"She Means Business" Spotlight Shines on Mahisha Dellinger

March is a month of celebration — of intentionally showing love and appreciation for the women in our lives, and highlighting the contributions of women throughout history!

This year, TV One’s theme is “Dream On: She Means Business,” which honors powerful, trailblazing women who have shattered glass ceilings with their tremendous achievements.

Join us throughout the month of March, as we shine a spotlight on some extraordinary women who have embodied the power of dreams in action, capturing their evolution from young girls with aspirations to the monumental figures they are today.  We celebrate their journeys. 

Mahisha Dellinger, CEO and Founder of CURLS & HUZZY Smart Sips

Mahisha Dellinger, a former Marketing Manager at a fortune 500 company, founded CURLS in 2002 after being disenchanted with the lack of natural haircare products with quality ingredients and dependability. Dellinger also founded Huzzy Smart Sips, a brand of non-alcoholic cocktails which aims to give consumers a healthier way of getting their buzz on!

Continuing reading to learn more about this powerful woman, in her own words.

Q: When you hear “She Means Business,” what comes to your mind? And share what it means to embody that phrase?

MD: When I hear “She Means Business” I think of a strong Black women who is taking charge of her life. I think of a woman that embodies boldness…unapologetically.

Q: Businesswomen face many challenges from flexible hours, motherhood (if a mom), relationships, friendships and just finding an overall work-life balance. How do you empower yourself and the women around you through it all?

MD: I empower myself daily by reminding myself that I am leading my 4 daughters by example, of how you have it all…family, business, and love.

Q: Tell us about a pivotal moment in your career that will always stay with you.

MD: The moment I left Intel Corporation after being targeted by my racist Manager to branch out and launch my first business. If I didn’t have that experience, I do not know if I would be the Mogul I am today.

Q: No is a powerful word… Talk about the power of saying “no.”

MD: Listen, I am not afraid of saying no. No is an entire sentence…a complete thought. Time is our most valuable commodity, use it wisely. Take control of your life, and your time and embrace saying no to things, people, offers, and situations that do not suit you.

Q: Why is it so important for women to take time and smell their own flowers… to be proud of themselves?

MD: The world beats us down every single day. Malcolm X said, “The most disrespected person in America, is the black woman.” We must protect our peace and our mental health. We can start by appreciating ourselves.

Q: Share a piece of advice for young women starting out on their career journey.

MD: Remember that your journey is YOUR JOURNEY. Comparison is the thief of joy. Do not get caught up in what others are doing. What God has for you, is for you.