My name is Lanaya and I am the CEO of NayasPastries. I am a 22-year-old Black African American Woman born and raised in Southeast D.C. In 2020, I graduated from the illustrious Winston Salem State University with a Bachelor of Science in Teaching. I come from a family of 7 and stand as the third oldest. I

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At an early age, I discovered my deep love and passion for baking as I often times baked with my dad using my easy bake oven. Once I  began to get older I was allowed to bake using the stove with the assistance of my dad or godsister(s). 

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I started NayasPastries as an 18-year-old freshman at the Illustrious Winston Salem State University. At first, I was baking for fun but I often times had people approach me inquiring about buying my sweets then I realized there was a side hustle for everything except baking. I knew of many people who had side hustles including selling lashes, doing nails and hair, taking pictures, designing clothes, and even selling dinner BUT I had never seen anyone who sold sweets. I saw an opportunity and took it. I made baking my side hustle. 

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I have a huge support system including my family, former teachers, and even extended family. Although my parents never hesitate when I ask for money I  figured it was time to become a little independent since I have 4 younger siblings back home. 

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When I first started NayasPastries I only offered Cupcakes, Brownies and Fried Oreos. But when I went home for Winter Break in 2020 I had major support with expanding my business. I begin to experiment having my siblings taste testing every crazy idea I had. My mom has always been extremely creative so she started throwing out every creative  idea she could think of and a lot of them were great. My parents along with my former teachers gave me a lot of constructive criticism on prices and presentation.

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Year after year I’ve watched my business expand. From Martin Schexincer Residence Hall freshman year to having people who lives an hour away coming to shop; to even hosting my own pop up shop for black owned businesses. But I didn’t do it all alone. Not only did I have an amazing support system back home but I had amazing friends and a group of brand ambassadors helping to bring awareness to my business.