Meet Tanesha Green

Life often presents us with challenges that test our strength, tenacity, and perseverance. And, despite our best efforts, sometimes the darkness makes it difficult for us to see the light.  

But if you are Tanesha Green, you do not just create a light to get through the darkness – you become it.   

Tanesha’s journey is not a traditional one. The now 43-year-old entrepreneur began her business, Keepin’ it Lit, by selling fragrant candles around the time of the COVID-19 pandemic. She had just completed a transformational weight loss journey when a friend encouraged her to also consider going back to school to receive her high school diploma.

When she discovered the Excel Center at Goodwill, there was no stopping her determination to achieve her diploma – and at the age of 42, she graduated. It was then her counselor suggested Tanesha consider enrolling at the Garatoni School of Entrepreneurship and Innovation at Ivy Tech.

Unfortunately, before she could tackle her next challenge, Tanesha was faced with some devastating news.

“I’d found out my grandmother was diagnosed with lung cancer,” she shared. “When she got sick, I started to think about the herbal, natural ways I could help her.”

Tanesha’s attempt to pivot her business model to begin selling more than just candles became her way of supporting her grandmother and others interested in her products. She took a unique, holistic approach to selling 100% natural products ranging from nasal inhalers and pillow sprays to herbal teas and essential roll-ons. Today, the products are packaged into boxes that are tailored to specific ailments for the body, including boxes for nausea, anxiety, depression, and more.

With her life circumstances and passion for furthering her education and strengthening her business, Tanesha made the decision to enroll in the School of Entrepreneurship and Innovation in August of 2021.

Along the way, Tanesha won her first pitch competition at InnoPower, a 501(c)(3) community development organization that works to support underrepresented ecosystems, businesses, and professionals in education, workforce development, and entrepreneurship. She also credits the guidance and leadership of the Dean of the School, Dr. Ronda Taylor, for helping her get connected to the people and businesses that would help elevate her brand.   

And while she graduates this month with a certification, her long-term goal is to continue her academic journey and to pursue an associate degree.

“It’s never too late,” she said. “This program has given me the confidence to speak in front of people, to be intentional with my work, and to strengthen my networking skills.”

Tanesha’s business continues to light the way for her customers to find peace, relaxation, and relief for their bodies and minds. Keepin’ it Lit is a way for all of us to connect with our inner light, serving as an important reminder when life throws us into unforeseen circumstances.

“My candles keep me lit,” she said. “They make me happy, they make me feel good, and they get me through the dark times.”