Let’s end the week with some inspirational words from Madam C.J. Walker [December 23, 1867 – May 25, 1919], CEO of Madam C.J. Walker Laboratories, cosmetics industry maverick, and one of the first female African-American entrepreneurs:

“There is no royal, flower-strewn path to success. And if there is, I have not found it. For if I have accomplished anything in life, it is because I have been willing to work hard.”

“I had to make my own living and my own opportunity! But I made it! Don’t sit down and wait for the opportunities to come. Get up and make them!”

Watch Biography’s mini-bio on the life and legacy of Madam C.J. Walker.