We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Tiara Boyd a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Tiara, 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?
Being the only one in the room who looks different has been challenging and rewarding. Before anything, putting God first with a sprinkle of self-care changes everything. No matter the room, in order for me to succeed in such situations, I had to be self-aware in my abilities, confident in who I am, and a good communicator. Sometimes having those crucial conversations were necessary to building solid relationships, and even educating others about my background. People don’t know what they don’t know, and if I’m placed in a room and I stand out, then I know it’s time to cultivate and educate. One thing that I live by is, in order to be a great leader, I must be a great follower. Therefore, I take an indefinite amount of time to embrace the chance to learn from others and stay adaptable, all while staying true to my identity. Always seek mentors and role models who have succeeded in similar situations, and lead by example to show that diversity is an asset. Continuous self-improvement, resilience, and patience are key to making a positive impact in any room, regardless of your appearance.
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 started my entrepreneurial career as Licensed Esthetician, (L.E) and instructor, with expertise in body waxing. That journey alone opened so many doors for me. I became a CEO and Founder of waxing studios, salon suites, beauty academies, wellness product line, consulting firms, and community events. The most exciting part about what I do is being able to provide a different experience for patrons of each company, and also being able to provide job opportunities. Right now, with post COVID-19, inflation, and the attacks in Palestine, the entire world is feeling heavy a shift. People are experiencing a lack of resources and faith. I am just blessed to be a vessel for community engagement through resourceful events, and to offer growth in skillset, through training and employment opportunities.
Currently my team & I are working on a wax pop-up tour through southwest Michigan, as well as community events and coordinating. The first pop-up will be sponsored at Office Evolution in Troy, following to BasBlue in Detroit. We are excited to provide quick, affordable, memorable and inclusive waxing experiences to the cuties in community. We’ll be offering our best-selling wellness products at all pop-ups. Outside of that our team is focused on upcoming events, November we’ll be partnering with First Class Financial in a Turkey Drive, in addition to hosting social networking events for the beauty, tech, real estate, and non-profit eco-systems.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back the three most impactful qualities in my journey were; 1. Continuous Education – Constantly seeking and investing in new skillsets, my mental health, and mentorship. Using those investments and converting them to being adaptable.
2. Empathy – Having the capacity to understand and connect with others is essential. If I didn’t have empathy, I would not have community.
3. Optimism – No matter the odds or circumstances I still was optimistic in my faith. I believed that I would win no matter what. When you approach life with optimism, you’ll solve any problem.
My advice to someone early in their journey would be to hold on tight to the three qualities I just listed above, The journey will not be easy, it is nothing like what social media shows you. You have to continuously invest in yourself, which requires you to invest in others. Seel guidance from those who have been where you want to go. Have empathy at all times, you aren’t perfect, but someone saw the best in you, do the same for others. Lastly, you’ll make it to the stars being optimistic. Live out your dreams.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
I am looking for more genuine and growth-rate based partnerships and collaborations! I’m looking for those who are experts in their field, they’re hungry for team involvement, and are focused on not only growing themselves, but growing community. Mainly those who can contribute through creativity, production, resources, operations, and social. There is a STAR PLAYERS link on my IG @EsthiQueen where potential partners and collaborators can inquire. If we are a fit, welcome to the eco-system where we generate opportunity and deliver execution.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.Esthi.Academy
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/EsthiQueen/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiara-boyd-5272a5268/
