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

Hi Nimi, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
One of my most favorite quotes is by Maya Angelou which says “You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats, so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, how you can still come out of it.” This quote is so powerful and profound, it eloquently expresses how I feel about defeat now. I used to be afraid of failure, and through my entrepreneurial journey, I have learned that failure and defeat are all part of the story. When you’re able to arise out of a challenge, you feel empowered, you feel worthy, and you feel validated. But the validation and empowerment don’t come unless you’ve experienced the defeat. This quote in essence means don’t be afraid of defeat, don’t be afraid of failure–because each time you experience it you learn more about yourself, you are able to see what your limitations are, and how you can conquer them.

What should our readers know about your business?
The Beem Box is a beauty subscription box for women of color we provide makeup for deeper and darker skin tones. I’m proud of creating a brand that highlights and encourages women. One of our mottos is “Beem from within”–meaning we see that deep radiant beauty that exists in women of color, and we love to praise and acknowledge it. Creating The Beem Box has been one of the best things I have done in my life. It has helped to connect with my community, its helped me grow as a woman, it has helped me learn more about myself. One of the greatest lessons I have learned on this journey is that you have to keep learning. No matter the environment, the background or even your current situation–you must keep learning, keep stretching, and keep growing.

Any great local spots you’d like to shoutout?
I currently live in the city of Long Beach and it’s a very unique city in that, it’s extremely diverse, accessible, and has a tight-knit community. If I could play tour guide for a day, I would start with one of my favorite pastimes–visiting museums! We’d stroll about taking in all the beauty of modern or contemporary art, history or culture. Then I would follow it up with some brunch at Claire’s, under their bright yellow umbrellas, enjoying the sun while overlooking the ocean. Later in the day, we would scooter down to The Pike Outlets to watch the latest movie –I may be one of the last few people who still love going to the theaters. Then we would finally wrap up the day eating dinner at Sushi Mafia, which has hands down the best sushi in Long Beach.

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?
I hope this isn’t a cheesy answer but I need to recognize my family. They are the core in giving me the support, the advice, and the love I need. I’m so fortunate and blessed to have them. In that same space, I need to recognize my sisters– having four best friends is a dream. These are women who are wise, who are kind, who are intelligent and loving –they need to know I see each and every one of them as a special gift to me AND the world.

Website: https://www.thebeembox.com/
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Twitter: https://twitter.com/LALAlolu_
Facebook: fb.me/NimiloluF
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/LALAlolu3v/