My Interview With Esosa Johnson x Co-founder of Black Women Talk Tech (BWTT)
I attended Black Women Talk Tech (BWTT) event in 2020. It was so informative and I received so much information and networking opportunities, which later helped me in growing my business. I am grateful for Esosa and her co-founder for creating such a beautiful space for women to grow and become successful. Click here to find out more information on how to become a member of BWTT
What inspired you to take the path of entrepreneurship? Everybody has a story, what is your story?
My parents were both entrepreneurs and inspired me to carve my own path. I love building relationships with people and creating something of value that would better peoples lives. I was built for this and wanted nothing else.
What advice will you give your younger self?
Dream Big and stop at nothing until you get what you desire. Especially, because you are worth it. You are enough.
Have you ever raised funds for your business? If yes? How did you raise funds? Where did you seek funds? What is the most amount you’ve ever raised?
I raised $1.4 million for my last startup and it was the most I ever raised. I pitched every person who would listen. My doctor, my friend, and their friends. I got most of my money from family and friends who knew my reputation.
Relationship building – Let’s talk about this! How important is relationship building for you and how did it help your business?
It is all about relationship. I lean on my relationships to make my goals come true. It so important to start early and be of value to your relationship. Be a resource and it pay dividends always.
Do you take risks? What risk did you take? Was it a good or bad risk? What would you do differently?
When you are in the Tech business, you have taken a fear amount of risk as a black woman. I took a healthy amount of good risk to get high returns. I try to take calculated risked that don’t cost me too much money, time and effort.
Was there a time you felt like giving up? What inspired you to keep going?
My why is so big that it keeps me going through all the hard situations. My mom is a big inspiration and my dream take care of her one day. I also want financial freedom is my birthright.
What do you do for personal growth & development?
I try to work on my self with accountability partner to keep my goals on line. Personal growth is a journey that you take one day at a time.
What advice would you give to anyone who is about to embark on the entrepreneurship journey?
Just start and take one step at a time. Richard Branson says his biggest motivation is to keep challenging himself. He treats life like one long university education, where he can learn more every day. You can too! Believe in yourself!
Are you open to mentorship? How can you be reached? What are your social handles?
I would love to get mentorship as I find myself doing more of the coaching. I can be reached at @BlackWomenTalkTech & @anythingbutsoso.