Who knew that opening a coworking space two weeks before a global pandemic would be just the first of many adventures? As I reflect on the past five years since launching Hera Hub Temecula, I can’t help but chuckle at the wild ride it’s been. From lizard invasions to near-electrocutions, we’ve weathered it all with grit, humor, and an unwavering commitment to our community.
Our grand opening on March 2, 2020, was like throwing a party right before the apocalypse. But thanks to the incredible connections we’d forged and our pre-established community, we managed to keep our doors open while 40% of Black-owned businesses sadly closed. When we finally had our “official” grand opening a year later, over 100 people showed up! The State Assembly member’s office even declared it the largest small business opening they’d seen. Take that, pandemic!
Of course, the challenges didn’t stop there. Remember the contractor who turned our under-construction space into his personal bachelor pad? Nothing says “professional workspace” quite like finding someone’s hot plate and bedding strewn about. But we persevered, jumping through more hoops than a circus act to meet our opening deadline.
Then came the wildlife invasions. First, it was the adorable blue-bellied lizards who seemed to think “coworking” meant “lizard playground.” Thank goodness for our Triple M member, Megan Miller-McArthur, and her expert “catch and release” skills. Just when we thought we had a handle on our reptilian friends, Hurricane Hilary decided to send us 19 frogs! Poor Anne Berry, our community coordinator, got a crash course in amphibian wrangling. Who knew “other duties as assigned” could include “frog catcher extraordinaire”?
Let’s not forget the electrifying experience with our DIY-obsessed landlord. Note to self: When someone insists they can fix an electrical outlet without professional help, run for the hills! I still have flashbacks every time I plug in my laptop.
But perhaps the biggest challenge came with our recent move to a larger space, followed by my kidney transplant just a month later. The outpouring of support from our community during this time was truly heartwarming. They held down the fort and welcomed me back with open arms and more grace than I could have ever imagined.
Through it all, I’ve been reminded of Langston Hughes’ powerful poem “Mother to Son.” Life ain’t been no crystal stair, but we’ve been climbing, reaching landings, and sometimes going in the dark where there ain’t been no light. And you know what? We’re still climbing.
Yes, mistakes were made and tough decisions had to be taken. But I regret none of it. Each challenge has been a growth opportunity, not just for me, but for our entire Hera Hub Temecula community. Now, I get to share these hard-earned lessons with other entrepreneurs, including my son who recently launched his own medical transport business.
As we celebrate being named the Murrieta Wildomar Chamber of Commerce 2024 Business of the Year, I’m filled with gratitude and optimism for what’s to come. This journey has been a testament to the power of resilience, community, and a good sense of humor. Here’s to the next five years – may they be just as exciting, but perhaps with fewer frogs!
Dr. Alisha Wilkins is an organizational psychologist, who has conducted extensive research on the challenges individuals experience developing psychological connections with each other when communicating using technology.
She has over 17 years of public affairs and government relations experience in both the for-profit and non-profit sector. She served as owner and political consultant for the Empire Consulting Group, a government relations firm which offered campaign strategies and messaging to candidates running for public office; as well as, public relations consulting to businesses and organizations on public outreach and engagement with key decision makers.
