How will you be approaching 2018?

I always approach a new year positively with the approach to make it the best year. I never want to take what I have for granted. In college I worked on a make-up counter to make ends meet and now I’ve just released my own fragrance–I never want to forget where I came from, because that’s what given me such an appreciation for what I have now. At the end, it all comes down to hard work, and I plan to keep working hard at everything I do, in 2018 and beyond.

What is the key focus for your brand?

The key focus for me and my brand is to expand my brand’s global profile and use it to empower women around the world. When I was younger I was very critical of myself, I didn’t have a lot of confidence. It took me a while to get to the point where I could embrace who I was and love myself. If what I put out there in the world–whether it’s on “The X Factor” or through my songs or products–can help other girls do the same, then I’ll feel like I’ve won.

 

What are three insights that you think will make the world of business a better place?

1. Equality for women is crucial to business, and just for society in general. Right now, I feel like a lot of girls have to work extra hard to earn respect. I want to change that. If you’re good at what you do and you work hard, it shouldn’t matter what your gender is, or your skin color for that matter.
2. Good communication is important to getting anything done, I mean anything.
3. Always stay one step ahead of the game. I’m always thinking about what I can do next and how I can be better. To be successful, you have to be a hustler, because it’s not going to happen on its own. You always have to look forward and stay on top of things.

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