My passions have shaped every step of my journey, influencing how I build businesses and create meaningful connections. From an early age, I was drawn to storytelling—not just in the traditional sense, but in how stories connect people, ideas, and opportunities. Whether it was introducing friends to career paths, curating meaningful spaces, or building a platform for transparency, my drive has always been about sharing knowledge and experiences.
When I founded HealthHires, my goal wasn’t just about creating a job-matching platform—it was about giving people access to opportunities they may not have otherwise considered. That same passion for connecting people to something greater than themselves carried into my work with other founders, where I helped amplify voices and foster collaboration. It was never just about business; it was about elevating people and creating networks where success wasn’t just a distant dream but an achievable reality.
Mitsooz was born from that same foundational drive. My early ventures in retail taught me that control over quality and craftsmanship mattered deeply to me. It wasn’t just about selling products; it was about curating an experience—one that resonated with my values and allowed me to highlight artisans whose work deserved recognition. This passion for craftsmanship, storytelling, and authenticity is woven into every aspect of Mitsooz today.
Even outside of business, my passions influence how I live. I collect art that tells stories, fragrances that evoke emotions, and travel to places that inspire new perspectives. Every decision, whether in business or life, comes back to my core belief: transparency, authenticity, and the power of sharing experiences. My passions haven’t just shaped my journey—they are my journey.
This month on Authentic Ambitions, Ty and I are diving into the theme of turning passion into purpose. As I reflect on my journey—across businesses, free-time activities, and communities I’ve been part of—the common thread has always been storytelling, owning my authenticity, moving at my own pace, embracing creativity, and valuing craftsmanship.
When I founded HealthHires, my core intention was always about connection—linking friends and family to opportunities and elevating those around me. I simply wanted to link my friends and family to opportunities because being a support system and elevating those around me has always been my thing. From there, I onboarded fellow founders from minority communities and adopted the mindset of “ask for something but leave value behind.” Through fireside chats with major players, we showed that the dream of becoming one of the greats was often just one connection away. We hosted events, built networks, and created spaces where people could thrive.
Then came my first iteration of Mitsooz, where I sold jewelry and accessories. But I quickly realized something—I hated not having full control over my business. It was during the peak of dropshipping, and I struggled with the lack of influence over quality, packaging, and the overall customer experience. While the business was moving, it didn’t align with my deeper values, so I made the tough call to close it.
But look at Mitsooz now! Every product is housed in-house, and I have full control over what gets sent out, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish. I know the full process—returns, packaging, sending out free gifts—and most importantly, I can add personal touches like handwritten notes for clients. This shift has given me peace of mind, aligning with my desire to showcase quality over mass production. Looking ahead, we’re further honing in on the artisan aspect of Mitsooz, amplifying the voices of artists and crafters, especially those who are emerging in their space.
With Authentic Ambitions, our focus is on transparency—highlighting the unfiltered realities of business ownership, from those just starting to seasoned founders who are eager to share their journeys. The impact I hope to have is to encourage more business owners and leaders to feel comfortable sharing the uncomfortable and more realistic parts of their journeys. By doing so, we can help the next generation navigate their paths with honesty and clarity. If you have a story to tell, sign up for my newsletter—I’ll be sharing when we’re taking new Spotlights for upcoming years.
Beyond business, I believe in having an identity outside of entrepreneurship—one that keeps me grounded in the passions that drive my purpose. My creative pursuits, appreciation for craftsmanship, and love for storytelling all reinforce my mission of fostering transparency and authenticity in both business and life. My home—unsurprising for a home decor retailer—is filled with art pieces that tell the story of my family. From custom paintings and intricate mirrors to culturally significant sculptures and structural pieces, each item has meaning and intention. I love niche perfumes, with my signature scents being Parfums de Marly Valaya, Delina La Rosée, and even Avon Haiku. My family loves traveling and exploring the outdoors, often choosing destinations off the beaten path to avoid crowds and create unforgettable experiences. One thing we always take with us? Pictures and stories.
I openly share my experiences—successes and failures alike—because I know that someone out there might find value in them. Much like how I am online, I love socializing and engaging in deep conversations, yet I value my close circle and personal space. That said, if you ask me something—whether we know each other or not—chances are, I’ll tell you. This is something that shines through on my Instagram (@Starah_The_Expora). Instead of just posting pictures, I provide details—locations, best times to visit, and insights to help others experience it too.
I genuinely love connecting with people, from coffee chats to spontaneous conversations, but I also know the importance of prioritizing self-care. I’ve been in this industry long enough to understand that if I don’t take care of myself, no one else will.
Passion has always been my guiding force, influencing both my personal and professional journey. My businesses were built on transparency—embracing all that life has to offer, pivoting when necessary, and ensuring everything aligns with my core values. Through my work, I aim to foster a culture where entrepreneurs embrace their true experiences—both the highs and lows—in hopes of helping others learn, grow, and succeed. Whether through business, community, or personal life, I remain committed to authenticity, storytelling, and meaningful connections.
