From Spanish Teacher to Small Business Owner: My Journey

I started my very first job at the age of 18, teaching Spanish to adults and middle school children. Looking back, I realize that experience shaped my work ethic and my appreciation for the transformative power of education. From that point on, I’ve always worked—often learning more on the job than I ever expected.

A few years later, my friend Namisha and I launched our own business in Delhi called ESEN, offering translation and interpretation services. That leap into entrepreneurship was both thrilling and challenging. We were young and determined, and every project taught us something new about working with clients and managing a business.

Eventually, life took me beyond India, and long story short, I landed in Northwest Arkansas. In January 2010, I started a Kumon franchise here. The first three years were some of the most demanding of my life. I was working nonstop—learning everything I could about Kumon worksheets and content, training and managing assistants, and striving to offer the highest quality of service to the families who trusted me with their children’s learning. It was stressful and, at times, overwhelming.

But today, after 15 years in this community, I can say I’ve found my rhythm. My center is well known, and I’ve built systems that allow me to take days off without the slightest drop in quality. For that, I am forever grateful to my Kumon mentors and to the Rogers-Lowell Chamber of Commerce for welcoming me into the local business community and introducing me to events that helped me share my work with others.

Over time, my appreciation for small businesses has only deepened. Running my own business taught me how much dedication and heart it takes to keep a small operation going—and thriving. That’s why, on my website, you’ll find recommendations for some of my favorite local businesses in Northwest Arkansas. These are places I personally visit and love. It doesn’t mean the others aren’t wonderful—it just means I don’t get out as much as I’d like!

So whenever you have a chance, consider shopping at a small business and supporting the families behind them. It truly makes a difference.