Malika, a Black entrepreneur and proud mother, is dedicated to empowering other women in New York (and beyond) through healing and self-discovery. As the founder of Empowerd Crownz, she creates spaces for women to nurture their mental, physical, and spiritual well-being.
Below is our conversation about her journey, the inspiration behind her work, and how LIFT has supported her along the way.
Can you tell us a little about yourself and your family?
My upbringing was challenging both at home and in the community. I often wondered why life seemed particularly hard for Black people and people of color. My parents instilled in me the values of standing up for myself, demanding respect, and accepting the things I cannot change while striving to change what I can. Becoming a teen mother required me to mature quickly. Despite the obstacles, I completed college and have now embarked on my entrepreneurial journey. I am passionate about helping others heal and raising awareness about living life fully.
Can you tell us about your business? What inspired you to start it?
My business is dedicated to supporting women of all ages in their mental, physical, and spiritual healing. We offer a nurturing, judgment-free environment that fosters self-discovery, personal growth, and education. Through practices like meditation, wholesome nutrition, music, and community engagement, we empower women to achieve holistic well-being.
The inspiration for this venture stems from a deeply personal journey. Witnessing my father’s passing was a pivotal moment that highlighted the significance of holistic health. Holding his hand during his final moments made me acutely aware of how our choices—be it in diet, emotions, or spirituality—profoundly impact our well-being. Additionally, my experience counseling individuals facing mental health challenges and substance use disorders revealed how many people feel lost and struggle to find a sense of purpose. These combined experiences fueled my passion to create a space where healing, education, and community support converge to transform lives, including my own.
While I continue to learn and may not have all the answers, I firmly believe that healing and education are intertwined. My mission is to evolve alongside the women I serve, fostering a community where we uplift, educate, and support one another through every phase of our journeys.
How has your lived experience shaped your entrepreneurial journey? What challenges have you faced?
Growing up in poverty was challenging, and the experiences from my childhood continue to affect me. Working in environments where I felt undervalued motivated me to pursue entrepreneurship, aiming to build a supportive team that values and uplifts each other.
Challenges I’ve faced include being judged by banks or not securing funding due to my business’s purpose. Additionally, I’ve struggled with self-sabotage and imposter syndrome. Recognizing that I sometimes stand in my own way, I rely on my spouse, family, life coach, and mentor to help me overcome these obstacles. I acknowledge that I’m not perfect, and my healing comes from learning and helping others heal as well.
As we celebrate Black History Month, what does this time of reflection and recognition mean to you as a Black entrepreneur?
Black History Month serves as a reminder that, even when faced with discrimination or adversity, our ancestors overcame incredible obstacles, and so can we. I aim to teach my children that they, too, can create their own opportunities, build wealth, help others, and pave the way for those who come after them. This month highlights our resilience, power, and humanity.
How has LIFT supported you on your journey, and what resources have been most helpful?
My LIFT coach, Gracie, has been amazing! She has helped me with budgeting, gaining clarity on where I want my life to go, and understanding how to run a successful business. I am truly blessed to have her in my life, and I know I’m going to be sad when my time with her is up. She has left a lasting mark on my journey, and I’m so grateful for that.
What advice would you give to other aspiring entrepreneurs in the LIFT community?
It’s going to be hard. Some days, you won’t get much sleep. Some days, you might feel like you’re not spending enough time with your family. But it will all be worth it. Never lose sight of who you are and why you started your business. No matter how many times you hear “no,” that one “yes” will change your life.
Is there anything else you would like to share about your work or experiences?
I want people to know that, as a community, even small changes can make a big difference. You don’t have to settle for less—you can be your own boss, and you don’t have to let life get the best of you. One of my favorite movies is Finding Nemo because, no matter how hard things got, Dory kept swimming. That’s what I want people to remember: keep going, no matter what.