We had the good fortune of connecting with Catherine Parks and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Catherine, what do you attribute your success to?
I would have to say it’s building authentic relationships. I have always loved meeting new people and I think with Los Angeles being so big it can be harder to form that sense of genuine connection. Building relationships that are authentic has been fundamental in building our brand!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Starting a non profit is honestly one of the hardest things I’ve ever done in my life. There have been so many times where I honestly wanted to give up but I knew that if I did I would look back and wonder “where would I be now if I didn’t give up and gave it my all?” Discipline is such an important quality to have to run any business and I’ve grown so much as a result of becoming an entrepreneur. What helped me most was allowing myself to ask for help, leaning on community and the support of others. I think it’s so important to have a mentor. At least one. Everyone needs access to someone in their life who’s already done what they’re trying to do. This doesn’t always have to be someone you’ve met personally but someone you can learn from. I’ve learned that getting clear on what you like and dislike when it comes to running your business is important as well. If you know what you don’t enjoy, you can find people to delegate those tasks on so you can focus on what brings you the most joy. It will be easier to remain disciplined that way.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Oh my gosh ima foodie lol I would take them to the tacos trucks of course I’m East Los Angeles which is where I reside most of the time while I’m in LA. Then, of course we have to go to the beach! One of my favs is in Malibu and what I love about it, is how private it is so their is not as many people. I would also like to go out and maybe catch some live music at night. Who doesn’t like a good jam session?

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
The small business association has been a huge resource to me. I think every business owner and entrepreneur should have a mentor and they have made it so easy for me to connect with mentors to help along my journey who have such valuable experience and who have been exactly where I have been.

Website: Www.grlwpwrla.com

Instagram: @grlpwrla

Twitter: @grlwpwrla

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/groups/grlpwrla/?ref=share&mibextid=x4r0xg

Other: Join our free social club https://heylo.group/grl-pwr-la-social-club Email us: info@grlpwrla.com

Image Credits
Photo credit: Kiara Graves Emily Daniel

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.