We had the good fortune of connecting with Saskia Joseph and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Saskia, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I am deeply conscious of the waste issues in Haiti, having witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of inadequate trash disposal on its beautiful landscapes. My time at FIU taught me that successful businesses often stem from addressing real-world problems. For me, this meant combining my awareness of plastic waste and pollution with my entrepreneurial drive, fueling my eagerness to tackle these environmental challenges through my business.
What should our readers know about your business?
What sets me apart is my ability to adapt. I harness this skill to learn on the go, have fun, and do what’s necessary to succeed. I am most proud of my children’s book presented this past May and excited about my product, which will launch later this year. Starting my business took over four years, filled with extensive research and moments of hesitation due to the fear of failure. The turning point came when I realized my student loans were coming and I was already invested through years of research. I set a deadline in my calendar and launched the business just in time. Then surprisingly, I made my first e-commerce sales within 48 hours and without any prior marketing. Starting was not easy but once I did I was happy to begin with the real lessons ahead .The journey taught me to trust myself and that overcoming challenges involves facing and experiencing them. My challenges were solved with a lot of research and good old faith. I’ve also discovered the immense value in talking to other business owners. Their insights provided me with invaluable lessons, sparing me from learning the hard way. I want the world to know that my brand is built on resilience, continuous learning, and a commitment to addressing real-world problems. My story is one of perseverance and connection and the belief that with mindfulness, determination and adaptability, anything is possible.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend is visiting me for a week, we’d start by exploring Brickell. We’d grab a bite and a drink at Julia & Henry’s, downtown’s new seven-story food court, to satisfy whatever she’s craving. On Tuesday, we might join the Brickell Run Club for a fun run, followed by ladies night at Blackbird. A beach day is a must, and we’d do something creative at Virginia Key, like painting, a picnic, or a content day, while reminiscing about the rich Black Miami history there. This beach also tends to be less crowded and naturally covered. Silverspot to me is the most beautiful movie theater in Miami and they are a dine-in movie theater. She could also choose to attend to something live. And we can’t forget to explore Miami’s food fusion scene, from the mouthwatering Peruvian dishes at CVI.CHE 105 to the exotic flavors of Chayhana Oasis Uzbekistan cuisine and the innovative Haitian pizzas at Potiwa. There are so many gems in Miami and so much to see.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My support system may be small but is mighty, I want to give the biggest shoutout to my guardian and father figure, Rob. He has been a teacher, mentor, psychologist, and a true guardian angel. His support has been the most pivotal influence in my life and in the lives of countless others. Rob adopted me while I was in high school, giving me the opportunity for a proper secondary education and the chance to pursue my dreams. I can never thank him enough for all he has done.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeofsaskia/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marie-jessy-saskia-joseph-9b5894171
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCU5Xzp3HUw4Qv9Y7JpnnwIw
Image Credits
Photographer Osward Awuettey