By Alex Popa
Born in the vibrant city of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Merline “Mimi” Thermora has always carried her heritage close to her heart. After moving to her current city over 20 years ago, she embraced the opportunities and challenges that came with building a life in a new place.
Today, she is not only a devoted wife and mother but also an influential entrepreneur, event organizer, and community leader.
Mimi describes herself as “a woman of God, a mother, a wife, and a very hard-working woman.” Her work ethic, combined with her love for fashion and people, has shaped every chapter of her journey. In 2011, she transformed her lifelong passion into a business when she launched Mimi’s BoutiQ, an online boutique.
For her, business is more than profit; it’s about connection and empowerment. Whether she’s styling a client, hosting a runway show, or giving a motivational talk, her focus is on helping others shine. As she puts it, “By support, I’m not just saying it, but we put real actions behind it.”
Educational Background and Professional Achievements
Mimi’s path to success didn’t begin with a formal business degree. In fact, she candidly admits that one of her greatest challenges early on was not fully understanding the business side of fashion. However, the uncertainty didn’t deter her—it motivated her to learn something new every day.
Her dedication has earned her multiple honors, including being named a YOPRO honoree in 2019, receiving the prestigious Haitian Awards, and being recognized by the Ayiti Community Trust. These accolades reflect both her professional achievements and her commitment to representing Haitian culture on an international stage.
The Mimi’s BoutiQ brand has grown into a multifaceted enterprise that includes:
Mimi’s BoutiQ Fashion Show—An annual event celebrating designers and talent, especially from the Haitian community.
For the Women, By the Women Brunch—A networking and empowerment event bringing together women from diverse industries.
Styled by MB—Personaltyling services for clients seeking confidence and sophistication in their appearance.
Coffee Talk with Mimi—A podcast offering candid conversations about life, business, and empowerment.
Motivational speaking and event coordination—creating platforms for learning, growth, and inspiration.
Her philanthropy is equally notable. Six years ago, she and a group of associates traveled to Haiti to feed 275 children—an experience she describes as one of the most rewarding moments of her life:
“I want to create generational wealth and for people to remember me as someone who made a difference in their lives,” says Mimi.
Vision and Goals
In 2024, Mimi’s BoutiQ marked its 13th year—a milestone Merline holds dear. Her business longevity is a testament to her resilience and the loyalty of her clients. But she’s far from slowing down.
Her goals for 2025 include strengthening her brand presence, making a tangible difference through her work, and remaining open to wherever God’s plan leads her. Over the next three to five years, she envisions Mimi’s BoutiQ gaining international recognition, with her work speaking for itself on global platforms.
Mimi’s deeper ambition is to build generational wealth and leave behind a legacy that changes lives. She wants people to remember her as someone who inspired and empowered them—whether through fashion, community initiatives, or personal mentorship.
Her business philosophy is rooted in focus: “Competitors are not our focus. I focus on my lane.” This mindset allows her to innovate without distraction and remain authentic to her mission.
Advice for the Young Generation
Focus, self-awareness, and relentless effort pave the path to success, according to Merline. One of her most important lessons from 2024 was, “Put your focus on yourself and your brand and stop expecting a YOU from others.”
For young entrepreneurs, she offers three core skills for success:
Determination—the ability to keep pushing despite challenges.
Adaptability—willingness to learn and pivot when needed.
Consistent work ethic: showing up every day, even when it’s hard.
Her fashion advice is equally practical: Before you wear something, look at yourself in the mirror and ask yourself if that person will feel confident wearing it. Trends come and go, but true style comes from wearing what flatters you and makes you feel self-assured.
She also emphasizes work-life balance, making a conscious effort to stay at work and preserve her personal time for family and self-care. Her hobbies reflect her love of experiences—traveling, enjoying brunch, indulging in spa days, spending quality time with her kids and husband, and appreciating enjoyable music.
Ultimately, her message to the next generation is clear: focus, plan, and act. Without a plan, you can’t create; without focus, you’ll be pulled in every direction; and without action, dreams remain just that—dreams.
In her lane and on her terms, Merline continues to prove that passion, paired with purpose, can inspire change that lasts for generations.
