We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Eugenia Doreen. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Eugenia below.

Hi Eugenia, thanks for joining us today. Let’s talk legacy – what sort of legacy do you hope to build?

I hope my legacy will be one of faith in Jesus Christ, love, and service to those in my community.

Eugenia, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Imagine this, you’re 18 years old walking around on a college campus facing the realities of life. Feeling as if the world around you is something that needs your attention just as much as everything else. You’re a first-generation college student trying your best. You never thought you’d be in this position, with a desire to build something greater than yourself. Well, that was me. As I walked around that campus meeting and speaking to other women who needed what I did, which was a safe space for women; I knew I wanted to do something about it. From there the birth of Female Force Association began. Women would come over to my dorm room once a week just to build each other up, listen to one another, and form a community. I didn’t know it then, but Female Force was more than cute flyers and girl talk, it was necessary and it was empowering.

From there, FFA has gone on to help other women through community development and women empowerment. Through educational efforts and networking opportunities, we help women in business to develop, network and thrive. Several times a year, we host events that are dedicated to building and maintaining a business all while serving those in need. I have always had a serving heart, and because of that, I created Project Force, our community outreach program. This program serves the homeless, schools in need, and provides resources to parents and so much more. In addition, FFA has a membership program for women to join. The membership program is all about business education and networking.

A lot of business owners will tell you all about the good. I will tell you both the good and the not-so-good. Being an entrepreneur is not for everyone. Entrepreneurship goes beyond social media platforms and nice pictures. It has to be in you and not just on you. It is something that will require attention in all capacities, so you must be up for the challenge. You have to know your WHY. Why am I starting this business, what problem will I help solve, and why should anyone care? These are just a few fundamental questions when describing the beginning of the journey. It’s important to put your pride aside, especially in business. You won’t know everything and that’s okay! Be willing and open to learning so you can be properly equipped. Business is beautiful once you begin to see all the pieces come together. Just know it takes time, that is why consistency is key!

After connecting and speaking with several people, the number one reason they don’t start the business is because of fear. I say what is fear to faith? Fear doesn’t define you, nor should it dictate your success. One of my favorite quotes says, “…“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, ‘Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?’ Actually, who are you not to be?- Merriam Williamson. Who are you not to be? Who are you not to be a successful business owner, who are you not to be knowledgeable and capable?

Can you open up about how you funded your business?

I worked three jobs while I was in college, so the money I saved from those jobs I used to fund Female Force Association. From all of the legalities to all of the events, I paid out of pocket to fund, and here’s why. I needed to prove to myself I was serious about the Vision I had. I wanted my disposable income to go into something that was bigger than me. I know the impact of FFA and I did not want funds to be a reason why I wasn’t serving. Sure, I could have taken out a loan or borrowed but truth is, no one educated me on those things. I learned that loans are riskier for startups than anyone else. Sometimes taking the elevator can be more harmful than taking the stairs.

When it comes to funding your business, you have several options, which is why it is so important to educate yourself and talk to experts that will tell you the truth! I began to do fundraisers and fee-based events to help with the financial side of the business. It is possible to reach the amount of money you desire for your business, just know that it will come with hard work and perseverance.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

I believe my authenticity and my ability to connect with people helped build my reputation in my market. I also think the way I carry myself in my daily life plays a part as well. Reputation matters, especially in business so not only being genuine with my words but in my actions as well has allowed those in my market to trust me.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @_femaleforce @eugenia.doreen
• Facebook: KC Female Force

Image Credits
Bryan Alford Travis Meier Imagery