Promoting Women's Empowerment – Advice – Part 5

·         J. Rachel West - Lead with Compassion and Authenticity

·         Rachel Clinesmith - Support Women-Owned Businesses

·         Erika Guerrero - Embrace Authenticity and Strength

·         Dr Archana Shukla - Empower Women for Change

·         Diana Carolina Yanes - Overcome Social and Cultural Barriers

·         Srishti Dixit - Support and Mentor Young Women

·         Simran Sainani - Inspiring Through Various Platforms

·         Katherine Jerez - Confidence and Advocacy

·         Yogita M Deshpande  - Empower Yourself and Take Initiative

·         Margaret J. Hartigan - Lead, Support, Network

·         HIna Jain - Believe, Empower, Inspire

Lead with Compassion and Authenticity

The world is craving women in entrepreneurship. We need women who are able to lead with their heart, mind, and soul; trusting their intuition, continuously learning, and embracing all the fun, mess, wonderful, parts of themselves. As you step into this world, remember that you started a business for a reason. At the end of the day, you want to help people in some form or fashion. Use that compassion for others to fuel your authenticity  and resilience. Not everyone will like you, and that's okay! But YOU need to like YOU, no LOVE YOU.

J. Rachel West, Founder, JRW Consulting LLC

Support Women-Owned Businesses

I think it’s extremely important to support other women owned businesses wherever impossible. We have to lift each other up. That’s the most important thing. Vampyre Cosmetics LLC is a certified WOMEN OWNED BUSINESS (WBENC) and contracts with women owned businesses wherever possible. 3plg out of New Jersey, Brand Uncover and ROI leaders, Evestar & Push the Envelope PR are all women owned & run. 

Rachel Clinesmith, Founder, Vampyre Cosmetics LLC

Embrace Authenticity and Strength

To young women venturing into entrepreneurship: remain true to your essence. The stories of female CEOs taught me the importance of embracing my identity rather than conforming to traditional, male-dominated roles. Being unapologetically female is not just a stance but a strength. Our world doesn't just need leaders; it needs female leaders who are authentic, resilient, and willing to pave the way for future generations by simply being themselves.

Erika Guerrero, Founder, Electric Goddess

Empower Women for Change

Healthy, educated and empowered women and girls are agents of change. When women and girls are supported, they gain opportunities to speak up for their rights, and also to advocate for their communities.

Dr Archana Shukla, Founder, Vidya Institute of professional studies

Overcome Social and Cultural Barriers

I think the most important think is to learn to "slip off" the social/curtural comments people will tell to you. Things such as "why starting a business, focus on your baby", or "better wait for your baby to be big enough to start what you want to do", or "how will you be able to manage everything together?"...This comments are recurring, endless, and unwanted. In my personal opinion, there is no better timing than the now, and there is nothing that will stop your inner driving force. Being a mom don't have to be an obstacle to making your dreams come true. You can be the best mom and the best entrepreneur. Moreover, anything that people relate to you as a woman (cooking, cleaning, being a mom, etc) is a shared task for anyone living under the same roof, so it's not that you have to make it all on your own, it's a team-played game, and that way everybody gets a share of the "things to do" as well as of "building their own dreams".

Diana Carolina Yanes, Founder, Diana Yanes Consulting

Support and Mentor Young Women

Absolutely, as a woman entrepreneur, I believe there is immense value in advocating for and actively supporting young women who aspire to be entrepreneurs or leaders in any field. The journey of entrepreneurship can be challenging, and providing guidance, mentorship, and a supportive community can make a significant difference. I would encourage any aspiring young women who want to be entrepreneurs or leaders to embrace their ambitions fearlessly. It's crucial to cultivate self-belief, resilience, and a willingness to learn from both successes and setbacks. Building a strong foundation of skills, knowledge, and a network of mentors can be instrumental in navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship. Furthermore, I would emphasize the importance of fostering a sense of community among women. Collaboration, mentorship, and the exchange of experiences create a supportive environment where everyone can thrive. By actively engaging with and uplifting other women, we contribute to breaking down barriers and creating more opportunities for success.In essence, my advice to young women who want to be entrepreneurs or leaders is to be bold in pursuing their goals, seek mentorship and guidance, and actively participate in building a supportive network of like-minded individuals. Together, we can empower the next generation of women leaders and entrepreneurs.

Srishti Dixit, Founder, ONS Finserv (DIFC) Ltd

Inspiring Through Various Platforms

Absolutely! Whether you're an entrepreneur looking to share your journey or an established figure in your field, there are many ways to inspire aspiring female leaders:

1. Social Media: Use platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter to share your story and insights.

2. Blogging: Start a blog or contribute guest articles to share knowledge and advice.

3. Podcasting: Launch a podcast discussing entrepreneurship and leadership.

4. Workshops: Host online workshops covering business planning and marketing strategies.

5. Networking: Attend events and offer mentorship to aspiring entrepreneurs.

6. Publications: Write articles or books to inspire others with your experiences. These avenues can empower the next generation of female leaders.

Simran Sainani, PhD, LMFT, Founder, Curl Cure

Confidence and Advocacy

"For young women aspiring to become entrepreneurs or already pursuing entrepreneurship, I would advise them not to be intimidated by perceived barriers. Confront challenges with determination and confidence in their ability to succeed. Seek support from entrepreneurship networks and mentorship, and remember that their voice and vision are valuable contributions to the business world. Don't hesitate to challenge established norms and advocate for gender equality in the entrepreneurial field. Their success is in their hands!"

Katherine Jerez, Founder, Katho Jerez Marketing

Empower Yourself and Take Initiative

Girls you need to come out and be wherever you want, no one will bring you there but only you

Yogita M Deshpande, Founder, Craftindika

Lead, Support, Network

Continue to be kind to one another. Continue being supportive of each other. Let’s lead by example and help each other and really anyone who is determined enough to be an entrepreneur. It takes bravery, humility, and lots of perseverance. If you can lend a hand in making introductions to angels, VCs, partners, clients, and future team members, do. We have to cultivate the muscles of networking and deal making and do so in a way that has utility.

Margaret J. Hartigan, Founder, Marstone, Inc.

Believe, Empower, Inspire

Empowerment begins with belief – believe in your dreams, trust your instincts, and embrace your journey. As a young woman entrepreneur, you have the power to shape your destiny, inspire others, and create a future where anything is possible.

HIna Jain, Founder, OPAL'S CAKE BAKE