I was inspired to start my business because I believe everyone has the potential to be great and live the life they desire, but they need the knowledge to do so. I grew up in the South Bronx, in the heart of NYC, during one of the worst times in its history—the crack epidemic. We weren't taught about money, investing, credit, or running a successful business, but I always knew I wanted more for myself. I was raised by two hardworking parents: my mom, who worked at Rikers Island prison, and my dad, a lab worker at Albert Einstein Hospital. They did the best they could, working hard to care for my sister and me, but they struggled because they didn't know much about money. I learned by studying and observing successful business people that the wealth gap starts with what you know—or, more often, what you don't know.

This realization sparked my journey into learning everything I could about money, initially to help myself. When I saw how what I was learning changed my life, I thought, “I can help change the lives of others with the same strategies I’ve learned and used.” And so, Copeland Consulting LLC was born.

Can you tell us about the products/services your business offers?

• Life Coaching: I help you navigate your journey and figure things out.

• Financial Coaching: I help you understand and manage all aspects of money.

• Mentoring: I guide you as you learn your industry and support you along the way.

• Business Taxes: I help you set up and properly process your business returns.

• Real Estate Investing: I offer auction trips, and guidance on buying tax sales, foreclosures, and bank-owned properties.

• Workshops: I conduct financial literacy workshops for groups, individuals, and young people.

• Credit Education and Repair: I teach people about credit—how to understand it, use it effectively, and improve it.

• Public Speaking: I share my story and knowledge every chance I get.

Have you faced any challenges as a Black business owner? If so, how have you overcome them?

Yes, I have faced many challenges, but I refused to let them stop me. I’m a college dropout who pursued knowledge like it was being hidden from me—lol. When I began this journey, I often encountered questions like, “Where did you go to college?” “Where did you grow up?” “What does your family do?” These questions carried an undertone suggesting that I shouldn’t be where I was because I didn’t come from money. How could I possibly know about money and advancement and be RIGHT? I still get side-eyed in some rooms because I know my stuff, and I don’t mean that arrogantly—I HAD to know things thoroughly because I don’t have letters behind my name. But then I come in and teach like someone who does. I used to hide my brain and talents because I was trusting in man instead of the God who placed these gifts in me. I had to step into that position because God made me.

I’ve also faced many health issues and used to think being sick was all I would ever be. But I prayed to God to heal and keep me, and He did a thousand times more. He not only kept me but made me a worker for Him, teaching me to use my talents to help others. Challenges have come and will continue to come, but how we handle them is key.

I’ve always been fascinated with real estate and land ownership. In 2020, during the pandemic, I started offering free workshops online to help calm the worried minds of those fearing for our world, health, and finances. I met with families to plan their next financial moves. One group of five sisters, aged 70-85, were scared but knew they needed to act to help their families in case the pandemic lasted longer. With my help, they pooled their money together and bought a 55-acre working farm in North Carolina. They are my biggest real estate investment clients to date, renting out plots to major supermarket chains. The proceeds have set their families up for generations.

A few interesting facts about me:

1. I’ve been sick most of my life, born a preemie with kidney issues, and was told I would never have children—but I had four beautiful, healthy babies.

2. I met my husband when I was 8 years old, and we are celebrating 36 years of marriage in December.

3. I sang at Radio City Music Hall with a community choir.

What advice do you have for aspiring Black entrepreneurs?

NEVER GIVE UP! You deserve to be wherever your mind and talent can take you. Never let missteps stop you from taking the next step. Always remember that God has the final say, not man. If He brought it to you, He will bring you through it, so ALWAYS TRUST HIM. Work hard, learn everything you can because you’ll need it, and always be your own biggest fan. You are the only person who will be with you your whole life, so be good to yourself.

Is there anything else you would like our readers to know about your business?

When you work with us, you’ll be working with overcomers. We are tough because navigating this world, life, and business is tough—so I make sure you are too. I will hold you accountable for what you say you want, and we will work hard to ensure you achieve your goals. Please give us a call so we can pursue your goals together, and we will be rooting for you the entire way.

Please feel free to provide additional anecdotes about your journey, life, or experiences as a business owner.

I have failed more times than I like to count, but the wins slowly erase them all. Lessons are sent to grow us—LET THEM. Smile and laugh every day, and enjoy all the things in your life, both good and bad, because they all have a purpose. Pour back into children because you can’t expect change if you keep it all to yourself. “Love yourself like you are the only person doing it because, on some days, that will be a fact.” And finally, laugh every day—it keeps your face tight—lol.

Copelandconsulting.org