Story & Lesson Highlights with Lejla Albert

We recently had the chance to connect with Lejla Albert and have shared our conversation below.

Lejla, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What do you think is misunderstood about your business? 
I think one thing people kinda misunderstand about my business is that just because I’m 12, they think it’s just a “cute little hobby” but it’s actually real work! I do everything from picking ingredients, making chocolates, decorating, packaging, AND running my website and Instagram! It takes a lot of time and heart.

Also, a lot of people think I only make my Dubai chocolate (which is super yummy), but I actually have over 20 flavors, even a dog safe chocolate and I take custom requests too! So if someone wants something with Oreos, sour candy, pretzels, or even something totally random, I can probably make it happen!

Just because I’m a kid doesn’t mean I’m not serious I’m always learning, growing, and putting so much love into Little Sweets Big Heart!

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Thank you so much for the opportunity to be featured! My name is Lejla, I’m 12 years old, and I’m the founder of Little Sweets Big Heart. I started my dessert business to bring joy through handmade chocolate creations even while facing personal health challenges.

Everything I sell is made by me, including my signature kookie kaos bar, the viral Dubai bars, bon bons, and seasonal sweets. What makes my brand unique is that it’s built with heart, creativity, and a whole lot of determination.

I hope to inspire other kids to follow their passion no matter what obstacles they face. Thank you again for helping share my story.

Okay, so here’s a deep one: What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
The relationship that’s shaped how I see myself the most is definitely the one I have with my mom. She’s my biggest supporter, my business coach, and my best friend all in one. Watching how strong, creative, and determined she is has taught me to believe in myself, even when things get hard.

She always reminds me that I can do big things no matter my age or my health and she helps me stay focused on my goals while also having fun. I wouldn’t be who I am or have Little Sweets Big Heart without her by my side. She inspires me every single day.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, many times. Running a business at my age is already hard, but doing it while going through major health challenges makes it even harder. A lot of people look at me and think I’m totally fine because I “look” healthy, but the truth is, I’m not. My health has been so complicated that even my team of doctors hasn’t found a clear answer yet. It’s been so tough that they even asked if they could write a case study on me one day, just to help others like me.

On my hardest days, when I’m in pain or exhausted, I feel like giving up. It’s overwhelming trying to be a kid, manage my health, and also run a business that really is like a full-time job. And to be honest, there have been moments where people copying my signature flavors or stealing my photos and pretending my work is theirs has made me feel really discouraged too.

But what keeps me going is my family. They always lift me up, remind me of my purpose, and support me through everything. Every time I think about quitting, they’re right there to help me push through. That support is everything, and I’m so grateful I don’t have to go through it alone.

I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
A cultural value I protect at all costs is respect, especially for family, elders, and community. Coming from a multicultural background, being Bosnian, Korean, and Black has given me a deeper understanding of different traditions, beliefs, and ways people show love and strength.

Each culture has taught me something special. From the warmth and hospitality of my Bosnian roots, to the discipline and deep respect in Korean culture, to the creativity, resilience, and pride in being Black. I’ve learned that respect isn’t just about being polite. It’s about honoring where you come from, treating others with kindness, and staying grounded in your values no matter what.

Being multicultural has helped me see the world in a more open and thoughtful way. It’s something I bring into my life and into Little Sweets Big Heart, where everything I make is from the heart and with purpose.

Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What are you doing today that won’t pay off for 7–10 years?
Right now, I’m building the foundation of my business, Little Sweets Big Heart, and learning what it really takes to be an entrepreneur. I’m teaching myself about things like marketing, customer service, consistency, and how to keep going even when it’s hard, especially with my health challenges.

It might seem small now, but I know the work I’m putting in, the connections I’m making, and the lessons I’m learning will help me in the long run. Whether it’s running a bigger version of my business in the future, opening my own kitchen, or being a leader in something completely new I’m planting seeds now that I hope will grow into something even sweeter in 7–10 years.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.littlesweetsbigheart.com
• Instagram: Littlesweets_bigheart
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1RcvyMRPEn/