Ever heard of the term “Entrepreneur?” It sounds fancy, but the journey behind it isn’t as fancy as the word itself. According to research conducted in 2010, there is no proper definition of the word, meaning multiple aspects are involved in its definition. However, under the article’s theme, it means someone who started a small self-made business, like Kisha Hodges, a merchandise owner and comedian.
Kisha, familiarly known as Lady Bombay, had a long journey before becoming an entrepreneur. She started her career as a cleaning lady because she was rejected from the jobs she had applied for.
Therefore, she opted for cleaning; she found it therapeutic, too. Most of the time, she worked for old individuals and was liked by them because of her positive behavior. They enjoyed being around Kisha and even referred her to their friends and family. It expanded her work horizons. Eventually, she started her own cleaning company in 2003.
Undoubtedly, it is an achievement, but was it all Kisha was capable of?
Deep down, she wanted to address the prejudice reformed people face, that too, if they are black. It is a common stereotype to see black people as “dangerous” even if they do not have any criminal record. However, if they commit a crime, they are ordered more time of imprisonment for the same crime committed by a white person, according to the research published in Sage Journals.
On the other hand, they also face inequality after incarceration, just like Kisha did. They are not offered proper career opportunities and growth chances. Despite going through the due consequences, they are still seen as nothing more than convicts.
So, Kisha decided to get rid of this label. She wanted to be seen as more than her past, so she started selling merchandise. All of the rejection and constant stereotyping acted as a catalyst fueling her to start a clothing business. Her merchandise consists of T-shirts with self-affirmatory quotes written on them. She also wears them to stand-up shows and conferences she gets invited to.
While answering what her merchandise symbolizes, she replied, “It symbolizes power and determination. It represents courage and self-love. The quotes on these T-shirts aren’t mere quotes but lessons I have learned from my life experiences. They cater to my struggle and dedication to helping others, making them feel good about themselves and their lives. All I want for people like me, who have resonating experiences, to be happy because they deserve it.”
For Kisha, the motivation behind her merchandise is to challenge the standard narrative around her. Each business has its marketing strategies. The quotes on her brand shirts address and sarcastically promote her ideology. This way, she markets her merchandise and writings.
Kisha is also an author, a stand-up comedian, and an ordained minister at church. In her book, she addressed the issues she faced after her sentence and described the factors that contributed to the attempted murders. Her career as a comedian reflects addressing similar issues through humor. The base for all her professions is the same: to help others facing related problems, provide them ease, and motivate them that if she can do it, they can too.
Since Kisha’s brand is new to the market, she has yet to explore the business world. She wants to see if she can flourish her business as much as her writing and comedy career with the same determination. She is a self-built merchandise owner, but it is to see how far her brand goes and what more it offers its customers.
In conclusion, it’s crucial to acknowledge the role of risk-taking in the business landscape. Kisha’s entrepreneurial journey underscores the value of resilience and steadfastness in adversity. Her story serves as a guiding light for those considering their entrepreneurial path, emphasizing the necessity of availing opportunities despite the inherent challenges. While daunting, Kisha’s journey illustrates that perseverance ultimately leads to growth and success.
Published by: Martin De Juan
