Nephateria Covington of Wadesboro on Life, Lessons & Legacy

We recently had the chance to connect with Nephateria Covington and have shared our conversation below.

Nephateria, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
“Something outside of work that’s been bringing me joy lately is really focusing on my personal growth and the little moments of peace in my daily life. I’ve been spending more intentional time with my family, enjoying nature, and finding creative outlets that don’t necessarily tie back to my businesses — like journaling and planning out my dream home. Those quiet, simple moments recharge me and give me the balance I need to pour back into my work with fresh energy and perspective.”

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
**“My name is Nephateria Covington, and I’m a multi-passionate entrepreneur and author. I run several creative brands that are each close to my heart: Tai’Co Beauty, where I specialize in tooth gems and teeth whitening; Tai’Co Vibes, my candle business; and Glaé, a luxury but affordable street-style sunglasses line. I also write — my upcoming book From Hurt to Her shares my personal journey of healing and growth, with affirmations and journal prompts to inspire others.

What makes my work unique is that everything I create is rooted in authenticity and empowerment. I want people — whether they’re putting on a pair of sunglasses, lighting a candle, smiling after a beauty service, or reading my book — to feel confident, seen, and inspired. Right now, I’m focused on growing my brands, expanding my reach, and creating more products that bring joy and confidence into people’s everyday lives.”**

Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
**“Before the world told me who I had to be, I was a curious, creative, and fearless little girl who believed I could do anything. I loved dreaming big and using my imagination to create things, whether it was writing, drawing, or just coming up with new ideas. Over time, life experiences and outside voices tried to dim that light — telling me I had to fit in, play small, or take a certain path.

But through my healing journey, I’ve been able to reconnect with that little girl. She’s the reason I write, build businesses, and create spaces that empower others. In a way, everything I do now — from my book From Hurt to Her to my brands — is about honoring her and reminding others that their authentic self is still there, waiting to shine.”**

When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
*“For a long time, I carried my pain in silence because I thought that was the only way to survive. I didn’t want anyone to see the broken parts of me, so I put on a smile and pushed through. But deep down, I was hurting, and pretending only made the weight heavier.

I stopped hiding my pain when I realized that my story could actually help someone else. The very things I once felt ashamed of became the foundation of my strength. Instead of letting my struggles define me, I started to use them as lessons, fuel, and purpose. That shift is what inspired me to write my book From Hurt to Her — because I know there are so many people who need to hear that their healing is possible too.

Now, I see my pain as power because it taught me resilience, faith, and the ability to transform hurt into hope — not just for myself, but for others walking their own journeys.”**

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Is the public version of you the real you?
“Yes, the public version of me is the real me — but it’s not the whole me. What people see in my businesses, my writing, and my online presence is my authentic self: creative, passionate, and driven to inspire others. But of course, like anyone else, there are layers that the public doesn’t always see — the quiet moments, the struggles, and the work it takes behind the scenes. I believe in being genuine in everything I do, so what you see is real, but there’s always more depth beyond the surface.”

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
“I hope people say that I was someone who turned her pain into purpose and used her gifts to inspire others. That I wasn’t afraid to chase my dreams, build something meaningful, and encourage others to believe in themselves, too. I want to be remembered as a woman who created with love, led with authenticity, and left behind work — whether through my businesses, my writing, or simply my presence — that made people feel seen, valued, and empowered. More than anything, I hope my story reminds others that no matter what you’ve been through, you can heal, rise, and create a life you’re proud of.”

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @ineffey1992