We are excited to feature one of our 2022 Women of Color Incubator Pitch Competition winners. These up-and-coming Black women business owners are sure to inspire and motivate other young Black women entrepreneurs, and all of us, to pursue their own business ventures.
Meet Endora Guillaume, Founder and CEO of Endora’s Organics and 2nd Place Awardee from Howard University.
What inspired you to start your business?
Growing up, I became increasingly aware and alarmed at the harsh chemicals and toxic ingredients put into body care products. It always unsettled me because why use toxic chemicals? Nature gives us everything!
Therefore, I started making my own, all organic and vegan body care products and creating unique variations of them. I studied natural oils and raw butters and experimented with natures gifts. I saw tremendous results. My skin became stronger, brighter, clearer and smoother. I stopped producing as much oil on my face and my skin always felt hydrated, like it had come back to life.
I fell in love with creating these elixirs and decided to share them with the world as we all deserve quality, healing products that leave us concern free and at peace every time we use them.
What has the entrepreneurship journey looked like for you so far?
The entrepreneurship journey has been very empowering and liberating for me. Creating something from scratch with my hands and seeing the impact on my own skin/body as well as my customers, has instilled a strong sense of confidence in me and a knowing that I can do anything I set my mind to. Moreover, the challenges I’ve encountered have really helped me grow and become a more disciplined and dedicated person. I’m constantly being pushed to do better, dream bigger, and keep going, which has led me to blossom in ways I didn’t know possible.
What has been the most rewarding part of being a young female entrepreneur?
The most rewarding part of being a young Haitian female entrepreneur is inspiring the next generation of young women, especially ones who look like me. Telling young girls that I run an all organic, vegan and sustainable body care company and seeing their eyes light up fills me with an indescribable feeling. I believe it’s extremely important for young girls to see young female entrepreneurs, as representation truly matters.
Where do you see yourself in one year? How about 5 years?
In one year, I see the launch of our Nourish line, which will include juices, teas, wellness shots, herbal blends, organic treats and more! I also see our customer base growing and our social media accounts gaining thousands more of followers. In 5 years I see Endora’s Organics opening up a physical store/warehouse and our social media accounts with hundreds of thousands of followers. I also see a wider variety of products including the launch of Endora’s Organics Hair.
What advice would you give to other female founders just starting their business?
Some advice I’d give to other female founders just starting their business is to be patient and to put all their hearts into it. I’m a firm believer that the best things take time so don’t rush in your business plan and maintain your dignity instead of opting for the cheaper, less ethical option. Additionally, don’t compare yourself to other businesses as we are all on our own paths and have unique destinies. Have faith in your business and fall in love with it, so it pours into you the same way you pour into it.
How did you first learn about the WBENC WOC Incubator?
I first learned about the WOC Incubator on the Instagram for Howard University’s Center for Women, Gender and Global Leadership. I saw the infographic and immediately signed up! I’m so blessed to attend an HBCU that partnered with WBENC to create a tremendous opportunity such as this.
How would you describe your experience?
My experience in the WOC Incubator was extremely insightful, motivational and impactful. In this program we received guidance from several accomplished women and were given tools to really help develop and upgrade our business plans. Additionally, I was surrounded by other young women of color entrepreneurs who inspired, motivated and worked together with me. This program is an amazing opportunity that I’m honored to have been a part of.
What did you learn during the program that will help you grow your business?
I learned numerous things in this program such as the importance of branding and remaining true to one’s brand as well as tips for business growth and longevity. With the use of Playbooks I was able to formulate a more detailed business plan and to categorize and organize specific aspects of my business plan. Additionally, I learned how to pitch my business which is a skill that I will use throughout my life.
What’s next for you and your business?
The next step for Endora’s Organics is the launch of my Nourish line as what goes inside the body is just as important, if not more important, than what goes on top. Additionally, next on the schedule is the launch of my Hair care line which will include a wide range of organic hair products. Moreover, I will be graduating Howard University in Spring of 2024 with plans on attending Howard University’s Law School.
