Jel Mojana is a registered nurse, a medical scientist, and an award-winning entrepreneur redefining the intersection of science, creativity, and community. As the founder and creative director of Mojana, a pink-themed boutique gift and self-care brand in downtown Huntsville, she transformed a small pandemic passion project into one of the city’s most celebrated retail destinations. Mojana has been recognized multiple times as Best Gift Shop in Huntsville and Best Skincare by Tennessee Valley Living. Jel is passionate about empowering others through creativity, wellness, and entrepreneurship while giving back through community partnerships and local events. Her vision is to build experiences that inspire joy, confidence, and connection.

What do you love most about living and working in Huntsville?

Huntsville is a city where possibilities live. It’s a place where innovation, entrepreneurship, and community come together, and where someone with a dream can truly build something meaningful.

What advice would you give your 22-year-old self?

Believe in your dreams sooner and stop waiting for the “perfect time.” The path may not always be clear, but the courage to start will always lead you exactly where you’re meant to go.

What motivates you on hard days?

I remember why I started. During uncertain times, I created something that now brings joy, confidence, and self-care to people’s lives. Knowing that my work can brighten someone’s day reminds me that the struggle is always worth it.

How do you like to spend your time outside of work?

I recharge by spending time with family and my dogs, traveling for inspiration, and dreaming up new ideas that eventually turn into meaningful experiences for our customers.

How do you like to give back to the community, and why is it important to you?

Community has always been at the heart of Mojana. Supporting local events, charities, and collaborations allows me to give back to the city that believed in my dream and helped it grow.

What’s your “why don’t we have this yet?” business idea for Huntsville?

I would love to see more immersive lifestyle destinations in Huntsville, places where retail, creativity, workshops, and community experiences come together to inspire connection and joy.

Who has been the biggest influence on your career, and what valuable lesson did they teach you?

My family has been my greatest influence; they taught me resilience, faith, and the importance of hard work. Their biggest lesson was simple but powerful: when you build something with purpose, you create impact far beyond yourself.