We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Shaqueal Adkins a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Shaqueal , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

My community lacks representation when it comes small businesses. Our community has gone without movie theaters, local clothing stores, and most importantly: a bookstore.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Shaqueal has transformed herself numerous times in front of her family and friends. Filmmaking, a short stint in community politics, and finally a bookstore owner.

Beyond selling the latest books, she donates books on a monthly basis to schools & organizations within the community.

It goes beyond selling products. Can she create a safe space for youth to reflect and read? Provide fellowship without religious background.

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

Reaching out and connecting with whom I serve.

My community.

Local schools within Watts (daycares, charter schools, high schools, etc)

What kind of books are they reading? Do they need a certain genre? Are there any book clubs within the community that need our help?

Any thoughts, advice, or strategies you can share for fostering brand loyalty?

I respond to clients/leads right away I have a premade response on social media and respond immediately to emails.

Let’s chat and let’s see what I have in inventory.

If I cannot provide assistance, my peers who also own bookstores can.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.OurWattsBookshop.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/ourwattsbookshop?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==

Image Credits
Julian James Western studio