Paulla McCarthy is a trailblazing entrepreneur, nurse, and single mother of three from New York City. She made history in October 2020 by becoming the first Black woman to own and operate a spring water bottling plant in New York State. Her company, YSS WaterWorks, is situated on a 15-acre property in Poestenkill, New York, which includes a natural aquifer .
From Pandemic Hustle to Water Industry Pioneer
McCarthy’s entrepreneurial journey began during the COVID-19 pandemic when she provided her twin sons with $1,600 to start selling pallets of water. Their venture, dubbed The New York Water Boys, quickly expanded from street sales to securing contracts with 21 supermarkets . Recognizing the growing importance of water as a valuable resource, McCarthy seized the opportunity to acquire the spring water bottling plant, raising $130,000 in just two days to fund the purchase .
Championing Black Ownership and Resource Equity
Despite receiving offers as high as $20 million from major water companies, McCarthy remains steadfast in her commitment to retaining ownership of YSS WaterWorks. She emphasizes the significance of Black ownership in natural resources, stating, “I’m not going to sell. I want to change and move this narrative that we don’t own anything” .
Empowering Youth Through Financial Literacy
Beyond her business endeavors, McCarthy is dedicated to empowering the next generation through her nonprofit organization, Youth Saving Society (YSS). YSS focuses on providing financial education and promoting entrepreneurship among young people, aiming to inspire and equip them with the tools needed for economic success .
