"Empowering college students
to Lead with
Love in Entrepreneurship
ABOUT
"VaLanDria Smith-Lash is a dynamic entrepreneur who inspires college students to turn their passions into impactful and successful businesses."
VaLanDria Smith-Lash is the 23-year-old founder and CEO of Coarse Culture, a plant-based personal care brand inspired by her love for her mother. What began at age 14 as a means to ease her mother's discomfort from lupus has grown into a nationwide product line available on various platforms, including Amazon and boutique shops- landing VaLanDria on the Chicago Forbes 30 Under 30 List.
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As a young, Black woman and full-time entrepreneur, VaLanDria is committed to empowering young visionaries. Her "Lead with Love" framework aligns with and enhances collegiate initiatives in leadership, diversity, equity, inclusion, and entrepreneurship, encouraging students to embrace unconventional paths to success. She is eager to share her journey, insights, and experiences with students at universities across the region, fostering collaboration and inspiration.
AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS
VaLanDria Smith-Lash is a celebrated entrepreneur whose achievements have been recognized on both national and local stages. As a member of Forbes' prestigious 30 Under 30 Class of 2023**, she has been acknowledged for her innovative contributions to business and her impact as a young leader. In addition, she was named Aviatra Accelerators' Young Women Entrepreneur of the Year, honoring her commitment to empowering women and her outstanding entrepreneurial success. VaLanDria was also recognized as one of Cincinnati Inno's 5 Under 25, a distinction awarded to top young innovators in the region who are making significant strides in their industries. These accolades underscore VaLanDria's dedication to inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs through her business, Coarse Culture, and her ongoing leadership.
SPEAKING
VaLanDria Smith-Lash is an inspiring entrepreneur and dynamic public speaker who is passionate about empowering the next generation of leaders. As the founder of Coarse Culture, a brand focused on self-care and wellness, she has become a sought-after speaker for her ability to blend business insights with personal growth strategies. Her experiences provide value to thousands across a variety of topics.
Entrepreneurship & Business Growth
Sharing her journey of starting and scaling Coarse Culture, VaLanDria offers practical advice on building a brand, creating a solid foundation for success, and navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship.
Women in Leadership & Entrepreneurship
Women in Leadership & Entrepreneurship**: As a young Black woman leading a thriving business, VaLanDria speaks on overcoming obstacles, breaking stereotypes, and the importance of representation in the business world.
Maximizing the College Experience
Having founded her business while still in college, VaLanDria speaks on leveraging the resources, connections, and opportunities available during college to set up long-term success.
Mindset & Personal Development
With a focus on discipline, resilience, and goal-setting, VaLanDria helps audiences develop the mindset needed to grow as both individuals and business leaders.
Her talks inspire audiences to lead with intention, embrace their unique paths, and pursue their dreams with confidence and balance.
Self-Care & Wellness in Business
A firm believer that self-care fuels productivity and creativity, VaLanDria encourages entrepreneurs and professionals to prioritize their well-being while building their careers.
Q & A Session
This engaging session offers a unique opportunity to dive deeper into VaLanDria’s journey, explore her insights on business growth, self-care, and leadership, and ask questions directly.
AS FEATURED IN
