Mariya Richardson
Mariya Richardson transitioned to entrepreneurship as the owner of Go Painting of Fort Worth, a commercial painting franchise delivering high-quality service and craftsmanship to businesses across the Dallas-Fort Worth area. With over 18 years of experience in management and operations, she began her career in the hospitality industry, where she developed exceptional customer service, team leadership, and operational management skills. Over the years, Mariya held key leadership roles, including General Manager of multiple restaurant locations, Area Manager at Amazon, and Director of Marketing at The Syn Group, gaining extensive experience that laid the foundation for her entrepreneurial journey. Drawing on her diverse professional background, Mariya has built a thriving business by implementing efficient processes, fostering strong teams, and consistently exceeding client expectations. Her strategic vision, operational expertise, and commitment to excellence have established her as a trusted name in the commercial painting industry. Mariya’s approach combines innovation with hands-on leadership, ensuring that every project reflects the highest standards of quality and professionalism. Beyond her professional pursuits, Mariya values growth, perseverance, and impactful leadership. She is passionate about advocating for herself and others, creating inclusive work environments, and embracing challenges as opportunities for development. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, traveling, and spending time outdoors, finding inspiration and balance in nature. Her dedication, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit continue to drive her success and vision for the future.
• Northwood University - BBA
• CAIDFW
• Fort Worth Apartment Association
• CCCFW
• DFW Women
What do you attribute your success to?
I credit my success to the diverse experience and skill set I’ve built over the past 18 years in business management. I began my career in hospitality, where I developed strong customer service and interpersonal skills that continue to guide how I work today. I later stepped into leadership roles, including Area Manager at Amazon and Director of Marketing/General Manager for The Syn Group, where I gained hands-on experience in operations, team leadership, and strategic decision-making. Now, as the owner of Go Painting of Fort Worth serving commercial clients, I bring all of those lessons together to run my business with intention and efficiency. My passion for this venture, paired with perseverance and a refusal to give up, has been key to reaching this point in my career.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is simple but powerful: always ask for what you want. Whether it’s a new opportunity, a raise, or guidance, speaking up and advocating for yourself opens doors that might otherwise remain closed. Learning to confidently express your goals and needs has been a key factor in my professional growth and success.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Learn the craft, trust your instincts, and don’t shrink yourself to be more palatable.
Take the time to truly understand the work—ask questions, learn the processes, know the numbers—because knowledge builds confidence faster than anything else. Be professional, direct, and consistent, even when it feels uncomfortable. You don’t need to copy anyone else’s style to be taken seriously. Your perspective, communication skills, and work ethic are assets, not weaknesses. And finally, find mentors and allies, but remember: you belong in the room just as much as anyone else.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity, communication, and accountability are the most important values to me. I believe in doing what you say you’re going to do, being clear and honest in your communication, and taking responsibility for both the wins and the challenges. Those values guide how I run my business and how I show up in my personal life.