Meet Zion Abraha | Designer/DIYer/Artist/Loan officer

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

Hi Zion, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Starting my own business wasn’t just spur-of-the-moment decision; it was born out of years of loyalty, disappointment, and ultimately, the realization that I needed to take control of my own destiny. After dedicating a significant portion of my life to a corporate entity, experiencing the pain of layoffs twice, I couldn’t shake the feeling of vulnerability. It was a stark reminder that no matter how hard you work or how loyal you are, your fate in corporate America can be uncertain.

That first layoff was a wake-up call for me. I couldn’t continue to rely solely on traditional employment for my livelihood. I needed to build something of my own, something that I had control over. The seed of entrepreneurship was planted, and I began exploring various business ventures, trying to find where my passion intersected with a viable opportunity. It wasn’t an easy journey. There were setbacks, failures, and moments of doubt. But with each endeavor, I learned valuable lessons that eventually led me to my true calling.

Discovering my niche and passion in the business world was incredibly rewarding. It gave me a sense of purpose and fulfillment that I hadn’t experienced in my corporate roles. Alongside building my business, I also took steps to diversify my income streams, heeding the advice of my father to never rely solely on one source of income. Becoming a licensed mortgage loan officer was a strategic move, leveraging my decades of experience in the mortgage industry to create a safety net.

I am also currently working towards obtaining my general contractor’s license. This opportunity will not only expand my skill set but also provide me with more leverage in the design world. It’s another step towards solidifying my position as an entrepreneur and enhancing my capabilities in the industry. Ultimately, starting my own business was about taking control of my future, pursuing my passions, and creating a more secure and fulfilling life for myself. It was a decision driven by resilience, determination, and a refusal to let circumstances dictate my destiny.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My artistry reflects my diverse talents and passions, earning me the moniker of a “jack of all trades” while excelling as a master in some areas, if I may say so myself! From a young age, I immersed myself in painting and drawing, inspired by my older brother’s self-taught artistic journey. Painting serves as my therapy, a medium through which I find solace and relaxation. Coupled with my innate love for home design, I naturally gravitated towards interior designing. Witnessing the exorbitant costs of home improvements, I embarked on a journey of DIY projects, gradually honing my skills with power tools and reveling in the sense of accomplishment with each completed project. It’s worth noting that my journey into DIY wasn’t without its challenges; I was initially and still am very terrified of power tools. However, through dedication and perseverance, I slowly taught myself to use them, embracing the learning process and ultimately gaining confidence in my abilities.

As an extension of my passion for interior design and DIY, I ventured into the world of e-commerce with my online store, www.PureLuxeHome.com. While we are in the early stages, we are currently focusing on curating a range of non-toxic, environmentally friendly home goods and decorating products, I’m excited to share that this is just the beginning. I’m determined to expand our offerings, providing even more sustainable options for modern living. It’s all about living consciously and taking care of our planet. As I continue to grow PureLuxe Home, I’m committed to empowering others to embark on their own DIY journeys and make sustainable choices for their homes. You will find DIY videos and tutorials on my IG @simplynoelledesigns as well as my blog www.simplynoelledesigns.com.

Navigating the path to where I am today hasn’t been without its challenges. Starting a business from scratch, particularly without substantial capital, posed significant hurdles. I encountered numerous setbacks and failures along the way and still face them daily, but each experience served as a valuable lesson in resilience and perseverance. I’ve come to realize that failure is only truly failure if we fail to learn from it.

Through determination and a willingness to adapt, I’ve overcome obstacles, continually refining my vision and business strategy. My journey underscores the importance of embracing failure as a steppingstone to success, and the significance of tenacity and continuous learning in the entrepreneurial realm.

Ultimately, I want the world to know that my brand and story are rooted in authenticity, creativity, and a commitment to sustainability. Whether through my artwork, interior design projects, or eco-friendly home goods, my aim is to inspire others to embrace their passions, pursue their dreams, and make conscious choices that contribute positively to our planet. And as I always say, to Stay Inspired!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
For a week-long trip in Charlotte, start by exploring Uptown’s vibrant food scene with must-visit restaurants like LA Belle Helene, MOA, STK and Yunta. Catch a soccer or baseball game at the Knights Stadium or attend NFL or NBA games for a taste of Charlotte’s sports culture. In Huntersville’s Birkdale area, enjoy shopping and dining at spots like The Cheesecake Factory and Red Rocks. Balance outdoor adventures with culinary delights, including hikes at McDowell Nature Preserve and brewery visits. There are several breweries in the area, and they are worth the try. Don’t miss out on Charlotte’s nightlife scene either, with hotspots like Sophia’s Lounge for craft cocktails or the bustling bars and clubs downtown for a night to remember. Charlotte offers a diverse mix of experiences for every traveler to enjoy.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to dedicate this shoutout to my family and children, the driving forces behind my motivation and ambition, my “Why” in everything I do. Their unwavering support, love, and encouragement are the bedrock of my journey. My father’s journey as a businessman, filled with success and resilience, serves as a constant inspiration for me. This shoutout extends to all those who have supported and inspired me along the way, shaping my path and contributing to the person I am today.

Website: https://Www.pureluxehome.com

Instagram: @simplynoelledesigns

Facebook: @simplynoelledesigns

Youtube: Simplynoelledesigns

Other: https://Www.simplynoelledesigns.com

Image Credits
All Images were taken by me.