Exploring Life & Business with Anita Dereen of Zamariya Spa of Africa

Today we’d like to introduce you to Anita Dereen.

Hi Anita, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My journey began in 2012 after leaving the mental health field, I saw so many people of color especially African Americans that didn’t have alternate forms of healing as many wanted to stop taking so much medication. I became a licensed massage therapist in 2013 and then medical massage certified in 2016. While working with each individual, I found myself recommending mindful self-care routines to help them live the best life they choose.

I started my practice as a mobile therapist working through contracts with physicians, chiropractors and physical therapists as I grew my clientele base. I eventually opened Zamariya Spa of Africa in the fall of 2019 in a single room studio. My practice began to thrive quickly but unfortunately COVID happened and I had to close temporarily.

When I was able to reopen, I knew I would need to grow my practice and locate a larger location. I by the end of 2020, I began my search for a new location. March of 2021, I opened Zamariya Spa of Africa at its current location, with faith in God.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
As many other businesses finding funding was difficult during the pandemic and I needed to rely on prayers, my faith and no quitting mentality. Offering a service that focused on a specific group of people did bring about a lot of uncertainty. I asked myself time and time again, “Would my people want a place that specific to them?”

We’ve been impressed with Zamariya Spa of Africa, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Zamariya is a wellness full spectrum CBD spa. We specialize in chronic pain management and wellness, corrective skin care and nutrition. We are different because although we see all people, we are specifically offering or service to African Americans. We they walk into my business, there is no mistaking it’s for us, by us.

How do you think about happiness?
I’m so happy when I see new and returning clients come in, and they let out that sigh of relief as I welcome them home. Their first words are usually something like these, “I feel the peace in here.“ “Did I just leave the country“ “A place for me“. Also seeing people get better live a life with less medication.

It makes all the doubts in the beginning a forgotten memory.

Outside of this, my family and my walk with God. Completing my first book that’s going into shooting this spring as a documentary, “The Oil.”

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: Zamariya.com
• Instagram: http://www.Instagram.com/zamariyaspa
• Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com/zamariyaspa