Glowing Up Delta: From Spelman College to Shark Tank to Audacity!
What does it look like to have Audacity at 47? You are looking at it. Like many of my sorors of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., I have succeeded despite the odds. I was told “no” so much, I stopped hearing those words and still made my dreams happen. Our rich history has taught sorors how to make it big in corporate America, entrepreneurship, and life.
In 2001, I was blessed to be initiated into Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Eta Kappa Chapter, and graduate from Spelman College. In my 20s and 30s, I became an attorney, started my first company, raised almost $750k in business pitch prize money, and stepped onto global stages as an international professional speaker.
Turning 40 is when things started to change. Suddenly, society made us feel invisible and our age began to define and imprison us. In our 40s, 50s, and beyond, we weren’t allowed to shine as brightly. We were told we were too old to start going after things. We had money and success, and got comfortable, maybe even safe. We stopped pushing back. We accepted. Society, social media, our families, and some of our friends told us it’s over unless you look like a 25-year-old. Wrinkles? Give it up, grandma! You want to do what at this age? Should you be dressing like this? Step aside! We became spectators instead of living and thriving. We were headed toward sunset instead of sunrises.
However, in my 40s, things started to make sense. The reason why some things did not happen when I was in my 20s and 30s is because I was not ready. I had not had enough experience yet to handle certain responsibilities. I was not confident in myself yet. Now, I was ready to do what seemed impossible. It was time to reinvent myself and light a match to my past. I am more than what I have presented and positioned myself to be in this world!
In fact, 10 years ago, I was on Season 8 of ABC’s “Shark Tank.” I pitched my company, Curvy Girlz Lingerie, when I weighed 327 pounds. Yes, I created a lingerie line for full-figured divas and plus-sized fashionistas. I told the world we were here and deserved more.
Who knew that 10 years later, I would still be loud and bold and advocate for women, especially in our glorious middle chapter. This is not a setback, but a takeover.
My new book, “The 40 Year Plus Glow Up Playbook: Celebrating Life, Love, Beauty and Happiness in Our 40s, 50s, 60s and Beyond,” is debuting 10 years to the day I was on “Shark Tank” Season 8. Yes, on September 15, 2026, my book debuts and is now available in pre-sales. What can happen in 10 years? Everything!