2024 March Issue: Shaping HER-Story, Celebrating Women's History Month

we embark on a journey to honor the remarkable contributions of women throughout history. From trailblazers who shattered glass ceilings to unsung heroes who quietly forged paths for future generations, women have played pivotal roles in shaping the course of history.

This month serves as a reminder of the struggles, triumphs, and resilience of women across diverse cultures, backgrounds, and fields. It's a time to reflect on the progress made towards gender equality and to acknowledge the ongoing work needed to achieve true parity.

As we commemorate Women's History Month, Thee M.O.gul Mag. is proud to recognize and celebrate women actively shaping HER-Story.

Their stories inspire us to challenge stereotypes, dismantle barriers, and strive for a world where all individuals, regardless of gender, have equal opportunities to thrive. Join us in celebraing these amazing M.O.gul Women. Happy Women's History Month!

Michelle O'Kennard Editor In Chief

.O.gul of Thee .O.nth

Dr. Adrienne Bradford, PhD. | Organizational Psychologist

Global DEI Leader

People Scientist

Dr. Adrienne Bradford, PhD.

| Organizational Psychologist | Global DEI Leader | People Scientist |

Dr. Adrienne is a dedicated organizational psychologist, researcher, and behavioral scientist with a rich background in workplace activism. Her professional path has been diverse, traversing both the public and private sectors. Dr. Adrienne’s expertise marries the principles of organizational psychology with a profound grasp of racial equity and traumainformed practice, enabling the creation of DEI strategies that are scientifically sound while being deeply attuned to the experiences of the most marginalized.

As a vanguard in global diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) strategy, Dr. Adrienne combines rigorous scientific methods, proven evidence-based practices, and a creative approach to dissect inequality and challenge entrenched inequalities at individual, institutional, and systemic levels. A staunch supporter of multiculturalism in theory and practice, she tirelessly seeks to comprehend the diverse cultural contexts within which individuals interpret the world.

As a consultant, Dr. Adrienne has crafted bespoke workforce solutions and provided equity-centered training for learning and development to esteemed brands like McDonald’s, PepsiCo, AT&T, and JPMorgan Chase. In her current role as the Global Director of Talent Engagement and DEI at Integral Ad Science, she continues to lead and innovate in crafting inclusive work environments that celebrate and harness the power of diversity.

Dr. Adrienne prides herself on being a strategic thinker and a pragmatic doer, translating visionary concepts into practical actions that produce real change. Her objective is always clear: to achieve measurable progress in the creation of workspaces that are more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable for all inspired not just by her professional ambition but also by a personal commitment to shaping a better world for her son who lives with a disability, and for future generations.

.O.gul Partner

‘Mz Metchi’ is media personality, content creator, event specialist and professional brand ambassador who partners with small businesses and local music artists to help better market and promote their brands. After spending over a decade in operational management, she decided to take a leap into entrepreneurship and helping others. Learn more at MzMetchi.com .

Event

Resources

T.H.R.I.V.E. Emerging Leaders Reimagined

T.H.R.I.V.E. Emerging Leaders Reimagined revolutionizes the rich history of executive-level training for small businesses. Sponsored by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), this researchbased, executive-level program combines business fundamentals with the innovative tools and competitive strategies needed to deliver immediate results. This intensive program gives ambitious small business owners a challenging opportunity to accelerate their growth through training led by business experts, strategize with professional coaches, and develop connections with like-minded peers.

Resources

APPLY TODAY FOR A $25,000 AMBER GRANT FOR WOMEN

WomensNet founded the “Amber Grant” in 1998. The grant was set up with one goal in mind: to honor the memory of a very special young woman, Amber Wigdahl, who died at just 19 years old before realizing her business dreams.

Today, WomensNet carries on that tradition, proudly giving away at least $30,000 every month in Amber Grant money. In recognition of the diversity of businesses owned by women, we’ve also expanded our grant-giving to include “Startup Grants,” “Business Category Grants,” as well as two “$25,000 Year End Grants.”

Learn More

.O.gul Partner

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Astia: Investors of Women-Led Companies

Astia invests in high-growth companies with women leaders, following their successful completion of our Expert Sift™ process.

We follow innovators rather than trends, and invest across a variety of industries. Astia Investment vehicles directly support our nonprofit mission to level the investment playing field.

Inclusive teams are more likely to succeed, and through Astia Fund, Astia Angels and Astia Edge, we provide the capital and networks required to get there.

The Benef Certification

Women Owned Busiensses and Entrepreneurs play a pivotal role in driving innovation, growth, and economic development. One powerful tool empowering women-owned businesses is the Women's Business Enterprise (WBE) certification. This certification not only opens doors to opportunities but also fosters an inclusive and thriving business environment.

Access to Opportunities

WBE certification provides access to a network of corporations and government agencies actively seeking to do business with women-owned enterprises. Many organizations have supplier diversity programs, and being certified opens doors to potential contracts and opportunities.

Government Contracts

Some government agencies have set-aside programs or goals for contracting with women-owned businesses. WBE certification can make your business eligible to participate in these programs, increasing your chances of securing government contracts.

The Benef Certification

Corporate Supplier Diversity Programs

Many large corporations prioritize diversity in their supply chain. WBE certification enhances your visibility and attractiveness to corporations with supplier diversity programs, potentially leading to partnerships and contracts.

Networking Opportunities

Certification often comes with membership in business organizations and networking groups focused on women entrepreneurs. These connections can provide valuable insights, mentorship, and collaborative opportunities.

Enhanced Credibility

WBE certification is a recognized symbol of commitment to diversity and inclusion. It can enhance your business's credibility, making it more appealing to clients, customers, and partners who value diversity in their business relationships.

Business Development Support

Certification bodies and affiliated organizations often offer resources, training, and support programs to help certified businesses grow and thrive. This support can include workshops, mentorship programs, and access to educational resources.

The Benef Certification

Visibility on Supplier Databases

Certification often includes listing your business in databases accessible to procurement professionals and potential clients actively seeking women-owned businesses. This visibility can lead to increased opportunities for collaboration and business partnerships.

Inclusion in RFPs (Request for Proposals)

Some Request For Proposals (RFPs) specifically request or prioritize responses from certified women-owned businesses. Certification can give your business a competitive edge in such scenarios.

Legal and Regulatory Benefits

In some cases, WBE certification may provide advantages in regulatory processes or legal considerations, especially when dealing with entities that prioritize working with diverse suppliers.

Global Recognition

WBE certification is often recognized globally, allowing women-owned businesses to explore international markets and participate in global supply chains. This recognition can be especially advantageous for businesses looking to expand beyond their domestic market.

EY Entrepreneurial Winning Women™ North America

The EY Entrepreneurial Winning Women™ program identifies ambitious entrepreneurs and provides them with the resources, network and access needed to unlock their full potential.

The EY Entrepreneurial Winning Women program annually identifies a select group of high-potential founders who have built profitable companies and provides them with connections and vast resources needed to think bigger and sustainably scale their companies to full potential.

The MergeLane Venture Fund Investment

MergeLane invests in high-potential startups and venture capital funds with at least one female leader. Since its 2015 founding, MergeLane has invested in 48 companies and recruited a network of 300 mentors and 600 investors.

MergeLane leverages this network and its focus on Conscious Leadership to prove that diverse leadership teams drive superior investor returns. MergeLane is an on-ramp for the extraordinary.think bigger and sustainably scale their companies to full potential.

Resources

The BGV Pitch Program flips the traditional pitch experience on its head: coach entrepreneurs, host a live crowdfunded pitch competition, then connect them to community and professionals to support them on their journey.

They democratize funding by allowing the audience to vote with their dollars using the Raisify platform for the founders whose pitch they favor. Each founder has 3 minutes to pitch and a 3 minute Q&A from the audience.

Khalid ‘ s Korner

Khalid Scott, LCSW

Top 10 List of Truths

About Men & Divorce!

Khalid ‘ s Korner

I’m a marriage therapist who is also a divorced man and here’s a list of some of the things that I’ve observed that some of us men go through. I’m grateful that now 11 years post divorce that my ex wife and I are in a better place because no matter what, our daughter is our #1 priority! Check out my Top 10 List of Truths for divorced men.

1. We men feel like “failures”because we are the head of the household and we couldn’t save our marriages.

2. We feel like we have no real support (during and post divorce) because we typically get blamed for the divorce.

3. Some of us take time to heal post divorce because we are truly mourning/grieving the loss of our marriage.

4. We move on to the next relationship because we don’t want to be alone and/or live alone.

5. We love our children but haven’t learned that we are just as capable as mothers to raise them as single fathers.

6. We are starting to seek counseling more!

7. We take a major hit financially and that’s very impactful to us men because are major role in life is to be good providers!

8. Our spirituality is truly tested during a divorce!

9. The court system appears to be biased towards us.

10. Marriage benefits wives moreso than husbands!

There’s more to this list but the point is that men do suffer in silence re: our divorces, so please give us grace as well!

Celebrating Women Who Lead

KeShaun

Meet KeShaun N. Harding, MSN, APRN FPA, FNP BC, a licensed family nurse practitioner with over 14 years of nursing experience. She is a member of the Black Women’s Professional League (BWPL) and 2023 “40 under 40” honoree, as well as a member of the ISAPN (Illinois Society for Advanced Nurse Practitioners). She has worked in several different nursing roles but found her passion and purpose as a nurse entrepreneur, aesthetic nurse injector, and business coach.

KeShaun obtained her Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing in 2010, worked in the hospital briefly, and then spent 7 years providing home health care in underserved communities. In the midst of her nursing journey, her first love has always been raising her beautiful children. While being a full time mother, wife, and employee, she was able to successfully obtain her Master’s in Nursing and became an ANCC board certified nurse practitioner. In 2021, she started her first business venture, Obsidian Aura Med Spa. Obsidian Aura Med Spa is a full service medical spa that offers a multitude of services focused on self care and preventative health measures. When asked the meaning behind the name, she explains: “Obsidian” is a naturally occurring black stone which, for her, represents her African American/Black ethnicity. Spiritually, it represents power, protection from negativity, grounding, strength, and inner confidence. Aura, or “a vibe”, is exactly what was curated with her intentional aesthetics and exceptional customer service. In 2023, her med spa was awarded Best Medical Spa in Tinley Park.

KeShaun discovered her passion in mentorship when she realized that it was her duty to share the knowledge she acquired, while navigating her own trials and tribulations, with others who also aspire to delve into entrepreneurship. Her goal is to expedite the growth of the Black community by being a leader, mentor, motivator, and anything else God has called her to do.

In 2023, she left her full neur. Her heart led her to create a mentorship program, and she immediately acquired 2 mentees. The very first mentee to complete her 12- week program successfully opened her health and wellness clinic 2 months ahead of schedule.

Her second mentee, who originally had a goal of 2 years to open her business due to fear and lack of guidance, is now confident that she can open her aesthetic clinic by the summer of 2024. KeShaun believes that God speaks to us through our hearts and by following our hearts, we are carrying out our passion and purpose that God has bestowed upon us.

Contact

To reach KeShaun Harding and learn more about Obsidian Aura Med Spa, you may visit her website at: www.oamedspa.org. You may also follow Obsidian Aura Med Spa on social media using the following handles:

Instagram: @obsidian auramedspa

Facebook: Obsidian Aura Med Spa

TikTok: @Key the NP

Scott

Itiona | Essie’s Heart Healthy Delish

In a world of fast an e a difference. The founder and CEO of Essie s Heart Healthy Delish, Itiona's journey is one of love, loss, and a commitment to promoting heart-healthy living.

Itiona's inspiration for creating Essie's Heart Healthy Delish stemmed from a deeply personal place - the loss of her mother to undiagnosed heart disease. The tragedy became a catalyst for positive change in Itiona's life, driving her to dedicate herself to helping others facing similar challenges.

Armed with a license in therapy and years of experience working with individuals with special needs, Itiona felt a calling to do more. Thus, Essie's Heart Healthy Delish was born, a brand committed to providing delicious and heart-healthy options for the 1.5 million women, minorities, and others diagnosed with cardiovascular diseases annually.

Frustration with the limited availability of clean, heart-healthy, vegan-friendly, lowsodium, and great-tasting options led Itiona to embark on a mission to fill this gap in the market. The demand for her products grew exponentially, with friends, co-workers, and family consistently requesting more. It was then that Itiona decided to share her creations with the world.

In 2015, Essie's Heart Healthy Delish hit the store shelves, making its mark in renowned retailers like Whole Foods Market Chicago, Kroger Mariano's stores, and Fresh Market Stores. The products quickly gained popularity, with in-store demonstrations leading to sold-out shelves. The success was no surprise, considering the dedication and passion poured into creating heart-healthy alternatives that don't compromise on taste.

Today, Essie's Heart Hea y j munities; the brand has expanded its reach nationwide through its Amazon site, allowing individuals from coast to coast to enjoy these nutritious and delicious offerings. Essie’s Heart Healthy Delish is also the first heart healthy, clean, and vegan brand in their product category.

Itiona Scott's journey from tragedy to triumph is a testament to the power of turning personal pain into purpose. Essie's Heart Healthy Delish stands as a beacon of hope, providing not just nourishing food for the body but also inspiring others to prioritize their heart health. As Itiona continues to make strides in the culinary world, her story serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, we can create something beautiful that impacts lives for the better.

Contact

To reach Itiona Scott and learn more about Essie’s Heart Healthy Delish, you may visit her website at: www.EssieMaries.com or you may buy this amazing product on Amazon.com.

Jamila

From a shy gamer and aspiring techie with few resources to pursue her dream, to today, an award-winning STEM advocate. Jamila Parham is a multifaceted, tech leader, speaker, community voice, and daughter of Chicago. Jamila excels in delivering civic tech solutions for various municipal divisions, with a focus on digital transformations, business continuity, and cloud computing in the Justice and Public Safety Sector.

Jamila is not only an accomplished tech professional but also the visionary behind The Tech Unicorn , a STEM Impact company dedicated to amplifying underrepresented communities of color in the tech industry. With a bold mission to bridge the STEM opportunity gap, The Tech Unicorn offers a suite of impactful services, including inspiring keynote speeches, immersive workshops, transformative mentoring programs, and strategic community partnerships.

Since its inception in 2016, The Tech Unicorn has made a significant impact, directly touching the lives of over 15,000 students and young professionals in Chicago and beyond, through its blend of social impact initiatives and professional development endeavors.

Jamila's dedication to advocacy and community work has earned her prestigious recognitions from Crain's Business Chicago, Women Tech Founders, DePaul University, Verizon, Madame C.J. Walker Power15 Awards, and more.

The Tech Unicorn has also been celebrated by Forbes, BuiltIn Moxie Awards, and Microsoft Corporation, among others. In 2023, Jamila was invited to the United Nations and honored by the French Embassy in the United States for her significant global impact through the Women In Tech Global Movement.

Contact

To reach The Tech Unicorn , Jamila Parham, you may visit her website at: www.TheTechUnicorn.co or follow her on Instagram using the handle @ @jamilaparham.

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Kellye

Meet Kellye Davis, a powerhouse in nursing, network marketing, and restaurant ownership, Kellye's journey is a testament to her commitment to excellence and her passion for serving others. With over 15 years of experience in the healthcare industry, Kellye has established herself as a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Practical Nurse.

Her unwavering commitment to the well-being of others has earned her respect and admiration in the field. Kellye's nursing career serves as the foundation of her journey, providing her with the skills and empathy needed to make a lasting impact on the lives of those under her care.

Beyond her nursing career, Kellye has ventured into the realm of network marketing, leveraging her passion for health and wellness to create a successful business. As a top leader in her company, she has become a beacon of inspiration for many, coaching individuals to achieve both personal and financial success. Kellye's approach goes beyond mere business; she is on a mission to empower others to live their best lives through healthy living.

But Kellye's entrepreneurial spirit doesn't stop there. In collaboration with her husband, she has embarked on a flavorful journey into the restaurant industry. As co-owner and operator of a popular Jerk Chicken restaurant in the Chicagoland Beverly area, Kellye is navigating the challenges of the culinary world with determination and grace. Together with her husband, they are not just learning the ropes; they are redefining what it takes to be successful in the competitive restaurant industry.

What sets Kellye apart is not just her impressive resume but her unwavering drive to serve others and make a positive impact on the world. Whether it's through her role as a nurse, a mentor in network marketing, or a restaurant owner, Kellye continues to inspire and empower those around her to live their best lives and reach their full potential.

Kellye Davis is a true trailblazer, embodying the qualities of dedication, passion, and an indomitable entrepreneurial spirit. Her commitment to excellence and her genuine desire to serve others make her a truly remarkable and inspiring individual. As Kellye continues to make waves across multiple industries, she leaves an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to be touched by her influence.

Contact

To reach Kelleye Davis and learn more about Jerk 48 Restaurant, you may follow her on social media: Instagram: @Iamkellyedavis and on Facebook: @Kellye Davis. You may also visit any of the Chicagoland Jerk 48 locations listed below:

Jerk 48 Beverly

1840 W 95th St. Chicago, IL 60643

Jerk 48 67th 548 E 67th St. Chicago, IL 60637

Jerk 48 East 1635 1/2 E 87th St. Chicago, IL 60617

Jerk 48 Alsip 12037 S Pulaski Rd. Alsip, IL 60803

Jasmine | Jasmine Renee Skin & Makeup

Smith

Meet licensed esthetician and creative force behind Jasmine Renee Skin and Makeup (JRSM), Jasmine Smith. Jasmine's journey is one of dedication and artistic flair, as she specializes in lash extensions, full body waxing, skincare services, and makeup application. Jasmine is more than just a beauty expert; she is an artist committed to enhancing the unique features of each client who walks through her studio doors.

Founded in 2018, JRSM began as a manifestation of Jasmine's love for makeup, evolving into a thriving solo full-service esthetics business. Her commitment to healthy skincare is evident in every aspect of her work. With an eye for beauty and a passion for empowering professional women, Jasmine goes beyond surface-level transformations. She creates an immersive and personalized experience for every client, ensuring they not only achieve their beauty goals but also maintain radiant results through her extensive knowledge of before and aftercare.

At the core of JRSM's philosophy is a mission to empower professional women to embrace their natural beauty. Specializing in realistic lash extensions, proficient full body waxing, natural makeup, and rejuvenating facials, Jasmine and her team cater to the diverse needs of their clientele. The studio is not just a place for cosmetic enhancements; it's a sanctuary where confidence is cultivated and self-expression is celebrated.

As a licensed esthetician, Jasmine's expertise extends beyond aesthetics; it's a holistic approach to beauty that nurtures the well-being of each client. The journey with JRSM is a collaboration, a shared venture where Jasmine and her clients work together to unveil and celebrate their unique beauty.

As JRSM continues to flourish, Jasmine Smith remains committed to her vision of redefining beauty standards and promoting self-love through esthetic artistry. Her journey from a passion for makeup to a thriving solo business is a testament to the transformative power of skill, dedication, and a genuine love for bringing out the beauty in every individual.

Contact

To reach Jasmine Smith and Jasmine Renee Skin & Makeup, you may visit her website at: www. https://www.jasminerenee.org/ or visit her location at: 2715 Main St., Highland, Indiana 46322. You may also follow her on Instagram: @Jasminerenee skin makeup and on Facebook: @Jasmine Renee Skin and Makeup.