This month’s member spotlight is a feature on Anatole Onguende (he/him)! Anatole has been a resident of Vermont for 14 years and is based in Milton. He is the owner of OG’s Cleaning Service LLC, a professional cleaning company specializing in commercial and residential cleaning, dryer vent and air duct cleaning, carpet cleaning, and floor stripping and waxing.
To learn more about Anatole’s work, visit ogscleaningservice.com or reach out via email at ogscleaningservice@gmail.com.
Tell us a bit about your background before arriving in VT and what brought you to the state!
I’m originally from Brazzaville, came to Vermont to pursue my American dream.
How did you get into your career?
I’m naturally a very organized and clean person, someone who likes things to look good.
Why are you a member of the Vermont Professionals of Color Network?
As a person of color and part of minority, this network offers to me a community. I can relate to everyone and they can also relate to me and our similar experiences bring us together and allow us to succeed.
What aspects of life in VT do you find most fulfilling? What about your professional life here stands out to you?
The community support for BIPOC. The opportunity that is here. The need is evident.
Looking back, what advice would you have appreciated receiving about being a professional of color in VT before you arrived?
That networking in Vermont is very important because Vermont only supports those they are familiar with.
What are some challenges that you’ve faced on a professional level since living in VT?
Networking. Accessing contracts. Being discovered without networking. Your experience alone isn’t enough.
Can you share any strategies or resources that have helped you overcome these challenges?
As of now, none.
Tell us about the work you’re currently doing and what drives you in your profession!
I currently own a cleaning company. What drives me is knowing that I can help someone leave a company to continue doing business in good conditions.
What future opportunities do you see for your industry, particularly in the context of the state?
Expanding throughout the state of Vermont with multiple workers.
In your opinion, how can VT better support its BIPOC residents, both professionally and personally?
By continuing to organize seminars and provide classes to new and old businesses.
Have you had any mentors or support networks in VT? How have they impacted your journey?
Weiwei from VT PoC.
What role does community play in your life here, and how have you engaged with the local BIPOC community?
Community is a great support system that encourages me to keep pushing and not give up.
Can you share a defining moment in your life that shaped your professional journey?
Leaving the school district to start my business in order to spend more time with my family.
What advice would you give to young BIPOC professionals starting their careers in Vermont?
Network. Go out, reach out, seek help.
How do you balance your professional life with personal interests and self-care?
As of now, my professional life is yet to be overwhelming. So, I balance it with the love and support of my family that I know I can always count on will always have available.
