Dr. Nekita Sullivan, a proud Greenville native and Clemson University alumna, is redefining entrepreneurship through her inspiring journey as a Black solo business owner during the COVID-19 pandemic. With courage and resilience, she’s tackling racial disparities and crafting a brighter future for her community. 

As the proud owner of Yoga Therapy Bar in downtown Clemson, Dr. Sullivan embarked on her entrepreneurial path after returning from her medical program in Charleston. Her experience as a student in a predominantly white environment—where approximately 92% of the population was white—opened her eyes to a significant gap in services for women of color. “Finding a salon that understood the unique needs of our kinks, coils, and curls was a struggle. I often had to drive to Anderson, Greenville, or Columbia just to get my hair done.” Frustrated by this reality, Dr. Sullivan recognized the urgent need for a salon that catered to ethnically diverse hair, one where women of color could feel accepted and celebrated. 

Determined to make a difference, she took the leap and opened her own salon, only to face an unprecedented challenge: just three weeks after her grand opening, the COVID-19 lockdown began. Like many small businesses, she faced staff shortages and financial hurdles. To adapt, Dr. Sullivan pivoted her business model, launching an online store for hair products via Facebook to generate revenue. “I had to step out of the shadows. Initially, my white cosmetologists were the face of the salon, but COVID forced me to take the lead, which made some people uncomfortable,” she shared. 

Dr. Sullivan's experiences echo broader conversations about race in Clemson, which has a complex history with diversity. The university itself held the “Lincoln’s Unfinished Work” conference in 2018 to address race relations and the legacy of desegregation, particularly following Harvey Gantt’s historic enrollment in 1963. Although progress has been made, the struggle against racial prejudices continues. 

Undeterred by these challenges, Dr. Sullivan founded Yoga Therapy Bar, a unique wellness center that combines physical therapy, yoga, and Pilates. This holistic approach not only alleviates physical pain but also fosters mental well-being, enhancing recovery from injuries and various illnesses.

Despite her challenges, she opened Yoga Therapy Bar in Clemson which combines physical therapy, yoga, pilates and wellness to holistically reduce any physical pains and mental stress. The compilation of physical therapy, yoga and pilates are invaluable because it enhances the rehabilitation time for injuries and various illnesses.  Yoga Therapy Bar is based in downtown Clemson. 

Reflecting on her journey, Dr. Sullivan has learned invaluable lessons through adversity. She recalls a pivotal moment while serving as a keynote speaker at Harvard Business School during the pandemic. An audience member asked, “What values guide you to thrive in business?” Dr. Sullivan candidly responded, “My business is not thriving; I’m TRYING. I come from a lineage of Black women who know how to survive. When we encounter obstacles, we find a way to adapt and persevere.”

Dr. Sullivan emphasizes the importance of resilience among Black women entrepreneurs. “We must be receptive to change to achieve success. Challenges will arise; losses will occur. I’ve had to become more versatile and innovative in my approach.” She took the initiative to master social media, expand her network, and enhance her creativity. “While I may not be naturally inclined toward marketing, I’ve made it a priority to improve in areas where I’m weaker,” she explained.

Her studio stands out by offering services that are not only innovative but also inclusive. “Yoga, Pilates, and physical therapy don’t have a color; they’re for everyone—children, adults, and seniors alike.” The benefits of her programs include improved body awareness, reduced stress, stronger core muscles, enhanced cardiovascular function, decreased inflammation, and effective injury rehabilitation.

Dr. Sullivan’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, innovation, and community. As she continues to grow the Yoga Therapy Bar, she remains committed to creating a welcoming space for all, where healing and empowerment go hand in hand.