Tessa set the stage for her career while still in academia by co-establishing Teysha, a venture deeply rooted in sustainability and social betterment. The company worked closely with indigenous textile artisans in Latin America, bringing their products to a broader market and equipping them with microloans for business development. She then transitioned into a critical role at Bumble, one of the most talked-about dating apps of its time. Beginning as Director of Marketing, she was quickly elevated to Head of Growth and Innovation. Her dynamic leadership spanned several arenas—from digital marketing and social media to events and product development. She also orchestrated Bumble merchandise, an initiative that channeled all profits toward The Whole Planet Foundation, showcasing her enduring commitment to community welfare. From Bumble, she made her presence felt at Argo, a platform dedicated to short films, demonstrating her natural aptitude for growing and innovating in different corporate climates. Ultimately, her entrepreneurial calling led her to co-found Shepard Collective with Chelsea Maclin. Here, her multifaceted skills in entrepreneurship and her talent for fostering corporate growth are fully displayed. Her empathy finds a resonant expression in her profound love for animals. Her household comprises two Pyrenees mix puppies, an elder dog diagnosed with epilepsy, and two adopted cats, manifesting her commitment to animal well-being. Beyond pet ownership, she is a vocal advocate for animal rights and educates others about ethical treatment and welfare issues. A passion project in her pipeline is a unique wellness retreat that will function doubly as a sanctuary for rescued animals.