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Spotlight on Success: How BELL is Empowering Black-Owned Businesses in Rock Hill—Featuring Malaysian Lights Candles

The Black Economic Leadership League (B.E.L.L.) of Rock Hill is committed to empowering Black entrepreneurs and fostering community-driven business development. One of our standout success stories is Malaysian Lights Candles.




A Vision Lit by Passion

Tanisha founded Malaysian Lights Candles in 2020 with a clear mission: to create beautiful, safe, and clean-burning candles that elevate the ambiance of any space while prioritizing air quality. But for Tanisha, her business goes beyond the product. She has turned her candle-making workshops into community-building experiences, where participants can gather, create, and support one another. One particular moment stands out: during an intention candle class, a young woman grieving the loss of her brother found solace in the workshop. The space became more than just a place to make candles—it became a healing and supportive environment, embodying Tanisha’s goal of creating meaningful connections through her craft.


“Building a business is not just about products and profits; it’s about creating a space where people feel welcomed, supported, and inspired,” Tanisha shared. Malaysian Lights Candles has become a beacon of light in more ways than one, serving as a space where creativity and community intersect.


From Passion to Purpose

Tanisha’s journey to entrepreneurship began in 2019, sparked by her love for candles and a deep desire to be creative. Encouraged by a friend, she decided to start making her candles. After countless hours of research and joining candle-making groups, she officially launched Malaysian Lights Candles in 2020. The pandemic served as the catalyst for Tanisha to fully pursue her passion, and today, her business is thriving after four years of hard work and dedication.


When asked to describe entrepreneurship in five words, she responded with: “Hard work, dedication, perseverance, remain a student, tenacious.” These words reflect her unwavering commitment to her business and community.


Overcoming Challenges Through Community Support

Like many entrepreneurs, Tanisha has faced personal and professional challenges. Over the past year, she endured the loss of several close family members, including her sister, who was her “person in life.” The grief was overwhelming, but the support she received from her family, community, and the BELL organization helped her stay afloat. “I will forever express my gratitude to everyone who was a part of my getting to a better side of my grief process and keeping my business progressive,” she said.


As a Black woman business owner, Tanisha also encountered challenges related to access to resources and networks. However, B.E.L.L. has been instrumental in helping her bridge that gap. “The BELL organization is an excellent resource for helping to bridge the gap,” she emphasized.


Empowered by the Kauffman Program and B.E.L.L.’s Support

B.E.L.L.’s partnership with the Kauffman Foundation has provided entrepreneurs like Tanisha with the tools and resources needed to scale their businesses. The program helped her understand the intricacies of her business and how to grow it strategically. One of the key milestones of her journey was winning a $4,000 grant through the Advantage 24 pitch contest, a direct result of B.E.L.L.’s support. With this grant, she was able to purchase raw materials in bulk, reducing her overhead costs by 20% and fueling further growth.


The experience of pitching her business left Tanisha feeling energized and confident. “It left me wanting to become a serial pitcher!” she said. Her newfound confidence has spurred her to continue honing her pitch as she seeks more opportunities to grow Malaysian Lights Candles.


Exciting Growth and New Beginnings

Since graduating from the Kauffman program, Tanisha has expanded her business by opening a second location. In addition to her flagship location at Yorkville Marketplace in York, SC, Malaysian Lights Candles now has a presence at The Southern Lion in Pineville, NC. This growth was made possible by the financial and community support she received, particularly the Advantage 24 grant.


A Bright Future Ahead

Looking ahead, Tanisha is focused on scaling her business further and continuing to provide a safe, creative space for her community. Her entrepreneurial journey is not just about candles; it’s about creating a legacy of support, connection, and empowerment for those around her. “Serving my ‘why’ fuels my drive and keeps me relentlessly pursuing my purpose,” she said.


Malaysian Lights Candles is a shining example of the impact BELL is making in developing Black-owned businesses in Rock Hill. Through our programs, entrepreneurs like Tanisha can access the resources, knowledge, and community support they need to thrive. We are proud to have been part of her journey and look forward to seeing her continued success.


To learn more about Malaysian Lights Candles, visit MalaysianLightsCandles.com and follow them on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok @MalaysianLights.


Join us in supporting Black-owned businesses in Rock Hill. Join us in building a brighter future for our community by investing in the life changing work of B.E.L.L. Visit www.bellofrockhill.org for more information.

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