We had the good fortune of connecting with Nika Hollingsworth and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nika, how do you think about risk?
In business, we are taught that there is both good and bad risk. When you are an entrepreneur, risk of any kind plays an integral role in every decision. Every opportunity that creates value can be considered a good risk. When you create, it is hard to know if something will truly add value, especially since the success of what you create is driven by human behavior. You have to take a chance and test it out. I tend to think in worst case/best case scenarios. For example, if I want to create a new product, I will create only a sample amount. Worst case it fails in market, I sell what remains and will never produce it again or maybe rethink the timing and will try again. Best case, it sells well, I increase my product portfolio as well as increase the product availability. Either way, the true value created was education and experience. Looking at outcomes as educational tools is something I’ve learned to do over time and it serves me well.

What should our readers know about your business?
Nilanjo! is an umbrella that includes a 501c3 non-profit entity (Nilanjo! Fashion Entertainment) and a for-profit entity (Nilanjo! Boutique). The vision for the operation is to build relationships and alliances with individuals and businesses that support community, small business enterprise and work to generate awareness for health and wellness. We use fashion and entertainment as outlets to generate awareness and funding for select charities and community initiatives. Staying within that very purpose, I create and curate a variety of fashion, beauty and wellness products sold on the Nilanjo! Boutique platform, offering culturally rooted and inspired pieces, aromatherapy and natural alternatives to beauty and wellness.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
When it comes to what helps to shape who I am and my ability to do what I do, I must recognize a variety of impactful women in my life, especially my daughter (Mikaya). She is a very talented young lady. I am honored to watch her find herself and develop her artistry on her own terms. Her quiet confidence is amazing! I know she watches me, but I am also watching her and learning from her. I am also surrounded by a network of skilled, talented women whom each inspire me in their own way. Even through leisurely engagement, we tend to organically support and uplift each other. It takes a special kind of person to allow themselves to be transparent and vulnerable with others, at the risk of being misunderstood or judged. I am often trusted with their fears, challenges, goals and successes and vice versa. It is beautiful. I appreciate and value my Queens. And so, I design for them; I create for them; I am motivated by them. All with gratitude!

Website: www.nilanjoboutique.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/nilanjofashion

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/nika-hollingsworth/

Twitter: www.twitter.com/nilanjofashion

Facebook: www.facebook.com/thenilanjoboutique

Image Credits
Product photos by Ijahni Jacobs

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