Gia Tejeda is the 19-year-old founder of All Things College. She offers services to help students with college readiness, standardized test prep, and her specialty, customized scholarships. She is also a student at Spelman College.
Here is her story of starting her previous business, Pretty Hair Posse.
Gia Tejeda is 17 years old and the owner Pretty Hair Posse. As the founder of a hair supplement company, she encourages girls to feel confident and enjoy their hair. Gia also helps girls become ambassadors for her products, which allows them to save money for college as a private contractor under her business. She is very involved in her Atlanta, Georgia community because she hosts monthly SAT and ACT workshops.
What ingredients are used in your products to help hair and elaborate on their growth methods?
She is currently working on the winter launch of her hair vitamins that will contain all-natural and organic ingredients. It is acre-free and will only grow thick, fuller, and healthier hair on your head. Gia began as a private contractor under another company, until she decided to take her business to the next level.
Who inspired you to start a business, especially in the hair / vitamin industry?
When she had asked her mother if she could get a job, she encouraged Gia to think about the possibility of receiving $8 per hour vs $800 per hour. Her mother is an entrepreneur and explained that you can “be you own boss or work for someone else.”
Almost four years ago, Gia started her brand at 15 years old, but she wanted to represent more than a hair vitamin company. Gia suffered from major hair loss and did not take good care of her hair, yet she was interested in beautiful hair and skin. She supported self love, women empowerment, and joy in inner as well as natural beauty. Once her mother inspired her to be a business owner, Gia’s work ethic, determination, and religious testimony created a path to success and impact.
What is your favorite money or business book that you recommend and how has it changed your life?
Gia advises Young Legends to read Crush It!: Why Now Is The Time To Cash In On Your Passion by Gary Vaynerchuck because it will give you insight on how to use social media. Gary is an Belarusian American entrepreneur, author, and speaker who encourages hustle and leveraging social media.
What are 4 tips you would give Young Legends that would like to start a brand and build a product business?
1. Do what makes you happy
You will have to work hard to experience success, but choose something that you love every minute of developing.
2. Never give up on your dreams
3. Be unapologetically you
Be 100% yourself.
3. Put yourself in the best position possible
Stay in the right mindset, with the right group of people, and attend the right events to help your profession. When you become successful, work so hard that no one can take it away from you.
What is your favorite quote that keeps you motivated to achieve your goals?
Gia is a believer in Christ and always put God first. ‘I can do all things through him who gives me strength’ (Philippians 4:13).
Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years personally and professionally?
Gia plans to graduate from Stanford University and be richer in love, health, wisdom as well as in her relationship with God.
What advice do you have for entrepreneurs who are looking to take their business to the next level?
Gia’s first piece of advice is to take risks because comfort is problematic. Network, choose friends that will motivate you, and read often. “Knowledge is power and perception is reality.” Gia has three coaches and she advises that people find a mentor, which are crucial to your success even if you do not have a business.
Gia is at the forefront of change for girls to feel confident about their hair with Pretty Hair Posse. In addition to creating success in her life, she is changing lives in her community. This teenage entrepreneur is not only making an impact, but making an income for herself and others.
Make sure to check out Pretty Hair Posse and follow Gia's journey to success on Instagram.