Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in community service but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Khasema Johnson, Founder, and CEO of Pink Puncherz, located in Milwaukee, WI, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Pink Puncherz is a nonprofit organization geared toward women and men going thru breast cancers and survivors. We offer support with lots of compassion, resources, and help with obtaining a healthier lifestyle. Breast cancer is a difficult journey, and Pink Puncherz loves to step in at any time and take away some of the burdens.

Tell us about yourself

My name is Khasema Johnson. I am the founder and C.E.O of Pink Puncherz. I myself was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013. I went through Chemotherapy, Radiation, and I had a Lumpectomy which caused me to be cancer free to this day. While going through all of this, I had the most amazing support system. However, I watch people fight this battle alone which hurts me to the core. I made a promise to God that If he saw me through, I would try to educate and give hope to as many people as I could. So I worked for Susan G. Komen and ABCD(After Breast Cancer Diagnosis), where I still mentor other survivors. These two organizations fueled me to start my own nonprofit. Since 2014 I've hosted several workout events, created a survivor calendar, been featured on Black Nouveau, on billboards around Milwaukee, filmed a motivational video, and much more.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I would have to say my biggest accomplishment would be all of the positive feedback I get. I love the smiles and positive energy I receive when people say things like "Thank you for making me go get that mammogram" or "When's your next event because I enjoyed the last one."

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

For me, it's the funding because I'm a nonprofit. This means I have to apply for grants, receive a donation, or pay out of pocket for a lot of things. That can sometimes put a damper on things when you have GREAT BIG ideas but no funds to put them into motion.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Knowing the fact that your biggest supporter will be a stranger.
  2. You might hear the word "no" a lot but keep pushing.
  3. Everyone will not be as passionate about your vision as you, so pick your team wisely.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Timing is everything, and your greatness will happen when it's supposed to!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: http://www.pinkpuncherz.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PINKPUNCHERZ

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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