that may play a pivotal role in your entrepreneurial journey.
Prioritize Self-Development:
Continuously invest in your personal and professional development. Stay curious, read widely, and be proactive in acquiring new skills. The ability to adapt and learn is a key asset in the ever-changing business landscape.
Remember that entrepreneurship is a journey with its ups and downs. It’s essential to stay focused, stay resilient, and continually strive for personal and professional growth.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
I’m eager to establish connections and collaborate with diverse entrepreneurs, regardless of their industry. I believe there are various opportunities for us to work together and contribute to our community through collaboration and investment. I particularly appreciate partnering with passionate creatives, who are dedicated to enhancing the beauty of the world.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.refinedbysm.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cece_moise/
- Facebook: Beautywithoutboders
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/silianise-moise-ab084467/
- Twitter: www.beautywithoutborders.org
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@cecemoise/featured
- Yelp: www.cecemoise.com
Image Credits
Neil Lee Photography & Georgette Moise