If I have accomplished anything in life it is because I have been willing to work hard.

I got my start by giving myself a start.

You might say that I was the first and caused others to awaken to the sense of their duty in helping deserving causes for the benefit of the race.

I am a woman who came from the cotton fields of the South. From there I was promoted to the washtub. From there I was promoted to the cook kitchen. And from there I promoted myself into the business of manufacturing hair goods and preparations....I have built my own factory on my own ground.

I want you to understand that your first duty is to humanity. I want others to look at us and see that we care not just about ourselves but about others.

One night I had a dream, and in that dream a big black man appeared to me and told me what to mix up for my hair. I made up my mind I would begin to sell it.

Perseverance is my motto.