Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda Torres.
Hi Amanda, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Bravechains was born from an unfortunate experience. I should say, it was born from a few. The mission statement for my company derived specifically from wishing I had more ways to defend myself when I was faced with traumatizing experiences.
Instead of being afraid to be alone as a woman, I wanted to empower women by spreading awareness with a trendy accessory. I began by asking questions to my friends. I was even taking online polls to really explore the need for the actual protection.
It was a shock to me to find that numerous women I knew went about their day without so much as pepper spray. That’s when I knew I found a way to channel my own fear into a passion for this purpose. The goal isn’t to sell the keychains themselves. I really just want to ensure that more women are equipped to avoid experiences like my own. Bravechains are just a vessel for the awareness I want to bring so women don’t have to learn the hard way.
I used to take kickboxing classes and park my car in well-lit areas. I even checked my back seat and circled my apartment complex twice if someone was following me to make sure I wasn’t being preyed on. Even still when the time came for me to really defend myself against being attacked, I wish I was more prepared.
So I founded BraveChains LLC and now my goal is to change the way women feel when it comes to their safety, I just want them to feel brave.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
In the midst of this pandemic, I would most definitely say this has been a challenge though it has been worth it every step of the way. I began this business with my own blood, sweat, tears, and experiences and all while in the midst of this pandemic.
Launching a company while the world is on restrictions, shortages and lockdowns may not have been the smartest move but I did it for the sake of making a change that mattered, In fact, attacks on women and domestic violence rates increase due to the pandemic so it was more important than ever before.
It took me almost 8 months to save enough to buy everything I wanted for the keychains. I wanted the best quality so I invested in a logo design that was very specific to how I wanted Bravechains to be showcased. I got creative and had fun with it and here I am a year later and I just filed for my LLC.
I am hoping to one day make this my complete focus alongside music.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Aside from Bravechains, I have been pursuing music since the age of 16 years old. As an R&B artist, I have performed in numerous cities and met some of the most amazing people through music.
I can save the rest of that for another time but music is a passion I have had since I could talk. Writing music and creating is something that will always be a part of my life.
We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
The pandemic only furthered my interest in entrepreneurship. I lost my job, went 8 months without income and it was really the worst timing.
I thought by my age I would have it all figured out as far as a career but I am realizing that my generation is suffering due to the stigma when it comes to expected success. Our parents went to college and had guaranteed jobs and pensions. We don’t have the same security with our positions under a corporate umbrella .
The pandemic only made this more clear as Americans across the US lost their respective positions and businesses shut down going bankrupt. It was time for me to take a chance on myself.
Contact Info:
- Email: Bravechains@gmail.com
- Website: https://bravechainsllc.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bravechains/
