Today we’d like to introduce you to Jertonya Feemster.
Hi Jertonya, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
My journey began with a vision back in 2018, sparked by a routine visit to a coffee shop for my morning pick-me-up. As I sipped my coffee, I couldn’t ignore the unsettling sight and smell of food debris on my lid, likely transferred by the handling of food and various objects by the barista. Though the idea of creating a safer lid appear to me in a dream, I didn’t take action until the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 reignited that vision with a sense of urgency.
Determined to make a difference, I embarked on the journey of bringing my idea to life. I enlisted the help of someone to create a prototype, and once it was perfected, I dove into the process of starting a business. Securing a utility and design patent, which is still pending, was a crucial step in protecting my innovation. Through this process, I was fortunate to be connected with a manufacturer in India who could bring my vision to fruition.
Visiting the manufacturer in India to inspect samples filled me with excitement and renewed determination. My goal was clear: to revolutionize the way we enjoy our daily dose of caffeine while prioritizing hygiene and safety for consumers worldwide.
I firmly believe that the current practices in coffee shops, where baristas handle money, cash registers, phones, and even touch their faces unconsciously, pose a significant risk to hygiene. With over 400 million cups of coffee sold globally each day, the need for change is undeniable.
My mission with the Seal and Lift non-Contact Lid is not just about innovation; it’s about protecting vulnerable individuals with compromised immune systems. Many simply cannot afford to fall ill and miss work, making the need for a safer lid even more pressing. It’s clear to me that the traditional lids are outdated, and it’s my vision and mission to usher in a new era of hygiene and convenience with the Seal and Lift Contact Lid.
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?
The journey from concept to prototype to tangible samples has been riddled with challenges, but each obstacle has been met with unwavering determination. One of the most heartwarming aspects of this journey has been funding the business without any investors. My son, believing wholeheartedly in my vision, dedicated himself to help support me and my vision. During his first year of college, he worked tirelessly at an internship and saved up his earnings to contribute to bringing my vision to life. His unwavering support and dedication have been truly touching, and he now serves as my Chief Operating Officer.
As the Seal and Lift Non-Contact Lid evolved from a mere idea to a tangible product, I’ve come to realize that our biggest challenge lies in persuading businesses and corporations, such as coffee shops, gas stations, hospitals, and nursing homes, to embrace our innovative solution over traditional lids.
For years, we’ve accepted the practice of baristas touching our lids as they prepare our coffee. This deeply ingrained behavior presents a significant obstacle in our quest for change. The challenge now is to communicate to coffee shops and other establishments that this practice is outdated and in need of urgent revision.
While most coffee shops implement training programs for proper hand hygiene, the fast-paced nature of a busy café often makes adherence to these protocols challenging. Baristas must ensure that the lid is securely snapped on, necessitating contact with various parts of the lid. This reality underscores the importance of introducing a lid design that minimizes the need for such contact, prioritizing hygiene without compromising efficiency.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My background lies in corporate sales, where I’ve had the opportunity to work for Fortune 500 companies, selling a diverse range of products to business executives. My journey began at Langston University, where I earned my bachelor’s degree. A few years later, despite the challenges of raising two small children, I pursued my dream and obtained my master’s degree from Letourneau University. This achievement was a significant milestone in my life, aligning all the dots as I continued to grow personally and professionally.
Transitioning into inventing and bringing this product to fruition has been incredibly rewarding. I believe it will revolutionize how the world operates as we continue to evolve. This vision was deeply implanted within me, a divine download from God, and I’m grateful to share it with the world.
What sets our lid apart is its multifunctionality. It’s not just a lid; it’s a protective barrier and a stopper, and it keeps your coffee warmer for longer when applied. This versatility underscores our commitment to innovation and practicality.
Our commitment to this cause is underscored by our use of both recyclable plastic and biodegradable materials.
How do you think about luck?
Luck, whether perceived as good or bad, has undeniably played a role in my journey. However, I view myself as a co-creator of my life, capable of manifesting my visions and aspirations. While setbacks and challenges have been part of the process, I don’t attribute them to mere luck. Instead, I see them as opportunities for growth and redirection. Rejection, for instance, is often seen as protection in disguise. Though it may sting initially, I understand that it’s guiding me toward a path more aligned with my goals and aspirations. So, rather than relying solely on luck, I embrace the belief that I am actively shaping my journey through intention, perseverance, and resilience. Let’s be clear: I’m a big fan of the “lucky girl syndrome” because it infuses such positivity into one’s life, attracting good fortune continuously by affirming with positive affirmations.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.feemsterinnovation.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sealandlift/
