Meet Monét Ako-Brew

We had the good fortune of connecting with Monét Ako-Brew and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Monét, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Body By Monét actually originated as part of a college assignment, where I was tasked with creating a business within the health and wellness industry. I chose to develop a concept for a fitness facility and named it ‘Body By Monét.’ What started as a class project quickly evolved into something much more meaningful.

While my long-term vision is to eventually open a gym under a different name, I launched Body By Monét as a personal training business shortly after graduation. I began working with clients and quickly realized the strong demand for knowledgeable, intentional trainers and coaches—something I strive to embody every day.

Currently, Body By Monét operates as an online training business, but I have big plans to expand and evolve it into something much greater in the near future.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Every day, I envision myself as a successful business owner with a diverse portfolio of ventures. Right now, BBM stands for more than just Body by Monét—it also represents Braided by Monét and Birthed by Monét. I’ve done hair professionally, and I was also pursuing a certification to become a doula. I’ve always been a versatile person who thrives on variety, so building multiple businesses is a long-term goal of mine.

Every job I’ve ever had has played a role in shaping who I am today. Whether I was delivering Amazon packages or leading exercise classes at a senior living facility, each role taught me valuable lessons that influence how I now run my business. I’ve been intentional about choosing jobs that align with my ultimate vision of owning a fitness center. The journey hasn’t been easy—and honestly, it still isn’t.

There were times when I pulled away from social media because I didn’t feel good enough. I wasn’t training many clients, engagement was low, and I questioned whether I had what it takes to build a business. But I never stopped showing up for myself. I kept training, I became more consistent with posting, networking, and engaging—and now, I’m in a space where clients are reaching out to me, not the other way around.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned through this journey is the power of self-confidence. I’ve realized that outside validation doesn’t define my worth or potential. Not everyone will support or understand your path—and that’s okay. What matters most is staying true to your purpose. I’ve also learned not to take every setback personally. Every experience, even the hard ones, serves a purpose and contributes to future growth. Most importantly, I’ve learned how to show up for others—whether it’s clients, collaborators, or those I’ve crossed paths with in work or life.

I want the world to hear ‘Body By Monét’ and think of me—not just the business, but the person behind it. Even if they’ve never met me, I want them to remember the story: the half-African teen who wasn’t sure of her path, who felt like sports were her only strength—but not strong enough to make it to the WNBA. The college student who chose Physical Therapy only to be told her GPA wouldn’t cut it.

I want them to think of the woman who turned a college assignment into a real business—one created for everyone, with the mission to uplift and give back rather than take. Body By Monét is more than a brand; it’s a reflection of my journey—shaped by personal experiences, education, and every step in my career.

My hope is that one day, my full story inspires another young girl to build a business around the things she loves most—and create a life so fulfilling, it never feels like work.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I recently moved to Texas from Springfield, Massachusetts, so I’m still getting familiar with everything that’s accessible here. What I do know is there’s so much to do that my friend and I could honestly close our eyes and pick from a hat to decide.

Generally, I’d start by planning and booking reservations at different restaurants—I love food, and with so many incredible spots, I’d aim to try a new one every night for dinner. So far, Paradiso in Dallas holds the #1 spot for me.

After dinner, I’d plan a fun activity for us each day—maybe check out a rodeo, play at Activate Games, catch a Dallas Wings game, go rollerblading or bowling (or both!), try a pottery class, take a guided sunset electric bike tour through Downtown Dallas, and end the week with a chill night at Coyote Drive-In.

The more time I spend here, the more I’m discovering how much Texas has to offer. I’m really looking forward to taking some weekend trips to hike trails, explore lakes, and join group or community events so I can meet new people and fully experience this state.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to give a special shoutout to my parents for their unwavering support and for never judging me as I chose my own career path. They’ve encouraged me in countless ways. My mom always shows up—whether it’s attending my group fitness classes or handing out bananas at a 5K I’m participating in, she’s there.

My dad constantly reminds me of how far I’ve come and how far I can go with Body By Monét. He checks in regularly to hear about my progress and keeps me motivated. Without their love, support, and belief in me, I truly don’t think I would’ve made it this far.

Instagram: @moenaaay_

Facebook: Body By Monét

Image Credits
@EnZeeVisuals