How I Made Over $725,000 Designing Luxury Bags While Earning An MBA | On The Side

Wilglory Tanjong, 25, is a full-time MBA student at The University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business. She is also the founder and CEO of Anima Iris, a luxury purse brand with pieces handcrafted by artisans in Dakar, Senegal.
After living on food stamps as a teen and later coping with the loss of her mother, Wilglory promised herself she would become financially independent and live life to the fullest. Not only has her company brought in over $725,000 in sales in less than two years, but her bags have been worn by Beyoncé and spotted on Issa Rae’s show, “Insecure.” Here’s how Wilglory is turning her passion project into a million-dollar business.
Check out Anima Iris purses: animairis.com/
Follow Anima Iris on Instagram: / anima.iris
Follow Wilglory Tanjong on Instagram: / wilgloryy
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How I Made Over $725,000 Designing Luxury Bags While Earning An MBA | On The Side

[@tati_wm]

My favorite part of this is that her artisans are well paid and work in reasonable working conditions. It's easier to support a brand when their workforce is treated fairly. 🙌🏼

[@Reneekelley68]

Yes I was so happy she said that

[@amandaobando259]

Coming from a developing country, she should probs have them earn 4x what the average artisan earns

[@GracewithHumility]

@@amandaobando259 I’m sure as the business grows there will be pay increases and promotions. Baby steps first. At least she didn’t out source to China.

[@nicky6579]

Yes!!!!

[@siphokazileratomalinga2969]

Facts❤️✍️💐

[@marriejames01]

Kudos to the mother for leaving her children an inheritance. And kudos to this young lady for pushing through adversity and building a brand.

[@msadviceisnice]

YES!!!! That is one major way to build generational wealth. We have to leave inheritances that can be invested by our loved ones. What an amazing story. You just never know when the stars will align and it will be your moment.

[@SA-xc9hz]

Couldn't agree more and Wilgory used her inheritance wisely too!

[@MrsRo-pw4qo]

I so agree!

[@jdestiny5283]

Q

[@shrinkingurl]

@Michael Rankin that's what America is supposed to do right? lol. A land of opportunity.

[@daniielleyful]

“It was giving billion dollar business idea”💡 yes girl ! 😭💕

[@genwilson7741]

My favorite part! She skipped over million and went straight to Billion! #BlackGirlMagic 💖

[@MeshaX]

Yasss!! That part! 😭😭💕

[@SmathersBaumli]

*preluxs* bags just outclassed the rest..too good.

[@jip230]

I just went to her site after watching this and bought one of her bags. It's wonderful that I can now support Black owned luxury designers. Wilglory, thank you for sharing your story and eye for good design with the world!!

[@growintoyourmanifestation]

Love this!

[@ladytee4269]

🔥

[@RachelCharles789]

Yes! 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@authenticallyash3159]

For sure! Supported as well! Go us! 🖤🖤

[@angelwings7930]

I think I’ll support white owned. Ooops I think my comment will be interpreted negatively. Such double standards.

[@gzfashions]

Acquiring that $50k and also getting production in Africa is huge. Those two things are pivotal to this companies success. Now it’s about Sustaining steady growth and continuity and creativity.

[@afr0flava]

Absolutely! And she fortunately launched at the pivotal point black-owned businesses took the limelight! I’m incredibly proud of her.

[@nursebondemcanada]

absolutely

[@PHlophe]

G. Ziegler and that's the important bit for me. her mam leaving her a bit of cash is exactly what helps future gen and prevent people from starting from scratch .

[@gzfashions]

@@PHlophe for sure brother 🙌🏽

[@teascobie6557]

how does one qualify for food stamps then a few years later there is a 50 k inheritance?

[@viniciusalves4523]

I have already seen dozens of inspirational entrepreneurial stories, but Wilglory is the only character that made me want to follow her exact steps. What an icon!

[@PHlophe]

Vini from Brazil, make it happen; dude.

[@mkeerkens]

All you have to do to follow her exact steps are get a full scholarship to business school, inherit money, get Vogue to tweet about you, and get Beyoncé to post about your product. Should be easy. 😉

[@RobertaCarr-pb1ip]

Hhhh ammm excuse me I would buy the *esluxscom* for less and get similar quality the bags are made of genuine leather, well done china

[@ESPDaniella]

I love how her employees make twice than the average!! More companies should follow her lead.

[@vl1180]

She's building loyalty. People . Processes. Profit

[@joannewittenbrook8051]

That’s how smart companies succeed. Loyal, well paid employees. Most people don’t want to job hop just to get a raise.

[@cihlarouting]

At *hotdups* it's not just a bag; it's an art piece. Each design is crafted with unique inspiration and craftsmanship. The exquisite production process reveals not just a bag, but a fashionable feast for the senses.

[@henrikraymond5235]

Nice content, Every family has that one person who will break the family financial struggle I hope you become the one ☺.

[@binagital5665]

His trade execution quality and profiting is well structured with great financial features.

[@lindalily6924]

Working with Romero pieto is the best thing that can happen to a beginner trader who is aspiring to be fruitful out of the market he is trustworthy and straightforward we surely need more men like him in trading world.

[@jasonthomas269]

Good good content.

[@abscottcoleman400]

Yes I'm a living testimony of Romero pieto his platform has also done a great thing for me.

[@katlinmicheal8121]

I've seen so many review about this man called Romero pieto who is he ?

[@charitynjokivlogs7897]

Her story sounds simple but it's not to build a company...it takes alot! Proud of her! Very strong lady

[@DominickMclachlan-km6hy]

It sounds like folks have figured out how to keep their money for themselves instead of making rich folks richer just for selling the same item through a boutique. Smart . Now that’s freedom *esluxs*

[@gingrbean]

A Cameroonian from Maryland in love with fashion?!?! YES MA’AM! We love to see it. Keep going love!! 😭😭😭🇨🇲🇨🇲🇨🇲

[@hoodlutalo3708]

Every Cameroonian woman I have ever met has had such impeccable taste in fashion.

[@DominickMclachlan-km6hy]

The fact these bags can be faked and sold at a fraction of the price just shows how much the luxury brands are ripping people off. Yes quality and materials might not be the same but some dupes are pretty good. I’ve wasted so much money on designer bags and, as a 50 year old, could have bought another house or many *esluxs* with what I’ve spent. My advice is to only buy if you can afford it plus other important things and don’t necessarily turn your nose up at a dupe!

[@opinionated]

I love that she doesn’t take advantage of her workers and pays them well, we love seeing a successful black woman doing right by her community

[@marcolorenzo4851]

Investing in forex and crypto is a great way to diversify your income and take advantage of the potential to make a substantial return on your investment.

[@fabriziorossi5664]

Cryptocurrency is a cutting-edge technology that is revolutionizing the financial system, and investing now could be a great way to realize substantial returns in the near future.

[@luigielliot2799]

Crypto investing offers the chance to make exponential returns with potentially low risks.

[@jameswood2615]

I understand that investing can be intimidating, but with help of Mrs JENNIFER MARIE FERGUSON I have seen great returns on my investments due to her guidance and advice, and I highly recommend her as an investment advisor."

[@marthajones1450]

Mrs Jennifer Marie Ferguson is also extremely reliable and trustworthy with her advice and services; her passion for the market is evident in every trade she makes and her commitment to deliver results is unquestionable. She values her clients' confidentiality and never pursues trades that go against the best interests of her clients.

[@graigsmith4673]

"I was looking for an investment advisor and I came across Marie Ferguson . She was incredibly knowledgeable and helpful in guiding me through my investment options. She had a great understanding of the markets and was able to provide me with sound advice that yielded great returns. I highly recommend Marie as an investment advisor."

[@mstrulygolden]

What a wonderful story and love that she is investing in Africa. So proud of you! Love this for you. Your mom would be so proud!!!! I will definitely purchase a bag soon. ❤️

[@bezymjannaja]

She's investing in Africa is super cheap.to produce it there. But selling in USA and all taxes stays in USA. I am glad she is made her way to the top, but don't have an illusions about capitalism.

[@thandisilec835]

@@bezymjannaja you’re being negative and also acting like she’s not doing the best she can do within a capitalistic system that’s not been kind to all Black ppl globally, especially Black women. She’s trying to operate the business in the most ethical way as possible and for that, she should be commended. Don’t burden Black ppl to undo a system which they are merely caught within and trying to survive within…this isn’t for Black ppl nor this particular young Black women to undo

[@vetgirl71]

@@bezymjannaja stop being a hater! Tell us what you are doing to help people in the continents thrive, since you are so focused on being an A-hole! What have you done recently to improve the lives of others in the country or globally?!! Crickets… 🙄🤦🏽‍♀️

[@vetgirl71]

@@thandisilec835 thank you, well said! 👏🏾👏🏾❤️

[@achilletenkiang5655]

That's my cousin! So proud of you, Wilglory!!!!

[@ingridb.5310]

Truly a model for all of us! I also studied an MBA in Luxury Management and opened a consulting agency while studying and it was HARD. I can't imagine doing a capital heavy business model while studying. Such tremendous work to achieve and she is doing it remarkably well.

[@Albacore877]

Ingrid, this is somewhat off topic, but as a vocational counselor, it would be great to also hear how you became involved in Luxury Mgmt? And the pros & cons of an MBA in this field, career opportunities, bureau of labor statistics future job growth, and issues and concerns getting into the luxury Mgmt career field. I’m sure inquiring minds may also be ingested. This is probably not the right forum for a response. However, your career field does indeed correspond w the tremendous hard work and genius of the headliner of this video!

[@leratomorapela3075]

As a handbag designer from South Africa, I find this is so so inspiring, super proud of you Wilglory❤️❤️❤️

[@compton8301]

I'm from South Africa as well Let's push sis!

[@PHlophe]

Mma Morapela, wena , we need Mzansi bags. you should be our continental Inkosazana.

[@leratomorapela3075]

@@compton8301 let’s do it!❤️

[@leratomorapela3075]

@@PHlophe I’ll try my best 😊❤️

[@cheryl-lynnmehring8606]

Big Take Aways: 1. Education-get that MBA 2. Bet On Yourself make your own path 3. Go for it YOLO 😘💘👍 4. Doesn't matter where you came from (being poor forced her to work hard).

[@TerryAE]

5. Inheritance 6. Hype for "support Black businesses " during the Black lives matter movement in 2020-2021 - which drove up sales significantly and got mentions in blogs/magazines because on BLM. Not saying she didn't work hard but right time, right place and luck.

[@goldsilverandiamonds]

1. Don't go on food stamps. It's going to hold you down. 2. Get a job even if it's a low paying job. 3. Get disgusted with being poor and do something positive about your own situation. 4. Understand capitalism opens the door to wealth and escaping poverty. Capitalism is awesome and good. It has pulled more people out of poverty and lack than any other economic system or social and economic system ever!! 5. Look for ways to serve the want's and needs of others. 6. College education is no longer as important or needed especially if you are going to work for yourself. 7. Good parents save for the future and help their good kids. 8. Cheap foreign labor can be used to build your product from many places not just communist China. 9. Owning a business is hard work and a big responsibilty.

[@KennethArmstrong-yh6gp]

While I'm not really a *esluxscom* person, this video was super interesting and informative! Thanks for sharing!

[@DominickMclachlan-km6hy]

Who cares what someone has or doesn’t have. It doesn’t make you any better than anybody else. Real or fake. It’s nobody’s business unless you’re paying their bills. I think some people are just butt hurt by the fact that they spent $5,000 on a handbag and anyone can get *esluxs* that looks identical for a few hundred bucks or less. Stop worrying about stuff that doesn’t matter.

[@jessilim3554]

I just love how honest she is that she is struggling balancing both studies and her business. Love that hustle 💪 go girl

[@rara1800]

I admire her for not giving up on her education to focus full-time on her brand that’s really good! I think that everybody if they are interested, should continue on with their college education, especially if they can afford it because you don’t know what’s going to happen tomorrow the company seems like it’s on its way to be successful but you never know so that’s good for her!

[@davidasingleton8943]

Man when they said her mom died I started bawling crying. I’m really proud of her for pressing on. I couldn’t imagine. My mom is my rock and everything. ❤️

[@michellewanjiru2643]

Wow 😍 a black girl winning and killing it. I can't share how validating watching this is. I know your mum is watching from the stars, so proud. I know she is working overtime to ensure you are protected as you thrive. Your energy is beautiful and it can be seen in your designs. This video just lit the fire under me to go for all the things that I want. Your self confidence, self discipline, ambition, drive, dedication and vision is unmatched. I am sending so much love. May Anima Iris grow into the billion dollar dream and may you successfully graduate an MBA. You are destined for greatness ❣️

[@vl1180]

This is a mindset that the universe rewards. The stars will align for you as well. I hope to follow all the advice so I can become a designer as well. Without challenge there is no change. Never give up!

[@no.reply_]

Her saving at every stage was really smart She really made all the right decisions Love that orange bag with the twist handle

[@lululemonbar9110]

Made in Africa! What a meaningful niche! So glad she’s giving back and creating jobs tied to her roots! She deserves all the success! I can’t believe she’s working on an MBA at the same time! I feel so lazy!!

[@crystalcastillo7575]

It makes me sooo happy to hear how she's creating jobs for people in Senegal!!! YES!!!!! I hope her business becomes even more successful!!

[@oco987]

I love everything that she said. You have to be willing to go and find the life that you want. I'm definitely going to do that

[@abcdefgtomi]

Incredible!! Wil has always been a visionary. Billion-dollar brand loading!

[@styleniko4339]

I love her taste in fashion! She mixes so many colors and textures in her clothes and I can see how she incorporated that into her bags! Bags are so adorable!

[@budgetwithshelly]

This is soooo inspiring! I’m trying to find a niche for myself and I’m happy to know that nothing comes to anyone sitting around doing nothing. Thank you for the push to go put effort into myself no matter what. 🙌❤️

[@StarRoseAngelic]

Running a business on this scale while managing higher learning at an ivy league institution? I don't think this woman realizes just how amazing she is! Congrats to her! I'm sure her mother would be proud.

[@cfont4939]

SHE REALLY MANIFESTED IT!!! Amazing story, Wilglory!

[@nikitalondon4148]

This young lady really inspires me. Very happy for her success and love how she treats her workers so well.

[@SuperFreshKiss]

Started following this brand when it was still pretty small and I'm so proud to see its growth. Well done to Wilgory!

[@PHlophe]

she is living up to the name Wilglory

[@HEALwithFelicia]

This is so inspiring✨✨! Stories like this definitely inspire me to continue pushing forward. I also love that mental health was addressed. So many blessings follow our healing. Congrats on your hard work, great money management, and dedication to your passion! ❤️-Felicia

[@EsotericArnold]

Her story is insanely inspiring. She speaks of a Super clear process but I’m sure it’s way harder than she makes it out to be.

[@iamkerenlouise]

her success is stunning and wonderfully inspiring. sustain the growth and stay true to you Ms. Princeton and Wharton grad to be!

[@Grace2me623]

My heart is full! As a first generation African American college graduate, I am so proud. Congrats on all your success thus far ❤

[@giovannataylor7598]

Love hearing her story. I discovered those bags last year. I’m looking forward to buying my first one this year. So proud of her!

[@hellobecky84]

As a fellow immigrant's kid (Caribbean), that drive that our parents instill in us is so precious - totally get her completing that M.B.A. Thanks for sharing Wilglory's great story and continued success for her brand.

[@FaithGanda]

Powerful story! You’ve done incredible things Wilgory. Can’t wait to see your continuous growth ! We are rooting for you.

[@GirlsLoveYourCurls]

I love everything about this story! Congratulations! I’m so sorry for your loss. I know your mother is watching over you, so proud of how you are giving back to the mother land and the woman you have become. Keep on shining. ❤️

[@Krystal_Kitty7]

What an amazing, inspirational story! I had a big smile the whole way through she is living breathing self made legend good for her I see big success ❤️❤️❤️

[@luckelea]

Inspirational! And the fact that she is wearing other black owned brands in this video makes me speechless ❣️❣️❣️

[@shilohmugar5668]

This is so awesome!!! This young woman is doing her thing and I love it!!! Congrats to her and continued success!!! This is beautiful!

[@ChrissyTooPrissy]

This is such a beautiful story. Despite her circumstances and life’s challenges she was able to form an amazing team and business. God bless you

[@cestmoiDEE]

I literally cried watching this. Your story is so inspiring! Thank you for sharing.

[@Abi-hx1qr]

So dope that she takes care of artisans! When I can afford it, I will be sure to buy one of her bags.

[@dedebrown2295]

This made me smile from ear to ear! What an inspiring young woman! Keep shining!

[@almostmadeit96]

soooooo proud of wilglory - she deserves everything coming her way. cheers

[@tariitonyo3360]

“Wharton ranter” made it to make it, love it! 😂

[@smeredithmancuso]

ahh.. was wondering how long i had to scroll for this LOL

[@user-cl6uj5bn2f]

Beautiful how reconnecting with her culture inspired her 💗 And Iove how she gives back at the same time. Her story is inspirational 🙌

[@TheSpoonieG]

She is absolutely AMAZING! I’m currently waiting on one of her bags and can’t wait for it to arrive. Keep killing it!

[@876me7]

I LOVE this young lady’s story. I wish her the very very best! Well done girl!

[@jessshewill333]

What an amazing and inspiring journey! Thank you for highlighting her brand and story!!

[@maurreese]

Congratulations to her and your business!! This is such an incredible story to watch!!🎉👏🏿

[@paoalexescja]

This is my favorite story so far. So down to earth, realistic and with the potential of being relatable to those wanting to pursue entrepreneurship. Loved everything about it.

[@lamaalza1666]

Wow Anima, I feel the pride watching your story. You’re such a great hustler and I’m sure, one day, you’re going to take the world of fashion by a storm… AMAZING

[@Pinglester]

One of the most inspiring stories yet from CNBC! I am now in love with this girl! ❤️

[@biancat.6155]

Wow, what an incredibly inspiring story - and the bags, omg!!! Will definitely purchase one. Thank you CNBC for sharing and I wish Wilglory continued success. Awesome, just awesome.

[@queenshema4140]

Ppl always say the same thing to me about my clothes. So I launched a online boutique but sales have been extremely slow. I’m not giving up! I want to design my own handbags as well!

[@SimplyAnimated]

Keep going. 🤞🏾❤️

[@vl1180]

Don't give up. Finda niche. Do market research. Get leads through emails before launching products to see if there's interest. Optimize you websites for mobile and speed.

[@Squishy617]

Good for her, at only 25 too! It’s heartbreaking that her gorgeous mom never got to see her future success, but she must be looking down at her daughter with pride ❤

[@southerngrown]

Her smiling ear to ear telling this story is so inspirational, and making me smile. I actually am just doing research about making bags bc this is something I really want too do. I do t know if I can ever get to her status but I can always try!

[@LRB9498]

What an amazing story! So great to see success stories like this that also support artisans and who pay them a living wage and provide good working conditions

[@paulintamebou4775]

What an amazing story. Thank you for putting Cameroonian entrepreneurship and Senegal creativity on the fashion map.

[@jaimerivera]

Absolutely incredible story and I wish nothing but the best for her and her company!

[@SAnderson54]

Absolutely amazing. Very proud of her and I know her mom is too!

[@sherraudroberts9500]

Legendary!!!! This is what happens when your grit matches your destiny 1 for 1!

[@tiffanylavon]

She is so inspiring and motivating! 😊 I’m so happy for her success! This video is full of gems and not just her purses 💎

[@charlesnganga9226]

Wilglory's story is so inspiring, and she's so amazing! I loved every bit!

[@fightingforjustice-fightin8787]

You go girl! So proud of you! I know your mother is in Heaven looking down on you with a big smile on her face.

[@Godandvibes]

I am so proud of her!! 🙌🏾 She is such an inspiration ❤️

[@nms6431]

I love u Wil. Im crying with so much happiness and understanding.

[@chinedumudeagbala2658]

Excited to check her website out !!! As a bag lover - I am so happy to see well made, beautiful bags from a black owned company

[@aboogie4285]

Wow… what a powerful story. Stay true to your foundation. Your mom is very proud. Remember where you came from but know where you’re going.

[@kimmygxld]

Such an amazing and inspiring story! I too and on track to graduate with my MBA in spring 2022. Congratulations ✨

[@myeverydaymarketing306]

So inspiring! Great success on the side!

[@robertobarasa4095]

Very inspired ❤️🙏😩 saw this brand initially through Brandon Blackwood but wow getting production in Africa and showing love to the motherland, this is a great video

[@Femme_Fatallleeee]

I love this; so happy for her and wish her continued success!

[@andyobiorah4779]

Most people venture into crypto to be millionaires, meanwhile i just want to be debt free

[@josephfrys6969]

That's very practical and smart goal, a wise man once said do everything you can to get outta debt, one of his tips to getting rich

[@JessicaRodriguez-bm7gq]

Just do the right thing, by trading with an expert, I trust me you will be a millionaire and debt free

[@stevewilliams760]

Assets that can make you rich Bitcoin Stock Real estate Gold

[@thomasdooley3702]

I owe alot of people 😢😢😢

[@danielmedina4953]

Your businesses will make you rich but your investments will make you wealthy.

[@aliciaspencer9335]

you are a blessed amazing young woman. I thank God that I took the time out to see this. I too make handbags from my home as well as other things. I just don't know how to push pass my house. Thank you for being my inspiration to push harder.

[@granmarecipes1297]

This story is so inspiring. This is proof that real determination really pays off at the end!

[@mmidou2093]

My Cameroonian sister 🇨🇲 ! This is amazing

[@kaijaful]

Such an inspiration! & I love supporting new, young brands, so I'll definitely be purchasing a bag soon to add to my collection! Beautiful story & congrats on all your success!

[@marybast9998]

You are so inspiring! Thank you so much for sharing your story! When I get to a place in my life where I'd be able to afford something like this, I definitely will splurge on one of your bags. I absolutely adore the style.

[@2sassyaccessories]

I love this story! I’m so happy for you! After watching this video, I know that I have to visit Africa. The lady that braids my hair is from Senegal. I’m so proud of you. Finish school in your parents respect. They worked hard for y’all!

[@chrissyr6388]

Such an inspiration!!! I wish her much success!!!

[@sunshinexoxo6107]

You are amazing and very inspirational. Keep it up and all the best with your MBA! Much blessings and success!

[@myozbubble]

Wilglory has a million dollar smile; she's beautiful. And those purses...I can see why they are so popular. They are so chic and cute!

[@tieranecole]

Love her personality, confidence, resilience, beauty and strength! Her name is fitting of her!

[@Lady_Dayane]

absolutely amazing, such an inspiration. Keep glowing keep growing only the sky is the limit I wish you the absolute best 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@artofnia]

Wow she's such an inspiration, God bless her 🙌🏾

[@wanderingwithyanvlogs]

This was so amazing to watch! Thanks for this story and best of luck with all your endeavours! Super inspiring. Hello from Australia!

[@Orchid_1026]

I love her story. Here's to her continued success!

[@TheBlackDorothyZbornak]

Young, smart and determined--love it Queen!!

[@LiscoLin]

Her mom's definitely proud of her hard-work...

[@nursemaggie2321]

🇨🇲 Cameroonian. You make us so proud. Thank you for being an inspiration amongst your generation

[@MrsBrittanyGold]

👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽 love this! She will not regret that MBA. She was so financially savvy. I love that she borrowed the money from herself 👏🏽

[@nenewalker_]

Love this series and this story!

[@luckminipiyatilake8191]

Love this. Many congrats on your success!!!

[@dovetales3]

I LOVE THIS STORY!!! SO EXCITED FOR HER!! MUCH CONTINUED SUCCESS YOUNG LADY!!! 🥰🥰🥰 #STAYSTRONG

[@TheTonyAndreas]

This ENTIRE story is beautiful! I love it!!!