Dr. Tameka Ellington, Fashion School faculty and entrepreneur, took some time out of her busy schedule to answer some questions about her latest venture as a coach and author.
What would you say are the top three skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur/innovator?
Mindset is everything. Once you have developed a mindset of abundance, and mindset of kindness, and mindset of excellence you can accomplish anything. A good entrepreneur needs to have excellent networking skills. Because individuals that you meet in life will be able to connect you with amazing opportunities that you have no idea are at your doorstep. Entrepreneurs also need to have excellence discipline and organizational skills.
What ignited the spark in you to start a new business venture or to make significant changes in an existing business? How did the idea of your business come about?
I started because I was tired of allowing others to dictate my destiny. The first-generation revolutionaries movement was developed because I saw a need that first-generation people [people who are the first in their family to go to college] continue to have. When it comes to finding employment, working, and professional development there is still a disconnect that first gen people have. Many of the successes in my life came from being resilient and defiant. The essence of my business.
What motivates you?
The fact that I know I was designed for greatness and that is a true sin for me not to share my talents and skills with others. God brought me here to inspire other people and to help others be better, and in doing so, I’ll become better. We are all connected; excellence is within all of us so if I can help someone else see that, then I’ve done my job.
What makes you happy?
Seeing others happy; seeing others succeed. Witnessing kindness all round me. Knowing that God gave me the honor of molding my children and blessed enough to be able to do that with a wonderful partner.
What role has LaunchNET played in your venture?
I am so inspired by the students that come through LaunchNET. The student success--we all need to see that success is not too far off. LaunchNET has given me the tools to get started and the comfort in knowing I have a support system behind me.
What problem do you wish you could solve?
I wish that I could get rid of hate and jealousy. Both of those characteristics are direct derivatives of fear. Hate is simply a symbol of ignorance and lack of understanding. Jealousy is a signifier of someone’s lack of confidence. If I could find a way to solve those problems our world would be a better place.
What are you most excited or passionate about?
The opportunity to make the world better. The opportunity to leave a legacy for my children. The opportunity to bless others in a big way.
Dr. Tameka N. Ellington is a First-Generation Revolutionary, Scholar, Educator, Speaker, Image Specialist and Philanthropist. She is Founder and CEO of Entirely Incorporatedâ„¢, a multidimensional human wellness business with the goal of helping clients live their full life. She spent the last 20 years of her career working in the fashion industry and academia. Dr. T. is stepping outside the classroom so that she can teach others on a grander scale. She is extremely passionate about youth and young adult development and the empowerment of those who are first generation. Dr. T. is Founder of The First-Generation Revolutionaries Movementâ„¢, a campaign to equip future revolutionaries with professional advancement, spiritual fulfillment, mentorship, authentic camaraderie and networking. She specializes in self-esteem/confidence building, social/professional/dress etiquette, and professional image consulting.