| Tell us about your company: |
| Dreamy Vegan is where nostalgia meets plant-based indulgence. We create whimsical, dairy-free ice cream treats that bring back childhood memories with every bite. Our handcrafted, high-quality flavors are inspired by classic desserts, reimagined in a fun and ethical way. Dreamy Vegan isn’t just about ice cream—it’s about joy, playfulness, and inclusivity, offering delicious alternatives for those with dietary restrictions or anyone who loves a sweet escape. Through creative branding and community engagement, we aim to spread happiness, one dreamy treat at a time. |
| What inspired you to start your business? |
| Dreamy Vegan was inspired by a mix of childhood memories, family traditions, and a deep desire to create inclusive, nostalgic treats. Growing up, my great-grandmother and great-grandfather made homemade ice cream from scratch, filling our home with joy and sweetness. But as someone with severe food allergies, I often felt left out of enjoying many desserts. That experience stuck with me and fueled my passion to create a brand where no one feels excluded. Dreamy Vegan is my way of bringing back the magic of childhood treats in a fun, plant-based, and whimsical way. It’s about more than just ice cream—it’s about **joy, nostalgia, and creating moments that make people feel included and happy.** Whether someone is vegan, lactose-intolerant, or just loves a good dessert, Dreamy Vegan is here to make sure everyone can indulge in a treat that feels like home. |
| What are your proudest achievements so far? |
| One of my proudest achievements so far has been working with my wonderful graphic designer to create Dreamy Vegan’s first four-pack ice cream carton box. It’s cute, creative, and completely in line with the whimsical, nostalgic branding that makes Dreamy Vegan special. I’m also incredibly proud of finding my graphic designer, someone I waited years to work with. I stayed persistent because I just knew she was the perfect person to bring my vision to life. Seeing our collaboration come together has been so rewarding. |
| What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs: |
| My advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is to start with a solid foundation. Having a clear business plan in place gives you direction and helps you navigate challenges. It’s also important to have some funding saved to get your business off the ground without relying too heavily on outside sources—this gives you more control and flexibility in the early stages. Another key lesson is to know your audience. Understanding who you’re serving allows you to create products or services that truly resonate. But most importantly, follow your heart—it’s your greatest teacher. Your inner compass will always guide you in the right direction, so trust it, stay persistent, and keep believing in your dream. |
| Please share a memory or thought about your alma mater: |
| UCLA was a challenging yet transformative experience for me. As an older student who lived off campus and worked while attending school, I often felt like a fish out of water. It wasn’t until I began working at Campbell Hall’s APP’s CCCP program that everything changed. Being part of that incredible community gave me the confidence to navigate UCLA, create a plan to improve my situation, and truly start enjoying my time there. I will always value and appreciate the opportunities UCLA afforded me, from academics to unforgettable experiences like working the Jazz Reggae Festival and taking world arts and cultural dance classes. Performing at Pau Hana was one of my greatest highlights, where I had the opportunity to showcase three different dance styles—Dance of India Bharatanatyam, West African Dance, and Afro-Caribbean Dance. Not only was it exciting and fun, but it also gave me the biggest rush of endorphins and serotonin. Beyond the academics and performances, UCLA gave me friendships, community, and a sense of belonging. It’s like a universe in itself, full of endless possibilities. Navigating through UCLA was more than just an educational journey—it was a precursor to the real world, preparing me for the challenges and opportunities ahead. |
Alumni Emporium 