In this session, Tamika Thomas shares her experience in navigating the self-employment process in creating Imagine Me Images. Monica Doyle supports Tamika through all phases of self-employment as a Certified Business Technical Assistance Consultant (CBTAC). This conversation will bring participants along for the challenges, celebrations, business concept development, goal setting, and research Tamika and Monica are navigating in real-time to establish Imagine Me Images. Tamika’s story of resiliency and perseverance will inspire providers and prospective business owners.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the challenges and celebrations a prospective business owner experiences in the self-employment process.
• Receive advice and recommendations from an entrepreneur currently navigating the self-employment process.
• Discuss the benefits, flexibility, and opportunities that come from self-employment.
• Learn how a CBTAC supports people through the self-employment process.
• Understand how skill, passion, and support can align a person to a business concept that truly fits them.

Bios:

Monica Doyle is a CBTAC currently working with Florida Vocational Rehabilitation clients.

Tamika Thomas is the creator of Imagine Me Images. From a small town with big dreams, Tamika L. Thomas is a resilient Black woman who has overcome significant challenges in life. As an ex-felon, she has faced obstacles that many would find insurmountable, but her journey is one of redemption, strength, and hope. After years of hardship, she rediscovered her Faith, which has been the cornerstone of her transformation. Today, she is breaking barriers, not only for herself but for others who have walked similar paths. With a renewed sense of purpose, Tamika is dedicated to doing better than she did yesterday, every single day. Her mission is to inspire and uplift, proving that no matter what your past, a brighter future is always possible.

With a certificate in commercial photography, I have sharpened my skills both behind the camera and in post-production. Over the past 2 1/2 years, I’ve had the opportunity to work as a second shooter under experienced photographers, learning the significance of capturing compelling images in various settings. This experience has shaped my approach to running my own photoshoots, where I bring creativity and professionalism to each project. As a member of TAPPA (Tampa Bay Professional Photographer of America), I stay connected to the industry’s best practices and continue to grow as a photographer.