NATASHA LEE – THAT GIRL & MAKE YOUR DREAMS COME TRUE CORP

Mother, CEO, influencer, visionary & thought leader are just a few of the words that could be used to describe the powerhouse female that is Natasha Lee. Passionate about empowering women across the world through many initiatives collaborating with organisations both near and far to help elevate the lives of girls and women. That Girl and her design and creative flair over, this girl is always on it. Business Mogul Public Speaker and motivational expert Natasha gives her projects her absolute all, and it's easy to see why she had such a massive influence on her legions of followers and, of course, her own family. This is one Q&A you do NOT want to miss. Here she is in her own words…

SO, NATASHA WHAT’S YOUR STORY?

When I was an eight-year-old diva, my mother encouraged me to work hard to achieve my goals. While walking to school one morning, she told me that the standard age to retire from work was 60 years old. Of course, an 8-year-old believes that's their entire life. Whew, don't I know better now! I looked at my mother and explained that I would retire when I was 30 years old. She never doubted my ambition, she replied, WORK FOR IT!

I did just that. Starting Make Your Dreams Come True by the age of 23 was a dream come true for me. In 2006, I launched a virtual call centre hiring over 300 independent contractors globally eventually rising to 700 which transcended to teaching thousands of the ropes through my partnership with Arise. In fact, I was one of three of the first contracted cackle centres to work with them. Using the skills gained through corporate America I emerged into developing, marketing and executing the business dreams of Fortune 500 companies and small businesses. I’ve also had the privilege to partner with brands such as Wix, Google, Arise, Meilo, Nice Job, and more.

Being That Girl was birthed after the untimely loss of my mother Delores Starks. She would announce herself as That Girl while walking in the room with bold red lips. She had an impeccable fashion sense that everyone loved. One year after losing her I created a company that’s motivated by all the things she instilled in me. While my mother was alive she motivated me to always choose greatness. After her death, I understood that I now had to become my own motivator. Being That Girl is not only about fashion. To accommodate our fast-growing love for our apparel. Our services range from business services, education, events, conferences, coaching, sisterhood and so much more. Thus far the brand has been sold in boutiques throughout the United States and even made a short-lived debut in Macy’s Department Stores in Michigan and Pittsburgh. I’ve even collaborated with brands such as MAC Cosmetics, Walker’s Legacy as their Ambassador, OnMogul as one of few Mogul Influencers, Brainz Magazine Executive Contributor. We also collaborate with girls, women and organizations globally in an effort to help our tribe create, evolve and overcome. Our sisterhood is genuine and filled with influencers and powerhouses that believe strongly in collaboration over competition.

My role as a thought leader and chief influencer in these companies has led me to influence many lives, grace many stages and receive an abundance of recognition from organizations, education institutions, government agencies and more. This all has been a humbling experience that I’m happy to share.

I have three exceptional children, Rashard,21, Nathan, 20 and Tia, 14. My children are my main priority. Everything that I do, every goal that I accomplish, and every obstacle I overcome is solely for them.

Rashard is my "STRENGTH". I needed strength beyond what was normal to keep my head navigate life as a teenage mother. Rashard certainly gave me a dose of the real world. From the moment I became pregnant, I knew that I wanted him to be proud of me. I think I've done that. I never wanted him to view me as a statistic as the world had. Now I'm blessed to witness him as an Entrepreneur. Currently, he designs and produces games on the Roblox platform. He began this journey when he was in the 7th grade. I am humbled and grateful to enjoy this experience. He's shown me a multitude of gratitude for being his mother. He surprises me at times by paying my bills and purchasing me gifts for breakfast on my doorstep.
I'm honoured to be his mom. I love him so much.

Nathan is my "What doesn't kill me, makes me stronger" child; he was my little surprise. I thought for sure I would not stand the test of time, pregnant yet again with another child in high school. Nathan became an extra push, motivating me to exert power in my body to deal with ridicule, the" I told you so's", and the ability to shut down the doubt that so the world had placed on girls such as myself. I graduated, ranking in the top 10% of my class, and received a 6 figure scholarship to one of the most prominent engineering schools in the country, Lawrence Technology University. Nathan still proves to be my encouragement to this day; he's constantly testing how far he can push me. Yet he's the person I can depend on and one of my best friends. He waits up to make sure I'm home. He's resilient and does well with taking on challenges and being a light to others. I am honoured to give birth to such a gentle-spirited man. I gifted Nathan the compliment on this brand, That Guy scheduled to release 10.2.2021.

Lastly, Tia made me recognise my very own Beauty. Quite frankly, I'm not sure I ever viewed myself as a pretty girl before seeing my daughter's face. She's absolutely beautiful! After Tia's birth, I realised how beautiful I was. She helped me understand the importance of being a woman, confident and ambitious. She's brilliant, talented, can master any sport naturally, and can write music. She's also a rising photographer and an absolute CEO. More importantly, she's my bestie, always encouraging me to be better. Although she's a teenager, she's always going to be my baby.

These three complete me!!!!

Now, I believe it's appropriate to give credit where credit is due! With Jehovah God, my God, I would not have the intelligence, charisma, talents, or children I possess. I'm forever grateful for the extra thought he put into my DNA!!!!!

I now own and operate www.mydct.net, www.iam-thatgirl.com and CoFounder of Being That Guy.

WHAT GETS YOU OUT OF BED IN THE MORNING AND EXCITES YOU MOST ABOUT YOUR WORK?

The ability to open my eyes is the best gift and the motivation that inspires me to live my purpose. Upon opening my eyes, I thank Jehovah God immediately for his favour.

After my morning prayers, I head straight for the stereo. My day usually begins with a full-blown music and dance concert hosted by me. My favourite artist to listen to in the morning is none other than CHRIS BROWN. Essence by WizKid featuring Justin Bieber is my jam currently.

I’m most excited that I can and I am able and willing to make a difference in another person’s life through my work each day.

DO YOU SCHEDULE YOUR DAY?

Honestly, not as often as I would like. However, my Wix app has been helping me drag on track and manage my companies and clients with my mobile device.

HOW DO YOU HANDLE CRITICISM?

I accept, respect and invite criticism. Constructive criticism is the antidote to success. However, I remain cautious of "Negative Nancies" when they speak; I don't listen.

WERE YOU ENTREPRENEURIAL AS A CHILD?

No, but I had an entrepreneurial spirit. In 6th grade, I designed this elaborate mall. I sketched the logo, and I even envisioned an indoor amusement park, game rooms, and so much more. I'll never forget it. I used purple, turquoise, and pink Bic Pens to illustrate my thoughts. My teacher, Mrs Caldwell, was super impressed and encouraged me to continue to dream big. While I didn't build a mall exactly, I do have an online store filled with everything I love :)

HOW DOES BEING AN ENTREPRENEUR/ GORGEOUS GIRL BOSS AFFECT YOUR FAMILY LIFE AND RELATIONSHIPS?

My supporters understand the genuine love that I have for entrepreneurship. Usually, my supporters show their understanding by attending events, participating in activities and contracting my businesses for services. Some cheer me on online, share my posts and send me encouraging messages. Most of my friends have provided their expertise and labour whenever time has permitted. My family is constantly celebrating me. No matter what aunt, cousin or friend I visit I always see my brand that girl. Dating is challenging but brings its rewards and great friendships. TFCEO, I’m currently and will always be in my Beyonce energy. “If you like it then put a ring on it.” The close relationships that I have are extremely instrumental in my professional success.

However, after 15 years, I can honestly say I receive so much support and love from my family and friends. As far as other relationships. I've been told that I make an impact on every life that I touch. It is a privilege and honour to be seen in such a way. I love my friends and family. They love me back! The close relationships that I have are extremely instrumental in my professional success.

HOW WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE REMEMBERED?

My daughter has me saved in her phone as a beauty and superwoman. I hope that she remembers me as an extraordinary mother always. To answer your question first and foremost, I would like my children to remember me as a supportive mother. Next, I would have to say my number one priority is to be recognised as a TRUE servant of Jehovah God. Honestly, without his loving guidance and example, I would be a lost soul. I want to be noticed as a self-made entrepreneur who is always prepared to create opportunities and inspire others.

Lastly, I would like for the characteristics I possess to be remembered, including selflessness, grace, elegance, outspokenness, bubbly persona, down to earth demeanour and style to press upon people's thoughts for many years to come.

Although I don't see myself as a superwoman, the fact that my daughter does gives me confidence that someone will remember me in a positive light.

HOW DO YOU DEFINE SUCCESS?

Living in your light and shining it on others :)

Live out loud, be brave and don't let anyone ride your waves. Honestly, success is defined by individual goals that are set and achieved.

WHAT HAVE YOU FOUND DIFFICULT ON YOUR JOURNEY?

Trusting people has been a difficult task on my journey. People will dress in sheep-like clothing to take or destroy what I've built. It's challenging to keep a positive regardless of the negativity that's thrown in my direction. I'm grateful for my sense of humour because it allows me to counteract the negativity with laughs.

Self-doubt was once an enemy. Last year, I promised myself that I would get out of my way to take every opportunity that belonged to me. I remember aiming to be perfect all the time. I placed too many restrictions on my life, put too many unrealistic expectations on myself, and allowed the opinion of others to distract my path one time too many. I'm so happy I deadened those behaviours years ago. It took a while, but I realised that I'm allowed to be a work in progress and a masterpiece at the same time.

WHAT’S YOUR TOP TIP FOR ENTREPRENEURS READING THIS ARTICLE?

What belongs to you is yours; no one can take it. Stop hiding your business from others.
Scared money doesn't make money, as my mother taught me. If you're not willing to invest in yourself, no one else will.
Let your yes mean yes and your no mean no. Don't risk the chance of losing credibility. I've taken on too many tasks at once and underdelivered.
Be Authentic; no one wants a replica. We all want the real thing.
Advertising and Marketing are the main ingredients to your bottom line.
Business is not for reserved people. If you're afraid to represent your business, don't expect to be seen or be heard. Don't expect to be the next big thing.
Network with like-minded people.
Create collaborations and partnerships
Don't be afraid of your success
Outsource your business needs to www.mydct.net or iam-thatgirl.com

WHAT WOULD YOU CHANGE ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY OR WHAT WOULD YOU AVOID IF YOU COULD DO IT OVER AGAIN?

I would avoid sitting at the wrong table. I would give less to undeserving people. I would have managed and invested my money differently. When I was 23, I received my first check for $20,000. Every store in the mall was celebrating with me :( Let's just say I'm a grown woman now. I have a different perspective on money.

WHAT’S THE NUMBER ONE PLAYED SONG ON YOUR IPOD?

Beyoncé, Toni Braxton, Monica, Normani, Drake, Chris Brown, Teyanna Taylor, Diana Ross, Snoh.

WHAT DO YOU KNOW FOR SURE?

That I’m THAT GIRL!!!!!!

DO YOU HAVE A BOOK OR FAVOURITE PODCAST RECOMMENDATION FOR OUR FEMALE CEO MEMBERS?

Rich Relationships Us Podcast, My favourite book is the Bible, The 4 Hour Work Week, The Code of the Extraordinary Mind and Limitless.

WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT MESSAGE YOU CAN GIVE TO YOUR FOLLOWERS?

Live unapologetically. Set goals that count, and whatever you do, never dull your shine to sit comfortably with anyone else.

Become a living standard :)

If you want to know more about Natasha or have a question about any of her fabulous businesses you can find her over www.mydct.net or www.iam-thatgirl.com - you can also chat to her via The members forum on The Community page!