We were lucky to catch up with Melesia Adderley recently and have shared our conversation below.
Melesia, thanks for taking the time to share your lessons with our community today. So, let’s jump right in – one of the most essential skills for unlocking our potential is self-discipline. Where does your self-discipline come from?
Cultivating Self-Discipline Amidst the Juggling Act
Self-discipline, the cornerstone of my journey as a wife, entrepreneur, and homeschooling mom, is a skill honed through the delicate art of orchestrating multiple roles. Navigating the realms of family life and entrepreneurship requires a unique blend of dedication, organization, and a steadfast commitment to consistency.
1. Building the Foundation:
The journey began as a quest for safer, organic feminine care, igniting a purpose that would reshape my life – the establishment of the first company of its kind in the Caribbean — Women’s Haven. The responsibility of being a wife, entrepreneur, and homeschooling mom necessitated a robust foundation. I recognized early on that self-discipline wasn’t just a tool; it was the scaffolding upon which I could construct a life where each role complemented the other.
2. Consistency Amidst Chaos:
Juggling the responsibilities of an entrepreneur and a homeschooling mom is no easy feat. The key lay in crafting consistent routines and embracing the unpredictability that comes with each day. My ability to remain disciplined, even on the days when chaos reigns, stems from a commitment to the bigger picture – a life where family, entrepreneurship, and personal growth coalesce seamlessly.
3. Adapting to Challenges:
Overcoming challenges became an integral part of my narrative. From rejection in the entrepreneurial realm to managing the flow of homeschooling dynamics, each obstacle demanded a disciplined approach. It was about adapting, learning, and persisting with unwavering determination.
4. Harmony in Roles:
As a wife, maintaining a connection with my spouse amidst the whirlwind of entrepreneurship and homeschooling demanded intentional effort. Self-discipline became the bridge that allowed me to harmonize the roles of a wife and entrepreneur without sacrificing the essence of either.
5. Consistent Progress Over Perfection:
There are days when the juggling act is smoother, and others when it’s a delicate dance. What remained constant was the commitment to consistent progress over perfection. Self-discipline, in this context, became the gentle reminder that small, intentional steps, even on challenging days, lead to monumental achievements over time.
In the tapestry of my life, self-discipline is the thread weaving through each role, each challenge, and each triumph. It’s not just a skill; it’s a mindset cultivated through the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, the nuances of homeschooling, and the cherished moments of being a wife.
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?
Behind the Scenes: Unveiling My Personal, Professional Journey, and Family Commitments
In navigating the intricate balance of being a wife, homeschooling mother of four, a serial entrepreneur, and a board member, I find fulfillment in the tapestry of my dynamic life. Here’s a glimpse into my roles and the ventures that define my journey.
My main business venture is, Women’s Haven, which is a registered trade mark brand, and certified organic feminine care product company that has transformed the lives of women and young girls in the Caribbean. The brand’s products are now available in major supermarkets and stores across the Caribbean region and are sold in over 10 countries.
As the founder of Women’s Haven, my commitment extends beyond providing products; it’s about advocating for safer, organic alternatives in feminine care. Witnessing the tangible impact on women’s lives is both the purpose and passion behind our brand. I’m proud and honored to lead a team of amazing female entrepreneurs across the Caribbean:
• Meredith Johnson-Evans (The Bahamas)
• Symantha Taylor (Trinidad & Tobago)
• Nikita John-Walters (Saint Vincent & the Grenadines)
• Christa Pascal-Alexis (Grenada)
• Lexann McPhoy (Guyana)
• Thesil Griffith (Barbados)
• Elsa Joseph (Saint Lucia)
• Joyceann Green (Jamaica)
• Lauretta Daley (Montserrat)
Current Highlights:
– Product Diversity: Women’s Haven currently supplies over 20 products, offering a comprehensive range of organic solutions for women’s health.
– Global Presence: Achieving trademarks in 5 countries, selling over 2 million products, and expanding our reach across 10 Caribbean countries and beyond.
Philanthropic Initiatives:
Our commitment to giving back is unwavering. Thousands of products have been donated to humanitarian organizations, supporting women in need globally.
Future Initiatives:
The journey continues with anticipation for new initiatives on the horizon. Our aim is to expand our brand impact, creating a future where every woman experiences the benefits of safe and organic feminine care.
Visit our website here [Women’s Haven](https://www.womenshaven.com) to explore the full range of our organic products and join us on social media (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, LinkedIn, Twitter (X), YouTube) for updates and insights.
Your support is instrumental in empowering women and advocating for safer, healthier feminine care choices. For a deeper dive into my journey, check out the article on CanvasRebel Magazine [here](https://canvasrebel.com/meet-melesia-adderley/).
In addition to Women’s Haven, one of my other business ventures, Kingpin Apps which was founded by my husband, Hareem Adderley — is a software development company that specializes in custom software and blockchain technology as well as assisting start-up businesses, managing their social media, and helping them establish a strong professional digital presence.
Additionally, I have attained a Bachelor of Arts in Economics with Business and minors in Psychology and Science and Technology, and a Master of Science in Organizational Learning and Leadership, where I earned a 4.0 GPA. I also serve as a Board Director of the Cayman Islands Small Businesses Association.
Beyond entrepreneurship, the shared journey of homeschooling with my husband enriches our family life. Nurturing a well-rounded education for our four children is a collaborative endeavor. Embarking on the homeschooling journey has been a transformative experience, offering a unique approach to education that aligns seamlessly with our dynamic lifestyle.
– Online Flexibility:
My children engage in an online homeschooling curriculum, providing a flexible structure that harmonizes with my professional commitments. This flexibility allows me to be an active part of their educational journey while still managing my entrepreneurial ventures.
– Quality Time and Evolution:
One of the distinctive aspects of homeschooling is the significant time spent with my children. This close-knit dynamic has provided the opportunity to witness their evolution firsthand. It goes beyond academics, allowing for a holistic understanding of their personalities, interests, and aspirations. Homeschooled children benefit the community because they are not shaped by peers but by parents.
– Curriculum Customization:
“Homeschooling allows you to make the curriculum fit the child, rather than making the child fit the curriculum.” This philosophy has been a guiding principle in tailoring educational approaches to suit each child’s learning style, pace, and passions. In traditional school we expect children to concentrate for most of a day on tasks that few adults can sustain for even an hour. How many of us, sitting through an uninteresting lecture, can keep our minds from wandering? Hardly any.
– A Glimpse into Success:
The impact of homeschooling is evident in the achievements of my oldest son. Completing courses from prestigious institutions like Harvard University since the age of 12, he’s pursuing his dream of becoming a software and game developer. Homeschooling has empowered him to explore his passions early in life.
– Challenges and Rewards:
While homeschooling presents its challenges, the rewards far outweigh them for our family. It requires dedication and careful planning, but the ability to witness our children thrive, pursue their passions, and enjoy a tailored educational experience makes it a worthwhile endeavor.
Thank you for following me on my journey.
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?
Nurturing Growth: The Pillars of Women’s Haven’s Journey
1. Resilience: The Backbone of Progress
In the tapestry of Women’s Haven’s journey, resilience stands as a foundational thread. Navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship and pioneering a movement for healthier feminine care required unwavering perseverance. My advice for those starting their journey is to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Resilience isn’t just about bouncing back; it’s about learning, adapting, and continuing the journey with newfound strength.
2. Visionary Leadership: Charting the Course
The ability to envision a future where healthier options in feminine care are accessible to all women has been pivotal. Visionary leadership has guided Women’s Haven in transforming from a simple idea to a brand that transcends borders. To those early in their journey, my advice is to cultivate a clear vision. Let it be your compass, guiding your decisions and inspiring your team. A well-defined vision fuels passion, commitment, and a sense of purpose.
3. Community Building and Education: The Heartbeat of Impact
Women’s Haven isn’t just a brand; it’s a community united by a shared vision. The educational aspect has been crucial in our journey. We believe in empowering women through knowledge. Establishing connections, fostering collaborations, and educating our audience has amplified our impact. For those embarking on their journey, recognize the strength in community building and education. Authentic connections and knowledge-sharing create a network of support, fueling collective success and fostering a sense of belonging.
Advice for the Journey Ahead:
• Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth; resilience is your greatest asset.
• Cultivate a clear vision; let it guide your decisions and inspire your team.
• Prioritize community building and education; authentic connections and knowledge-sharing amplify impact.
As we continue to grow and empower women globally, these qualities remain at the core of Women’s Haven’s journey. Together, let’s create a future where safe, organic feminine care is a universal reality.
What has been your biggest area of growth or improvement in the past 12 months?
Embracing Growth: Reflecting on the Past 12 Months
The past 12 months have been a transformative journey for me personally, marked by working on overcoming imposter syndrome. I’ve been invited to participate in multiple interviews and podcasts and I’m being more open to accepting who I am. I’m a boss lady,
The past 12 month has also been a period of significant growth and continuous improvement for Women’s Haven. A notable achievement during this time has been the expansion of our product offerings and the deepening impact of our initiatives.
Key Achievements:
1. Product Diversity: We’ve expanded our product line to offer over 20 products, catering to various aspects of women’s health and well-being. This growth allows us to meet diverse needs and preferences, ensuring that every woman can find a product that resonates with her.
2. Global Reach: Women’s Haven is now proud to hold trademarks in 5 countries. Our products have reached women across borders, and we’ve sold over 2 million products, contributing to the global conversation on the importance of organic and safe feminine care.
3. Philanthropic Impact: Giving back is at the core of our mission. In the past year, we’ve donated thousands of products to humanitarian organizations, supporting those in need across the diaspora. This philanthropic effort is a testament to our commitment to making a positive impact beyond commerce.
Continuous Improvement:
Amidst these achievements, we recognize the importance of continuous improvement. We’ve invested in refining our processes, ensuring that our products maintain the highest standards of quality, safety, and effectiveness. Additionally, we’re committed to staying at the forefront of industry advancements, embracing innovation to enhance the well-being of women.
Thank you for being part of our journey. Together, let’s embrace growth, champion women’s well-being, and create a future where every woman can experience the benefits of safe and organic feminine care.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://womenshaven.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrsadderley
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/melesia.adderley
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melesia-adderley
- Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/mrsmadderley
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@WomensHaven
- Other: You can find all Women’s Haven social media links and articles at: https://linktr.ee/WomensHaven
