Thanks To Help From Tabitha Brown, This Black-Owned Business’ Sales Went From $200 In A Week To Over $23K

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Tabitha Brown and husband wearing matching sweatshirts smiling

Ngozi Nwanji, AfroTech

The power of an influential social media platform has transformed this couple’s business.

Earlier in March, Tabitha Brown and her husband, Chance Brown, posted an episode of their YouTube series, “Fridays with Tab and Chance.” In the video, the two were wearing a sweater set from Brand Avenue — a marriage lifestyle apparel brand.

Within a short period of time, the Black-owned business’ revenue started booming.

Co-founded and launched in 2014 by Marc and Ima Carnelus, the two shared that prior to being featured on Brown’s channel their business had been struggling for six months. From March 3 to March 9, the brand only made around $200 for the week.

“We even considered shutting the business down altogether,” Marc openly shared in an Instagram post. “This is our main source of income and it’s been super tough.”

Ima added, “We have been praying in the midst of all that for a breakthrough, for a sign to keep going, a miracle. We’ve had people really rallying around us, supporting us, praying for us, helping us financially because we still got bills to pay. And God answered our prayers.”

A week after their flatline in sales, their business blew up overnight from the Browns’ video posting.

From March 10 to March 16, the entrepreneurs made over $23,000 — and the sales are still going up.

“This is the Tabitha effect,” Marc emphasized.

“I love this so much and it’s just another reason I can’t wait to bring back Very Good Mondays!!! So happy for you guys @brandaveclothing,” Tabitha Brown shared on Instagram. “Keep believing and keep trusting God, he got you!!!!”

Back in 2020, she started the Very Good Mondays series to feature and support small businesses.

The video that sparked Brand Avenue’s sales isn’t the first time Brown has shown love to Brand Avenue.

View Tabita Brown’s exclusive cover story in Professional WOMAN’s Magazine!

What do Mario and Queen Latifah have in common? They just made it into U.S. history
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GILBERT CARRASQUILLO/WIREIMAGE/GETTY IMAGES

Queen Latifah, Super Mario, Madonna, Mariah Carey, Daddy Yankee and mariachi music are the latest additions to the U.S. National Recording Registry, which means a selection of their recordings have been dubbed “audio treasures worthy of preservation” by the Library of Congress.

“The Equalizer” star Queen Latifah made history as the first female rapper with a recording in the registry thanks to this year’s inclusion of her 1989 album “All Hail the Queen,” which includes the feminist anthem “Ladies First.”

“Her album showed rap could cross genres including reggae, hip-hop, house and jazz — while also opening opportunities for other female rappers,” the library said Wednesday.

The instantly recognizable “Super Mario Bros.” theme music — officially known as the “Ground Theme” — became the first music from a video game to enter the registry Wednesday when the library announced this year’s selections. The tune, written by young Nintendo composer Koji Kondo in 1985, appeared in dozens of iterations of the iconic video game and most recently in the box-office smash “The Super Mario Bros. Movie.”

Kondo, 61, told the Library of Congress that he had to be “very innovative and make full use of the musical and programming ingenuity” available to him at the time to record the motif because the amount of data he could use for music and sound effects was extremely small.

“I used all sorts of genres that matched what was happening on screen. We had jingles to encourage players to try again after getting a ‘game over,’ fanfares to congratulate them for reaching goals, and pieces that sped up when the time remaining grew short,” he said through an interpreter.

Additionally, Madonna’s breakthrough 1984 album “Like a Virgin,” Mariah Carey’s 1994 holiday classic “All I Want for Christmas Is You” and Daddy Yankee’s explosive reggaeton single “Gasolina” from 2010 are also among “the defining sounds of the nation’s history and culture,” the library said. “Gasolina,” the first reggaeton hit to be included in the registry, helped the Panama-rooted musical genre cross over from Latin radio to wider audiences and launched Puerto Rican rapper Daddy Yankee onto the global stage. His single’s appeal was so great, the library said, that it “even moved some radio stations to switch formats from English to Spanish to tap into this revolution.”

Read more of the article originally posted on LA Times here.

Help Has Arrived: The Best Funding Resources for Women-Owned Business
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woman business owner studying financials at desk

Whether you’re looking to start a business for the first time or need additional funding for your current work, there are several places to turn to make sure your business is on the financial track to success.

Here are some of the best funding opportunities you should utilize today:

Become a Women-Owned Certified Business

Becoming an official certified woman-owned business is one of the greatest things you can do for your business. Not only will you have access to special scholarships and funding programs, but a certification could open the door to potential partnerships and contracts with big-name companies that can increase your revenue. Certifications also provide opportunities for networking, training, mentoring, counseling and many other resources that can help grow your business. You may even qualify for other business certifications (minority-owned, disability-owned, veteran-owned, LGBTQ+-owned, etc.) that would grant you even more opportunities for growth and success. Look into organizations such as WBENC, NMSDC, NGLCC and Disability:IN to see if you qualify.

The 8(a) Business Development Program

The 8(a) program can be a valuable tool for experienced socially and economically disadvantaged small business owners, who have already been in business for at least two years or more, and are interested in expanding their footprint in the federal marketplace.

Certified firms in the 8(a) program can:

  • Efficiently compete and receive set-aside and sole-source contracts.
  • Receive one-on-one business development assistance for their nine-year term from dedicated business opportunity specialists focused on helping firms grow and accomplish their business objectives.
  • Pursue opportunities for mentorship from experienced and technically capable firms through the Small Business Administration (SBA) Mentor-Protégé program.
  • Connect with procurement and compliance experts who understand regulations in the context of business growth, finance and government contracting.
  • Pursue joint ventures with established businesses to increase capacity.
  • Qualify to receive federal surplus property on a priority basis.
  • Receive free training from SBA’s 7(j) Management and Technical Assistance program.

The 8(a) certification qualifies your business as eligible to compete for the program’s sole-source and competitive set-aside contracts. The government authorizes sole-source contracts to 8(a) participants for up to $7 million for acquisitions assigned manufacturing North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes and $4.5 million for all other acquisitions.

The Women’s Business Center

Women’s Business Centers (WBCs) are a part of a national network of entrepreneurship centers throughout the United States and its territories that are designed to assist women in starting and growing small businesses. WBCs seek to “level the playing field” for women entrepreneurs, who still face unique obstacles in the business world. Run by the SBA, the WBC provides resources in business training, counseling, federal contracts and access to credit and capital. There are multiple offices in just about every state across the country. Visit sba.gov to find your local WBC.

Women-Owned Small Businesses (WOSB) Federal Contracting program

To help provide a level playing field for women business owners, the government limits competition for certain contracts to businesses that participate in the WOSB Federal Contracting program. This program is specifically designed to fund WOSBs that are surveyed as underrepresented.

There are a total of 759 businesses that fall under this category, and include industries such as:

  • Material specific production
  • Food specific production
  • Food specific farming
  • Energy specific production
  • Clothing specific production
  • Certain construction industries

If you are accepted into the WOSB Federal Contracting program, your business will be eligible to compete for the 5% of federal contracts that are set aside for these businesses. To learn more and to become certified, visit wosb.certify.sba.gov.

Grants.gov

One of the most important resources you can utilize for your business funding needs is Grants.gov. The website showcases hundreds of grants that are available for entrepreneurs and how you can apply for them. Each grant lists detailed instructions on their specific eligibility requirements, application process and funding amounts. You can also filter your search to look for grants specifically for women-owned businesses.

To search through this database, you must register for a Grants.gov Workspace account that will allow for you or other members of your team to begin filling out applications.

Non-Federal Grants

Federal resources aren’t the only way to receive grants. There are many corporations, programs and organizations that give out business grants of differing sizes every year specifically to support women-owned businesses.

Some of the grants you may want to consider include:

  • Eileen Fisher Women-Owned Business Grant
  • Amber Grant
  • Cartier Women’s Initiative Award
  • The Women of Color Grant Program
  • The Halstead Grant

For a more comprehensive list of non-federal grants, visit GrantsforWomen.org.

Sources: Small Business Administration, Forbes, Grants.gov

Ying McGuire Immigrated to the United States with one suitcase and $1000 to pursue the American Dream and Inject $1 Trillion into the Economy
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Ying McGuire smiling wearing red blazer

As CEO and President of the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC), Ying McGuire leads efforts to advance business opportunities for more than 15,000 certified minority business enterprises (MBEs) connecting them to over 1,500 corporate members generating over $400 billion in annual revenue - more than 28% of all minority business revenue in the U.S.

NMSDC’s first Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) CEO and president brings over two successful decades of leadership experience across both the for-profit and nonprofit sectors and has an aspirational goal of achieving $1 trillion in NMSDC-certified MBE annual revenue generation.

NMSDC CEO and president, Ying McGuire has an awe-inspiring story of her own. Arriving to the United States from China with one suitcase and $1,000 to pursue her American dream, Ying did not have an easy path. McGuire immigrated from China during a tumultuous period in that country’s history.

“In the wake of the Tiananmen Square incident in 1989, I packed my life into one suitcase with $1,000 and came to the United States to pursue my American dream,” she recalled. “Being a new immigrant with little English, no money and no support system, I overcame mountains of obstacles, learned to get things done with limited resources and built up my resilience.”

She built a successful career as a corporate leader at Dell Technologies, driving the strategy and execution that nearly quintupled Dell’s diversity spend from $640 million to $3 billion within three years. After the murder of George Floyd in 2020, Ying felt compelled to be part of the growing social economic justice movement. She transitioned out of her tech role and became the first Asian American Pacific Islander CEO and president of NMSDC, with goals of accelerating MBEs and helping close the racial and economic wealth gap in communities of color.

Ying believes that the fastest path to achieving NMSDC’s $1 trillion plan requires a catalyst event to garner amplification and support the goal from prominent corporate C-level leaders, policymakers, high growth MBEs, thought leaders, and media. Therefore, NMSDC is hosting the second annual Minority Business Economic Forum on May 8-10, in Miami. This by invitation only event is focused on tapping into the top leaders of corporate America, the Administration, local governments, thought leaders, and academic leaders to come together and recalibrate the MBE narrative as an integral part of the American economy.

ABOUT YING MCGUIRE

  • Hometown: Jiangyin, a city near Shanghai, China
  • Hobbies: Yoga, travel, cooking, interior design
  • Favorite leadership quote: “Do not just lead by words; lead by example.” — Her father

To learn more about NMSDC, visit nmsdc.org.

WBEs Share Why More Women Should Get Business Certified
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WBEs Angela and Dr. Pamela Ellis images

If you’re looking to become a women-certified business enterprise (WBE), you may have a lot of questions about the process or if it’s even worth it to go through the application process?

To help you decide, the Black EOE Journal (BEOEJ) sat down with two amazing women-certified business owners — Angela Randolph, founder and CEO of Stellar Ledgers LLC and Dr. Pamela Ellis, MBA, PhD, founder of Compass College Advisory — from the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) who spoke about the benefits and advantages of getting certified.
 
 
Angela Randolph, founder & CEO, Stellar Ledgers LLC:

BEOEJ: What is Stellar Ledgers and how did you get started?

Angela Randolph (AR): Stellar Ledgers® (SL) is a virtual financial advisory firm that partners with clients as their business grows, offering an exceptional and value-added experience. SL offers bookkeeping, CFO/ controller, financial coaching and consulting services to business owners across the United States. The outsourced financial service we provide helps businesses improve cash flow and maximize profits as they prepare for growth and expansion. We provide the timely, accurate financial data and advice required for growth and scalability in the business. We also help prepare businesses for funding or investment opportunities.

I started the business in 2017 on the side while working full-time bootstrapping to fund operations. I am really passionate about helping fellow women entrepreneurs gain financial freedom, security and build wealth leveraging their businesses.

Dr. Pamela Ellis, MBA, PhD, founder of Compass College Advisory

BEOEJ: What is Compass College Advisory and how did it get started?

Dr. Pamela Ellis (PE): Some parents saw the success of my children and how they participated in educational programs after school and during the summers. When they asked me to help them with their children, that’s when my business started. At first, I helped those parents find the right summer programs, then the right high school, then the right colleges. I based my program off my dissertation research on high school to college transition (what supports students with navigating high school then thriving in college and completing).

Largely through word-of-mouth referrals, my business grew across the country. I met with families virtually who were in other states and opened a small office in Dayton, Ohio for locals. Our center is named Compass College Advisory.

Twelve years later, I am still partnering with parents to help their teen find the right colleges and get scholarships. The results of our work are that 95 percent of our clients have been admitted to their top-choice colleges and the average scholarship is $75,000.

BEOEJ: How did you learn about small business certifications for women and minorities? Why did you decide to pursue certification and which ones have you received?

AR: I first learned about certifications through my local Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) Advisor with University of Houston. I decided to pursue these certifications with plans to do business with the government, corporations and other certified businesses expanding my reach and adding multiple revenue streams to Stellar Ledgers. I am an MBE with Houston Minority Supplier Diversity Council (NMSDC), City of Houston, Metro, and a WBE through WBEA (WBENC), City of Houston, WOSB with the Small Business Administration and HUB with the State of Texas.

PE: My mom, who sharecropped and only had an opportunity to finish eighth grade, wanted me to stay home after high school. She reluctantly agreed to let me go to a college that she had never heard of. When we took the Greyhound from Memphis, Tennessee to Palo Alto, California, she gave me $70 to cover my expenses for the first year. I thought that was good money until I went to the bookstore the very next day and my books for the first quarter were $350.

I knew my mom couldn’t afford to send me anymore money. I immediately found a job and ended up working 30 hours per week during the school year and up to 100 hours per week in the summers. I had known since high school that I wanted to attend business school, so I decided to apply right after undergraduate to The Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College. Tuck had recently started a professional development program for Black entrepreneurs. I was selected to work in that summer program before, during and after graduating from Tuck. During that experience, I learned about minority and women certifications.

When I started my business many years later, I attended every program I could find. Many of those programs were offered by the Small Business Development Center, SCORE, SBA Urban League and numerous others. The certification organizations would present during those programs and that’s how I then started to learn more about why I also should be certified.

I have received WBENC, MSDC, plus the respective state certifications and decided to do so in order to network, grow my business and develop strategic partner relationships.

BEOEJ: What were your trials and tribulations on the road to certification? How has certification helped your business?

AR: I didn’t have any issues at all with certification. I have an audit background so my records were in top shape and that made submission seamless. The certifications definitely add business credibility and more exposure to contract opportunities, development programs and fellow certified businesses who I can potentially collaborate with or who can become clients.

PE: Wearing too many hats was my biggest trial on the road to certification. Because I answered the phones, handled client delivery, tracked by books, etc., it was hard to keep up and prioritize my time. Since becoming certified, I’ve been able to participate in courses through WBENC that have helped me sharpen my hiring and delegation skills.

The certifications have opened opportunities for me to “be in the room” and gain contracts. With the certifications, my company has steadily grown over the years. Likewise, I’ve been able to participate in their professional and leadership development programs that have helped me with strategic planning, marketing and hiring. The investment has been worth every penny.

BEOEJ: What perks have you embraced from being certified, for example, have you used any of the mentors, peer-to-peer resources, financial advice, attended conferences or conventions, etc.?

Randolph: Yes, there are so many benefits to being a certified business. I’ve successfully completed business development and leadership training sponsored by the Houston Minority Supplier Development Council (HMSDC) that was invaluable, I am currently a member of cohort 41 of Leadership Houston sponsored by WBEA and so many other mentoring programs I’ve had the privilege to participate in. I’ve also led training workshops for fellow certified businesses in accounting and tax. I’ve attended conferences and conventions for both HMSDC and WBEA, both with great speakers and opportunities to network with others.

Ellis: I’ve attended conferences and special courses for continued learning and utilized the peer-to peer resources. During COVID-19, WBENC offered an amazing program called WEThrive, which gave me an opportunity to work on my business, rather than in my business, during a critical transition for us all. I received encouragement from the other participants to keep dreaming and implementing.

BEOEJ: If you could offer one piece of advice for women business owners thinking about certification, what would you say?

AR: I would definitely encourage women business owners to get certified. It can really open so many doors of development, support and opportunity. Start now by organizing your financials, tax records and business entity documentation so the process can go more smoothly.

PE: The paperwork may feel overwhelming. To get it done, block out a three-hour appointment with yourself to focus on gathering the documents, put on some energizing, feel-good music and get it done. The hardest part is getting started. Once you do so, it’s not so bad. Plan ahead for the notary. Keep digital copies of all the documents you upload. Mark your calendar for nine months away to renew, so that your certification remains current. It’s all worth it. You’ve got this!

To read more from from Black EOE Journal and other diversity-focused publications visit, diversitycomm.net

Michelle Yeoh Makes History With Best Actress Win at 2023 Oscars: ‘This Is a Beacon of Hope’
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michelle yeoh with oscar in hand smiling on stage

In a stunning victory, Michelle Yeoh took home the trophy for best actress at the 2023 Oscars on Sunday. The Everything Everywhere All at Once actress made history as the first Asian American to win the category and the first woman of color to receive the award in two decades, following Halle Berry, who was the first Black woman and woman of color to win the Academy Award in 2002 and presented Yeoh with her history-making win tonight.

“To all the little boys and girls who look like me watching tonight, this is a beacon of hope and possibilities,” Yeoh said in her acceptance speech. “This is proof that dream big and dreams do come true. And ladies, don’t let anybody tell you you are ever past your prime.”

She added: “I have to dedicate this to my mom – all the moms in the world – because they are really the superheroes, and without them, none of us would be here tonight. She’s 84, and I’m taking this home to her. She’s watching right now in Malaysia with my family and friends. I love you guys. I’m bringing this home to you and also to my extended family in Hong Kong, where I started my career. Thank you for letting me stand on your shoulders giving me a leg up so that I can be here today.”

Yeoh has been a force in filmmaking since the Eighties, rising to fame for her starring roles in action films Police Story 3: Supercop, James Bond movie Tomorrow Never Dies, and international sensation Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon by Ang Lee. And while Yeoh has been an icon and prolific actress and stuntwoman for decades, her performance as Evelyn Wang in the 2022 film Everything Everywhere All at Once garnered long-deserved accolades from several largely white institutions.

In January, the beloved actress accepted the Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy and shared a touching speech about the impact of her win for the role of Evelyn Quan Wang in Everything Everywhere All at Once. “I’m holding onto this,” Yeoh said as she held up her trophy. “It’s been an amazing journey and incredible fight to be here today. But I think it’s been worth it.”

Click here to read the complete article on Rolling Stone.

Licenses and Permits: Everything You Need to Know
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Most small businesses need a combination of licenses and permits from both federal and state agencies. The requirements — and fees — vary based on your business activities, location and government rules.

Here are the basics of what you need to know:

Federal Licenses and Permits

You’ll need to get a federal license or permit if your business activities are regulated by a federal agency. If your business deals with the transport, production, sales or dealings of any of the following products, you will have to obtain a specific permit from a specific federal agency. This includes business activities such as:

  • Agriculture: Business practices that deal with the import or transport animals, animal products, biologics, biotechnology or plants across state line
    • Issuing Agency: U.S. Department of Agriculture
  • Alcoholic Beverages: Business practices that deal with the manufacture, wholesale, import and/or sales of alcoholic beverages at a retail location
    • Issuing Agency: Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, Local Alcohol Beverage Control Board
  • Aviation: Business practices involving the operation of aircraft, transportation of goods or people via air or aircraft maintenance
    • Issuing Agency: Federal Aviation Administration
  • Commercial Fisheries: For businesses engaged in commercial fishing of any kind
    • Issuing Agency: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fisheries Service
  • Fish and Wildlife: For businesses engaged in any wildlife related activity, including the import or export of wildlife and derivative products
    • Issuing Agency: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
  • Maritime Transportation: For businesses providing ocean transportation or facilitate the shipment of cargo by sea
    • Issuing Agency: Federal Maritime Commission
  • Mining and Drilling: For businesses engaged in drilling for natural gas, oil or other mineral resources on federal lands
    • Issuing Agency: Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement
  • Nuclear Energy: For businesses producing commercial nuclear energy, is a fuel cycle facility or is involved in distribution and disposal of nuclear materials
    • Issuing Agency: U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission
  • Radio and Television Broadcasting: For businesses dealing in broadcasting information by radio, television, wire, satellite or cable
    • Issuing Agency: Federal Communications Commission
  • Transportation and Logistics: For businesses operating oversize or overweight vehicles.
    • Issuing Agency: Permits are issued by your state government and can be reached through the U.S. Department of Transportation.

In-State Licenses and Permits

The licenses and permits you need from the state, county or city will depend on your business activities and business location. Your business license fees will also vary.

States tend to regulate a broader range of activities than the federal government. For example, business activities that are commonly regulated locally include auctions, construction, dry cleaning, farming, plumbing, restaurants, retail and vending machines.

Some licenses and permits expire after a set period of time. Keep close track of when you need to renew them — it’s often easier to renew than it is to apply for a new one.

What You’ll Need

Depending on the licensing you need, your license qualifications will differ. However, just about every license and/or permit requires that you have the following documentation:

  • Your business description or business plan that includes:
    • Employee numbers
    • Annual sales
    • Job description
    • Contact information for the business owner
    • Other pertinent business information
  • Government ID, including your Social Security Number or Federal Employment Identification Number
  • Fees (varies by state)
  • LLC registration, for businesses structured as one. Having your LLC is not the same as having your business license, although they often compliment one another.

For more information on what you need for your specific business license, visit sba.gov/business-guide/launch-your-business/apply-licenses-permits#section-header-0.

Sources: Small Business Administration, Collective.com

The Roadmap to Social Entrepreneurship
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Chelsea C. Williams Headshot

By Kimberly Gladden-Eversley

Social movements have shaped society into what we see today, from labor to civil rights and women’s movements. Thanks to social media, we can collaborate from the comfort of our homes to drive social change, to expose injustice and to advocate for policies that protect vulnerable communities. As generational values, preferences and ideals shift, and GenZ, the most diverse generation in history, prepares to take the lead, all eyes are on how today’s businesses respond through innovation.

Introducing Chelsea C. Williams, the Founder and CEO of Reimagine Talent, who shared her expertise leading workplace & talent development and DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion) as a speaker at the annual SHRM Inclusion Conference. Williams shed light on the rise of social enterprises that appeal to a generation who desire to blend profit with purpose. “This makes me really excited because I believe a movement is taking place,” said Williams. “The social entrepreneur is not just focused on bringing a product or service to market…they’re not just moved by revenue, a social entrepreneur wants to make an impact…they want to drive social progress, deliver socially conscious goods, and bridge sectors towards progress.”

William’s journey to entrepreneurship was not easy, considering her quest to entrepreneurship consisted of many obstacles without a roadmap. From navigating childhood as the daughter of immigrant parents, to funding her way through Historically Black College & University, Spelman College, to launching her early career on Wall Street as an “only,” Williams has overcome significant odds. During her time on Wall Street, she represented 1% of Black employees. With that reality came its own set of challenges personally and professionally.

“I believe [in] diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging [and] I can intentionally lead that work now because I lived exclusion,” said Williams. “During my early career, I clearly saw the beauty of belonging and toxicity of exclusion — both of which playing significant impacts on the global workforce & workplace.”

Leadership with Impact

Despite representation barriers experienced in her career, Williams still found the confidence to reimagine the future and write up a business plan that would address real issues she encountered in her roles managing & leading human resources. In 2018, she stepped made the decision to leave corporate America, first completing a social impact fellowship at Teach for America and then launching her firm.

“I early learned that leadership doesn’t have an age, it doesn’t have a look, it doesn’t have a race, it has to do with impact,” stated Williams. “You can have a business that is focused on revenue, but also have a part of your mission statement or part of your strategy that is addressing a social issue. Within the case, entrepreneurs are addressing societal barriers such as the intersection between gainful employment and racism, as two examples, but also tapping into the opportunities that come with entrepreneurship such as financial prosperity and ownership.”

To awaken your inner activist as part of your business strategy takes skill that supersedes the continuous hard versus soft skill debate circulating the workplace. Instead of pinning hard and soft skills in a battle of importance, consider both skills a necessity. “Language is important. Instead of referencing hard skills, let’s say technical, let’s say job function specific skills. Instead of soft skills, let’s say interpersonal skills, leadership skills,” said Williams. “If you’re leading an organization to function or promotion, you better believe that those skills actually become more important than what got you there from the beginning.”

Creating solutions in organizations to fight social issues takes more than diversity; it takes understanding, building and nurturing relationships. “Being open to learning and supporting people, especially those who are different than us, is our ability to lead effectively in 2022 and beyond,” said Williams. “Our mission at Reimagine Talent is to educate the next-gen workforce and empower conscious organizations to build workplaces of belonging.”

Turning a Vision into Action

Despite many years of progression and historical wins, writing the business vision and making it compelling and relevant takes courage. In this case, Williams challenges aspiring social entrepreneurs to turn their vision into a business plan and to consider the economic impact of today’s most pressing challenges. Considering 45.2% of social enterprises only last between one to three years, and 45% earn less than a $250,000 profit, it’s crucial to focus on impact without forgetting the importance of running a scalable business.

“Even with vision for impact, do not lose sight of the fact that you’re still an entrepreneur, and if you’re for profit, you still have to make a profit to grow your team, products and processes; if you’re not moved by profit, you should start a non-profit,” said Williams. “Broadening out to what your vision is for your business, who do you want to serve, answering those questions upfront and really thinking about [the] short and long term is important. In the early days, you want to test out your product or service and make sure you’ve got customers/clients.”

Williams shows the beauty that comes with fully owning our stories and leveraging the roadblocks as a springboard to purpose. Her access and experiences now grant opportunity to future generations. As we reflect on her mission, let’s consider our own and ignite the confidence to become something we may have never seen before.

For more information on Williams and Reimagine Talent, visit reimaginetalentco.com.

Beyoncé Breaks Record For Most GRAMMY Wins In History
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Beyonce 2023 grammys acceptance speech

It’s official: Beyoncé has made GRAMMY history. Her win for Best Dance/Electronic Album for ‘RENAISSANCE’ put her GRAMMY total at 33, the most of all time.

By Lior Phillips, GRAMMYS

After winning the award for Best Dance/Electronic Music Album, Beyoncé now holds the all-time record for most GRAMMY wins. While George Solti had previously held that incredible honor, Queen Bey has now overtaken the classical conductor thanks in part to her powerful 2022 record, RENAISSANCE. With 32 GRAMMY awards now in her trophy case — and the potential to add even more still to come this evening — the mega-star produced yet
Photo: Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

another unequaled GRAMMYs moment. The record-tying award came early in the ceremony — so early in fact that Beyoncé had yet to arrive. The GRAMMY for Best R&B Song was instead accepted on her behalf, the legendary Nile Rodgers sharing his story of “CUFF IT” and offering words of thanks. In fact, prior to this year’s ceremony even beginning, Beyoncé had already marked another record: tying her own husband, Jay-Z, as the most nominated artists in GRAMMY history.

When time came for the record-setting GRAMMY win, Beyoncé herself was present, arriving to the stage to a standing ovation and an immeasurable wash of applause. After thanking God and her family, she was sure to highlight a group that made a special impact on this record.

“I’d like to thank the queer community,” she smiled, crediting the early voices in the dance and electronic realm as well as her uncle Jonny, who inspired RENAISSANCE. In host Trevor Noah’s eyes, the conversation about who is considered the GOAT to be over, Beyoncé’s legacy is far from finished.

Read the complete article and more about the GRAMMY’s here.

Viola Davis Earns EGOT with Grammy Award for Memoir Audiobook Narration
Entertainment
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“It has just been such a journey,” Viola Davis said of her memoir Finding Me as she accepted the Grammy Award for best audiobook, narration & storytelling recording, bringing her to EGOT status.

Viola Davis is officially an EGOT winner!

The actress, 57, claimed the coveted title — which also requires an Academy Award, Emmy Award and Tony Award — as she won best audiobook, narration & storytelling recording for her memoir Finding Me on Sunday at the 65th Grammy Awards Premiere Ceremony.

“Oh my God! I wrote this book to honor the 6-year-old Viola, to honor her life, her joy, her trauma, everything,” Davis began in her acceptance speech. “And it has just been such a journey. I just EGOT!”

She continued to thank “everybody who was a part of my story, and the best chapter yet, my loves [husband Julius Tennon and 12-year-old daughter Genesis]. You are my life and my joy, the best chapter in my book. Thank you!”

Fellow EGOT winner Jennifer Hudson celebrated the accomplishment on Twitter, sharing a video of Davis’ speech. “Hold the line!!!!!!! Viola Davis just became EGOT #18!!! Omg @violadavis U are absolutely everything! Congratulations to a living LEGEND. Time to celebrate!!!” she wrote.

Davis’ first Grammy win was also her first nomination, beating out Jamie Foxx (Act Like You Got Some Sense), Mel Brooks (All About Me!: My Remarkable Life in Show Business), Lin-Manuel Miranda (Aristotle and Dante Dive into the Waters of the World by Benjamin Alire Sáenz) and Questlove (Music Is History) for the award.

The Woman King star’s journey to EGOT status began in 2001 when she won best featured actress in a play at the 55th Tony Awards for her performance as Tonya in Broadway’s King Hedley II. She was previously nominated in the same category for Seven Guitars in 1996.

In 2010, she won best leading actress in a play for her role of Rose Maxson in Fences, which also earned her first Academy Award in 2017 for Best Supporting Actress in the play’s feature adaptation.

Read the complete article originally posted on People.

Habits Highly Successful Business Managers Have (and How to Get Them)
Business
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According to Gallup, bad managers cost businesses billions each year, and account for at least 70% of variances in employee engagement scores. Having a highly successful business manager is crucial to the overall success of a company.

The problem, however, is that not everyone knows what type of habits effective managers have. By being able to identify what those habits are, businesses can take action to find the right people to fill the position, and managers can boost their productivity and increase their efficiency.

“There is always room for improvement, no matter how great of a manager you are,” explains Leon Goren, president and chief executive officer of PEO Leadership. “The good news is that making those improvements can often be simple. It’s just a matter of taking the steps to make it happen, to incorporate new habits that will lead to better outcomes.”

When managers take action to create effective habits, they see positive results in the overall success of their business. Here are some of the habits of highly successful business managers and how to nurture them:

  • Delegation skills. Highly successful leaders know how to delegate, rather than trying to do everything on their own. It’s imperative to learn to trust the people on your team. If this is an issue for you, start by delegating small tasks and building on them. It’s also important that you have the right people in the right jobs.
  • Building a strong team. When hiring for your team, don’t just look at the candidate’s past experience and qualifications. Make sure that they are a good fit for your team and your overall corporate culture. Do they share the same values? Will they fit into your team’s unique dynamics? Do they understand what the expectations are? When you have the most qualified people – from both a fit and skills perspective, you will not only feel comfortable delegating tasks to them, you will also know they are working toward reaching your company goals. The right employees know how to work efficiently, are engaged, and exponentially help the company succeed.
  • Commitment to learning. The best managers never stop learning and understand that they will never know it all. They are committed to their development, they collaborate and bounce ideas off others, and they have mentors and join peer advisory boards to help them create robust and innovative solutions. These leaders continue to learn from others by discussing their challenges and opportunities and leveraging the knowledge and experience of their peers to help them grow. Joining a community like PEO Leadership, through their Senior Leadership Group, is a great investment in your personal, professional, and organizational growth.
  • Moving past fear. Being afraid to act can stifle management, which holds companies back. Highly successful leaders look to the future and are not afraid to take calculated risks. If this is something you are not comfortable with, consider engaging a leadership coach or joining a peer advisory board. Sharing your challenges and opportunities and getting feedback from multiple perspectives on your intended tactics, will enable you to apply the strategic advice to your plans and implement robust solutions. Having a mentor or successful peers review your plans will give you the confidence you need to carry them out.
  • Listening to others. Learn to actively listen to others. This is a skill that many people lack, even though it can be crucial to business success. Listen to your team, colleagues, mentors, etc. Listening doesn’t mean you have to heed their advice; nonetheless, hearing their thoughts, getting multiple perspectives and being an active listener, will help make you a more effective leader.

“It may seem overwhelming for someone to start laying the foundation to create numerous new habits all at once,” says Goren. “The best way to start is by selecting one thing to work on at a time. Once you have a good handle on it, move on to the next habit you’d like to incorporate. Before you know it, you will have many of these down, and it will be smooth sailing.”

PEO Leadership offers an executive leadership community that represents over 100 business leaders, successful entrepreneurs, and top executives. Its services include peer advisory boards, executive advisors/coaches, community connections, strategic business advice, an annual world-class leadership conference, and thought leadership events including PEO Leadership’s “The Way Forward” live webcast and podcast. The company is owned by Leon Goren, who has over 25 years of leadership experience.

PEO Leadership offers leadership advisory services in six categories, including for Presidents/C-suite executives of large national and multinational organizations, entrepreneurs of large national and multinational companies, global executives, small business entrepreneurs, senior executives, and businesses in transition. There is a 60-day free trial Leadership Bootcamp available. To get more information or obtain a free trial, visit the site at: https://peo-leadership.com.

About PEO Leadership

PEO Leadership is a Canadian peer-to-peer leadership advisory firm that has been the destination for business leaders to regularly meet and discuss important issues, solve problems and explore new opportunities since 1991. The organization provides a safe and highly confidential environment, with PEO Executive Advisors, who facilitate stimulating and astute dialogue to leverage the collective experience, creativity, intellect and wisdom of the Peer Advisory Board and the PEO Leadership Community at large. They support, cultivate and accelerate business leaders’ leadership excellence to achieve great impact through the organizations they lead, the communities they serve and the lives they live. Current members include Umbra, Miele, Crayola, ThinkOn and Nestle. For more information about the company and services, visit the site at: https://peo-leadership.com.

Leidos

Alight

Alight
 

Robert Half