Throughout the month of March, the CAN BE Innovation Center is proud to celebrate Women’s History Month by highlighting its female clients. In this short Q&A, we sat down with one of our shared kitchen clients, Celena Carsia from Retro Dough, to reflect on her journey and what it means to be a female entrepreneur.

For those who might not know your story, tell us who you are, what your business is, and why you became an entrepreneur.

My name is Celena Carsia and I was born and raised in Hazleton. I grew up where pierogi and Italian cookies weren't just food – they were a way of life. Encouraged by my grandmother's love for cooking and baking, I found myself in the kitchen from a young age.

This passion led me and my husband's family to share our culinary creations with friends and family for over 15 years, sowing the seeds for what would eventually blossom into Retro Dough. I became an entrepreneur to create dishes that do more than satisfy hunger; I want them to evoke memories. 

In what ways do you think being a female entrepreneur has influenced your approach to business?

For me, being a female entrepreneur is not just about leading a business; it's about uplifting others. My journey has been significantly shaped by the desire to support women in the culinary field and beyond. 

What advice would you give to aspiring female entrepreneurs just starting out?

My advice to new female entrepreneurs is to take the chance. You don’t know what you are capable of unless you try! The road will have its ups and downs, but each challenge is an opportunity to learn, grow, and refine your vision.

Can you recommend another local female business leader you shop with, look up to, or would like to promote?

Another local female business leader that I would like to recommend is Salina Woody. She is the owner of Salina’s Hair Studio in Hazleton. I’m honored to call her a boss, friend, and mentor. She embodies the essence of hard work and dedication, demonstrating that dreams are achievable with perseverance. My dual roles as a business owner and a hairstylist under Salina's mentorship highlight the talents and resilience that define me. 

For more information about the CAN BE Innovation Center, or starting a business within the Greater Hazleton Area, visit canbe.biz or contact Nico Makuta at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..