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FRIDAY | SEPTEMBER 13, 2024 | #ISSUE 6
Breaking into the Tech Industry:
LEVERAGING NEW TECH HUBS FOR CAREER GROWTH
The U.S. tech industry is undergoing a significant transformation, and the establishment of 12 new regional technology hubs is at the forefront of this change. With $504 million in grants allocated to these hubs, the U.S. government is aiming to turn regions across the country into global centers of technological innovation. This initiative, funded under the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022, represents a strategic investment in critical technologies like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing. For working women aged 25-40 looking to break into the tech industry, these hubs present an unprecedented opportunity to advance their careers.
The Strategic Importance of Regional Tech Hubs
The new tech hubs are more than just a financial investment; they are a deliberate effort to create a decentralized and diverse tech ecosystem. Traditionally, the tech industry has been heavily concentrated in a few metropolitan areas like Silicon Valley, Seattle, and Boston. While these regions remain important, the new hubs aim to spread the benefits of tech-driven economic growth to other parts of the country. By doing so, they are expected to spur job creation, support the development of local talent, and foster innovation in regions that have historically been overlooked. For working women who are either looking to enter the tech industry or advance within it, this shift towards regionalization is significant. It means that there will be more opportunities closer to home, reducing the need to relocate to traditional tech hubs. Moreover, as these new hubs develop, they will require a wide range of skills—not just in technology but also in management, marketing, and business development. This opens the door for women with diverse professional backgrounds to transition into the tech sector.
Navigating the Transition: Key Steps to Breaking into Tech
Breaking into the tech industry can seem daunting, especially for those who are mid-career or have backgrounds in non-technical fields. However, the establishment of these tech hubs provides a clear pathway for those willing to invest in their professional development. The first step is to identify which of the 12 new hubs is nearest to you and understand its focus areas. Each hub will likely specialize in different aspects of technology, so aligning your skills and interests with the hub’s goals
is crucial. Next, consider upskilling or reskilling through online courses, certifications, or degree programs. Many educational institutions and online platforms offer courses specifically designed to help professionals transition into tech roles. For example, if a hub focuses on AI and data science, taking a course in machine learning or data analytics could be highly beneficial. It’s also worth exploring local community colleges and universities, which may offer specialized programs aligned with the tech hubs. Networking is another critical component of breaking into the tech industry. Attend local tech meetups, join industry-specific online communities, and connect with professionals working in the tech hubs. These connections can provide valuable insights into the industry, help you understand the skills in demand, and potentially lead to job opportunities.
Positioning Yourself for Success
The creation of these tech hubs is not just about job creation; it’s about building a sustainable and inclusive tech ecosystem. This means that there will be opportunities at various levels—from entry-level positions to leadership roles. For women looking to advance in their careers, this is a unique chance to step into leadership positions within a burgeoning tech ecosystem. Many of these hubs are likely to prioritize diversity and inclusion, recognizing that a diverse workforce drives innovation. If you’re considering a move into the tech industry, now is the time to act. The combination of government investment, regional development, and a growing demand for tech talent creates a perfect storm of opportunity. By strategically positioning yourself within these emerging tech hubs, you can take advantage of the resources and opportunities available, ensuring that you’re not just entering the tech industry, but thriving within it.
Conclusion
The launch of 12 new regional technology hubs marks a transformative moment for the U.S. tech industry. For working women between the ages of 25-40, these hubs offer a unique opportunity to break into tech and build a successful career. By focusing on upskilling, networking, and aligning your career goals with the objectives of these hubs, you can take full advantage of this governmentbacked initiative. The future of tech is not just in Silicon Valley; it’s in regions across the country, and now is the time to make your move.
BUSINESS
The Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue
Merger: Real Estate Implications
The recent announcement of Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC) acquiring Neiman Marcus Group for $2.65 billion is set to herald a new era in luxury retail. This strategic merger will forge a new entity, Saks Global, by combining HBC’s Saks Fifth Avenue and Saks Off 5th with Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman. The integration of these prestigious brands under Saks Global highlights a significant shift in the luxury retail landscape, emphasizing both technological innovation and strategic real estate management.
Formation of Saks Global and Technological Advancements
Saks Global, the entity created from
this merger, will consolidate the operational frameworks of Saks Fifth Avenue, Saks Off 5th, Neiman Marcus, and Bergdorf Goodman. Despite this consolidation, each brand will retain its unique identity, ensuring continuity for their loyal customer bases. Saks Global is envisioned as a “technologypowered luxury retail company,” aimed at enhancing the shopping experience through advanced technological solutions. This includes leveraging artificial intelligence to offer a more personalized online shopping journey and improving in-store customer service through technology-driven support for sales associates. The merger not only focuses on operational efficiency and technological advancements but
also places significant emphasis on optimizing customer experiences across
both digital and physical platforms. By integrating these high-profile brands into a single company, Saks Global aims to meet the evolving demands of luxury consumers while maintaining the distinctiveness of each brand.
Strategic Real Estate Portfolio
One of the most noteworthy aspects of this merger is the vast real estate portfolio that Saks Global will control. The combined entity will oversee a $7 billion portfolio of prime retail real estate assets located in top-tier markets.
Finaya, a comprehensive platform designed to simplify the journey of homeownership, announces a strategic partnership with Money Ma nagement International, a leading provider of housing counseling and debt management services to guide first-time homebuyers and under served customers in diverse segments through their homeownership journeys. In light of today’s challenging real estate market, where the dream of homeownership has become increasingly unattainable for many, particularly for African American and Hispanic Ame rican customers, Finaya and Money Management International are committed to addressing the issue through edu cation, resources and collaboration with likeminded partners. Today the homeownership gap keeps widening. As the US Census Bureau’s American Community Survey conducted for 2023 points
out, the homeownership gap keeps widening, with only 47% of people of color owning homes vs 71.1% for the white population.
In particular, the Hispanic population continues to grow, making up for 54.7% of US population growth between 20122022 , according to the survey. Furthermore, Latinos with college degrees increased by 90% during this time, far outpacing the 34% overall. According to the Federal Reserve Survey of Consumer Finances, Latinos with college degrees have a median net worth of $229,000 vs those with no college degrees, where the median net worth is $41,000.
By: Jen Nash, AFC®
Money doesn’t just live in our wallets. It lives in our relationships, our health, in the food we eat, in how we spend our time… It determines how many options we have. It can be a constant source of stress or it can give us the freedom to live life on our own terms. Most people carry their financial challenges in solitude. It wasn’t spoken of in their home growing up and they don’t talk about it now. Don’t worry. I won’t pressure you to break your silence. Instead, I come bearing a safe, anonymous space for you to share your concerns freely and receive compassionate, expert financial guidance. This is a place where judgment has no home, and your struggles are met with empathy, understanding and actionable solutions.
FOUNDER STORY
Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center and Wells
Fargo’s
$1.3M Grant to Empower Women Entrepreneurs
Peer mentoring program aims to reach an additional 2,000 women entrepreneurs; 92% of cohorts have alumni volunteer participation.
The non-profit Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center announced a new $1.3M grant from Wells Fargo to support the fourth year of the Milestones Circles program, a peer-driven mentorship program that accelerates the growth-mindset of women entrepreneurs across America.
The Milestone Circles program, which launched in 2021, has already supported over 4,000 women entrepreneurs and in this coming year will accelerate an additional 2,250, growing the total community to over 6,000 scale-ready Women Business Owners. 67% of participants said they are looking to grow beyond a mid-size company.
Each 12-week Circles cohort convenes women entrepreneurs from comparable business stages, segments or geographies, who come together virtually on a biweekly basis to meet with a group of peers and coach facilitators to exchange ideas, trade resources, grow their networks and ultimately, achieve target milestones that accelerate business growth. The top three areas of need for Circles business owners are finding a comprehensive system for growth, expansion of personal networks, and identifying an ongoing resource they can turn to as questions arise.
Some key findings from polling Milestone Circles participants include:
• 92% of Milestone Circles alumni remain active in the community post graduation.
• 52% of Milestone Circles graduates committed to mentoring new cohorts.
• 91% of participants reported an increase in confidence at the end of the program.
• 96% of participants reported they were more connected to their ‘why’ at the end of the program.
• 95% of participants reported they were more connected to their values at the end of the program.
“These peer-led Circles have a series of impact magnifiers: the learning is greater due to the confidence fostered in the circle; the tail of the benefit is significant due to the residual social capital; and the self-directed learning pathways continue to ramp after the 12 weeks conclude,”
Myeoshe’ Marie Edwards and Her Journey to Founding F.A.C.E.
Myeoshe’ Marie Edwards is the CEO and Founder of F.A.C.E. (Fearless, Artistic, Charisma, and Elegance), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to empowering and strengthening children of all ages. F.A.C.E. encourages youth to embrace their uniqueness, fostering independence and assertiveness, and teaching them that their power lies within themselves.
said Nicola Corzine, Founding CEO of the Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center.
The program is free for entrepreneurs and is made possible thanks to the generous support of Wells Fargo. Since 2020, Wells Fargo has invested more than $5M towards supporting women entrepreneurs in collaboration with the Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center.
“Milestone Circles is changing the growth trajectory for thousands of small businesses, while reshaping how important it is for entrepreneurs to build a network of support,” said Darlene Goins, head of philanthropy and community impact at Wells Fargo.
About The Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center
The Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center is a non-profit committed to growing access and resources for entrepreneurs worldwide. The Center meets the real time needs of entrepreneurs through educational programming and then shares its learnings with policy-leaders, capital allocators and academic institutions. For more information please visit: http://thecenter.nasdaq.org/
Media The Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center thecenter@extensionpr.com
SOURCE Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center
Myeoshe’s journey to founding F.A.C.E. is both inspiring and deeply personal. Raised in South Los Angeles by her grandparents, she faced significant struggles, including a traumatic
experience at 13 years old that left her grappling with low self-esteem and self-love. These challenges led her into a lifestyle of professional stripping and unhealthy relationships. However, it was through this pain that Myeoshe’ discovered her divine calling—motivating and validating young people to avoid the mistakes she made, and to rise above their struggles with resilience and hope.
Her favorite saying, “there is beauty in the struggle,” encapsulates her belief that personal hardships can lead to profound purpose. Myeoshe’s commitment to giving back to her community is unwavering, and she passionately works to inspire youth to realize their dreams and understand that achieving their goals requires patience, consistency, and faith.
Myeoshe’s educational journey reflects her dedication to personal growth and community leadership. After earning her diploma from King Drew Magnet High School of Medicine and Science in 2004, she pursued higher education, receiving an Associate’s of Arts degree in Ministry from the Southern California School of Ministry in 2017, a Bachelor of Arts degree in Ministry from the Faculty of International Theology in 2018, and a Certificate in Public Safety & Leadership from the University of Southern California in 2019. Inspired by Shakespeare’s quote, “Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them,” Myeoshe believes that everyone has the potential for greatness. She is dedicated to helping today’s youth unlock that potential by equipping them with the necessary tools and mindset to succeed.
In addition to her work with F.A.C.E., Myeoshe served as a chaplain for the Los Angeles chapter of the National Congress of Black Women from 2018 to 2020. Her unwavering mission to inspire others and support them in believing in themselves and their dreams.
Rae McElroy (front), Editor-in-Chief of HSJ alongside Milestone sisters of different cohorts and Darlene Goins (center), head of philanthropy and community impact at Wells Fargo celebrate the Milestone Circles Year 4 Celebration in San Francisco.
Darlene Goins (center), head of philanthropy and community impact at Wells Fargo, was recognized for her incredible leadership with a Closing Bell Crystal, presented by Jailan Griffiths (left), Nasdaq’s Head of Purpose and Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center Board Chair, and Nicola Corzine (right), Founding CEO of the Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center.
“Dear Henry” is HSJs newspaper advice column hosted by clinical sexologist Natasha Riley and Editor-in-Chief Rae McElroy, every Monday on Instagram Live.
The column is syndicated worldwide on our social media accounts as well as our printed and digital monthly newspaper issues.
“Dear Henry,” is considered the most popular of its kind.
Readers send anonymous emails to “Henry” asking for advice on a variety of topics, including self discovery, life satisfaction, pleasure and intimacy as female entrepreneurs.
Some recent topics covered by the column include:
I want to bring toys into the bedroom but I’m afraid it’ll have a negative effect. Are toys healthy?”
“How do I put myself first?”
I am a C-Suite Executive and I manage a large team. My husband complains about me not taking the initiative in the bedroom but I want to be controlled for once any tips?”
As an entrepreneur navigating in a world full of NO’s, how do you deal with dissatisfaction?
On Monday’s, our Editor-in-Chief reads the confidential questions out loud, unrehearsed to Natasha Riley who answers the questions live from a clinical experts point of view. The column is now asking for feedback from the advice Natasha has provided in the past in order to meet the needs of our readers. All correspondence will continue to remain confidential. We want to make sure we are fulfilling our mission to help those who are on their self-discovery through entrepreneurship journeys are being supported properly.
Latina Women: Giving Life To the U.S Economy
New data from leading researchers indicates that female Hispanics in the U.S. have contributed $1.3 trillion in 2021 to the gross domestic product (GDP), representing over 50% growth in a decade. The U.S. Latina GDP Report, funded by Bank of America, is first of its kind research on the significant and rapidly growing economic contribution of the nation’s Hispanic female population. Led by professors Matthew Fienup, Ph.D., California Lutheran University, and David Hayes-Bautista, Ph. D, UCLA Geffen School of Medicine, the Latina GDP report found that U.S. Latina GDP grew at 2.7 times the rate of the GDP of Non-Hispanics between 2010 to 2021. Today, the Latina GDP is larger than the entire economy of the state of Florida.
”This exciting body of work captures the positive growth and contributions that U.S. Latinas from multiple generations have been making to the U.S. economy, and confirms that Latinas are a driving force. We see similar momentum reflected in our overall business as well as many of the same key drivers found in our own research,” said Jennifer Auerbach-Rodriguez, Strategic Growth Markets & Client Development Executive, Merrill Wealth Management.
”Following notable reports on U.S.
and Metro Area Latino GDP, this new report provides much needed attention to the extraordinary contributions of U.S. Latinas. This research reveals that Latinas outpace their gender and ethnic peers in key economic measures, including record levels of Latina workforce participation, educational attainment, and income growth. It reveals that Latinas are drivers of much-
needed economic vitality for the nation,” said Dr. Fienup.
The key findings in the U.S. Latina GDP Report include: Economic Output
• The total economic output of U.S. Latinas is $1.3 trillion in 2021, up from $661 billion in 2010, and larger than the economies of all other states except California, Texas and
New York.
• From 2010 to 2021 real U.S. Latina GDP increased a total of 51.1% compared to only 18.8% for nonHispanic GDP. In other words, the GDP of U.S. Latinas is growing 2.7 times faster.
Latina Women Cont’d on page 8
PHOTO BY WWW.PEXELS.COM
FINANCE
How Small Businesses Could Invest in Wellness Programs?
In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, small businesses are increasingly recognizing the necessity of investing in wellness programs. Such programs are not just a passing trend but a strategic move that can lead to significant improvement in employee satisfaction, productivity, and overall workplace morale. For many small businesses, which often operate with constrained budgets, the challenge is to implement effective wellness initiatives that deliver substantial benefits without requiring extensive financial resources. A recent leadership program highlights the critical role of empathy in driving successful wellness strategies, offering valuable insights that can guide small businesses in creating a supportive and thriving work environment.
The Importance of Empathy in Leadership Empathy has emerged as a cornerstone of effective leadership, transforming how teams interact and collaborate. The art of living corporate programs, in recent courses, underscores that leadership rooted in empathy fosters a supportive and inclusive work environment. According to Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, “leadership deeply rooted in empathy and transforms how teams interact, collaborate and grow.” This emphasis on empathy highlights its importance in cultivating a positive workplace culture, which is essential for small businesses looking to enhance employee engagement and satisfaction.
Cost Effective Wellness Initiative for Small Businesses
Small businesses can implement several cost-effective wellness initiatives that promote both physical and mental well-being. Flexible work arrangements, such as remote work options or adjustable hours, can
alleviate stress and boost job satisfaction. These adjustments, while simple, can significantly hand employees’ work life balance. Additionally, providing access to mental health resources, such as online counseling services or stress management workshops can support employees’ emotional needs without incurring substantial costs. Incorporating physical health programs, like standing desks or group fitness classes, also contributes to a healthier environment and demonstrates commitment well-being.
Building a supportive workplace culture
Creating a supportive workplace culture involves more than just implementing wellness initiative;
it requires a concerted effort to faster empathy and open communication. Encouraging transparent dialogue through regular check-ins and feedback mechanisms helps build trust and ensures that employees’ feel valued and heard. Active listening, paying full attention to employees’ inputs and responding thoughtfully reinforce the importance of their perspectives. Promoting diversity within the teams broadens perspectives and enhances collaboration, while continuous learning opportunities support personal development and emotional intelligence. Additionally, showing genuine concern for employees’ well-being through wellness programs reflects a company’s dedication to their overall
health and happiness.
Enhancing wellness with meditation and well-being practices
Incorporating practices such as meditation can further enhance the effectiveness of wellness programs. Techniques like SKY breath meditation which have been shown to reduce stress and improve mental clarity, can play a significant role in fostering emotional stability. Regular meditation helps individuals manage negative emotions and connect more deeply with positive feelings such as compassion and emptiness. For leaders, this emotional stability is crucial for managing and inspiring their teams effectively, contributing to a more cohesive and productive work environment.
Measuring success of wellness programs
To ensure the effectiveness of wellness programs, small businesses should regularly seek feedback from employees and track relevant performance metrics. This ongoing evaluation helps confirm that the programs are achieving their intended goals and provides opportunities for refinement. By adopting a strategic approach to wellness, small businesses can create a supportive work environment that enhances employees satisfaction and raises overall organizational success.
Conclusion
Investing in wellness programs is a prudent strategy for small businesses aiming to improve their workplace culture and employee engagement. By integrating empathetic leadership and implementing practical wellness initiatives, businesses can cultivate a supportive and productive environment that benefits both employees and the organization as a whole.
ISSA Launches Job Guarantee for Pathway Health & Wellness Coach Certification Graduates
The International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) announced a groundbreaking job guarantee for graduates of its Pathway Health & Wellness Coach Certification Program. This initiative underscores ISSA’s commitment to empowering the next generation of health and wellness coaches.
The Pathway program is an exclusive 3-month interactive online health coach training accredited by the National Board for Health & Wellness Coaching (NBHWC). Graduates emerge with advanced coaching communication and behavior change skills, equipped to make a meaningful impact in the health and wellness industry. They are also eligible to apply for the NBHWC Certifying Board Examination to earn the prestigious National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC) credential.
Under this new job guarantee, ISSA will refund the full tuition to eligible Pathway graduates who meet specific criteria but are unable to secure employment within six months of completing their board certification. To qualify, students must:
• Certify through the HCI Pathway Program and pass the NBHWC Board Exam within one year of graduation
• Fulfill all tuition payments
• Meet the minimum requirements for coaching employment in the United States
• Interview with at least three health and wellness organizations within six months of board certification
Brooke Jeffries, MS, CN, NBC-HWC and Associate Director of the Pathway program, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative: ”Our Pathway program consistently produces highly skilled, board-certified health coaches who are highly sought after in the wellness industry. Our job guarantee reflects our unwavering confidence in the quality of our program and the success of our graduates.”
The Pathway program equips students with a unique holistic coaching approach called The Empowered Well-Being System,enabling them to confidently guide clients in thriving across eight dimensions of wellness. Graduates learn to boost stress resilience and develop the tools to continue using this transformative system long after completing their certification.
The Pathway program equips students with a unique holistic coaching approach called The Empowered Well-Being System, enabling them to confidently guide clients in thriving across eight dimensions of wellness.
PHOTO: BY TYLER HENDY
LIFESTYLE
Celebrating Mexican Heritage and Sustainable Fashion Through Art and Design
A brand steeped in storytelling, where each design created has a story behind it. We had a chance to chat with The Bunny’s Revenge founder, Lucy Delgado in which we kicked off our conversation raising the question, ”What is the story behind this name?” But before diving in, we were fully immersed in the visual story telling of the basis for the artwork in the Muffler and the Neckerchief pictured. Imagine this:
From the legendary El Popo at dawn, to maguey fields and sacred temples at dusk, to the life-giving rivers flowing throughout the land, the vignettes in this design link iconic imagery that a traveling bunny might see on her trip from California through Mexico allowing us to vicariously experience and delight in the ingenious creations and earthly wonders dotting the land that the highly sophisticated societies of the area cultivated for millennia.
From the beginning of time, we have been awestruck by birds for their flight and their feathers. Not least of these are the wondrously colored birds living in the coastal lowlands, mountains, and tropical forests home to the once sprawling Aztec and Mayan societies. Imagine, the magical iridescence of these vibrantly colored avian wonders up close! It’s easy to understand why they were believed to be our earthly connection to the divine.
In the ancient story that tells us we were divinely created from earth itself, we are assured of our divine creation as evidenced by the color of our beautiful brown skin given to us by our mother, Earth. Reflected in the spectrum of brown shades seen in the plumas of this design is the belief that like those resplendent birds we too possess an air of the divine.
“Our name, The Bunny’s Revenge, represents the meaningful acts that we take against the Status Quo of how fashion is predominantly still being made,” states Lucy Delgado, founder of The Bunny’s Revenge. “The most common comment/question we get from customers is , “Cool name, why The Bunny’s Revenge”? The Bunny represents to us, as in ancient Mexican culture, the regenerative cycle of birth, growth, harvest and rebirth and the abundance that’s generated from that cycle when it’s allowed to occur in a healthy environment. This cycle is the most basic and ancient cycle in the universe.”
Out of a desire to preserve her connection to her Chicano Culture and Mexican Heritage, The Bunny’s Revenge was born. Expressed through the diversity and surrounded by Mexican Heritage and Chicano culture, Oakland California contributed to instilling a sense of pride and comfort for the founder’s creativity. We had a chance to ask founder, Lucy Delgado a few questions regarding the curation of her brand and what we can expect next.
What is the mission/vision of your business/organization?
Our mission is to foster a sense of connectedness
within our highly nuanced and dynamic ChicanoLatinx culture by engaging in visual storytelling using art, design and responsible fashion practices as the driving forces.
What drives you to succeed?
I love this question. It allows me to give myself permission to step out of the “stay in the moment” mentality for a minute, which I have always found difficult. As our brand grows our capacity to support near and dear Latinx causes grows in a more impactful way, our engagement with artists in a collaborative respect will grow, and our ability to add sustainably innovative textiles to our future product mix will become a reality. For us, this is what success looks like and it’s what keeps us moving forward, inch by inch.
What’s unique about the work that you do?
I can say that when we began The Bunny’s Revenge it was with the intent to create an offering that checked a particular set of boxes. It had to be made with a textile that was produced without harmful chemicals or unfair labor from field to factory. Because we planned on printing our artwork on it, the inks had to be certified toxic free and it had to be printed in a printing house that we trusted to use responsible printing methods which includes how they dispose of their waste and take care of their surrounding environment. It had to be a product that was more than a pretty face. It needed to truly add longevity to any wardrobe. For us, the scarf was it! Inch-forinch you will not find a product that works as hard as your favorite scarf.
I have scarves from 25 years ago that I cherish and that are still working it out for me. It took us a very long time to land on a specific fabric and then
Nayrouz Olarte Announces the
Formation of International Fashion Federation
Multi-passionate entrepreneur and philanthropist
Nayrouz Olarte, known for her transformative leadership as the former President of the Board of Orlando International Fashion Week and founder of the HER Foundation, is proud to announce the launch of the International Fashion Federation (IFF). This groundbreaking global trade organization is dedicated to uniting stakeholders in fashion, tourism and hospitality committed to a mission that enhances the cities of tomorrow through the synergistic power of fashion.
While other leading fashion organizations focus on global trade, designer recognition through awards, and education and resources for support with things like materials, supply chain and manufacturing, IFF will focus on the connection between the fashion industry and the business interests of a thriving city. ”By propelling fashion into a cultural conversation,
we can form a collective interest and impact communities just as the performing arts have done for centuries. I believe that fashion can bring the world together because it’s a universal language of self-expression; it’s the art of our everyday lives. Infusing fashion into the fabric of a city has a profound impact on its culture, tourism, and luxury markets. Florida is the second most valuable real estate market in the country, and we envision matching that value from an art, fashion, and cultural perspective. I’ve seen firsthand how an emphasis on fashion can revitalize a city, and I’m passionate about expanding this work throughout Florida and then into other parts of the world,” said Nayrouz Olarte. Nayrouz’s past experience in her culinary career, serving her community in a pivotal role at Orlando International Fashion Week, and as founder of HER Foundation set the stage for this vision to come to
The Neckerchief:
“BIRDS OF A
With this design, the artist wanted to share her deeper insight into an ancient Mexican story-of-origin by illustrating how our connection to the earth and to the divine connects us to one another as well.
it took even longer to locate a manufacturer who creates such a fabric. For this first fabric we wanted the luxuriousness of silk, but it had to be the right type of silk and the right type of weave. For us a mulberry silk in a twill weave fit the bill. Mulberry silk not only has extreme strength but has exceptional luster. A twill weave has the incredible quality of feeling light as a feather, delicate and supple as ever, yet is one of the strongest weaves known. We finally landed on a manufacturer in December 2022 that checked all of our boxes. Our fabric is made to order. It takes 30 days to weave it and is expertly digitally printed and hemmed over the next couple of months. It is a slow and responsible process. And I can honestly say, I have yet to find a scarf being sold in the US that is made from 100% Organic Silk Twill. It’s a bit of a unicorn. At least for now. Partly because it costs about 2 1⁄2 times as much as conventional silk to produce. We keep our pricing competitive by selling direct to consumer. And when staying aligned with our responsible fashion practices by creating designs with dimensions that generate the least amount of waste, we are able to save on expenses that are typically passed on to the consumer in more wasteful conventional practices. For this first collection, I created all the artwork myself by hand then digitally traced it to be printed. But what makes our continued work unique is that, in the not so far off future, it will consist of artwork created through collaborations with truly amazing artists that shows life through the lens of Latinx people, other people of color and female artists. Artwork from this perspective is more rarely seen than it should be. I personally crave seeing this type of artwork out in the world and especially in the fashion space.
The Muffler: “A CONEJA IN MEXICO”
This design was envisioned as six postcard-like vignettes, each flowing into the other to create a visual travel diary
What’s on the horizon for your business, upcoming events, new developments, important reminders, etc.?
We will be participating in various in-person shopping events local to our Bay Area location during the Fall and Holiday shopping season. Event information will be available via our website and social www.thebunnysrevenge.com, https://www. instagram.com/thebunnysrevenge/
In the coming months we will be offering a few select apparel styles designed in-house and made locally from our 20-year-old pristine deadstock fabric of Italian cashmere, Italian wool, Silk, Swiss cotton and Italian linen. And like our scarves, these apparel offerings will be seasonless wardrobe workhorses designed to set the wearer apart from the masses in luxe fabrications that will cease to be offered in any of our future apparel designs. These offerings will initially be available in a very limited amount at our in-person Bay-Area local shopping events this Holiday 2024 and Spring 2025.
What’s the best way for people to support your business?
As a new brand in our first year, creating brand awareness is huge for us as is being able to stay connected to customers who have visited our site or came out to support us at any one of our inperson events. How people can help us do this is by: Signing up for our newsletter on our site with the assurance that we reach out infrequently with in-person event information, new design drops and sample sale events; Following us on social; Telling friends and family about us – word of mouth is still a thing; Write a review of your experience with our product; Post on social how and where you wear your scarf.
life. Olarte’s focus for the past several years has been in the non-profit space. She launched HER Foundation and hosted an inaugural HER Gala where she partnered with Jackie Siegel and Victoria’s Voice Foundation. That fashion show gala event caught the attention of the board of directors at Orlando International Fashion Week and she was later named CEO. She has shown the city of Orlando how powerful the intersection of fashion, luxury lifestyle, hospitality and tourism can be. Her first project upon launching the International Fashion
PHOTO: NAYROUZ
Federation will be called Glamour for Good, a show to benefit NonPareil students with Autism. Business leaders, city planners, and innovators are invited to join the IFF as founding trustees or members, shaping a future where fashion plays a central role in urban development and cultural enrichment. This is an unparalleled opportunity to be at the forefront of a movement that leverages fashion as a catalyst for social transformation and economic growth.
SOURCE International Fashion Federation
Founder of The Bunny’s Revenge, Lucy Delgado
BROWN FEATHER”
The reasonable man adapts himself to the world; the unreasonable one persists in trying to adapt the world to himself. Therefore, all progress depends on the unreasonable man.”
George Bernard Shaw
Real Estate Implications
This includes Neiman Marcus’s 36 stores and Bergdorf Goodman’s two stores, in addition to HBC’s substantial holdings encompassing 42 million square feet of gross leasable area. The strategic importance of these properties cannot be understated, as prime retail locations are crucial for attracting high-networth consumers and maintaining a prestigious market presence. The merger underscores the value of high-profile retail locations, reflecting the critical role of physical stores in luxury retail. These properties, situated in key urban centers, serve as vital touchpoints for engaging affluent shoppers and reinforcing brand prestige. Saks Global’s extensive real estate holdings will be instrumental in consolidating its market position and expanding its reach within the luxury retail sector.
Implications for the Retail Real Estate Market
The formation of Saks Global and its substantial real estate portfolio are likely to have significant implications for the retail real estate market. With an extensive collection of prime retail properties, the new entity will likely influence market dynamics by increasing competition for high-value retail spaces. This could lead to heightened interest from other luxury retailers and potentially drive up rental rates for premium locations.
Moreover, the merger may prompt a strategic reevaluation of the physical footprint of Saks Global’s brands. As the company integrates its real estate assets, it may identify opportunities for optimization, such as closing underperforming stores or relocating to more strategic locations. This strategic realignment could impact the broader retail real estate landscape, influencing leasing trends and investment patterns in high-profile retail markets.
In conclusion, the merger of Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue represents a transformative development in the luxury retail sector, with profound implications for real estate. The creation of Saks Global and its extensive real estate portfolio highlight the importance of strategic property management in maintaining a competitive edge in the luxury market. As Saks Global navigates this new phase, its approach to integrating technological advancements and optimizing its real estate assets will be pivotal in shaping the future of luxury retail.
The purchasing power of Latinos, including for homeownership, is rising faster than ever, and Finaya is poised to strongly support this community.
“Housing affordability is one of the most debilitating challenges of our time, particularly for first time home buyers from diverse constituencies,” said Naren Nath, CEO of Finaya.
“We are committed to providing education, guidance, counseling and resources to help communities before, during and throughout their homeownership journeys, in close partnership with Money Management International and other key partners in the space.”
“We believe that owning a home should be more accessible, and MMI is positioned to help prospective homebuyers, particularly those in underserved communities and credit-challenged segments,” said Helene Raynaud , SVP of Housing Initiatives at Money Management International.
“Partnering with Finaya allows us to reach those who are learning about home buying, preparing for homeownership, and seeking personalized advice in order to achieve this cornerstone of the American Dream.”
Concurrent with this partnership, Finaya is launching a comprehensive yet easy to navigate Learn section on its site. Here, home buyers and sellers can get a bird’s eye view of the home purchase and sale journeys, zoom in wherever they would like additional details, and zoom back out to get full context. Consumers can familiarize themselves with the steps involved in home buying and selling at their own pace, with no sales pressure, and also leverage helpful links to partner sites to further their understanding. If they are interested, they can explore further, shop the Finaya marketplace for homes, mortgages, insurance and other home-related services without needing to talk to any sales representative until they are ready to.
Finaya thus continues to expand its offerings, which now include home buying and selling, loans, and insurance, with additional services that will be available on the digital marketplace soon. To find out more about MMI and how Finaya and MMI are working together, visit www.finaya.com website. Money Management Cont’d from page 2
Money Coach Cont’d from page 2
• Tap into your emergency fund if you have one, but try to avoid dipping into any retirement accounts. Even though situations like this can feel permanent and helpless, remember that it’s just a transitional period. You will make it through.
Q: I’m a single mom with mounting debt. I feel like I’m drowning. How can I start to get back on track?
A: As a single mom, your strength and resilience are your greatest assets. Don’t underestimate yourself. The first step in stopping debt from increasing it to spend less than you make. When your expenses are exceeding your income, something has to carry the deficit and usually, it’s the credit card. There are only 2 ways to balance your cash
Women Cont’d from page 5
Labor Force Participation
• From 2010 to 2021, the number of Hispanic females in the U.S. labor force grew a total of 32.9% compared to only 2.7 percent for nonHispanic females. Despite being just 9.3% of the U.S. population, Latinas are responsible for 30.2% of the growth of the U.S. labor force since 2010.
• From 2000 to 2021, the Latina labor force participation rate increased 7.5 percentage points, while the rate for non-Hispanic females was flat. U.S. Latinas, who started the century with a participation rate a full 5.0 percentage points lower, are now 2.5 percentage points more likely to be actively working than their non-Hispanic female counterparts.
Educational Attainment
• The number of Latinas with a bachelor’s degree or higher education increased 103% between 2010 and 2021, while the number of highlyeducated non-Hispanic females increased only 38.3%. Latina educational attainment is growing 2.7 times faster than that of non-Hispanic females.
• Real Income
• From 2010 to 2021, the real incomes of U.S. Latinas grew a total of 46.0 percent compared to only
flow: make more or spend less. If increasing your income isn’t possible, then there’s only one other side… cutting expenses.
Once you’ve prevented your debt from increasing, you can work on paying it off. First build a onemonth emergency fund to buffer your cash flow and prevent you from having to use credit when things go wrong. Then list all your debts, their interest rates, and minimum payments. List them either in order of smallest to largest balance (snowball) or highest to lowest interest rate (avalanche) and focus any extra payments on one at a time, while making minimum payments on the rest.
Remember that financial wellness is a journey, not a destination. The goal is really just to be 1% better today than you were yesterday. You’re not alone in this journey—reach out, let us know what’s keeping you up at night. We’re here to support you.
18.5 percent for Non-Hispanic females. In other words, Latina income growth is 2.5 times that of their Non-Hispanic female counterparts.
”U.S. Latinas coming of age and entering the U.S. labor force are overwhelmingly second-and third-generation Americans. These daughters and granddaughters of immigrants are combining the extraordinary and selfless work ethic of their elders with rapid growth of human capital to give life to the U.S. economy,” said Dr. Hayes Bautista.
This data builds directly upon six annual U.S. Latino GDP Reports as well as eight State and a dozen Metro Area Latino GDP Reports released since 2018. Using publicly available data from major U.S. agencies, those reports reveal that Latinos are drivers of economic growth and a critical source of resilience for broader U.S. economy. They document substantial economic growth premiums enjoyed by Latinos of all genders, relative to non-Latinos in the U.S.
For example, labor force growth of male and female Hispanics in the U.S. is nine times the growth of the non-Hispanic labor force. Real Latino GDP growth is 2.5 times the growth of non-Latino GDP. These premiums exist across a wide range of economic indicators – labor force participation, educational attainment, real income, consumption, and more.
SOURCE Bank of America Corporation
Latina