Motivation or dedication?
That was the question Najah Tenute, owner of a local baby boutique, Curated Cradle, posed to St. Thomas More Catholic Secondary School students when discussing what attribute is most important for being successful.
As part of an Alumni Speaker Series, the former graduate was invited to speak last month with senior business, entrepreneur and law students to share her career journey.
“The series bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world experience,” said Teacher Andrea Leone. “Our STM alumni have incredible stories, and we wanted our students to see what is possible when they leave these hallways."
For Tenute, her hustle mentality was born watching her father, an immigrant from Lebanon, build one of the first Lebanese restaurants in Canada – La Luna – with $100 in his pocket and a dream.
“Motivation provides that initial spark and enthusiasm needed to pursue a goal,” she said, answering her prompt. “But dedication is the constant commitment when your motivation is lacking, or you've reached a roadblock in your journey.”
Working in her father’s kitchen, Tenute gained tangible life skills that can’t be taught in a textbook.
“Growing up waitressing shaped me into the woman I am today. What I couldn't see back then was how important this job was for me... understanding people, relating to people, being empathetic to people, and truly being able to converse with people from all walks of life and make them feel comfortable. It brought me out of my shell and gave me the confidence to pursue whatever it was that I set my heart on.”
Now, as an accomplished businesswoman herself, Tenute shared how her success stemmed from her ability to find a niche market, continuously reinvest in her shop and adapt to the changing markets.
As the sole employee, Tenute stressed that dedication also means understanding she is responsible for every aspect of her business.
“It's 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”
From bookkeeping, to cleaning, banking, shipping, inventory, and everything in between, Tenute explains that it all falls on her.
“There is a lot of sacrifice involved in getting to where you want to go, and if you feel like anything is below you, I'm going to tell you, it's not. I do everything, top to bottom. And I honestly believe that because I have taken on the role of doing everything, it has humbled me.”
Opening up the floor for questions, students were able to learn more about challenges, joys and personal lessons of owning a business. Topics included how she navigated through COVID and what her business response is on the tariffs.
Reflecting on a time when she once was a student in their seat, Tenute concluded her talk with words of gratitude and hope.
“A huge respect is owed to anyone who pulls an idea out of their brain and brings it to life,” she said. “To know that it started as a mere thought and is brought to fruition is unbelievably powerful.”
“If you have an idea, I challenge you to see it through, believe in yourself and never stop.”