Golde’s co-founder and CEO Trinity Mouzon Wofford’s entrepreneurial path has always been about calling shots on her own terms. Whether it be daringly reaching out to fellow entrepreneurs or standing firm in letting her brand grow naturally, she always goes with her gut.

While her initial decision to not take venture capital wasn’t one that she describes as being backed by consciousness, it’s a move that demonstrates how trusting the process can be just as effective. As a young Black female CEO a part of a group that isn’t typically embraced by investors, the way her business unfolded ultimately worked in her favor. Not having to focus on the ins and out of the investing world allowed her to flip the narrative on its head of the effects of someone of her background being shut out of the space.

It’s following the beat of her own drum that has landed Golde in the stores of big-name retailers such as Sephora and Target.

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Wofford’s path is an inspiration for those who come behind her to prove how there isn’t only one way to become a successful CEO. After learning the ropes to building her business — starting from 23-years-old when it all started — she’s now leading the way for young future founders.

“I think that one of the biggest rewards of building out my business has been having the opportunity now to pass that knowledge back and get on the phone with aspiring entrepreneurs or folks who are just kind of getting started in their journey and walking them through what I know,” Wofford told AfroTech.

The AFROTECH™ Future 50 honoree spoke with us about building Golde from the ground up, the misconceptions of being an entrepreneur, and lessons learned from navigating in her own lane.

Editorial note: Portions of this interview have been edited and condensed for clarity and length.

Trinity Mouzon Wofford

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