Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Natalie Clark. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Natalie thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
I Am S.T.R.O.N.G. stands for I Am Striving to Reach Our Next Generation. I came up with the idea when I had a vision of doing something to help make a difference. I kept seeing the word strong and I wanted it to stand for something. I want everyone to really realize how strong we really are. I strive to be a positive example for the youth, an example for women, and an inspiration to all. I want everyone to realize that we can get through any challenge that we may face if we believe that we can. In order to make a difference with our youth adults have to stand together and support each other to demonstrate positive collaboration and teamwork. Together we are stronger and can achieve so much more. I enjoy being a part of any team with like minded people working together. My unique approach is to bring the community together one event at a time.
Natalie, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
Am Natalie Clark. I am an educator and founder of I Am S.T.R.O.N.G. I Am Striving to Reach Our Next Generation is dedicated to reaching as many people as we can in the community. I am creating opportunities to bring the community together one event at a time. I focus on community, empowerment, scholarships, youth camps, mentorship programs and volunteering. I understand the importance of giving back and supporting each other. I am doing my part to help our next generation chase their dreams and become the best version of themselves. I have T shirts that support my brand. I have a girl’s mentorship program for kids ages 11-17 years old and meet with them 1-2 times a month to focus on different skills to help build confidence, prioritize mental health, and learn the importance of serving others. I also host monthly themed dinners to help bring boss babes, entrepreneurs and other professionals together to see how we can support each other. I travel and host conferences to share how our purpose help empower others.
Do you have any stories of times when you almost missed payroll or any other near death experiences for your business?
I planned very first community events in 6 weeks. It was a big risk but I had a vision to create an event that would showcase the black culture through music and dance. I was determined to host it during Black History Month for the community. I literally scheduled every meeting on zoom, contacted all performers through email, social media or by phone call. I was 2 weeks away from the event and I hadn’t sold a ticket. However, I knew that my vision to host this event was clear and I was not going to cancel it. All of a sudden ticket sales starting coming in, sponsorship starting coming in and I had about a 100 people attend the event. It was such an incredible experience and everyone was so excited and looking forward to me hosting it the following year!
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
During this journey, I have gone through some very difficult times. However the things that could have broke me made me stronger. I know that I am walking in my purpose to inspire and motivate others. As a result, I can use my experiences in life to encourage others to keep going. If I didn’t give up then they can’t , if I push through, pivot when necessary, keep chasing and pushing even when I don’t feel like it I have to. So if I can push and be optimistic about what lies ahead then I know I can be a positive light to others that need it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://msha.ke/iamstrong.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natalie_clark07?igsh=cHN1b3RrMnAyMnp6&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077704462583&mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Other: https://linktr.ee/s.t.r.o.n.g