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A few years ago, Jonecka Williams knew she was at a crossroads with her health. In 2021, she had surgery to remove cancerous cells in her thyroid. Following the surgery, Jonecka experienced a series of chronic health issues with no clear diagnosis or path forward.
“I was on a ton of different medications, but they would counteract each other and nothing was working. Finally, I said, ‘I’m sick of this. I have to turn my pain into purpose,’” Jonecka said.
That moment led her to establish Abundant Distinction, a holistic healing company specializing in herbal teas, natural hair growth oils and somatic movement to promote wellness and self-awareness.
Jonecka knew she wanted to help her community, but she needed help. Mile High United Way was there to support Jonecka.
Jonecka enrolled in our Small Business Accelerator, which provides small business owners with the resources, instruction and tools they need to grow their business.
“I thought I had all the basics figured out when I started the accelerator,” she said. “The first class they asked me, ‘What’s your customer avatar? Who is your client?’ and I said, ‘I guess anyone who drinks tea?’ There was so much I didn’t know yet.”
The accelerator classes helped Jonecka define her customer profile, develop a marketing plan and build a growth strategy.
“The foundational knowledge was crucial, and the networking changed the game for me,” Jonecka added.
In May, Jonecka also attended our Thrive Small Business Summit where she received additional support and training, including being asked to perform her 30-second business pitch on the spot.
“I didn’t feel ready, but I had all the tools to be successful,” she said. “You never know when you might need to be ready to pitch and now I have that confidence.”
Pursuing Her Calling
For Jonecka, Abundant Distinction is a labor of love born from her own personal interest in herbalism. She had dabbled in holistic living, but following her thyroid cancer diagnosis and a divorce, Jonecka felt it was time to take control of her life.
“I started trying natural supplements and teas just for myself, and I gave them to my mom, too. My job at the time was taking a toll on my mental health and nothing felt like I had a purpose,” Jonecka said.
Jonecka left her job to pursue making herbal teas for friends and family and also became a certified herbalist.
“When I started Abundant Distinction, I thought my primary focus would be somatic movement. I didn’t think people would be drawn to the teas, but then more people started asking for them. That was the turning point,” she said.
Today, Abundant Distinction products are available at Lela’s Honey at The Shops at Northfield and community events, as Jonecka works to expand her reach and offerings. She’s grateful for how Mile High United Way has supported her journey.
“The Small Business Accelerator was a great launching pad for me,” Jonecka said. “We know this entrepreneurial journey is difficult, but when you’re in a room with others on the same path, you no longer feel alone.”
“I can’t say this has been easy, but I believe I’m walking in my purpose and doing what I’m passionate about. Every day I hear stories from people who I’ve helped; things like that are so impactful. I can’t go back, and I can’t stop. This is bigger than the finances for me – it’s a calling.”
