TOPEKA — A Manhattan small business owner was recognized this week at the statehouse in Topeka by the Kansas Small Business Development Center.
Ralph Diaz owns and operates The Winged Lion, a unique lifestyle store offering home decor, textiles, personal care products and gifts. The business, which Diaz began five years ago as a dream was named one of 16 small businesses of the year by the KSBDC. Diaz tells KMAN what the honor means to him.
Diaz worked for years as a hairdresser, owning Gaia Salonspa in Manhattan from 1998 to 2014 when he sold the business. It was then five years ago when Diaz decided to take on this new endeavor.
Diaz’s business was one of eight recognized by the KSBDC in the category of exemplified small business success. He explains what he attributes the success of his business to.
He also says the Small Business Development Center has been crucial to his success.
The Winged Lion can be found in downtown Manhattan, located at 300 Poyntz Ave.
