Name: Carlis Lollie
Title: Founder of the Women’s Health and Fitness Expo
Years in the business: 4
How did you get started in the health and wellness industry?
I originally received my Bachelor of Communications and Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Texas Southern University and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Texas Woman’s University. After I graduated, I started working as an associate producer for television and music videos. It was at this time that I decided to change careers and do something that would make an impact in my community. I soon took a step out of my comfort zone and became a certified personal trainer. By helping as a health educator for the nonprofit organization, Change Happens, I was able to combine my love for my community and fitness by going out into the community and educate women on the importance of having safe sex to prevent HIV and AIDS.
What inspired you to create the Women’s Health and Fitness Expo?
While pursuing my degree in nursing I was inspired to create a health event that would be dedicated to women, focused on women’s issues and could serve as a platform for women to inspire each other to stay healthy.
What is the goal of the Women’s Health Expo?
The overall goal of the Women’s Health and Fitness Expo is to create an atmosphere of fun and excitement while educating women about various health issues. The expo is also geared to inspire women to play an active role in their health and well-being as well as that of their families.
Where do you hope to see the expo in five years?
The first Women’s Health and Fitness Expo was held Feb. 18, 2012 in Houston, Texas. After the success of the first event, there was a huge demand for another event. The second Women’s Health and Fitness Expo took place the same year on June 23, 2012. Before I knew it, the Expo had expanded to Dallas and Atlanta. Each year the Women’s Health and Fitness Expo aims to be bigger and better than the previous year. We have just received word that we have officially secured the city of New Orleans and Chicago for 2015. I am very excited to see all of the great things that the next five years will bring.
