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

Hi Tisha, every day, we know how much execution matters, but we think ideas matter as well. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
SHE IS HOPE LA was born from one of the most challenging chapters of my life. After my divorce in 2012, I found myself with no income, no credit, and no assets — trying to rebuild as a single mom with two young sons. That experience opened my eyes to the systemic barriers so many single mothers face when trying to survive, let alone thrive. I founded SHE IS HOPE LA to break that cycle and provide the kind of comprehensive support I wish I had at the time.

What sets us apart is our full-circle approach: we don’t just offer temporary relief, we walk alongside women as they move from survival to stability and ultimately success. Through programs focused on housing, job training, financial education, food access, and emotional support, we empower single mothers to build lives of dignity and purpose.

To fund the nonprofit in a sustainable way, I also founded SHE IS HOPE Realty, a full-service brokerage where a portion of every commission is donated directly back to the nonprofit. Our brokerage not only helps clients buy, sell, manage or lease properties across California, but also provides career opportunities and real estate training to single moms and others seeking a new start.

The journey hasn’t been easy — launching and sustaining two entities with aligned missions takes resilience, creativity, and community. But it’s also been incredibly rewarding. I’m most proud of the lives we’ve changed: the mothers who now have a roof over their heads, jobs they love, and children who are thriving.

This year, we expanded our efforts even further by launching wildfire relief initiatives to support families who lost everything. We provided food, clothing, hygiene kits, baby items, household goods, and even helped secure temporary housing—offering hope and stability during a time of devastation. Our team mobilized quickly with the help of other amazing organizations to meet urgent needs and ensure that no one facing crisis had to do it alone.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that transformation starts with belief — in yourself and in the mission. I want the world to know that SHE IS HOPE is more than a name. It’s a promise. A promise that no single mother—or any family in need—should ever feel alone or unsupported again.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My journey as a single mother inspired me to create a business and a nonprofit that work hand in hand to uplift others facing similar challenges. I’m the founder of SHE IS HOPE LA, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering single mothers and their children through access to basic resources, education, job training, housing advocacy, and long-term support. I’m also the owner and broker of SHE IS HOPE Realty, a full-service brokerage that donates a portion of every commission to support the mission of the nonprofit.

What sets us apart is the deeply personal connection behind everything we do. I started with nothing—no financial resources, no credit, and no safety net after my divorce in 2012. I know what it means to struggle, to rebuild from the ground up, and to still believe in a better future. My sons were my motivation, and my mission now is to be that source of strength and hope for others.

The road hasn’t been easy. I faced gender bias, limited resources, and self-doubt, but I turned pain into purpose. Through partnerships, community support, and sheer determination.

Through SHE IS HOPE Realty, I’ve grown a team of incredible agents who understand that we’re not just selling homes—we’re creating hope. From helping clients build equity to guiding them through leasing, commercial purchases, and investment strategies, we ensure that every transaction contributes to changing lives.

I’m most proud of how we’ve created a model where real estate directly funds a mission. I want the world to know that it’s possible to build a thriving business that also makes a lasting social impact. At the heart of our story is the belief that no single mom should ever feel like she has to do it all alone. We’re here to show them that she is seen, she is supported, and she is hope.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Los Angeles is my favorite city—there’s truly nowhere else I’d rather be. What makes it so special is the incredible blend of culture, art, and diversity, all surrounded by the natural beauty of both the ocean and the mountains. It’s a place where inspiration lives in every corner.

If my best friend were visiting for a week, we’d start with a beach day in Malibu, especially at Point Dume—it’s peaceful, scenic, and perfect for soaking in the California sun. Afterward, we’d enjoy dinner at The Sunset Restaurant, one of my favorite spots overlooking the ocean—it’s a must for any out-of-town guest.

No trip to LA would be complete without hitting Hollywood Boulevard to see the stars, followed by a visit to the Griffith Observatory for panoramic views of the city and sky. For a little more excitement, we’d explore Universal Studios, Disneyland, or Six Flags Magic Mountain, depending on their thrill level.

For shopping, strolling, or simply experiencing the luxe side of LA, Beverly Hills always delivers. Santa Monica and Venice Beach are perfect for my fellow ocean lovers—whether you’re into bike rides along the coast, browsing quirky shops, or enjoying a classic California sunset.

If you’re looking for a really special dining experience, I always recommend 71Above. Perched high above the city in Downtown LA, it offers breathtaking views that truly showcase the vast beauty and scale of Los Angeles. It’s a meal you’ll never forget.

For music and dinner with soul, I love taking friends to Herb Alpert’s Vibrato Grill Jazz. The talent is always phenomenal, the food is top-tier, and it’s all run with heart and style by Eden Alpert.

And if you love museums, you absolutely must check out The Getty and LACMA—two of the most inspiring and visually stunning cultural landmarks in the city. For a world-class concert experience, the Walt Disney Concert Hall is a masterpiece of architecture and sound, and the Hollywood Bowl is an unforgettable outdoor venue under the stars.

Craving an adventure beyond the city? Catalina Island is just a short boat ride away, offering a peaceful escape with boating, snorkeling, and charming island vibes. Prefer the mountains? Big Bear and Lake Arrowhead are just a hop, skip, and a jump away. Whether you go in summer for the lakes or in winter for the snow, these spots give you a completely different experience of Southern California’s magic.

In LA, there’s always something new to discover—whether you’re looking for glamor, grit, serenity, or excitement. That’s what makes it home.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to my incredible parents, Nelson and Nancy Janigian, and my two amazing sons, Nicholas and Alexander Momjian. My parents showed me what true resilience and compassion look like. Despite the hardships they each faced in their own childhoods, I watched them give so much of themselves to help others. That spirit of generosity and perseverance left a lasting impression on me. They’ve always supported my journey—whether it was starting over, building a business, or launching a nonprofit to help single moms like me. Their belief in me gave me the courage to keep going, even when the road was uncertain.

To my sons—you are my why. In the most difficult moments, it was your faces that reminded me what I was fighting for. When I had nothing, I promised myself that I would build a better life for us—and that I’d show you what strength, love, and determination really look like. You gave me purpose, and every step I’ve taken has been to lift you up and out of the struggles we faced. You’ve made me stronger than I ever knew I could be, and everything I do is for you, and because of you.

This is what I tell all of the single moms I work with: look at your children. Let them be your strength when you feel like giving up. You are incredibly strong and resilient—and you are never alone in this journey.

Website: https://www.sheishopela.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sheishopela?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tisha-janigian-6a220436?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

Twitter: https://x.com/sheishopela?s=21&t=iE5yH86SHgqGHeNrzWj0gw

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tisha.janigian?mibextid=wwXIfr

Yelp: https://yelp.to/8zefluhkH4

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@sheishopela7562?si=_ixF9KinGYiOtdGn

Image Credits
Linda Kasian Photography
Lori Lea Portraits
Reflect Me 360
Scott Bogunia Storm Labs

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