Join us for an inspiring luncheon with Avery Rhodes as she shares the story of Community on the Rise, a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people experiencing homelessness in Birmingham, Alabama through a holistic focus on Housing, Education, Employment, and Healing.

About Avery Rhodes:

Community on the Rise is a nonprofit and social enterprise dedicated to empowering people experiencing homelessness in Birmingham, Alabama through a holistic focus on Housing, Education, Employment, and Healing. We honor our mission offering free housing for up to 2 years; meaningful employment; healthy community; a holistic healing curriculum; and recovery of vital identity documents. Community on the Rise is a place where survivors of homelessness begin to heal, thrive, teach, and lead the way forward. We believe that when people reconnect to their self-worth and know that they are deeply loved, all things are possible.

Community on the Rise is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization founded and directed by Avery Rhodes. Before launching Community on the Rise in 2020, Avery spent 10 years volunteering for and learning from the homeless community in Birmingham. Through the relationships she built, Avery learned about the complex reasons why people may struggle with homelessness and she spent many years furthering her academic knowledge of systemic poverty and the deep harm it causes. Avery also trained at Thistle Farms in Nashville, Tennessee, and at Community Development for All People in Columbus, Ohio, to develop best practices for trauma-informed care and harm reduction amongst vulnerable populations.

Before launching Community on the Rise, Avery started a family furniture business, Alabama Furniture Market, with her husband, Chris, in 2006. She has also taught public speaking, interpersonal, and group communication for the Alabama Community College System as well as the University of Alabama. Avery is graduate of the University of Alabama (2001) with an MA in Organizational and Group Communication. Avery and Chris have four wonderful children, Willa Rose (17); Hopper (16); Walton (12); and Scarlet (9).

Avery is committed to cultivating healthy community by focusing on authentic relationship-building, the power of sharing stories and vulnerability with one another, and by building opportunities for survivors to vocalize their wisdom, advocate for themselves, and lead the way. Avery applies her teaching and communication skills, business and marketing design experience, and experiential learning about systemic poverty everyday to the work of cultivating a compassionate, innovative, and authentic space that invites people into belonging, understanding, and love.

When Avery is not working or planning for Community on the Rise, she enjoys reading, writing, and spending as much time as she can outside.

Welcome to our Happy Hour Networking event at Ritual + Shelter! Join us for a lively evening with the owner Jennifer Dorman, featuring exciting tarot readings* and a Halloween twist! It's the perfect opportunity to mingle, make connections, and maybe even uncover some spooky insights. Don't miss out on this unique experience! Costumes encouraged!

*Tarot readings are $20 for guest and free for Alabama Women in Business members.

About Jennifer Dorman:

Jennifer Dorman opened Domicile in 2015, originally offering high end furniture, yet over the years began to transition her investments to women’s wellness and self care products, a calling she had felt for some time, but the first action taken towards her greater sense of purpose. This became a snowball effect fueled by both the community and her own personal perspective on well being and she eventually introduced tarot cards, crystals, and herbal and cannabis based products into her wellness inventory.

In 2020, as you can imagine, face to face interactions significantly declined, yet Jennifer was able to find stability and thrive by focusing her attention on the interests and feedback of “witchy” online shoppers. Through serendipitous circumstance, Jennifer was able to expand the space of the shop at the same time, and began preparing the remodeled space, waiting to open the shop doors one again. This time as a safe and welcoming environment to spiritualists, witches, pagans, and all who find themselves drawn to the metaphysical community, as well as those in the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities.

Jennifer continues to study all aspects of metaphysics, and has received her reiki master attunement and additional healing methods under Terri Heiman, including tapping, empathy training, and akashic record reading.

Jennifer welcomes you to her shop where you can find a variety of oddities, magical resources, and multiple services including tarot readings, reiki sessions and attunements, sound bowl healing, guided meditations, and gatherings every full moon and new moon.

Welcome to the AWIB Luncheon! Join us at Helen for an exciting event focused on helping your business thrive online. At this in-person gathering, we will dive into the world of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and how it can benefit both your business and your customers. Learn valuable tips and tricks on how to Get Found Online by optimizing your online presence. Don't miss out on this opportunity to boost your visibility and connect with potential customers. See you there!

Jaz E. Hill is a native of Birmingham, Alabama where she graduated with her Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications from the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). While there, she was involved in student media and was awarded a journalism scholarship. Before finishing her degree at UAB, she studied filmmaking at Watkins College of Art, Design & Film where she was awarded the Raw Talent Scholarship, and the University of North Alabama. She discovered another avenue for storytelling by positioning organizations and products persuasively to the public through communication and marketing.

Jaz's career began in nonprofit as an AmeriCorps member at the YWCA of Central Alabama where she worked with the development team to fundraise for programs to serve women and children in need. Over the last ten years, she's worked as part of marketing teams in various industries, improving website content and growing companies’ social media accounts.

Jaz is the owner of J. E. Hill Digital Marketing. Her consulting agency helps businesses connect with their customers through content marketing. She develops strategies for search engine optimization, websites, social media, and email marketing.

She is a proud dog mom and astrology enthusiast. Jaz is an advocate for community engagement and service leadership. She recently served as Community Engagement Chair of the UAB Black Alumni Network where she spearheaded volunteer opportunities to connect alumni with students and the Birmingham community. She serves on the Committee of 25 Junior Board for Girls Inc. of Central Alabama and is an active member of the Rotaract Club of Birmingham. Currently, Jaz is President of the American Marketing Association Birmingham Chapter and on a mission to unite and upskill local marketers and advance businesses around the city.

Welcome to AWIB Happy Hour Networking at Studio By The Tracks! Join us for a fun evening of mingling and connecting with fellow professionals in a unique setting. Come unwind, make new connections, and learn about a great cause. Don't miss out on this opportunity to network in a one-of-a-kind environment at Studio By The Tracks!

Studio By The Tracks is a studio and gallery for adult artists with autism. They provide a social network and a career path that enriches artists’ lives and betters the community. Artists receive 60% of any sale of their art works. The studio provides all services and materials to artists free of charge.

Alabama Women In Business Luncheon: Easy Outfit Formulas for Work to Weekend with Style Yourself Chic owner Megan LaRussa

Date: July 23rd

Time: 11:30am - 1pm

Location: Helen

Come join us for a fabulous luncheon where Megan LaRussa, the owner of Style Yourself Chic, will share her expertise on easy outfit formulas that seamlessly transition from work to weekend. Learn how to elevate your style effortlessly with Megan's tips and tricks. Don't miss out on this opportunity to revamp your wardrobe and feel confident in your own skin!

Megan’s mission as a Style Coach is to empower, educate and inspire women to dress for the life they desire. She has worked with hundreds of women through VIP 1:1 Style Coaching, and her online Style Yourself Chic programs to help them dress to showcase their best self, and feel confident wherever the day takes them.

Megan grew up in Birmingham, Alabama and has always loved fashion as a form of self-expression. She attended Birmingham-Southern College and studied Art History and French. She then trained in NYC as a Trend Forecaster analyzing the budding trends happening in the fashion industry. She took classes at the esteemed Parsons School of Design to continue her knowledge of fashion, color theory, fabrics and fit.

Upon returning to Birmingham she found her true passion, coaching women to look and feel their best through their overall appearance and wardrobe. She loves nothing more than working with her clients, as well as sharing her style tips and tricks on StyleBlueprint, Southern Living, and her own blog StyleYourselfChic.com.

Welcome to the Alabama Women In Business Happy Hour Networking event at Bama Health Foods! Join us for an evening of networking with like-minded women in business. Meet and connect with fellow entrepreneurs, professionals, and business owners in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Our special guest for the evening is Jacquie Fazekas, the owner of Bama Health Foods. Jacquie will share her insights and experiences as a successful businesswoman, offering valuable tips and advice for women in business.

Don't miss this opportunity to expand your network, gain inspiration, and support other women in their entrepreneurial journey. Come join us for a fun and productive evening at Bama Health Foods!

Jacquie Fazekas is the owner of Bama Health Foods in Birmingham, AL, an independent natural health food store that caters to the under-resourced communities around Birmingham. She runs her nonprofit 501(c)3 Bama Wellness Advocacy which is focused on experiential wellness education for under-resourced communities. She is a certified health coach, speaker, trainer, and best-selling author. She is an alumni from Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program and has been certified as a Women-Owned Business through NAWBO.

As a former senior executive and a single mother of 2 boys, Jacquie brings a strong and diverse perspective on how to live and lead well by improving your health & wellness – mind, body and spirit. She knows firsthand the struggles in life -- Work-life balance, mind-set barriers, prioritization, self-esteem issues, relationship struggles, health & wellness concerns and much more. Having survived 3 near-death experiences, Jacquie loves to share with others her experiences, tools, and successful techniques for healing, feeling, and discovering your best self. She provides a loving, judgement-free zone wherever she goes. She believes everyone is worthy of good health. This is the core value that she runs her operations under. If you ask her what she does, she simply says, “we nourish lives.”.

Website: www.BamaHealthFoods.com

Alabama Women in Business Productivity Workshop:

Release the Overwhelm of Your "To-Do List" with Terri Ann Heiman.

This in-person workshop is designed for women in business who are looking to boost their productivity and conquer their never-ending to-do lists. Join us at Helen for a time of learning practical strategies to help you prioritize tasks, manage your time effectively, and reduce overwhelm. Let's work together to take control of your schedule and achieve your goals!

Discussion Topics

• Quieting the Critical Voice

• Releasing Judgements About Yourself

• Being Present With What You Really Want

• To Do Lists

• Ending Procrastination

• Overwhelm is Real

Questions to Ask

• What does Energy Psychology have to do with showing up?

• What do Energy Tools have to do with Self-Care?

• What does Self Care have to do with Productivity?

• When you know what to do but aren't doing it.

• Why it takes courage to change.

Join AWIB for a Happy Hour Networking event at Work Smart Solutions with the owner Renee Price! This in-person gathering is a fantastic opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals in Birmingham, AL. Come ready to mingle, share ideas, and build meaningful connections. Don't miss out on this chance to expand your network and have a great time doing it. See you there!

Come join us for an inspiring event where you'll hear firsthand from a remarkable woman who turned her struggle with PCOS into a successful wellness business. This luncheon will take place at Helen, 2013 2nd Avenue North, Birmingham, AL. Don't miss this opportunity to learn, connect, and be motivated by her incredible story of transformation. See you there!

About Jessica Harrison:

Jessica Harrison, RN is a single mom & the proud owner of PolyC's Premium PCOS. She helps women all over the world reach their health goals, naturally. Last year, she helped 500 women conceive despite the struggles of PCOS. PolyC's is an all natural, vegan supplement to help balance hormones so you can feel your best.

AWIB Happy Hour & Networking at The Lumbar

Join us for an exciting evening of networking and fun at The Lumbar in Birmingham, Alabama! This in-person event is a great opportunity to meet new people, make valuable connections, and unwind after a long day. Whether you're looking to expand your professional network or simply enjoy a relaxing happy hour, this event is perfect for you. Don't miss out on this chance to connect with like-minded individuals and have a great time. See you there!

Event details:

Date: February 27th

Time: 5pm-7.30pm

Location: The Lumbar, 212 29th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA

Join us for Tax Updates and Tips for Small Business Owners in 2024! This in-person event will be held at Helen Restaurant, a great location for networking and learning. Get ready to dive into the latest tax updates and gain valuable tips to navigate the world of taxes as a small business owner. Our expert speaker will cover topics ranging from deductions to compliance, ensuring you stay up-to-date and make the most of your tax strategies. Don't miss out on this opportunity to connect with fellow entrepreneurs and gain valuable insights. Register now to secure your spot!

About Darlene Wilson

Darlene Wilson is the Founder and Managing Principal of Relay Accounting Management and Founder and Director of Classic Business Connect. Relay Accounting Management (RAM Firm) specializes in outsourced accounting management services. At Classic Business Connect, we work with businesses that are certified to qualify for opportunities with corporate, government and federal contracts through creating platforms for the businesses and industry contractors, procurement, and supplier diversity leaders to connect.

Darlene received her Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Montevallo. She is honored for being selected the past 3 years as Birmingham’s Top 60 that features the top 60 influencers across a broad range of industries and Darlene was recognized the past 3 years as Who’s Who in Accounting. In 2019 she was included in the Top 100 National Influential Execs in Finance. Her accounting firm was also nominated for ICIC’s 2019 Inner City 100 Award. The Inner City 100 is a national ranking of America’s fastest-growing urban businesses in inner cities. Darlene is a member of the Class of 2022 – Leadership Birmingham. She completed the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program at Babson College in the Fall of 2018 and Emerging Leaders through the U.S. Small Business Administration in 2017. She serves on several boards including the Birmingham Airport Authority and Regions Bank Birmingham Market Board.

Darlene is the mother of one son, Christian who is a Spring 2021 graduate from MSU in Denver, CO with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and works as a Lead Accountant at RAM Firm. Family brings her the most joy! She is a native of Lake Charles, LA and enjoys cooking, wine tasting, traveling the world, flower/vegetable gardening and reading. She simply loves life!

Website: www.RAMFirm.com

Giving Tuesday Nonprofit Networking & AWIB Holiday Party

Join us for an exciting in-person event at Avenue D in Birmingham! This is your chance to connect with fellow nonprofits and celebrate the holiday season with Alabama Women In Business (AWIB). The event will feature networking opportunities, festive activities, and a chance to learn more about AlaQuest Collaborative for Education (ACE) and Bama Wellness Advocacy. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to make new connections and spread some holiday cheer. Mark your calendars for this special event!

About Linda Coogan:

Linda Coogan, AKA Nurse Linda Kay, is an author, motivational speaker, and holistic nurse coach who has devoted her life to helping others overcome adversity. Her journey began with the tragic loss of her son, Joshua, who was murdered in their home in 2012. Despite the immense pain and heartache of that experience, Linda found the strength to keep going and to share her story with others through her memoir, The Impact Statement, which chronicles her journey of healing and resilience. Linda integrates her expertise as a nurse with her personal experience of loss and trauma to help others navigate through difficult times. She believes in the power of healing the whole self and supports her clients in finding balance and harmony in all aspects of their lives, recognizing the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and spirit. Linda is committed to helping others on their lifelong journey of healing.

In 2021, Linda was dealt another devastating blow when her older son, Matthew, was killed in a car accident. Despite this unimaginable loss, Linda continues to inspire others with her relentless optimism and unwavering faith. Through her writing and speaking, she encourages people to find hope in the midst of even the darkest moments.

Linda's personal experience of loss and grief has given her a unique perspective on the human experience. Her insights and wisdom have touched countless lives. Linda continues to bring her message of hope and resilience to every person she encounters.

Website: www.alaquest.net

About Jacquie Fazekas:

Jacquie Fazekas is the owner of Bama Health Foods in Birmingham, AL, an independent natural health food store that caters to the under-resourced communities around Birmingham. She runs her nonprofit 501(c)3 Bama Wellness Advocacy which is focused on experiential wellness education for under-resourced communities. She is a certified health coach, speaker, trainer, and best-selling author. She is an alumni from Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program and has been certified as a Women-Owned Business through NAWBO.

As a former senior executive and a single mother of 2 boys, Jacquie brings a strong and diverse perspective on how to live and lead well by improving your health & wellness – mind, body and spirit. She knows firsthand the struggles in life -- Work-life balance, mind-set barriers, prioritization, self-esteem issues, relationship struggles, health & wellness concerns and much more. Having survived 3 near-death experiences, Jacquie loves to share with others her experiences, tools, and successful techniques for healing, feeling, and discovering your best self. She provides a loving, judgement-free zone wherever she goes. She believes everyone is worthy of good health. This is the core value that she runs her operations under. If you ask her what she does, she simply says, “we nourish lives.”.

Website: www.BamaHealthFoods.com

Join us at Helen for an exciting in-person event that brings together alumni of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program. This luncheon offers a unique opportunity to learn, network, and get inspired from fellow entrepreneurs who have successfully completed the program.

At this event, you'll have the chance to gain valuable insights and hear inspiring success stories from fellow alumni: Darlene Wilson (Relay Accounting Management), Jessica Watts (House Plant Collective), Autumn Sanders (Quire Consulting), and Jacquie Fazekas (Bama Wellness Advocacy).

Whether you're looking to expand your business, learn new strategies, or simply connect with like-minded individuals, this luncheon is the perfect platform to do so.

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to learn from the best and expand your network. Mark your calendars and join us at the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Alumni Learning and Networking Luncheon at Helen.

About Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program

Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses is an investment to help small businesses grow and create jobs by providing them with greater access to education, capital, and business support services. To date, more than 12,800 business owners have graduated from the program across all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. Through the program, participants gain practical skills across topics such as financial statement negotiation, marketing, and employee management, and gain the tools to develop a customized business plan for growth.

Learn more about the program: https://www.10ksbapply.com/

About Autumn Sanders

Since 2010, Autumn Sanders has worked with Fortune 500 companies, start-ups, and nonprofits, helping them grow their businesses by understanding their customers. She launched Quire in 2017 to bring design thinking and human-centered design to leaders working to transform their corners of the world. Quire uses the tools of Design Thinking to guide clients through strategic planning, product and service definition, and leadership development.

Throughout her career, Autumn has worked with social innovators and change makers including the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, the Chicago Public Education Fund, the YMCA of Greater Birmingham and many others. Autumn serves on the City of Birmingham (AL) Small Business Council. She coaches entrepreneurs with Create Birmingham and the Birmingham Business Alliance. She has served on a number of non-profit boards focusing on the arts and design and was honored by the Birmingham Business Journal as a 2023 Woman to Watch. Autumn holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Ohio University (Athens, OH) and a master’s degree in design management from the Savannah College of Art and Design (Savannah, GA).

Website: www.quireconsulting.com

About Darlene Wilson

She is the Founder and Managing Principal of Relay Accounting Management and Founder and Director of Classic Business Connect. Relay Accounting Management (RAM Firm) specializes in outsourced accounting management services. At Classic Business Connect, we work with businesses that are certified to qualify for opportunities with corporate, government and federal contracts through creating platforms for the businesses and industry contractors, procurement, and supplier diversity leaders to connect.

Darlene received her Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Montevallo. She is honored for being selected the past 3 years as Birmingham’s Top 60 that features the top 60 influencers across a broad range of industries and Darlene was recognized the past 3 years as Who’s Who in Accounting. In 2019 she was included in the Top 100 National Influential Execs in Finance. Her accounting firm was also nominated for ICIC’s 2019 Inner City 100 Award. The Inner City 100 is a national ranking of America’s fastest-growing urban businesses in inner cities. Darlene is a member of the Class of 2022 – Leadership Birmingham. She completed the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program at Babson College in the Fall of 2018 and Emerging Leaders through the U.S. Small Business Administration in 2017. She serves on several boards including the Birmingham Airport Authority and Regions Bank Birmingham Market Board.

Darlene is the mother of one son, Christian who is a Spring 2021 graduate from MSU in Denver, CO with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and works as a Lead Accountant at RAM Firm. Family brings her the most joy! She is a native of Lake Charles, LA and enjoys cooking, wine tasting, traveling the world, flower/vegetable gardening and reading. She simply loves life!

Website: www.RAMFirm.com

About Jacquie Fazekas

Jacquie Fazekas, owner of Bama Health Foods in Birmingham, AL, an independent natural health food store that caters to the under-resourced communities around Birmingham. She runs her nonprofit 501C3 Bama Wellness Advocacy, focused experiential wellness education for under-resourced communities. She is a certified health coach, speaker, trainer, and best-selling author. She is an alumni from Goldman Sachs small business program and has been certified as a Women-Owned Business through NAWBO.

As a former senior executive and a single mother of 2 boys, Jacquie brings a strong and diverse perspective on how to live and lead well by improving your health & wellness – mind, body and spirit. She knows firsthand the struggles in life -- Work-life balance, mind-set barriers, prioritization, self-esteem issues, relationship struggles, health & wellness concerns and much more. Having survived 3 near-death experiences, Jacquie loves to share with others her experiences, tools, and successful techniques for healing, feeling, and discovering your best self. She provides a loving, judgement-free zone wherever she goes. She believes everyone is worthy of good health. This the core value that she runs her operations under. If you ask her what she does, she simply says, “we nourish lives.”.

Website: www.BamaHealthFoods.com

About Jessica Watts

Jessica Watts, owner of House Plant Collective (HPC), has a passion for plants, small business, and all things Birmingham!

With undergraduate degrees in Mathematics & Secondary Education and a Masters degree in Counseling from UAB (Go Blazers!), she began her career as a high school mathematics teacher in Birmingham City Schools then into a position as the Program Manager of UAB's Graduate Biomedical Sciences program.

Jessica started HPC as a home-based passion project in 2020 to share her joy for plants and tap into her creative entrepreneurial side. She had the dream and planned in 2019, and just before launching the business, Covid hit. After starting by selling online, HPC shifted into pop-up events in a converted school bus, which you can still see traveling the state. By the end of 2020, Jessica expanded into HPC's first brick and mortar store in the Avondale neighborhood of Birmingham where they have been growing and thriving ever since!

Jessica lives in Birmingham with her husband, baby girl Emma, pet cat and dog. When not working, she spends time exploring local events, markets, festivals, attending live concerts, and visiting local breweries.

Website: https://houseplantcollective.com/

Join us for a unique and transformative event that combines the power of yoga and the art of networking!

Our Yoga Night and Networking event is designed to create an environment where women professionals from various fields can come together, connect, and cultivate meaningful relationships while experiencing the benefits of yoga.

During this event, you'll have the opportunity to participate in rejuvenating yoga session led by experienced instructor Jessica Bostany. This yoga session will be tailored to accommodate all levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Whether you are new to yoga or a seasoned yogi, this event is suitable for everyone.

In addition to the invigorating yoga session, we will also provide networking opportunities. We believe that genuine connections are made when individuals have the chance to interact in a relaxed and authentic setting. Our networking activities will be designed to facilitate conversations, foster connections, and promote a sense of community among participants.

By combining the physical and mental benefits of yoga with the power of networking, this event aims to create a holistic experience that nourishes both body and mind. You will have the opportunity to meet professionals from diverse backgrounds, exchange ideas, and potentially establish mutually beneficial relationships that extend beyond the event.

Whether you are looking to expand your professional network, seek new collaborations, or simply connect with like-minded individuals, our event offers a unique platform for personal growth, connection, and wellness.

Don't miss this opportunity to align your mind, body, and professional aspirations in a supportive and uplifting environment. Reserve your spot today and embark on a journey of self-discovery, connection, and growth.

Note: Please bring your yoga mat and wear comfortable clothing suitable for yoga practice.

To learn more about yoga instructor Jessica: https://www.jessicabostany.com

We look forward to welcoming you to this transformative event!

Networking can happen anywhere! All that's needed is the venue, people, conversation, food. We're adding a new relaxing activity in the mix.

This month we're taking networking to the plants and adding a pot to decorate to a local Birmingham business, House Plant Collective owned by AWIB member Jessica Watts. Networking should be fun, relaxing, inviting, exciting, easy, and festive. As business owners, we always find ourselves in environments that seems more like an office meeting. Throw on some relaxing clothes, bring business cards/flyers, and let those conversations naturally flow. You never know what can happen when we find new ways to bond

MEET JESSICA WATTS

Jessica started HPC in 2020 as a home-based passion project. She had the dream and planned in 2019, and just before launching the business Covid hit. After starting by selling online HPC shifted into pop-up events in a converted school bus. By the end of 2020, Jessica expanded into a brick and mortar store in the Avondale neighborhood of Birmingham.

Jessica lives in Birmingham with her husband and pet cat and dog. When not working, she spends time riding her moped around the city, spending time outdoors, attending live concerts, and visiting local breweries.

Marketing vs Public Relations, Tactical plan, Image, Social media, Targeting, a few items from this month's presentation on Marketing.

The tips any business can use! It's marketing time!

PRESENTATION OUTLINE

*Marketing vs Public Relations, What is a brand?, Brand elements, Establishing your brand, Tactical plan, and much more

ABOUT OUR SPEAKER

Rashida Reese is the Founder and CEO of ReBirth Marketing and Consulting, where the approach to marketing is to execute with purpose and focus on measurable and actionable results. She oversees a team of brand and marketing professionals that uses their skills to elevate the brands of their clients.

Rashida's background in sales and sales leadership in the media industry makes her a master in digital marketing and advertising. She specializes in social media marketing, strategic marketing planning, and project management. The ReBirth philosophy is to win but win by knowing their work is a true representation of its core values.

Rashida has had the pleasure of working on many projects in Alabama including leading marketing projects for major business as well as serving as Director of Sponsorship Fulfillment for The World Games 2022 for the Opening and Closing Ceremonies and The World Game Plaza.

Rashida is passionate about mentorship and athlete mental health where she serves on the board for Ramsay Touchdown Club and assists several sports entities with fundraising for youth resources. She also sits on the board of Tech Birmingham and The Community Kitchen.

Rashida is a proud graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham where she received a Bachelors of Arts degree in Communications.

Take some time to unwind with light hors d’oeuvres and a few marketing tips courtesy of Rebirth Marketing and Consulting.

We try our best to make networking easy, fun, and informative. This month's networking tips are courtesy of Rashida Reese, President & CEO of Rebirth Marketing and Consulting. A little teaser before April's luncheon!

Our speaker, Karen McClure, will breakdown the signs of people pleasing. Learn how to recognize the signs before they affect your business.

Thanks to her work as a practicing attorney and certified life coach, Karen McClure is well equipped to break down people pleasing and help us understand how it affects our business! Karen will guide us through how our thoughts create our results, what people pleasing is and how it shows up for professional women, and will share tops and trick for how to stop people pleasing.

ABOUT OUR SPEAKER

Karen is an attorney and certified life coach who works primarily with attorneys who are unhappy. She has been a practicing attorney for 16 years but never actually wanted to be a lawyer. Through coaching, she's found a way to fulfill her goal of helping people create their lives with purpose and intention so that they no longer feel overwhelmed and unsatisfied.

Join us on Giving Tuesday for networking and refreshments at Studio By The Tracks, a studio and gallery for adult artists with autism.

Learn about Studio By The Tracks’ mission, tour the art studio, and shop the gallery. It’s the perfect time to pick up some Christmas gifts for friends and family while supporting an incredible organization!

Studio By The Tracks is a studio and gallery for adult artists with autism. They provide a social network and a career path that enriches artists’ lives and betters the community. Artists receive 60% of any sale of their art works. The studio provides all services and materials to artists free of charge.

Lauren Cushman, Director of Marketing and Partnerships, will share about the organization’s impact and how you can be a part of it!

Uncertainty and change are constants, not exceptions! Stay prepared with Sarah Robinson's "Know, Be, Do Leadership Toolkit".

We are now operating in a world unlike any other in modern history. Uncertainty and change are constants, not exceptions. Many leaders are scrambling just to keep up.

To help equip leaders with the skills and mindset needed to successfully navigate the unpredictable, Sarah Robinson developed what she calls the Know, Be, Do Leadership Toolkit. This toolkit gives leaders much needed clarity around the right actions to confidently guide their organization and their people right now.

Mastering the right things to know, to be and to do allows leaders to focus on what matters most to grow and thrive right now.

ABOUT OUR SPEAKER

Sarah Robinson is the best-selling author of Fierce Loyalty: Unlocking the DNA of Wildly Successful CommunitiesTM. She is a top-rated Leadership speaker with organizations like Microsoft, the National Press Club, Aileron, Nextiva, the Legal Marketing Association and others. Sarah brings her signature energy, wit and style to the stage, always offering and powerful strategies for knowing, doing and being what matters most — all so you can successfully and meaningfully lead your company, organization and community through these ever-changing times .

Whether she is presenting in person or virtually, Sarah engages, educates, entertains, and shares real-world , actionable solutions with you that you can apply right away. She also provides one-on-one consulting and coaching on a wide range of leadership topics that serve her audience.

It is our pleasure to provide an inviting atmosphere for women in business to link together and connect over food and drinks.

The Alabama Women in Business believe in linking, connecting, and supporting our fellow women leaders and women in business. Women leaders and women in business have unique perspective and what better way to add to someone else than over food and drinks. Take a break and join us at El Zun Zun.

The presentation will explore how your story can boost your business, career, and confidence.

This month's guest speaker is Javacia Harris Bowser of See Jane Write.

Ms. Javacia's presentation, "The Power of Your Story" will explore how our story can boost our business, careers, and confidence. Attendees will also learn practical ways to begin unearthing and sharing their stories.

ABOUT JAVACIA HARRIS BOWSER

Javacia Harris Bowser is an award-winning freelance journalist and the author of the essay collection Find Your Way Back: How to Write Your Way Through Anything. In Birmingham, she’s best known as the founder of See Jane Write, which a friend of hers once called “the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pens.” See Jane Write is a website and community for women who write and blog that Javacia founded in 2011 in her hometown of Birmingham, Alabama. Today, See Jane Write serves and brings together women from across the country and around the world. Named one of Birmingham’s Top 40 Under 40, Javacia believes we can all write our way to the life of our dreams – a message she often conveys to the women of See Jane Write. When she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020, she learned how to write her way through her worst nightmare, too.

Javacia was included in Southern Living magazine’s list of Innovators Changing the South, alongside household names like Dolly Parton and Reese Witherspoon and is a recipient of the 2022 Alabama State Council on the Arts Fellowship. With a focus on women’s lifestyle, wealth, and wellness, Javacia has written for a number of local, regional and national media outlets including USA Today, Business Insider, HerMoney.com, Good Grit magazine, and The Birmingham Times. In 2020, her column for Birmingham magazine was awarded Best Magazine Column by the Alabama Press Association.

Javacia is a proud graduate of the journalism programs at the University of Alabama and the University of California at Berkeley.

When she isn’t writing, you can find Javacia reading books, eating tacos, listening to Beyoncé or spending time with her husband Edward.

Click link for more about Javacia See Jane Write

The Alabama Women in Business is teaming up with Sarah Robinson for "Women, Wine, & Business".

Ladies, have you ever attended one of Sarah Robinson's "Women, Wine, & Business" events?

If not, now is the time. This is the perfect indoor summer event away from the office, kids, husbands, family, etc. Grab a glass of wine, enjoy the atmosphere, an interactive game of (it's a surprise), and introduce yourself.

This year our board decided to shake up everything to maximize connection and programs for our members and fellow women in business. What better way to shake things up, than to collaborate with one of Alabama's influential women in business. Sarah is a great host and has some of the best wines in the US.

We're excited to collaborate with Ms. Robinson and we hope to see you there!

A LITTLE ABOUT OUR HOST

Sarah Robinson is an Executive Leadership Strategist working with CEOs and Leadership Teams for global brands. She also advises and mentors women executives & leaders. Sarah is a best-selling author and international keynote speaker.

Sarah brings a unique combination of strategic thinking, dynamic communication and creative leadership experience to the table, helping organizations equip their leaders to navigate challenging, chaotic environments and focus on the people, priorities and goals that matter most.

For more about Sarah Robinson visit www.sarahrobinson.com

As the owner of Elevators on 4th and Grow with Google Digital Coach, Carmen Mays has devoted herself to strengthening businesses.

Carmen has a powerful instinct to discern systemic gaps that too often hinder communities. As a Community & Economic Development Consultant, she seeks out opportunities to "help organizations be good partners in equitable entrepreneurial ecosystem building".

Join us as Carmen arms us with strategies to grow our businesses and walks us through how Grow with Google can help improve your business functions.

Don't tell anyone, but I think she's planning to gives us a little taste of the information she provides in the Google Coaching workshops.

ABOUT CARMEN MAYS

Coupled with a powerful instinct to discern systemic gaps that too often hinder communities, Carmen has vision. She actively seeks out opportunities to expand equity within under-invested legacy neighborhoods and forges ahead with solutions. Carmen has developed blueprints that have been successfully leveraged by community leaders and partners to bridge equitability gaps and promote economic empowerment and transportation access. She brings this intuitive approach and ardency for action to all of her work, including her first foray into entrepreneurship as the founder of Elevators.

She has over a decade of public sector experience engaged with community and economic development with many years in local government. Most recently she served as the Neighborhood Revitalization and Public Safety Administrator for the mayoral transition team for Mayor Randall Woodfin and the City of Birmingham. Carmen also re-launched the Minority Business Development program for the City of Spartanburg in South Carolina, earning Federal Transit Administration approval for the City’s Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program. She has also worked as the Outreach Specialist for Perimeter Transportation and Sustainability Coalition—now known as Perimeter Connects—leading partnership engagement efforts for the organization and working with over 30 companies to establish commuter benefits programs.

Carmen earned a Bachelor of Arts in Foreign Language, with an emphasis in Spanish, and International Trade from the University of Alabama in Huntsville. She continued her education at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, gaining a Master of Public Administration with concentrations in Public Management and Planning & Non-Profit Management. Carmen was selected to the 2015 Upstate Class of the Diversity Leadership Institute at Furman University’s Riley Institute and ICMA’s Emerging Leaders Development Program. She also attended Habitat III, the United Nations Conference on Housing and Sustainable Urban Development in Quito, Ecuador.

To maintain balance, Carmen enjoys the arts, outdoors, and southern rap music. While she has received many awards and recognitions, Carmen's most prized accolade is "Bestest Auntie in the World."

The invisible "I" on your "Team" is "You".

Without the direction of a leader, how far can a team go. Every leader needs downtime. Sometimes it’s by yourself and sometimes it's with other leaders. As an organization, we realize how important the informal socials, the grab a drink & hors d'oeuvres networking, and the wind down chats are to every leader. It's the time after-work away from work, employees, customers, family, and your professional self to relax and enjoy an atmosphere of like-minded and like-hearted leaders.

Get out of the office, leave your work bag in the car, come link with us, Kim Lee (founder of Forge), and other professionals.

CHAT WITH KIM

After years of being a stay-at-home mom, Kim Lee re-entered the workforce and soon learned about the concept of co-working. She quickly realized that Birmingham-area entrepreneurs, small business owners and creative freelancers needed a coworking space, a place where they could grow their businesses by working and collaborating with others. Thus, the idea for Forge was born.

"It really is the perfect blend of my background. My undergrad is in business, and I have a master’s in counseling. After I got my master’s, I worked in business operations and development for a service industry company, and that company was very hospitality centered, which really gave me the love of serving people well, treating people well, doing everything that you do with excellence. This concept of co-working is the perfect blend of what I love. I love people, I love hospitality as a business, and I love the idea of creating and growing jobs in Birmingham.

The presentation will highlight workforce issues common among employers and how a registered apprenticeship can assist employers in addressing these issues regarding recruitment, training, and retention of employees. We will review the specific components of a registered apprenticeship program and how a company can utilize the model to build their own talent pipeline and diversify their workforce.

OUR GUEST PRESENTER

Kristen Holder serves as the Project Manager for the Central and East Alabama regions for the Alabama Office of Apprenticeship (AOA). As Project Manager, Holder works to expand the use of apprenticeship programs in diverse industries, helping employers address their workforce needs by developing innovative work-based learning models. She collaborates with partners throughout the state to create new apprenticeship programs, as well as provide support, resources, and best practices to current apprenticeship sponsors. Holder’s focus is to assist companies in growing and retaining their own skilled talent, while providing apprentices a higher quality of life potential.

Holder graduated summa cum laude from the Florida State University with a B.A. in Political Science. Holder is a graduate of the Auburn University Intensive Economic Development Training Course and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation Talent Pipeline Management Academy. She was an honoree of Birmingham Business Journal’s 2020 Top 40 Under 40 and a mentor for Birmingham Business Journal’s 2021 Mentoring Monday. In addition to her work, Holder is a local choreographer for Pinson Valley High School’s theatre department.

Hello and Happy New Year to you!

The AWIB Happy Hour has been postponed from it’s original date of January 28th and rescheduled for February 24th.

Oh how we missed you all and your wonderful faces. We are gearing up for an exciting and marvelous 2022. COVID is still here but that does not mean we can not safely get together and get back to enjoying luncheons and other events.

In lieu of a luncheon, we decided to start our 2022 with a night of networking and fun. But that's not all! The new 2022 board members will be in attendance and are looking forward to greeting all of you. By the way, if you are interested in being apart of the board there are still a few positions available. We hope you all will join us and please bring a business friend or two.

*FOLLOW ALABAMA WOMEN IN BUSINESS ON FB, IG, AND LINKEDIN!

Upcoming Events (Keep those calendars open):

The 1st luncheon of the year will be held Tuesday, March 22nd, 11:30am-1pm. We are looking forward to hearing from our guest speaker, Ms. Kristen Holder of the Alabama Office of Apprenticeship. She may hold a few keys that can help your business.

Connecting Small Businesses with a Finance Specialist from the Alabama Small Business Development Center Network

About the presenter:

Suzanne Darden is the Capital Access Team - Finance Specialist with the statewide Alabama Small Business Development Center Network, based at The University of Alabama. The SBDC provides technical assistance to help small businesses secure capital for start-up and growth. Suzanne is a key leader with the SBDC’s Capital Access Program, a position she has held since 2013. In the last three years, the SBDC has helped secure over $318 million in capital projects for manufacturing, healthcare, hospitality, hotel, multi-use residential/retail complexes, and other business projects throughout the state. Suzanne was awarded the 2018 SBDC state star for outstanding performance among the nationwide SBDC program and is the ‘go to’ person for Alabama businesses seeking to access capital. Her previous experience has included serving as general manager and CFO for a refrigeration and ice manufacturing business; and commercial lending with banks in Georgia and Virginia. She is a graduate of Christopher Newport College of the College of William and Mary and is from Williamsburg, Virginia.