Meet Lejla Albert of 43rd ave and northern

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lejla Albert

Hi Lejla, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
It’s been a really fun adventure making chocolates! I started with the Dubai-inspired ones in May 2024, when they were becoming super popular. My friends at the nail salon, after I let them try some, said I should sell them. So, I talked to my parents, and my mom helped me start selling on Facebook around June 2024. She shared my chocolates in some online mom groups, and everyone seemed to really like them! That made me want to try Instagram, and I even started making my own special flavors and taking custom orders. Then, someone who bought my chocolates was so nice, they gave me a website! I’m really, really thankful for all the people who keep buying my chocolates. It makes me so happy!

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The road definitely hasn’t been smooth. Even though I’m only 11, running my chocolate business has taught me a lot about perseverance. Of course, there are times when it’s incredibly challenging. I live with CRMO and a parathyroid condition, which cause quite a bit of pain and require frequent trips to doctors and hospitals. Sometimes, I have to push through that pain to get orders ready for my amazing customers. And, like any kid, there are moments when I’d give anything to be playing or relaxing. But, I’ve learned that having my own business means I have responsibilities, and I’m deeply committed to my customers. I think it’s so important to keep my promises and do my best, even when it’s not easy.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Well, I’m an 11-year-old who loves making homemade gourmet chocolates! I specialize in creating delicious, unique chocolate bars and treats. I’m probably best known for my Dubai Chocolate bars, which became really popular. I’m most proud of how much my customers enjoy my chocolates. It makes me so happy when they tell me mine are the best they’ve ever had! I think what sets me apart is that I truly enjoy making chocolates and I try to keep my prices fair, especially for the Dubai bars. I also offer custom orders, so people can get exactly what they want. And, I think my customers can tell that I put a lot of love into everything I make.

Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
If I could give any advice to other kids, or even grown-ups, who want to start their own thing, it would be to pick something you’re really good at and that you genuinely enjoy. For me, that’s definitely chocolate! I’ve always loved it, and I also love being creative. So, coming up with my own custom chocolate flavors just feels natural and fun.

And, I think it’s really important to remember not to give up just because things get tough. There will be times when it’s hard, for sure. It’s okay to take breaks when you need to, but try to stay focused on your goal. If you love what you’re doing, and you keep trying, you’ll be surprised at what you can achieve!

Oh, and one thing I really wish I knew when I started was just how much time it takes to run a business! It’s a lot of work, but it’s also a lot of fun.

Pricing:

• $1-$45 depending on bar and size.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Www.littlesweetsbigheart.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/littlesweets_bigheart?igsh=MTNkYWtqcjFmMXE0
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/15oDVFkvnW/