Sophisticated Security: Turning Safety Tools into Stylish Statements
Baltimore,MD -Morgan State University(MSU) is home to aspiring entrepreneurs like Camisha Daly, a student with a vision to blend style and safety through her business, ‘Blazing Boutique.’
Daly specializes in taking common self defense items like kubotans, small pen knives, pocket sized tasers and other common personal protection items and making them accessible to her peers.
“We sell self-defense items for women who feel the need to be protected, but I make it very cute and very stylish,” said Daly.
Managing her studies alongside her business demands commitment. Camisha describes her daily routine: commuting, attending classes, and dedicating late hours to her business.
"Being a student isn’t that hard; I love school, so it comes easy," she remarks.
Camisha Daly at the MSU Library. Captured by Morgan Lewis
However, balancing both aspects remains a challenge. Starting her business on campus wasn't without hurdles.
"I was shy and unable to interact with peers in promoting my business,"Camisha admits.
Over time, she found her voice, utilizing posters and campus resources like pop-up shops facilitated by Morgan State's Campus Activities Board(CAB) to gain traction. Her efforts have not gone unnoticed. The Morgan State community has embraced her products, especially during her first pop-up shop.
"People thanked me because, in an open campus environment, many felt the need to protect themselves," Camisha reflects.
Daly found that adding her creative spirit increased her peers' comfort with carrying self defense tools openly.
“I work long shifts at the hospital and take the train late at night where there are a lot of lingerers. I never feel safe and always wish I had pepper spray or a taser, so thank you,” said a customer.
Daly’s kits encourage women to not only carry these self defense tools on their person but comfortably display their self defense tools openly to ward off potential danger.
The entrepreneurial spirit at Historically Black Colleges and Universities(HBCUs) like Morgan State is not out of the ordinary. As per insights provided by Third Way, a national think tank advocating modern center-left ideas, 75% of HBCUs offer entrepreneurship courses. This statistic shows the dedication within HBCUs to equip students with not just academic knowledge but also practical skills and the entrepreneurial mindset needed to navigate and thrive in today's competitive business landscape.
“Even if you're not a business major, start it and do your research," Camisha advises aspiring student entrepreneurs.
Camisha’s story underscores the importance of support systems within the university.
"I always thank Morgan State CAB for the pop-up shops; without them, my funds would be very low," she acknowledges.
Looking ahead, Camisha envisions more than her current business. She hopes to build on her creative spirit and her knowledge of women’s style to explore different avenues for her entrepreneurial ambitions like fashion and jewelry. Currently she aims to open a beauty bar. Daly hopes to pass her learning along by mentoring others. Trying to emulate the same supportive community that she found at MSU wherever life takes her next.
"Being around black people, in general, is really uplifting; they always try to find a way for you to grow," she notes.
By: Morgan Lewis
Contributions: Blazing Boutique, Camisha Daly, Third Way
Photo: Morgan Lewis(Morganthestoryteller)
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