Brown CEO: Laketa Smith

What inspired you to become a CEO? 
My inspiration to become my own boss came from my  upbringing of my family being entrepreneurs and community  servants. I begun as early as 8 years old washing hair in my  cousin’s salon and volunteering in the community. The ability  to be able to have the freedom of not being afraid to make a  mistake was a seed planted in me to be fearless also allowed  me to see the vulnerability of being compassionate and loving  towards others. I knew by 19 years old I would serve in the  nonprofit sector in some fashion. ​

What has been your most exciting accomplishment to date?
To date my most exciting accomplishment is when I launched  the A Bella LaFemme Society, Soy Luxe Candle Collection.  We conducted the launch during the middle of the pandemic  to empower and inspire people to be RESILIENT.® . Since  launching in June, we have our new best seller, Grey  Sweatpants Candle® . Which is a conversation starter and  never a dull moment.  

Any 2 pieces of advice you would share with emerging CEOs?  
My most essential pieces of advice would be to be realistic  about what you are perusing. If you are having a hard time  sleeping at night, and you are feeling doubtful and crazy, GO  AHEAD AND GO HARD! That’s the feeling of transforming  and blooming. You are ready to enter the next level. Be graceful and never switch up on your team, even if you are  your own team! 

What is next for you in 2020?  
The next goal for me in 2020 is to finish the 4th quarter strong  and well. This have been a year for us all. I will be celebrating  by hosting a soft book launch through my publishing company,  Educated Bella Publishing, LLC. Along with the launch, set  goals for my nonprofit organization for next quarter.  

​How can readers connect with you online?  
To connect with me, please subscribe to ablsociety.org,  shopabls.org , Like us on Facebook, A Bella LaFemme  Society and Follow us on IG: Ablsociety.