I am Ruqayyah. An Arabic name given to me at birth meaning, enchanting, righteous, ascent, wise one. I am girl, I am woman, I am. I’m a product of my parents, society, and the world at large, experiences included. Born in Suriname raised in Guyana, I’m a patriot. A daughter, sister, aunt, and friend, a healer, a giver of hope, truth, human.
What I do
I’m a former Miss Teen Universal Guyana 2009, A 3x Miss Guyana Universe 2012, World 2013 & International 2014.
Former Print media Journalist (2013)
Former flight attendant (2014-2015), Graduate of the institute of Creative Arts (2016), Actress, Radio producer/hostess, Television producer/hostess (2017-2019)
with a current focus as a Musician/Singer/Songwriter/Rapper, & Entrepreneur .
In September of 2015 the Provotique Brand/Umbrella was registered & launched. Provotique stands for *Innovation that Inspires* under which two businesses currently exist.
Provotique Image & Beauty Pageant Consultancy *Developing Confidence* &
Provotique Walking Tours *Leh We Tek Ah Walk*
The later was launched in February of 2016 and though a business, ideally seeks to aid in the restoration of national pride for Guyanese residing in both Guyana and abroad in a fun, safe and affordable way.
www.provotiquewalkingtours.com
How did you arrive at the idea for your business?
I’ve always known I’d go into business as a teenager. My father’s a businessman, I pursued business subjects in 3rd form. Also as a child growing up poor I was always looking for legitimate ways to make extra cash for school. The idea for Provotique came after a conversation with a friend from Bermuda and reading ‘Loosing my Virginity’ by Richard Branson which was a birthday present from my then significant other.
2. What was your key driving force to become an entrepreneur?
Loosing my job as a Flight Attendant in 2014. I didn’t want to ever be in the position again where my only income was dependent on an employer.
3. What is your greatest challenge being an entrepreneur?
Being under 30, being a woman, being a young black entrepreneur in Guyana and finding the right team to help operate, manage & grow your business.
4. What has been your most satisfying moment in business?
The launch. Just getting started was a great feeling. It wasn’t any longer just talking about doing it. Now we actually had a business model and the real work begun.
5. What piece of advice would you give to other young people who want to become entrepreneurs?
Just do it like Nike.
6. How do you define success?
Happiness, Love, Security and a legacy that helps others.
7. Who has been your greatest inspiration?
I’ve many in music, politics, philanthropy, activism, in life and in business. They vary in terms of business, from my peers to mentors and books by accomplished business tycoons around the world. The George’s, ( Asafa, Halvard & Paton George), My boyfriend, Richard Branson, Warren Buffet, Visit Guyana’s Stacey Rahaman, Guyana’s Vishnu Doerga, My Father.
