24 minute read
SHE HUSTLES TALKS
SPECIAL INSERT
WOMEN OWNED BUSINESSES
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FEATURING:
*DJ EAST HARMONY *AKILAH ROBERTS *AMBER ROACH
Paula Amico-Gabriele
YOU ARE ENOUGH. PAULA AMICO-GABRIELE
BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO PHOTOS BY JULIE OLDFIELD
For our latest edition of She Hustles Talks,we are excited to bring you a woman who doesn’t want to just have a seat at the table, she wants to stand on top of it! Paula Amico-Gabriele is recently married, a mother, real estate agent, and has just finished renovated her dream home in Palmyra, NY and is now our latest cover woman!
We hope your enjoy her interview with She Hustles and that it helps inspire you and others to break the traditional mindset and bust through those glass ceilings!
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background and what led you into the real estate field.
Well, where to begin? It’s generally easier to speak about others but here goes; I am a 54-year-old wife and mother. I have a son and a daughter (20), cancer survivor, equestrian and lover of all things Real Estate, decorating and always trying to learn something new!
What made you decide to purchase the home in Palmyra, and totally renovate it?
How long did the process take? My husband and I had driven by it several years ago when it became for sale, but we were a little late with our inquiry so, when it came up for sale again, there was NO way I was going to miss this opportunity! We went back many times and the vision of what it could be was as clear as day to me (my husband’s vision not-somuch haha) .
What makes you hustle both
personally and in the real estate market?
My personality doesn’t lend itself to anything different, always trying making connections but I also don’t take myself too seriously.
What has been your biggest client success story?
I have a lovely client who went through some very personally challenging life circumstances which caused her to uproot her entire life; we sold her farm in Newark, NY and she ended up moving to a beautiful farm in Bergen, NY . Her strength was incredible and inspiring. She is now living her happily ever after.
Who were mentors that encouraged you or inspired you?
Actually, I would have to say my mother was the first, she was a Realtor with Nothnagle Realtors back in the day. My mom was always “on”; having 7 children was something to marvel at, The Juggle seemed effortless.
How do you balance being a successful real estate agent and your family life, especially after just getting married
recently? My husband owns Marina Auto Group he is my greatest champion and advisor, anything I struggle with he is willing to offer his knowledge and advice. Having great support tips, the scales in my favor.
What kind of person do you feel makes a successful female entrepreneur especially in the real estate market? In my opinion, a fierce lady who is willing to put
on with that load to carry.
What’s the best advice you have received in business that you wish to pass on to our readers?
Never stop networking, not matter where you are! Someone always knows someone looking to buy/sell
What did you do before becoming a real estate agent? I owned a business called “Errands for Elders”, It was beautifully rewarding but sadly I would be heart broken when one of my clients passed..
How do you stay motivated especially in such a crazy time in the world?
I live a pretty fast paced life not much slowed down for either my husband or myself, waking up healthy every day is motivation enough.
What’s your favorite thing to do in your free time?
Riding my horse Gemma, talking about horses, smelling horses, being at the barn.. lol. Can you sense my obsession?!
that you provide to your clients?
What keeps them coming back to you? What you see is what you get.. the same bountiful energy I use in my daily life, I apply to each and every one of my clients. I am crazy
you’ve had to make and how did it impact your life?
Ahh, good question! This would be letting go of the people or things that do not help you to achieve, support or guide.
Where will we see you next?
Life is a wonderful adventure; I look forward to each day and can only hope it’s better than the last!
responsive because that is what I would want in a realtor.
DJ EAST HARMONY
Tell us about yourself and “DJ East Harmony” Where did you get your DJ name?
Well there’s a couple parts here, being that it’s a two part name, and I’m so glad I get to finally share its creation. So growing up in church, I think is where I derived my original love for music. My absolute favorite part of singing in the choir would be the breakdowns, each voice class is singing completely different words,which you’d think would be a bit chaotic, but somehow, it actually would all come together in the most beautiful way.
In High School, some friends of mine had started messing around singing during lunch, so much so, we actually got a gig unintentionally.
My favorite part as an alto in the group was helping others find their “harmony”. “East” came about after bringing up a name idea to my college roommates at RIT. After reviewing, one day I was walking and it was such a nice sunny day. I thought about how the sun rises. How it comes up. In the East... East derives from that enlightenment; I’m an upcoming DJ, I’m rising.
What makes you hustle?
My grind mentality comes from my vision. I am a strong believer that everything has purpose, and so does making this dream a reality. This vision wasn’t given to me in vain; I know undoubtedly that I am meant to do great things in this industry.
Is being a DJ your main business or do you have another profession/ career?
During the day I work remotely for Triple AAA as a Member Contact Representative for roadside assistance and membership.
Why did you want to work as a DJ? When did you start your career?
I attended RIT and throughout the years watched a couple of our DJs in the community prepare for graduation. When at an event or party, I was always super attentive to whoever the DJ was and still am- listening to how they blended, watching the energy shifts and dips in the crowd- and as a party goer myself, I fell in love. I already loved music, from feel- good base you can feel in your chest, to lyrical geniusness and musicality.
in a male dominated industry? How do you feel being a woman in a man’s world?
Being an upcoming female DJ in a male dominated field definitely has its challenges. Similar to being a first generation black female in a male dominated Engineering field at a PWI. There’s definitely, at least in my experience, an innate uncomfortability. When I walk into a room, everyone just stares. And it’s like you can feel the thoughts “what is she about to do?” “is she any good?” My
LLC is currently just me and the majority of my gigs are personal requests. I find it hard to connect, work with or “team up” on events in this field when
I’m one of few females in the game.
What would you say is the most rewarding part of being a DJ?
I love watching people enjoy life. I love curating an endless vibe for them to do so. I’ve had people come and share with me how much my set improved the bad day they were having. That’s the reward. It lights me up, because it’s confirmation that I deserve and am meant to be here.
What’s your favorite song you never play?
Whew, I would have to say, I actually listen to a lot of afrobeats and alternative R&B myself opposed to being mainstream often throughout my sets. Afrobeats have definitely made their debut so I would say a song or two in the alt category would be
Girls That Dance x Masego, Sabrina Claudio’s Unravel Me and oh definitely Cashmere Cage x rum.gold, to give a rounding of my style.
Why do you think there aren’t more females in your industry?
Well transparency here, I’m not confident that we’re super welcomed... Just like we’ve had to fight for our rights to vote and to be in other varying industries, I think DJing has its own qualms as well.
Moreover, I think when you think of females in the industry, it’s more probable to think of a recording artist before a DJ. We have made huge strides there.
What don’t people tell you about being a DJ?
They don’t tell you that Djing is a PERFORMANCE. You firstly have to stand for however many hours, engage with the crowd via MCing and/or dancing. It’s definitely more than just tucking your head down and being in the screen. I find that my favorite DJ’s know how to perform.
Who has inspired you personally and professionally?
DJ Tygga Ty is definitely my local and first point of reference. I remember when we chatted at some RIT gigs he did and he was offering to DJ house parties for like $40. I think I paid something like $80 for my 21st birthday. mixtapes, and going to college. He’s the voice of my DJ drops which he gifted. His skill is STILL unmatched in Rochester as far as I’m concerned. And there’s definitely some ladies I follow that inspire me on the net. DJ XOXO KDOT, DJ DiamondKutz and DJ Ash B to name a few.
Is it more difficult to be a successful female DJ and earn your place in the industry?
It’s something that no one in any industry wants to address, but I believe so. I’ve been doing this for about 4 or 5 years now holistically, and I definitely witness the energy firsthand.
What are the biggest challenges you have come across?
Some of my biggest challenges to date would be financing myself. My day job prior to this was Contact Tracing for the state which was obviously temporary. That led to me depending on my gigs and paying myself through payroll when the time came. There’s so many things I want to invest in and overtime it becomes pretty costly.
What would you say or wish to other aspiring female DJ artists?
Do it. Make the leap. If you wake up with it, go to sleep dreaming it, sip your coffee and think of it? Do it. And worry about the rest later. You will find the tribe of support that is willing to help you succeed.
What is your favorite platform to promote on and why?
I would say Facebook. It’s where a majority of my support base is, and often where I get my DJ leads from a supporter tagging me in the comments or referring me.
What is the favorite part about what you do?
In the actual craft I would say I absolutely love blending. The freedom in the creativity with DJing; no boxes to check just your own ear and vibes.
How do you juggle the late nights and
long hours with your personal life? I don’t haha. No uhm it’s not too bad typically. The worst of it would be if I double or triple booked myself for the day so I’m more winded for the next set. A day in the life of East? Consists of day job work, networking, organizing my Serato library, and lots of self care in the form of gyming, reading/ learning something new, “fooding”, spending quality time with my favorites, and enjoying the sun. Somehow it all fits into a 7 day week
What are your next plans? Where will we see DJ East Harmony Next?
This is actually a great question for me to provide a sneak peek of insight. I think lttle do people know I don’t plan to just be a DJ. I have short to long term goals and the immediate one I will share with you today will be producing.
AKILAH ROBERTS
Tell us about yourself and your background?
Born and raised in Rochester NY where Fredrick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony paved the way for women just like me. I have had the opportunity to stay in the heart of the most influential and historical neighborhood; Mayor’s Heights, for the past 7 years. In those 7 years it’s no surprise that my creative spirit took over, allowing me to leave my teaching job and pursue a writing career. I have held many titles over the years, but an Author is one that I carry with grace.
What makes you hustle?
I enjoy being able to have freedom. Being an entrepreneur has given me the opportunity to create multiple streams of income. With my income flow, I will grow a steady income flow and expand my business where money makes itself. This is my goal for the next big 10.
What made you decide to open Phenomenal Expressions?
Becoming a businesswoman was instilled in me from my father owning his own barbershop for over 20 years. After leaving the corporate world when the pandemic hit, I knew I wanted to create a legacy of my own. I made the choice to turn my hobby into my dream job.
What type of business is it?
I provide Book Services; book coaching for those looking to publish. I offer Book Editing for those in their final stages of writing. I also create Anthologies for those who want to collaborate on certain topics.
What are the main services your business provides?
The main service I provide is Book Editing. I offer affordable editing for fiction and non fiction novels,
magazines and private documents/ contracts. I charge a consultation fee and set up meetings before a contract is written up, to discuss the type of editing the client wants done. I accept all genres and offer Proofreading, Copy Editing and Structural Editing. All pricing is based on word count.
a female in a male dominated industry?
To live in a man’s world is tough. I struggle with finding a voice and receiving recognition for the works that I do.
What do you do to set yourself apart?
My business isn’t gender biased , however just like the men, us women stick together. I’m a relatable woman who talks about what’s common for everybody. I don’t pick and choose sides even if I see what’s being done in the background. What people will notice about me, is that I’m raw, and I stand on my own opinions and beliefs. Being able to provide a different outlook to others has helped me to set myself apart from others.
What would you say is the most rewarding part of being an entrepreneur?
The best decision I could have made was going into business for myself. It has been an independent, powerful, awakening journey in these 6 years of becoming. What I will say I love most, is people from all over the world noticing me and making the choice to do business with me.
What’s your favorite book you have read and why?
I love T.D Jakes and his daughter Sarah Roberts books “Women art thou art
loosed” and “Women Evolve”. Their books are very much uplifting and with their gifts of preaching they have helped align me into who I am today.
What do you think makes for a successful editor?
In order to edit properly, one has to have a complete understanding of the message the writer is trying to convey. The most important steps for all editors is to first gather enough information from the writer , briefly read over what is being processed and come to an agreement first of what type of editing the writer wants to be completed before making your own personal editing.
What about an author?
An imagination will take a writer so far as an author. It takes me on so many roller coaster rides, with many stories that I cannot wait to share with the world. If I could have a half of the type of imagination that J.K Rowling has I will be all set as an Author. She has helped me with tapping into true writers lioness.
What don’t people tell you about being a female entrepreneur?
The competition as a female in the writing industry has been fairly odd. As a reader before I was an author, I would read 5 books a month of all types of genres and that is what the average reader would do, when they genuinely love to read. To have women be petty in an industry where books can be accessible online for the world to view was a shock and disappointment.
Who has inspired you personally and professionally?
I am inspired by the greats. Frederick Douglass, Susan B Anthony, J.K Rowling, T.D Jakes
What are the biggest challenges you have come across?
Learning new tones and writing patterns from those of different ethnic backgrounds was a hurdle as an Editor, but it has opened me up to having no limits.
What would you say or wish to aspiring creatives?
My business motto is to be expressive in your beliefs, goals and motives. Always go after what you want and don’t be afraid to ask for help as well as doing things for yourself.
What is your favorite platform to promote on and why?
I love to promote on all platforms because the more accessible I am the more eyes I have on me. Phenomenal Expressions can be found via Facebook. Instagram - quietstormsuthor Website- www.phenomenalexpressions. org
What is the favorite part about what you do?
I love to network and build with others. I have created my first Anthology by collabing with other writers and businesses from all walks of life and all over the USA. Titled “The Miseducation of Becoming an Adult’’ which is located on Amazon, featuring multiple topics that are going on in the world for those 18 and older.
Did you always know you wanted to be an author?
I knew at the age of 8 that becoming an author would be something that I would do. I spent so many years in the educational field after giving birth to two girls that I have pushed this passion of mine to the side to educate myself as well as create a steady income for our family. I am now at a point where I can multi-task and give back to myself.
What are your favorite services you provide?
Book Editing and Coordinating Anthologies are two popular ways to bring in money in this industry. For me, my business brings in not only money, but a chance for me to become better at my craft as well as networking and building connections that can help give back to the youth.
What has been the best compliment you have ever received?
People love my books that I have written so far. I have self published, children and adult fiction as well as non-fiction; “Olivia’s School Choice” “A Friends Keepsake” “The Curves of her Smile” “The Miseducation of Becoming an Adult”
What is next for you?
I have two upcoming Anthologies for 22-23 year. An ALL Male Anthology where men come together and write about the war on Men in America today. As well as a Professionalism Anthology where adults come together and talk about how to get and keep a job. The dos and don’ts in the workplace and what it takes to be a business owner.
SPECIALIZES IN WILLS/PROBATE AND TRUST WORK, ALONG WITH REAL ESTATE AND NURSING HOME COLLECTIONS
1900 EMPIRE BLVD. #172 I WEBSTER, NY 14580 I (585)217-9390
AMBER L. ROACH
PHOTOS BY JOSE PAGAN
Tell us about yourself and your background?
I currently reside in Chesapeake, VA. I am a Business Education teacher for Southampton County Schools. I attended Norfolk State University where I obtained my Bachelors of Science in Marketing. One of my greatest accomplishments to date is acquiring my Master’s Degree in Marketing from Capella University. January 2019 was the start of my modeling career and Statuesque Boutique. I am also a multi-published model. I have been featured in several fashion shows as a model and a designer. I have committed to using my platform to encourage body positivity.
What makes you hustle?
My parents are the reason for my hustle. Both of my parents made sure that I had what I needed growing up. They struggled to support me and send me to college. I want to make sure their efforts are realized and accomplished. I hustle because I do not want to work for someone else for the rest of my life. I want to be in control of my future.
Tell us about your business, Statuesque Boutique and how you got started.
As a child, I was self-conscious about my height and weight. It wasn’t until my Aunt Stephanie called me Statuesque and the name stuck with me ever since. I’ve always loved fashion. I first started by learning to personalize t-shirts. When I was selected to walk in my first fashion show in 2019, one of the designers dropped out. The organizer asked if anyone knew of any designers. I asked if I could feature my t-shirts in the fashion show. The rest is history. Statuesque Boutique has evolved from signature t-shirts to selling a wide variety of clothing.
What type of fashions do you showcase, and what is one staple “must-have” item?
Statuesque caters to women’s sizes small-3X. We carry professional attire to sexy and chic fashion items. A bold and large belt is a “must- have” staple item for me. Large belts look good on just about any body type. It cinches you at the waist and instantly defines your shape.
What do the words “Beauty Lies Within” mean to you?
There are many beautiful people on the outside but are ugly within. “Beauty Lies Within” means that one is thoughtful and integral. She is considerate of others and cares about their well-being. She brings joy to those who come in contact with her.
What would you say is the most rewarding part of owning your own business?
Inspiring others is one of the most rewarding parts of being an entrepreneur. When someone finds out I am a business owner, I am asked so many questions. There have been several instances where I have been asked how to start a business.
What are the biggest challenges you have come across being a minority owned female business especially in the fashion industry?
Staying motivated is a major challenge. You have to be your own cheerleader. There are so many fashion designers and boutiques out there and it is easy to get discouraged by the competition. You have to believe in yourself when no one else does.
Do you use social media alot to promote your business? What is your favorite platform?
Social media is major component I use to promote my business. I would say Facebook is my favorite.
What has been your biggest hurdle to try and overcome since opening your business?
I would say staying relevant is one of the biggest hurdles. You have to keep your target audience engaged. One has to be ready to make changes as necessary.
What has been the best compliment you have ever received?
Knowing that my parents are proud of me is the greatest compliment I have received. I am able to show them what they did for me was not in vain.
Tell us one thing most people don’t know about you.
It doesn’t take a lot to please me. I can sit at home, eat and enjoy the company of my loved ones.
Who or what inspires you as a woman entrepreneur?
Doing what I love inspires me the most. I love fashion. I love seeing women feel good about what they are wearing.
How do you juggle being a successful business woman and family life?
I try my best to stay organized. Keep track of business and family engagements on my calendar has been helpful.
Do you find it challenging being a female entrepreneur? What do you do to set yourself apart?
Yes, it is challenging being a female entrepreneur. I am learning to be true to myself. People appreciate and work with me because I am authentic. I set myself apart by being the only person I know how to be, which is Amber.
What is next for you?
I am currently working on a podcast with a group of ladies called “Worth the Weight.” The podcast highlights the journey of models who have had weight loss surgery.
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