THRIVE AMIGA!

Creating Community for Latina Women

sure if there were other Latinas in Charlotte who shared my vision. By organizing events, I have had the pleasure of meeting many Latinas who are either new to Charlotte or simply seeking connections with other Latinas,” said Peugh.

Events range from yoga classes, brunches and other fun activities and outings for members of the “Thrive Amiga community.” “Thrive Amiga exclusive events are organized solely by us and/or with a collaborator and are meant for our Thrive Amiga community members only. Whether you join us at a takeover or an exclusive event, you’re sure to connect with an Amiga or two,” said Peugh. Some events, Peugh said, are through partnerships with local businesses and organizations that align with her mission

To Peugh, having other women meet each other during these events is important because of four things:

Small businesses are fueled by loyal customers and good business practices, but how can one really reach a steady clientele when starting out? Well, for 38-year-old Diana Sanchez-Peugh it’s important for other women business owners of Latinx descent to get to know each other for them to thrive.

Peugh is the founder of Thrive Amiga (Girlfriend), an inclusive space that provides women of Latinx descent with resources and support. “We do this by organizing a series of THRIVE AMIGA takeover Meet-Ups and exclusive hosted events and collaborations, we strive to create ample opportunities for Charlotte Latinas to connect and form meaningful relationships with new Amigas,” said Peugh.

The Charlotte native runs this consolidated with her business, Nacho Average Hype Shop, a clothing shop which inspired her to create the networking initiative. Through other organizers, Peugh encourages business owners to come together during events so they can share ideas and make connections. When she first began her business venture, her biggest concern was not knowing whether other Latinx women would share her same desire. “When I started Thrive Amiga, I wasn’t

ONE. Representation and support.

TWO. Collaboration.

THREE. Access to resources.

FOUR. Community impact.

In addition to operating Thrive Amiga, Peugh works in Real Estate Marketing at Nahype Marketing. Wearing many hats may seem difficult but Peugh says she does not give up. “Juggling a full-time job and attending business workshops to prepare for entrepreneurship, I have my hands full. Although we still have a long way to go, I’ve learned that entrepreneurship and running an organization present new challenges every day, some of which are impossible to prepare for. Challenges may arise, but giving up is not an option. Instead, we pivot and find solutions,” said Peugh

Her ultimate goal? “To establish a community of like-minded Latina women with whom we can connect and learn from one another. Together, we are creating a safe space where we can be more transparent, stand up for each other and amplify the voices of those who have been overlooked in meetings or conversations,” said Peugh.