We recently connected with Dr. Emajonite Etienne and have shared our conversation below.

Dr. Emajonite, appreciate you joining us today. What was it like going from idea to execution? Can you share some of the backstory and some of the major steps or milestones?

A Journey from Idea to Impact: Merging Passion, Skills, and Experience into a Thriving Business

Starting a business often begins with a spark of inspiration, a desire to make a difference, and a vision of how your unique talents can contribute to the world. For me, it was about merging everything I had learned and experienced into something meaningful and impactful. I knew I wanted to help others, particularly in the education sector, by leveraging my extensive background in curriculum development, special education, and consulting. But more than that, I wanted to weave in my cultural heritage and passion for holistic well-being into this venture.

The Seed of an Idea

The idea for my business sprouted from my observations while working in various educational settings. I saw gaps in understanding and communication, particularly in schools and organizations serving diverse communities. As a Haitian-American fluent in Haitian Creole, I realized there was a significant need for language services to support Haitian families and ensure they had access to the same opportunities and resources as everyone else. Additionally, I recognized a growing demand for wellness programs that addressed not just the academic but also the emotional and mental well-being of students and staff.

From Vision to Plan

With a clear vision in mind, I started by mapping out my skills and experiences—my expertise in education, my training in special education, my passion for coaching and mentoring, and my recent certification as a yoga teacher specializing in mindfulness. I knew that by combining these elements, I could create a unique business that offered a range of services tailored to the needs of schools and organizations.

Consulting with schools was the first piece of the puzzle. I began offering professional development workshops, training sessions, and one-on-one coaching for educators, focusing on evidence-based strategies and inclusive practices. I also provided translation and interpretation services for Haitian Creole, bridging the communication gap between schools and Haitian families. This work was incredibly rewarding, as I could see firsthand the positive impact it had on creating more inclusive and supportive learning environments.

Expanding the Reach

As my consulting services gained traction, I felt it was time to expand my offerings to address the holistic needs of my clients. This led me to integrate yoga and mindfulness into my business model. I designed specialized programs for schools and organizations, offering low-impact yoga sessions, mindfulness workshops, and breathing meditation classes. These services aimed to support the mental health and well-being of both staff and students, fostering a more balanced and mindful approach to education and work.

The feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Educators and leaders appreciated the comprehensive nature of my services—how they addressed both the educational and emotional aspects of their work. Schools reported improved communication with Haitian families, and participants in the yoga and mindfulness programs expressed how these practices helped reduce stress and enhance their overall sense of well-being.

Execution and Growth

Turning this idea into a fully operational business required persistence, adaptability, and a willingness to learn along the way. I networked tirelessly, built relationships with schools and community organizations, and continuously refined my offerings based on feedback and changing needs. I also leaned on my experience as an educational consultant and my passion for making a difference in every interaction, project, and workshop I conducted.

As my business grew, so did my sense of fulfillment. I was not just running a business—I was creating a movement that empowered schools, supported families, and fostered wellness in communities. By merging my knowledge, skills, and passions, I crafted a career that was both personally rewarding and impactful for those I served.

Looking Ahead

Reflecting on this journey from idea to execution, I am grateful for the challenges that pushed me to innovate and the successes that affirmed my purpose. The road ahead is still unfolding, but I am excited to continue expanding my services, reaching more schools and organizations, and making a lasting difference. My business is not just about what I do; it’s about who I am—a dedicated educator, a proud Haitian-American, and a passionate advocate for inclusive, mindful, and well-rounded education.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Absolutely! My name is Dr. Etienne, and I’m an educational consultant, special education expert, and wellness advocate with a deep passion for helping schools, organizations, and individuals thrive. My journey into this industry is rooted in my diverse background and personal mission to make a meaningful impact through education, cultural connection, and holistic well-being.

How I Got Started

My path began in the classroom, where I spent years working in various educational roles, from special education teacher to adjunct professor. Through these experiences, I recognized the critical need for more inclusive and culturally responsive approaches in education. I also realized the importance of addressing not just academic needs but also the social-emotional and mental well-being of students and educators alike.

Being a Haitian-American fluent in Haitian Creole, I saw firsthand the communication barriers that exist for many non-English-speaking families in school systems. I wanted to be a bridge, ensuring that every family, regardless of language, had access to quality education and could fully participate in their child’s learning journey.

What I Offer

Today, I run a multifaceted business that combines my expertise in education, special education, and wellness. My services include:

Consulting and Training: I work with schools and organizations to provide tailored professional development, coaching, and workshops focused on inclusive practices, special education strategies, and improving overall educational outcomes.

Translation and Interpretation: I offer Haitian Creole translation and interpretation services, helping schools and organizations communicate effectively with Haitian families. This service ensures that language is never a barrier to accessing important information or participating fully in educational processes.

Yoga and Mindfulness: As a certified yoga teacher specializing in low-impact yoga, mindfulness, and breathing meditation, I offer wellness programs to organizations looking to support the mental health of their staff and students. These sessions are designed to reduce stress, promote balance, and enhance overall well-being.

Problems I Solve

My work addresses several key challenges:

Bridging Communication Gaps: By providing translation and interpretation services, I help schools engage more effectively with Haitian families, fostering inclusivity and equity in education.

Enhancing Educational Practices: Through consulting and training, I equip educators with the tools and strategies needed to better support diverse learners, particularly those with special needs.

Promoting Well-Being: My yoga and mindfulness programs offer much-needed support for the mental and emotional health of educators, students, and organizational staff, creating healthier and more productive environments.

What Sets Me Apart

What sets my work apart is the unique blend of skills, cultural insight, and holistic approach I bring to the table. I’m not just an educational consultant; I’m someone who deeply understands the intersections of culture, education, and wellness. My services are not one-size-fits-all; they are customized to meet the specific needs of each client, with a focus on creating meaningful, lasting impact.

What I’m Most Proud Of

I am most proud of the positive feedback and results my clients experience. Seeing schools improve communication with families, educators feel more equipped to support their students, and individuals find peace and balance through mindfulness practices brings me immense joy and fulfillment. Each success story reaffirms my commitment to this work and inspires me to continue growing and evolving my services.

What I Want You to Know

At the heart of everything I do is a commitment to empowerment, inclusivity, and well-being. Whether through education, language services, or wellness programs, my goal is to create spaces where everyone feels seen, heard, and supported. My work is more than a business—it’s a mission to uplift and connect communities through education and holistic practices.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

My journey is one of perseverance and resilience, especially when it comes to my academic pursuits. One story that stands out is the period when I was working towards my doctorate while juggling multiple responsibilities and facing personal challenges.

The Balancing Act

Pursuing an EdD in Curriculum and Teaching was a dream of mine, but it was not without its hurdles. At the time, I was not only a professional working in education but also a mother and deeply involved in my community. Balancing my studies with work and family life was a constant juggling act. There were days when it felt like there weren’t enough hours to get everything done—attending classes, completing assignments, preparing lectures, and, most importantly, being present for my children.

The challenge wasn’t just about time management; it was also about the emotional and mental toll. I remember countless nights of working late into the night, often exhausted but determined not to let anything derail my goal. There were moments of self-doubt, times when I wondered if I was stretching myself too thin or if it was worth the strain.

Facing Adversity

During this time, I faced personal adversities that tested my resolve. Life has a way of throwing curveballs, and I had my share—unexpected family emergencies, health challenges, and the everyday stresses that come with managing multiple roles. There were moments when it felt overwhelming, like the weight of everything might be too much to bear.

I distinctly remember a particularly tough semester when I was navigating a family crisis while preparing for a critical phase of my doctoral research. I felt torn between my academic responsibilities and my family obligations, and there were days when it seemed like I would have to put my studies on hold.

The Turning Point

Despite these challenges, I refused to give up. I leaned on my support system—family, friends, and mentors—who encouraged me and reminded me of my purpose. I learned to give myself grace, to take things one step at a time, and to stay focused on my “why.” My passion for education, my commitment to making a difference, and my desire to set an example for my children kept me going.

One turning point came when I realized that resilience wasn’t about being perfect or never feeling overwhelmed; it was about showing up every day, even when it was hard, and taking the next step forward. I began to see each challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow. I embraced the mindset that adversity could be a powerful teacher and that persistence was key.

The Triumph

Ultimately, I completed my doctorate, a milestone that was not just an academic achievement but a testament to my resilience. The journey taught me invaluable lessons about perseverance, the importance of community, and the power of believing in yourself, even when the odds seem stacked against you.

Today, I draw on this experience in my work, reminding myself and others that resilience is about staying the course, even when the path is difficult. It’s about finding strength in your purpose and not letting setbacks define your journey. This story is a constant source of motivation for me, and it fuels my passion for helping others overcome their challenges and reach their own goals, no matter what obstacles they face.

How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?

Starting my business was a journey of resourcefulness, creativity, and perseverance. Like many entrepreneurs, I didn’t have a huge pool of capital to draw from. Instead, I had to get creative, leverage every free resource available, and rely heavily on my determination to make it work.

Bootstrapping from the Ground Up

From the outset, I knew I would be self-funding my business. I didn’t have investors or large loans, so I took a very hands-on approach, making sure every decision was strategic and cost-effective. My first step was to tap into my network. I reached out to former colleagues, friends, and connections I had made throughout my career in education and consulting. Networking became a cornerstone of my strategy—not just for finding potential clients but also for gathering advice, support, and encouragement.

I also made extensive use of free resources. Social media became my primary marketing tool. I created business profiles and began sharing content that showcased my services, such as consulting, Haitian Creole translation and interpretation, and wellness programs. Platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook allowed me to connect directly with my target audience, build relationships, and spread the word about my offerings without any upfront costs.

Maximizing Free Tools

To keep costs low, I relied on free tools like Canva for all my marketing materials, from flyers and social media posts to presentations and invoices. Canva was a game-changer because it allowed me to create professional-looking designs without needing a graphic designer or purchasing expensive software. I made sure every piece of content was aligned with my brand’s mission and values, and I used these materials to build credibility and attract potential clients.

Email was another critical tool in my initial strategy. I sent countless emails introducing myself and my services to schools, organizations, and community groups. I tailored each message to highlight how I could address their specific needs, whether through consulting, translation services, or wellness programs. It was a numbers game, and while not every email resulted in a booking, the persistence paid off.

Taking It One Day at a Time

The growth was gradual. I took it one day at a time, celebrating each small win along the way. My first bookings were small workshops or short-term consulting gigs, but they were crucial. They provided not only a modest income but also testimonials and word-of-mouth referrals that helped me build momentum.

Every booking was an opportunity to showcase my expertise and make a meaningful impact, and that reputation started to spread. I focused on delivering exceptional value and building strong relationships with my clients, knowing that their satisfaction would be my best marketing tool.

Slow and Steady Growth

Being self-funded meant I had to be patient and strategic about scaling. I reinvested any earnings back into the business, slowly expanding my services and reaching more clients. While it wasn’t always easy, the slow and steady approach allowed me to grow sustainably and remain true to my mission.

Today, I’m proud of how far I’ve come and the business I’ve built from the ground up. It’s a testament to what’s possible when you believe in your vision, utilize the resources at your disposal, and stay committed to your goals, no matter the pace. My journey continues, and I remain excited about each new opportunity to serve, grow, and make a difference.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.etienneenrichment.com
• Instagram: www.instragram.com/etienne_enrichment
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/etienneenrichment/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-emajonite-etienne-993767218/

Image Credits

Headshot picture:
Tehsuan Glover