DC: What is your name, major, and graduation year?
Oglesby: My name is Nishelle Oglesby. I recently graduated with my communications degree this past May.
DC: In two to three sentences, how would you describe your start-up?
Oglesby: Lydia Liriano is a lifestyle brand dedicated to providing rich self-care experiences for Black women to benefit their mental and physical health.
DC: At what point did you know you wanted to create your own startup?
Oglesby: I wanted to create a start-up when I felt the want to create something that was of my own creativity and lacked limitations created by others. My idea for Lydia Liriano only came after experiencing hardship myself and learning how detrimental stress can be particularly for Black women.
DC: What or who is your biggest influence for your startup?
Oglesby: The biggest influence on my start-up is the women in my family who came before me. I am a product of hardworking AfroLatina and African American women. The women in my family always put others before themselves, sacrificed, and were very hardworking. Hardworking Black women are my inspiration for improving the quality of self-care and advocating for self-care because they truly deserve it.
DC: How have the effects of the pandemic changed your company’s focus or ideas?
Oglesby: The pandemic emphasized the importance and necessity of self-care. Additionally, the pandemic highlighted racial disparities that worsen the mental and physical health of Black women. In the last year, we really have focused on what products we can provide to best alleviate the chronic stress that is prevalent in our community. We are really excited to help make an impact on the health of Black women.
DC: What updates or significant accomplishments can you share with us about your company from the last six months?
Oglesby: Lydia Liriano will be ready to launch soon! Go to http://www.lydialiriano.com to be one of the first notified.
DC: What are you hoping to achieve during Terp Startup Accelerator this summer?
Oglesby: I am hoping to soak in and implement as much knowledge as possible in the launching of Lydia Liriano. I’ve been working on my venture for a long time and I am hoping to use the accelerator’s resources to create the best launch possible.
DC: If you could give advice to any aspiring entrepreneurs, what would it be?
Oglesby: Patience is key! As the famous saying goes, “Rome wasn’t built overnight”. Good things take time. The journey is just as important as the destination. Goals are great, but remembering the big picture is important too.
For more information about Lydia Liriano, please visit the website here.