She’s Building Something: Meet Nefertiti Holas
Nefertiti Holas is a true inspiration, embodying the spirit of entrepreneurial success and community empowerment. Hailing from the picturesque Spice Island of Grenada, Nefertiti's journey is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and financial savvy.
As an accomplished Accountant, Real Estate Broker, and Mother, Nefertiti wears many hats, but her true calling lies in guiding others towards financial freedom. With over 20 years of experience in the financial sector, she has honed her expertise in a diverse range of areas, including banking, payroll, cash flow, audit, accounts payable, bookkeeping, accounting, and taxes.
Driven by a desire to make a difference, Nefertiti founded ChaNJe Money Matters Co, a full-service accounting practice dedicated to providing top-tier financial guidance. She is also a co-owner of Ebony Qing Real Estate in Virginia Beach, VA, further expanding her reach in the realm of real estate.
Nefertiti's commitment to excellence and community service has not gone unnoticed. Her practice has been recognized locally with prestigious titles such as 'Best Tax Service' and 'Businessperson of the Year.'
When you book with Nefertiti Holas, you're not just gaining an expert business and tax accountant; you're gaining a mentor and a guide who is truly invested in your financial success.
Please tell us more about what you’re building and where your inspiration came from.
I created the Game of ChaNJe, a financial literacy board game designed to teach players of all ages the fundamentals of money management in a fun, engaging way. The game walks players through real-life financial scenarios, helping them develop skills in budgeting, investing, credit management, and more.
The idea for the game was born when I was invited to speak at my son’s career day. As I shared insights about financial literacy, I witnessed firsthand how eager and engaged the students were to learn about money—something not often taught in schools. Their curiosity and excitement made me realize that financial education doesn’t have to be boring or complicated; it just needs to be presented in a way that’s relatable and interactive. That moment sparked the creation of The Game of ChaNJe, and my goal has been to make learning about finances accessible and enjoyable ever since.
How do you envision this impacting the lives of others in the next 10 years?
In the next 10 years, I see The Game of ChaNJe being used in schools, households, and community programs across the country to bridge the financial literacy gap. I envision students growing up with a deeper understanding of personal finance, leading to a generation that makes informed financial decisions and breaks cycles of debt and financial struggle. I also see families using the game as a bonding tool, sparking important money conversations that often don’t happen otherwise. Ultimately, I hope The Game of ChaNJe helps people shift their mindsets from simply surviving to thrive financially.
What core value do you think has played the biggest role in your success?
Resilience. The road to entrepreneurship is filled with challenges, but my ability to adapt, keep pushing forward, and stay focused on my vision has been key to my success. Whether it’s facing financial obstacles, production delays, or learning curves, I approach each challenge as an opportunity to grow rather than a reason to quit.
How do you handle setbacks and delays as you pursue your dreams?
Setbacks and delays are part of the process, so I’ve learned to pivot instead of panic. I take a step back, assess the situation, and ask myself: What’s the next best move? Instead of dwelling on what went wrong, I focus on solutions and alternatives. I also surround myself with a strong network of mentors, peers, and supporters who keep me grounded and motivated. Most importantly, I remind myself why I started. When the “why” is strong enough, the obstacles become stepping stones instead of roadblocks.
If someone reading this interview is on the verge of starting a business, she truly believes in, what skill would you recommend she develops the most?
I would say adaptability. Business is unpredictable, and success often depends on your ability to pivot when things don’t go as planned. Being open to learning, adjusting your strategy, and staying flexible will help you overcome challenges and keep moving forward. Also, develop your financial literacy! Understanding cash flow, budgeting, and financial planning will help you make better business decisions and avoid common pitfalls that can sink a startup.
What can others do to support you on this journey?
Support can come in many forms! The easiest way is to share The Game of ChaNJe with your network—whether purchasing a copy, introducing it to schools, libraries, and organisations, or simply spreading the word on social media. If you’re an educator, community leader, or someone who sees the value in financial literacy, I’d love to collaborate on getting the game into more hands. And for those who want to go the extra mile, I always appreciate introductions to investors, retailers, and media outlets that can help expand this movement.
At the end of the day, The Game of ChaNJe isn’t just my project—it’s a mission to equip as many people as possible with financial knowledge that can change their lives. Any support toward that mission is truly appreciated!
How can our readers connect with you?
Personal / Business: Instagram: nefertiti_holas / chanjemoneymatters
Facebook: nefertitiholas / chanjemoneymatters
Website: nefertitiholas.com / chanjemoneymatters.org