Today we’d like to introduce you to Monique Young.
Hi Monique, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, let’s briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
I am a native of Columbia, SC. I began my journey of being an entrepreneur in March 2020. I could remember sitting at home and watching YouTube videos on balloons, and I began to be so interested in what the artist was doing. Every day after work, I start going to the store and purchasing new things to try, and each time I begin to get better and better at being a balloon artist. I remember doing balloons for parties at such a low cost to get noticed by people, and I began to get booked. From that point, I knew that God had given me a gift. That was only some thought, I still wanted to go to college and get a higher education, but I never really knew my purpose for years. I always knew I loved kids, but I never wanted to be a teacher. I remember God using someone in the room, and as they were talking, I heard “The Better Me.” For days that name stuck with me; before this, I would grow up saying, “I want to start a nonprofit,” or “I want to give back to the community.” Right then and there, I knew that God confirmed my vision, and “The Better Me” is now the name of my nonprofit organization in Columbia, SC., founded in October 2020. I work with girls ages 7-16, and our mission is to inspire, cultivate, and extend a helping hand to the youth. This is my purpose, and balloons are my gift. This organization is my baby, and those children are my babies.
While working with the girls in the organization, I heard many girls speak about having low self-esteem and lacking self-confidence. Of course, I began to speak life into them, and we began to learn the importance of affirmations and what it means to affirm who you are. But that is not all. I knew my message was being delivered to the girls in my organization, but I wanted to speak to every young girl that God intended for me to reach. By doing so, I begin to write Children’s books. I am now an Author of three children’s books, “Hey Black Girl,” “She Spires,” and “I Am Worth More Than You Can Imagine.” God has birthed so much out of me within the last three years. I can not thank him enough and can not see what my future will hold for me.
Alright, let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what challenges have you had to overcome?
This has been a challenging road. If there is a smooth road in business, I would love for someone to tell me all about it and how to do it, lol. Sometimes you will be frustrated and want to pull your hair out, but I always remember that proper preparation prevents poor performance, and I always show up as my best and authentic self. No matter what storm I face, my gift brings light to the room. No lie, I remember filing for my 501c3 for my nonprofit organization, and it took a year to get my determination letter back. When I say frustration was not even the word, lol, but patience and timing were the words because sometimes we have to be patient in God’s timing. My books were a breeze for me, and it was because I had the vision and I knew who I wanted to impact. No road in business is easy, but if you love what you do, you will show up and show out.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in balloon decors such as balloon columns, balloon garlands, balloon arches, and more. I am most proud of all of my accomplishments and am most known for being a balloon artist, author, and the founder of a nonprofit organization. Seeing where I started and where I now mean so much to me because I am progressing and evolving. My faith and my relationship with God set me apart from others. I know that God will always work things out for me because of my faith.
What matters most to you? Why?
My relationship with God and my son is what matters to me. I know that as long as I keep him first, I will always go far and where he has intended for me to go. I want my son to know that no matter what, I strived for the best for us and that he can too.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bettermementoring/, https://www.instagram.com/mocreationssc/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheBetterMeCEO, https://www.facebook.com/mocreationssc/
