Lighting the Flame of Creativity: How Donnelle Maharaj and Mood TT Are Transforming the Caribbean Handmade Industry
In the heart of Trinidad and Tobago, a movement is quietly igniting—one powered by creativity, resilience, and a deep-rooted passion for community upliftment. At the forefront of this movement is Donnelle Maharaj, the visionary CEO
In the heart of Trinidad and Tobago, a movement is quietly igniting—one powered by creativity, resilience, and a deep-rooted passion for community upliftment. At the forefront of this movement is Donnelle Maharaj, the visionary CEO and Managing Director of Mood Candle/Soap Supplies TT Ltd (Mood TT By AC). What began as a personal pastime of crafting candles and keepsake soaps has blossomed into a dynamic, trailblazing business that’s reshaping the landscape of the handmade product industry across the Caribbean.
From Passion to Purpose
For Donnelle, Mood TT was never just about candles or soaps—it was about mood, meaning, and momentum. The spark came from the joy of making personal skincare products for family events, combined with the influence of a grandmother who always believed Donnelle was destined to build something of her own. In late 2020, after a period of deep self-reflection, Donnelle made a pivotal decision: to transform her creative outlet into a full-fledged business.
A casual suggestion during a family drive—“Why not supply the materials?”—became the catalyst for what is now one of Trinidad and Tobago’s leading suppliers of high-quality raw materials for handmade bath and body care. Four years later, Mood TT By AC boasts a physical storefront, a catalog of over 300 products, and a community-driven platform that educates and empowers local creators.
More Than a Store—A Movement
What makes Mood TT stand out isn’t just the premium raw materials or the expansive product line—it’s the experience. Whether online or in-store, customers feel energized, educated, and truly seen. Donnelle’s commitment to excellence shows in every detail, from meticulously tested ingredients to tutorial videos that take weeks, sometimes months, to perfect.
“I have sensitive skin,” Donnelle shares, “so if it doesn’t work for me, we don’t market it. We’re transparent, honest, and passionate about quality. That’s what builds trust.”
Her love for helping others shine through their creativity fuels the brand’s mission: to support local makers with the resources, education, and encouragement they need to thrive. “Every smile, every thank-you, every success story—it’s what keeps me going.”

Rising Above Challenges
But the path hasn’t been without its hurdles. Like many entrepreneurs, Donnelle faced moments of doubt and the fear of failing at something she truly loved. Her remedy? Daily affirmations and an unwavering belief in her purpose.
“I had to remind myself—You got this. You are amazing. Those words helped me stay focused, even when things felt uncertain.”
And it worked. In less than a year, Donnelle turned a fledgling idea into a brick-and-mortar reality. But for her, the greatest successes are the wins of her customers. “When a client walks in, glowing with pride and says, ‘Girl, I did it,’ that’s what it’s all about. Their wins are my wins.”
Filling a Regional Gap, Empowering a Generation
Before Mood TT, local makers often struggled to find affordable, quality supplies without relying on expensive imports. Donnelle stepped in to bridge that gap. Today, Mood TT is not only a supplier—it’s a solution. By keeping costs accessible and supply chains local, she’s opened doors for countless Caribbean creatives.
And the ripple effect is powerful. Through partnerships with educators, workshops, and classes, Donnelle collaborates with other Caribbean female entrepreneurs to foster a community rooted in knowledge-sharing and mutual support.
“It’s not just about selling products,” she explains. “It’s about building something that outlasts trends—something that nurtures our community.”
The Future is Female—and Fierce
Donnelle sees the entrepreneurial future of Caribbean women as bold, collaborative, and unstoppable. “More of us are building. More of us are lifting each other up. And we’re not done yet.”
She envisions a future rich with opportunities, where women-led businesses are celebrated, resourced, and resilient. “With the right support and mindset, we’re not just creating businesses—we’re creating legacies.”
The Proof is in the Praise
Customers across the region echo Mood TT’s impact:
- “Your products are top-notch.” – Mrs. Heart
- “Your quality is the best.” – Miss Jattan
- “Your raw butters are amazing.” – Angel Kiss
- “The best scrub base.” – Collette
These testimonials are more than compliments—they’re proof that Mood TT By AC is not only raising the standard for handmade products in the Caribbean but redefining what it means to lead with purpose, passion, and power.
Donnelle Maharaj’s story is a beacon for dreamers and doers across the region—a reminder that from humble beginnings can rise a brand that lights the way for others. Mood TT By AC isn’t just a business—it’s a movement. And it’s only getting started.