Women are one of the fastest growing segments among entrepreneurs. To uplift and provide business resources for entrepreneurs living in Indianapolis, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Alpha Mu Omega Chapter will host their 3rd annual Women’s Business Symposium.
“As the number of women entrepreneurs continues to rise, (we) recognize the need for programs that will help promote economic security, access to capital and provide empowerment,” said Mari Swayne, president of Alpha Mu Omega Chapter.
The event will be Dec. 1 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Omni Severin Hotel, 40 W. Jackson Place, in downtown Indianapolis. Cost to attend is $40 and includes breakfast, lunch and a conference symposium kit.
The theme for the 2012 symposium is “Visualize. Create. Redefine: Building a Sustainable Business.” Stephanie Young Moss, chair of the event said this theme is extremely relevant in today’s economic climate because many people are looking towards becoming business owners, however there are many challenges to not only starting a business, but making sure it stands the test of time.
Through the event, participants will be able to attend breakout sessions that will delve deep into topics that are beneficial to women from those who are considering starting a business to those who have established, thriving businesses.
New business owners should attend the “Turning Your Passion into Profit” session to truly understand pursuing entrepreneurship. There’s also “It’s Not Who You Know, but Who Knows You: The Power of Effective Marketing and Branding.”
“Protecting Your Brand” is a session that offers legal advice and one that may be best for entrepreneurs who have businesses up and running. Many will be able to capitalize on “Using Social Media to Grow Your Business.”
“It’s not just for sorors or even minorities. We want everyone to come,” said Moss.
Sessions will be run by business experts Patrice Grell Yursik, founder of Afrobella.com; Myleik Teele, creator of curlBOX; and Scotty Wise, owner of Scotty’s Brewhouse restaurant.
“We also have Paul Brunson. He has a show on the OWN Network. He actually grew his business through social media. We chose people who had experience in each of these topics,” added Moss.
Participants will also be able to network with one another.
The highlight of the symposium is the keynote speaker, award-winning journalist Mitzi Miller, editor-in-chief of Jet Magazine.
“We chose her because when she took over Jet, she took it in a new direction and wanted to make the magazine sustainable. That’s what we want our participants to walk away with – the keys to making their business sustainable,” said Moss.
Miller, who is a bestselling author of five books has been featured in Chicago Crain Magazine’s 40 Under 40, and has extensive television experience including appearances on VH1, as well as ABC’s top-rated morning show, “Good Morning America,” BET and the Food Network.
“I’m hoping my story will empower and encourage them on their individual path,” said Miller. “I can’t wait to have a dialogue with these women.”
Miller is a skilled public speaker who speaks regularly on several nationally syndicated radio shows including “The Warren Ballentine Show” and has delivered the keynote address at various conferences and seminars nationwide including the 2011 Florida A&M University Homecoming Convocation; and Essence Magazine’s Image of Black Women in Media Panel. She sits on the Board of Directors for the New York City based non-profit organization, Hip Hop 4 Life and the Board of Trustees for the Jack and Jill of America Foundation. Miller currently resides in Chicago.
Those interested in attending the symposium must pre-register.
For more information or to register, call (317) 520-2646, visit Indywbs.com or email indywbs@gmail.com.
3rd Annual Women’s Business Symposium
When: Dec. 1
Where: Omni Severin Hotel, 40 W. Jackson Place
Time: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Cost: $40
Info: Indywbs.com
