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Inspiring Journey of Ahajanay Bolden: From Graduate to Award-Winning Entrepreneur

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Don’t Quit Your Daydream: BCCC Graduate Turns Passion into Award-Winning Business

Published 1:53 pm Wednesday, October 22, 2025

In a remarkable journey from uncertainty to entrepreneurial triumph, Ahajanay Bolden, a graduate of Beaufort County Community College (BCCC), has transformed her passion for wellness into an award-winning business. At the recent National Association of Community College Entrepreneurship (NACCE) Conference in San Diego, Bolden was honored with the prestigious Entrepreneur of the Year award, just eleven months after launching her spa, Bethel Bliss Health & Wellness, in Washington and Belhaven.

“I spent a lot of time crying, but thankful crying,” Bolden reflected on her emotional acceptance of the award. “It helped my imposter syndrome really go away. I realized that I am who I think I am.”

Bolden’s journey into the world of wellness began unexpectedly during the pandemic in 2020. While studying communication disorders in Chicago, she felt a calling for a more hands-on career. “I decided something had to give,” she said, leading her to enroll in esthetics at the Naperville Skin Institute. Graduating as valedictorian, she didn’t stop there; she pursued massage therapy at the Soma Institute, earning dual licensure.

In 2022, Bolden relocated to eastern North Carolina, ready to embark on a new chapter. It was here that she discovered BCCC’s Natural Hair Care program, which sparked the idea for her business. “I got the pamphlet you send out, and I saw the Natural Hair Care program. There was one spot left, and I said, ‘Don’t worry about it, I’m on my way,’” she recalled.

With the support of BCCC’s Small Business Center, Bolden drafted a business plan for Bethel Bliss Health & Wellness. “When I found out the classes were free, I didn’t believe it,” she said, eagerly attending classes even before officially launching her business.

In November 2024, after a career disruption pushed her to take the leap, Bolden opened her doors. Her commitment to “whole-person wellness” resonated with clients, leading to rapid success. She won the Seed & Sow Pitch Contest and other NACCE competitions, which helped fund her certification in medical massage in Costa Rica—a trip she describes as life-changing.

Bolden’s recognition as NACCE’s Entrepreneur of the Year came as a surprise. “Everyone around me kept saying, ‘You’re going to win,’ but I still doubted it,” she admitted. “To only be 11 months in and win Entrepreneur of the Year, it’s unheard of.”

Now, as she prepares to expand her business and hire additional staff, Bolden emphasizes the importance of community and opportunity. “I wear every hat: owner, therapist, marketer. You may be Superwoman, but it’s okay to take off the cape and get some help,” she said. She also aims to create opportunities for justice-involved individuals, helping them find new paths.

Through her journey, Bolden has remained steadfast in her belief: “Don’t quit your daydream. If it’s on your heart, it’s there for a reason.” A small statue in her home serves as a daily reminder of her mantra. “I’ve had it for four years. Now I look at it and realize, this is what happens when you don’t quit your daydream.”

Bolden’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and passion, inspiring others to pursue their dreams, no matter the obstacles.