BOSS Member Spotlight: Niehla O.

Niehla O. spent over 20 years in the fashion and beauty industry but decided to pivot into an industry that can make people look good on the inside. After a chance encounter with a tasty green hummus blend, a late-night craving led her to begin mixing unique hummus flavors of her own. Her goal is to continue to spread love and hummus throughout our community. 

What were some obstacles that you faced in the beginning process of starting your business or career?

One of the biggest challenges at the beginning of my business was accessing capital to get supplies, acquiring the proper licensing in a created, seemingly confusing environment, and gaining mentorship in my industry so that I could know my way around it.

What inspired you to break into your industry?
My desire to create healthy and delicious plant-based options inspired me to break into this industry. Since I changed my diet in 2020, it seemed like a natural fit.

How do you balance your personal and professional life, or have you found a balance?
Being a founder and a “solopreneur" does not leave much room for a personal life. I do my best to spend time with friends, catch a movie here and there, or go to a gala. But honestly, I have to maximize the joy I experience in my chosen career so that my work doesn’t feel like work. And I genuinely do enjoy it. The bigger question is, how do I avoid burnout? That’s something I’m still trying to figure out.

What is an inspirational quote that you live by?
One inspirational quote I live by is from Proverbs 18:16. It says, "A man's gift makes room for him, and brings him before great men." It is so true!

Who were influential people or mentors who helped or encouraged you?
I have a group of amazing “Bosses” that I am fortunate enough to call friends and “family”. They are amazing women who have shone a light on my strengths and encouraged me to step out on faith and follow my dreams.

What are your "must-haves" to keep your career or business strong?
My faith and prayer are my must-haves to keep my career strong. Without those two things, I would fall apart every day. I love this work, but it has its fair share of challenges. Although I may not see how things will work out, I must know that God is making a way and opening doors for me. I’ve seen so many miracles in my life, so I know these things to be true.

What is your definition of a BOSS?
My definition of a boss is someone who knows who they are and isn’t afraid to take risks. They’re very confident in what they know, but very clear about what they don’t know. And they are not scared of the challenge to learn and grow. They allow the people that they have surrounded themselves with to have an opportunity to shine in their strengths.

Please describe yourself in two words. 
“Bean Curator”.

Learn more about Niehla at homegirlshummus.com 

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