Many entrepreneurs are driven by a personal mission. For Lanai Alphonse, founder of A&L Solutions, that mission centers on financial empowerment. Inspired by a model that empowered individuals toward financial freedom, Lanai found her purpose ignited. In this interview, we delve deeper into her story. Discover how her experiences have shaped the mission of A&L Solutions and the strategies she uses to build her business.
For the month of May, we're shining our light on Lanai and A&L Solutions in our Diverse Hampton Roads Featured Member Spotlight Series! This monthly showcase is our way of celebrating and highlighting the subscribed members of our Diverse Hampton Roads community.
A&L Solutions
Business Owner: Lanai Alphonse
Type of Business: Finacial Services
Location: Hampton Virginia
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lanaia_vision
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lanai.alphonse
What inspired you to start your business? Share your unique vision or motivation.
I was inspired to start this business because I saw a company model and distribution system that taught individuals how to be financially free and eliminate the need for life insurance while properly preparing for retirement. My motivation is my daughter. I want to show her how to be successful and free with your time and life. I want to show her that all things are possible by working smart and developing a consistent dedication to achieve a goal that can set her up for life.
How does your cultural background or personal experiences influence your business approach?
My personal experience has influenced me to work hard for myself and the dreams I desire. I served in the military and did all things asked but I was only accomplishing the overall bigger goal for the Navy organization and not myself. I am influenced to place the same effort and dedication behind my business to build my dream of a big business that enlightens others and fulfills the things I want in this life.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced as a diverse business owner and how did you overcome them?
My biggest challenge is finding others who are like-minded and who desire and want to have something more than the everyday things most people are complacent with. I believe overcoming this is talking with more individuals and learning that I will find my studs and gems within the numbers.
Describe your products or services in a way that showcases your unique perspective or offering.
I believe my business stands out because I get to educate others on investments that exist and give a great return on investment that is financially beneficial while offering other financial services products such as life insurance, mortgage loans, auto and homeowners insurance, and everything else that deals with the financial planning aspect for families today.
How do you aim to make a positive impact on your community or industry?
I aim to build connections within my community and beyond by providing exceptional business services that inspire others to recommend me to more people who will want to consult with me.
What strategies have you found successful in reaching and engaging your target audience?
In my industry, achieving success comes down to consistency, dedication, and resilience. These qualities are essential for effectively reaching and resonating with the target audience.
What resources or support do you think would be most valuable for micro and small diverse businesses like yours?
I believe barriers such as fees preventing small businesses like mine from participating in job fairs and other events where direct engagement with individuals is restricted impede our growth and opportunities for connection
What are your goals and aspirations for your business in the coming years?
My goal is to have a team of women and men who are ambitious and want to help change others' lives for the better. I will promote positivity and a winning environment where everyone can thrive and reach potentials that were never imagined and are achievable.
What advice would you give to aspiring diverse entrepreneurs just starting out?
Consistency outlasts failure, and the only way you can fail at anything is if you quit. Also, find your niche and passion for what you are setting out to achieve. Also, build your business to the desired presence you want it to have.
What message do you want to share with the audience about the significance of diverse small businesses?
Diverse small businesses representing different backgrounds, cultures, and specialties, are an important part of the market today. They play a key role in driving progress and growth in their areas.
As we end our May Featured Member Spotlight, we want to express our deepest appreciation to Lanai Alphonse founder of A&L Solutions, and our other wonderful members who have contributed to our Featured Member Spotlight Series. Join us next month when we introduce you to another remarkable member of our diverse business and nonprofit community.
Missed our previous spotlights? Discover the inspiring stories of more diverse entrepreneurs in the Hampton Roads area! Read their stories by visiting the links below.
1. Alodeuri - From Passion to Purpose: https://www.diversehamptonroads.com/blog/featured-member-series-alodeuri-from-passion-to-purpose.
2. Christine Passo, LLC - From Doubt to Fulfillment: https://www.diversehamptonroads.com/blog/featured-member-series-christine-passo-llc-from-doubt-to-fulfillment.
3. For The Love Of Children - From Conflict to Cooperative Coparenting: https://www.diversehamptonroads.com/blog/featured-member-series-for-the-love-of-children-consulting-from-conflict-to-cooperative-coparenting.
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