Today we’d like to introduce you to Tanika Harper
Tanika, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I am a Knoxville native with a passion for entrepreneurship and community impact. With an M.S. in Criminal Justice and an M.S. in Ethics and Leadership, my journey has been shaped by a deep commitment to service and empowerment. I am also a mother, raising a teenage daughter, which adds another layer of motivation to everything I do.
Growing up in a family of entrepreneurs, I was inspired by my father, who established one of the longest-running Black-owned businesses in Knoxville. He always told me, “If you can do a job for someone else, you can do it for yourself.” That mindset shaped my path and gave me the confidence to build businesses that align with my values.
In 2008, I founded Shora Foundation to serve youth and families through academic support, trauma-informed care, and food sustainability initiatives. Over the years, the foundation has grown into a pillar of support for underserved communities, providing resources that help individuals reach their full potential.
In 2011, I partnered with my sisters to launch Elite Facility Maintenance, offering commercial maintenance services. This venture reinforced the power of collaboration and the importance of diversifying business opportunities.
My entrepreneurial spirit led me to launch Harper’s Naturals in 2014, a natural skincare company focused on clean, effective products for everyday use. What started as a personal need for high-quality, natural skincare has grown into a thriving business that prioritizes sustainability and wellness.
In 2020, I co-founded The Women Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting and investing in Black entrepreneurs. Through mentorship, funding, and community-building, the foundation helps entrepreneurs navigate the challenges of business ownership and achieve success on their own terms.
Each step of my journey has been rooted in the desire to create spaces where people can thrive—whether through education, economic development, or health and wellness. My work is driven by the belief that success is measured by how well we serve others, and I remain committed to making a lasting impact in my community.
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?
It has not been a smooth road. Entrepreneurship comes with its share of challenges, and I’ve faced many along the way. From understanding business fundamentals like accounting and legal structures to navigating the uncertainty of COVID-19, every stage of growth has required adaptability and resilience. Learning how and when to scale has also been a critical yet complex process.
Entrepreneurship is not for the faint of heart—it demands continuous learning, strategic decision-making, and the ability to pivot when things aren’t working. As a business owner, everything ultimately falls on your shoulders. It’s not just about generating enough income for yourself; it’s about ensuring that your employees and their families are supported as well. That’s a tremendous responsibility, and it’s a weight that never truly leaves you. However, despite the challenges, the journey has been incredibly rewarding, and each obstacle has strengthened my ability to lead and grow.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I specialize in uplifting my community through service and entrepreneurship, providing essential resources to those in need and guiding new business owners toward success. My passion lies in creating opportunities where they may not have otherwise existed, ensuring that individuals and businesses receive the support necessary to thrive.
One of my greatest accomplishments is founding Shora Foundation and The Women Foundation, both of which serve critical needs in the Knoxville area. Through these organizations, we provide mental health support, academic resources, and access to capital for marginalized businesses—filling gaps that too often hinder progress and opportunity.
I am also incredibly proud of Harper’s Naturals, my natural skincare line. This brand was born out of necessity after my diagnosis with Sjogren’s, an autoimmune disease that required me to eliminate harmful chemicals from my skincare routine. Knowing that Harper’s Naturals provides others with safe, pure, and effective products brings me immense joy.
What sets me apart is my unwavering belief that I can achieve anything I set my mind to. I am a visionary, but more importantly, I have the drive and determination to turn my visions into reality. My faith is my guiding force—God is my North Star, and with Him, I truly believe that all things are possible.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
My success has been shaped by the support, mentorship, and encouragement of many incredible individuals and organizations.
First and foremost, my father, Baffin Harper, has been my greatest mentor. I’ve learned invaluable lessons from both his successes and challenges, and he’s always the first person I call when I need guidance. I trust that he has my best interests at heart and will always steer me in the right direction. Both my parents are my biggest fans.
I also owe a huge thank you to Dr. Jenn Bush, a psychologist and Associate Professor at the University of Tennessee’s Department of Psychology. Her expertise and oversight have been instrumental in allowing the Shora Foundation to provide critical therapy services to youth in East Knoxville. She has been a true lifesaver, ensuring that mental health support is accessible to those who need it most.
Another key figure in my journey is Natalea Riley, Manager of Knoxville’s Mast General Store. She took a chance on me and became my first wholesale client. Beyond that, she helped me refine my branding and messaging. She was more than just a customer—she was a mentor, and I will always be grateful for her support.
Additionally, several organizations have played a vital role in my growth as an entrepreneur, including the Knoxville Area Urban League, the Knoxville Chamber of Commerce, and the Knoxville Entrepreneur Center. Through their workshops, networking opportunities, and business development programs, they provided the resources and connections that helped me navigate and strengthen my entrepreneurial journey.
Success is never a solo endeavor, and I am beyond grateful for the people and organizations that have supported me along the way.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.harpersnaturals.com
- Instagram: @harpers_naturals
