We had the good fortune of connecting with Shnickqua Smith-Aiken and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shnickqua, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I started my own business after completing school and had a bad experience with name stereotype. The issues were the motivation to have something I could be proud of and show my daughters something they could achieve. When I completed school, I went to a job interview on time, and I was dressed as a business professional for the interview (confidence on high), the interviewer was shock took one look at me and stated you Shinckqua? Confidence gone. I later took a job as a cashier and at that cashier job a customer offered to purchase my name tag so the next time his secretary had an attitude, he could give to to her. I was even told not to use my first name. This black girl from the eastside of Charleston name Shnickqua at that point wanted her own business.

What should our readers know about your business?
I am a highly-rated motivational person with 20+ years of experience as a tax professional I works with individuals, Business, and non- profit organizations taxes. Shnickqua also completed certification to be a Notary Signing Agent. One thing I do is make sure my client understands their tax return before they leave my office.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Well since I am not the most outgoing person it is kind of hard for me to say.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to give a shoutout to the people who support me and business. My children and grandkids who are my motivation.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551887072285

Other: taxesandinsurance4320@gmail.com

Image Credits
Bubble Photography Studios

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSouthCarolina is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.