Why EmpowerHER Wave Chose Indie Law—and What Her Journey Teaches Us About Trademarks, Grit, and Growth

At 25, Anacani Walters couldn’t read. At 44, she’s now the founder of EmpowerHER Wave and the winner of Indie Law’s Ripple Mark Award. Her story is not just inspiring—it’s a testament to the power of reinvention, resilience, and the importance of protecting your brand.

From Illiteracy to Intellectual Property

Anacani’s journey is far from typical. Raised in a farmworker community by a single mother, she was a first-generation American who struggled through a school system that never prioritized her education. At 19, she joined the U.S. Air Force and served as a flight medic, later working in surgical oncology—while privately navigating the world as a functionally illiterate adult.

Her turning point came one day on a Washington D.C. metro train. She picked up a free newspaper and realized she couldn’t comprehend more than a few lines. Instead of giving up, she went home, cried, and then picked up a highlighter. Over the next year, she taught herself how to read using nothing but a dictionary and determination. That decision reshaped her life.

The Birth of EmpowerHER Wave

What began as a journey of literacy evolved into entrepreneurship. Anacani launched multiple ventures—from SUP yoga to trauma-informed body positivity coaching—each one rooted in healing, empowerment, and heart-led leadership. Her flagship project, EmpowerHER Wave, is an AI-powered agency that helps wellness entrepreneurs simplify their businesses, reclaim their time, and avoid burnout.

But building a brand isn’t just about content, community, or even clients—it’s about protection.

Why She Chose Indie Law

When it was time to formalize her brand, Anacani chose Indie Law to help her pursue a federal trademark. With over 1,200 trademarks filed and more than 150 five-star reviews, Indie Law has earned the trust of entrepreneurs nationwide.

“You didn’t just give me protection,” Anacani says. “You gave me permission.”

For women who’ve been told they’re not “tech-savvy,” “educated enough,” or “ready,” that permission is powerful. Indie Law believes that legal milestones—like applying to register a trademark—are about more than just documents. They’re about dignity, clarity, and unlocking new levels of ownership and pride.

The Ripple Mark Award: Celebrating Vision and Grit

Anacani was selected for Indie Law’s Ripple Mark Award, a recognition of entrepreneurs who are creating real impact in their industries and communities. Nominated by Molly Mahoney of The Prepared Performer, Anacani exemplifies the heart and hustle behind the award.

Her story proves that success doesn’t require a trust fund, an Ivy League degree, or a flawless path. It requires vision, grit, and the right support team.

What EmpowerHER Wave Means Today

Today, EmpowerHER Wave empowers other women to launch and grow wellness businesses with systems that work—without sacrificing their mental health or their time with family. Her brand is more than a business. It’s a symbol of transformation.

From reading her first book to writing her next chapter as a founder, Anacani’s story reminds us:

“You don’t have to wait until you’re perfect to be powerful. You just have to start paddling.”