A few short years ago, the prospect of a female business owner or entrepreneur seemed farfetched. Society was still hanging on to the image of a dutiful housewife in her kitschy checkered apron waiting for her man to arrive to an immaculate kitchen and a four-course meal. However, we are witnessing a strong shift in that mind view as women are emerging as entrepreneurs and owners of some of the world’s wealthiest and most powerful companies. We are no longer delegating our females to housewives and mothers (though there is of course nothing wrong with either of those paths) but we are seeing them enter the business world at full speed and changing the entire landscape. One of those powerful women is owner of Boss Lady Enterprises, Darlena Swann.
During a particular tiring in 2011, where she lost four consecutive job contracts, Darlena Swann found herself at a bit of a crossroads. She could pick herself up for the fifth time and begin the rather lengthy process of searching for another job. Or, another possibility came to mind, one that is seemingly more attainable than it was years ago: create her own job! From that spark of creation, Boss Lady Enterprises was born!
Boss Lady Enterprises is a start-up nonprofit organization based within the community that aims to provide personal and professional development for young girls and women. The organization focuses on leadership skills, health and wellness, and entrepreneurship to build confidence and character in the community’s women. Ultimately, Darlena hopes that Boss Lady Enterprises becomes a pioneer in personal and professional brand development through social change and awareness.
Darlena holds on to the notion that “greatness comes from serving others”. That is why she collaborates and partners with those like-minded individuals that will help her bring the community together and make a difference. She believes that people should use their talents to give back to the community and help build a better future for all. One such collaboration is with Shante Wright of Mindful Body. Together, Darlena and Shante are working towards a Health and Wellness Initiative that will motivate young girls to get moving and adopt a healthier lifestyle. As a health coach and fitness instructor, Shante provides a 2-part experience at the events. The first section is an educational experience where attendees will learn about how to get moving and what foods and activities will promote a healthy lifestyle. The second part is a physical fitness workout. So, if you plan to attend one of these annual meetings please be sure to wear something comfortable.
Another part of Boss Lady Enterprises are the Diamonds and Pearls Mentoring Program. These workshop sessions are offered to young girls aged 9 to 15 and generally revolve around a theme that is handpicked by Darlena. These fun and interactive learning experiences are meant to build the confidences of young girls and promote an ambitious atmosphere. Most recently, the workshops revolved around self-esteem and addressed the harmful impact that bullying and labels can have on a young girl.
There is also the Entrepreneurial component of Boss Lady Enterprise. For this, Darlena will partner with other entrepreneurs in the area to develop a motivational speech. In this speech, attendees will be given tips on how to start their own business and what types of educational experience will be most beneficial. Most recently, the speakers for these events have included Edward Jones Investing and Triangle Solutions Alliance.
A fairly new organization, Boss Lady Enterprise is always looking to build new partnerships and collaborations that will result in a better community. If you have an idea or a great workshop or would simply love the opportunity to work with Darlena Swann on her initiative to build leadership skills and confidence in women then you can find more information at the Boss Lady Enterprise website: http://www.bossladyenterprise.org. You can also read more about Darlena Swann and her story by visiting her on Facebook or LinkedIn.
