Nadja Young shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Nadja, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: Who are you learning from right now?
I’m learning from a few people , not all baking related either . One of the biggest is LaRussell he inspires me because he’s an independent artist and did it all on his own . He’s everywhere right now because he took a chance on himself . It makes me feel like I can make it too if I stay consistent and show up everyday . My other is my mentor Catarah Coleman coowner of Southern girls Desserts . She inspires me and is always humble. She took the time to help me start my journey and gave me so much info and insight and still supports me . Dayveon at Cakes by Day teachs me so much as a baker . He also inspires me .Philesia Manuel at Romance and Dance I also learn from as far as a woman in business , and many more women I learn from as well
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
For those who don’t already know me . I’m Nadja Young owner/operator of Nadjas Sweet TREAts . I’m a self taught baker / cake designer . I started by baking for family . People who attended these events started calling me asking to buy treats and things and it took off from there . I realized I really had a passion for it . I enjoy making beautiful things and the fact that the things I make are also edible is just the icing on the cake (pun intended ) . My motto is “Made with Love” , because I put my heart into my work . I love making things that bring happiness . Nothings better than the response and joy when someone sees something I made for them . My inspiration is always my kids . Being the best version of me I can be for them is what drives me . It’s the reason the TREA is capitalized in my business name . They are my 4 kids initials Tanaeja , Rashaan, Eunique and Amanda . I have a fifth Kacey who was born after my start .Im currently trying to figure out exactly where I’d like to take my brand but keep an eye out .
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
My earliest memory of feeling powerful was probably when I graduated nursing school . I had the biggest fear of needles and getting through all the practice pokes from fellow students as well as passing all the exams and graduating top of my class made me feel like I could do anything . I felt accomplished and smart and just on top of the world .
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
The feeling of not being good enough has always paralyzed me . Knowing I’ll be judged and possibly told I’m not good is such a paralyzing feeling . I’m getting better at not letting that hold me back but it’s a whole process . The thing that’s helped me most is all the people who support , give me words of encouragement , and the people who bring me peace in my life . I’m an overthinker so it’s easy for me to spiral sometimes but a lot of amazing people keep me focused and on track . I’m grateful for that most .
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
When I think of character one of the first people who come to mind is the founder of Urban Reset , Bruce Mcall. He is one of the most giving , kind , empathetic people I’m blessed to know . His foundation is always doing things in the community to help others and inspire children . In his spare time he helps hand out food baskets and feed the community . He could be struggling and will still help everyone else . A truly selfless human .He embodies a lot of my values and puts it all into action . This is also why it’s one of my go to organizations when I want to give back, and giving back is always at the top of my list . An attitude of gratitude can take you a long way .
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I’m at the beach . Maybe it’s the Pisces in me but the sound of the waves crashing and the wind blowing on the shore calms me . I can tune out all the other noise and just close my eyes and it’s just me and The Beach .Its my happy place .
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bakesy.shop/b/nadjas-sweet-treats
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/nadjassweettreats
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/nadjassweettreats
