We had an amazing day at this year’s Beauty and the Business event held in Los Angeles, California!

Attendees and guest speakers were not just from the west-side, but came from all over the U.S. ranging from Chi-town to Atlanta, Georgia. We were completely blown away by the transparency of the various panels and spotlighted entrepreneurs. They possessed a genuine positivity to help one and all achieve their ambitions of being a beauty (inside and out) and succeeding in the career path of their dreams.

One moment that we shall never forget is when a gentle soul by the name of Octavia approached the microphone during an Q&A session and revealed her struggle of doing all that she could in her power to put herself through Cosmetology school.

Octavia had put in so much work and effort to see her dream realized, but just could not seem to get over life’s hurdles. All that stood in her way was $700 in order to start her schooling. Octavia in tears poured out her heart and asked the panel what their advice would be for anyone trying to get ahead, trying to be like them, yet can not seem to get there no matter how hard they try.

At that very moment, something that we had NEVER seen before happened that would change this woman’s life forever.

Several business owners that were a part of the event began offering to pay for a portion of Octavia’s training. Within seconds $300 had been raised and by the end of the event Octavia had ALL $700 necessary to begin school!

Octavia’s journey resonated with so many in the audience that a huge portion of attendees were in tears and erupted in applause over Octavia’s prospects of achieving the education she so badly desired for so many years.

Octavia and Taryn Tarver

We were moved by Octavia’s story as well and approached her about staying in touch. Her determination and strength to get in front of a crowd of people and ask for help is truly inspiring. Therefore, we are happy to announce that we will be sharing Octavia’s journey through school as she keeps reaching for the stars.

It is our hope that her story will inspire you as well to never stop reaching higher because you CAN get to where you want to be if you stay grinding, strong and be fearless.

Expert panelists as well as speakers included Juntae DeLane, DeeDee Kelly, Chris Gees, Taryn Tarver, Gloria Williams, Malaika Paul, Monique Lauren Peters, Dr. Kari Williams, Rita Owens, Ardre Orie and D.L. Master Barber.

The event was hosted by the fabulous Melissa Hibbert who was also our May 2015 covergirl for our big beauty issue. Melissa’s as well as her well-chosen associates freely gave of their knowledge and strongly encouraged all to network.

Melissa Hibbert and Panel Number One

The overall theme and thrust of the event helped visitors to realize one thing… you are not going anywhere without hard work. Every happy ending on stage was the result of trials, tribulations, sweat, working for free, doing favors and believing in one self. Knowing one’s worth, value and talent was another important facet of making it big.

Many shared with the audience that they literally had little to no money when they started out, but they hung in there anyway. What helped make these experts so relentless in their quest for success? It is because they knew they possessed the talent to be someone and they were not going to let anything, not even negativity get in the way.

Isn’t it true that sometimes the biggest enemy or person in the way of our own dreams is ourselves?

We loved how each expert eloquently articulated that fears must be put away and one must look within and believe that they are worth the journey. So then, if any of you are working toward your own definition of success, we admonish you to not give up. You are close to the finish line and we are all waving you in for your trophy.

Missed Beauty and the Business 2015? Don’t forget to attend next year, but until then here is a quick video highlight of the event…

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