Fun Fact: I have solo travelled to Morocco
Badé Obasa: Tell us a bit about yourself
Aileen Agada: My name is Aileen Chinwe Agada and I’m the founder of BeBlended. I’m also currently studying environmental engineering at the University of Waterloo. I attribute the majority of my success to my hard work, supportive network, and active christian faith. When I’m not working on BeBlended or studying engineering things, you can find me kayaking, mentoring women within the community, and spending time with friends and family.
BO: As you study and work on various personal projects, what does it mean to become your best self and live an authentic life?
AA: To me, this means failing a lot. This means constantly trying new things - things that scare you. This means taking calculated risks to follow your passion. Becoming your best self and living an authentic life doesn’t come easy. You will have to battle the status quo and blaze your own path.
BO: Just like you said, it doesn’t come easy and I know that as the founder of BeBlended, you have experienced some ups and downs to get to where you are right now. What is one of the toughest challenges you (are overcoming) overcame in your entrepreneurial journey. What practical steps did you take (are you taking) to overcome it?
AA: One of the main challenges that I’m currently facing in my entrepreneurial journey is balancing my business while still completing my engineering degree. Although it may sound cool and flashy on paper, this path takes a lot of hard work and dedication. I’m currently overcoming this challenge by being very serious about my time management. Slowly but surely, I’ve learned to be more efficient with my time. I’m also learning to say NO to unnecessary meetings, tasks, and events.
BO: Talking about balance. I believe it’s important to invest in, care for and stay in touch with our minds, emotions and bodies. How do you identify when you are tired/stressed/overwhelmed/anxious? What activities do you engage in to maintain holistic (mental, physical, emotional and spiritual) harmony?
AA: If I am becoming stressed or overwhelmed, I typically get a headache and can’t think very clearly. When that happens, it’s time for me to go to bed and listen to some christian worship music! When I tell you my help comes from the Lord, it truly comes from the Lord. My balance comes from spending time with God through worship music, prayer, and reading His word. On top of that, I try my best to eat well, exercise, and spend quality time with my family and friends.
BO: That is great. In this generation, there’s so much pressure to “overproduce”. What advice would you give us millennials to help us stay content with what we have, use the skills/resources within our reach to grow and maintain our lane of grace.
AA: Start from small! Learn to manage and maintain what you currently have. Once you’ve learned how to work well with small things, you will gradually obtain higher levels. In your contentment, still make sure you have a plan! Also, please don’t compare yourself to others. Run your race and seek His face!
Core Values: Faith and Community
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To stay connected with Aileen, follow her on Instagram. If you are looking for hairstylists in Canada or you are a hairstylist, make sure you join the community by following and liking her platform.