#GIRLBOSS SPOTLIGHT: CARMEN NKOUNKOU

Written by: Amy Ann

A #girlboss is a woman who faces so many obstacles and still finds a way to fight through it. A #girlboss is a woman who empowers other women. A #girlboss is a woman who breaks through any barriers and limits. That #girlboss is Carmen Nkounkou. Carmen Nkounkou is the owner of Broken Limits, which is a eclectic, Afrocentric line of handcrafted jewelry. We wanted to chat with Carmen for a bit, and spread some light on why she's our #girlboss of the hour!

Amy Ann:

When you hear the term #Girlboss, what does it mean to you?

Carmen Nkounkou:

To me, #Girlboss means redefining the image of women in business. Taking charge and being your own boss is such an amazing feeling. You run things how and when you want.

AA:

Broken Limits - what inspired the name? What does broken limits mean to you?

CN:

Defying stereotypes and breaking down barriers is what “Broken Limits” represents. The name first started as a way to show the importance of my culture. I wanted to show people that being African was not something that should be looked down upon - it should be embraced. As time went on, I realized that the name applies to anything you do in life. We must learn to break down the barriers people have created for us; prove them wrong.

     Broken Limits Tagline: “Those who break down barriers - break through limits.”

AA:

Recently you’ve teamed up with us last year for a DIY workshop class; tell us about that, how did that process start?

CN:

I already knew I wanted to do a workshop on how to create wire rings. Not only are they my favorite thing to make, but they are also my customers favorite item to wear. Getting together the materials and tools was the bulk of the process. Combining the workshop with Signature Scents by Hand was actually easier than I thought. Once we talked about the vision for the event everything came into place. Did we run into obstacles? Of course. But we were able to figure it out and turn the event into a success.

AA:

Why do you think customers enjoy handmade products over manufactured products?

CN:

We live in a world where many things are mass produced. They are created in large factories and in large quantities for people to enjoy. Is there anything wrong with that? No. But handmade products bring a different type of joy to a human. They are created with joy and passion; no two items are exactly alike. Customers are more likely to value and take extra care of a product that was made just for them.

AA:

As a #girlboss it’s always important to make sure you look the part, and smell the part of course. What is it about yours, fragrance that makes it special to you?

CN:

Yours, fragrance is strong yet soft. I receive endless compliments every time I wear this scent. My favorite thing about this scent is that it lasts all day.

AA:

What are some of your favorite notes in your go to scents? And why?

CN:

Some of my favorite notes are egyptian musk, sandalwood, patchouli, amber, and lotus flower. My favorite scents are sensual and woodsy.

AA:

As a #girlboss do you ever face self doubt? If so, how did you overcome it?

CN:

Always. And I still do. Here are two ways I deal with self doubt:

- Stop worrying about what others think

- Remind myself of what I have already accomplished, then reach towards a better goal; it can only get better from there.

Carmen is a woman on a mission. As she would say "When work doesn't feel like work..." Be on the lookout for her beautiful handmade gems.