Desertwell is passionate about supporting schools and families exploring the world of Montessori. The company believes in being a caring community that helps clients see the big picture: supporting a prepared adult in creating an environment that meets their child’s needs. They also draw inspiration from the work of Daniel J. Siegel, author of The Whole Brain Child, and Becky Bailey, founder of Conscious Discipline, to enrich their approach.
“Whether you’re a school looking for guidance, a homeschooler seeking direction, or a parent curious about this educational journey, we are here to walk alongside you every step of the way, online and in person,” Sison said.
AZF: What is your “life motto?”
AS: That’s a tough one. I feel like I hold on to unique promises in different phases of my life. However, I do like the idea of being life-giving. “Be a well, even in the desert,” is one of my guiding principles. It is also why I chose Desertwell as a name. Being stewards of children is not an easy job; we need a village to sustain us. When I notice that I am not “life-giving” to others, it is usually a sign for me to self-check on which areas I need to take care of before I can take care of others.
AZF: Did you always know that you wanted to be an entrepreneur? If not, when did you realize that it was the right path right for you?
AS: I grew up in the Philippines, where entrepreneurship is almost natural for everyone. You go to the public market and you can haggle prices, negotiation is learned early on! I came from a family of business people. They were in retail, funeral parlors, and foreign currency exchange. As anyone can attest, I did not like the idea that we could be at the mercy of the market and irregular schedules. However, looking back now as an adult, I appreciate the time my parents made themselves available when we needed them. I was exposed to experiences and travel because of the flexibility it allowed them.
Covid made me realize that time and attention are the most valuable commodity. I also saw a greater need in children after the pandemic. Most teachers and parents needed support. At that time, I had enough experience to offer. It was more of a process for me, but all my exposure and experiences in childhood came back naturally when I implemented my services as a business.
AZF: How do you feel best supported?
AS: When in the community, I feel supported. There is such a “collective effervescence” when you are in a room full of people or having a coffee with another passionate person who is encouraging or perhaps has been through the ringer and may know the right words or resources to keep you going. Foundress is an excellent community for new businesses like me. I’ve met strong, driven, and resilient women through this platform.
AZF: What motivates you to keep going amidst the challenges that come with being an entrepreneur?
AS: It’s the drive to get better at how to serve my clients best. Service will always be a component that will drive me to work harder. Also, having a supportive partner is a huge blessing. I have a husband who has his own business as well. He has been through the highs and lows and motivates me to keep going. He has a good handle on the market’s pulse, and his research ability is on-point. He fills my lacking and reminds me to surround myself with people different from me to fill my blindsides. He definitely fills that gap!
AZF: Describe your perfect Saturday morning.
AS: Waking up to beautiful spring desert weather when I can open the windows and let nature in. A full spread of hearty and healthy breakfast fills the scent of the room with family and friends around the table. These are mornings that I can sit-back and marvel with contentment at what life has blessed me with.
AZF: What’s one piece of advice you’d give to a young entrepreneur who is just starting out?
AS: Keep casting your vision, have an accountability partner or a community, adjust if needed, always be curious, and ask for help. JUMP, DIVE, RUN, let the journey take you to your highest potential!
AZF: What excites you most about being an entrepreneur?
AS: The dynamic lifestyle it can afford you. I am blessed to be in a community where I can work and still pursue the possibilities of a business. The freedom of being creative and the curiosity to impact an industry or an individual in solving a problem is exciting.
Learn more about Desertwell Montessori on their website.
About the Foundress
The Foundress is a creative community of female entrepreneurs established by Coley Arnold and Lindsey Holt, owners of Junk in the Trunk Vintage Market. The women-led networking group currently has over 120 members who receive exclusive access to mentorship from experienced female entrepreneurs and industry leaders; community gatherings that feature expert speakers and the opportunity to connect with like-minded women; as well as monthly Mastermind Groups where members can brainstorm and collaborate together.
Every Friday, AZF will spotlight a member of The Foundress and her business in the Foundress Fridays online series. Learn more about The Foundress and join the community at foundress.co.
