Mirror, Mirror!
When you look in the mirror, what do you see? A business owner standing on the sidelines or a champion ready to seize every opportunity?
At GWBC®, we are committed to providing the tools, connections and resources that help you navigate procurement processes and grow your business. Our strategic events are designed to bring you face-to-face with corporate representatives looking for unique suppliers like you - but showing up is just the first step. Building relationships and positioning your business for success takes intentional effort.
Certification offers an opportunity and value beyond simply identifying as a vetted Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE). Certification is your entry point to technical assistance resources, strategic opportunities, connections and growth, but only if you choose to engage.
The power of the WBENC and GWBC® networks is undeniable. Over the past twenty-five years, GWBC® has grown from 100 WBEs to an impressive 1,500 certified women business owners, with revenues increasing year after year. This community of phenomenal businesswomen is a force, making moves in the marketplace and proving that women drive success.
As we uplift legacies this month, let’s also commit to stronger hearts. “Service from the Heart” was a frequent quote by Delta Air Lines founder and CEO, CE Woolman. Our founders Delta Air Lines and UPS were the first corporate members to take a leap of faith twenty-five years ago and throughout their history, they have continued to soar in the aviation industry by supporting women. This included rising up to new heights with Stephanie Johnson who became the first African American woman to achieve the rank of captain at Delta (2016) and Patrice Washington was the first Black woman to pilot for UPS (1988).
I want to applaud our corporate champions who are actively engaged while supporting their markets, working to ensure they thrive. As a certified WBE, you are a vital part of that success. It is important to recognize that our WBEs earn their contracts by competing in a supply chain environment that is still not a level playing field.
So, I ask you again: what do you see when you hold your company up to the mirror? Do you see entitlement, disengagement and missed opportunities? Or do you see a champion, an inclusive leader, a strategic partner and engaged company in GWBC®? I hope your reflection is the latter. If not, it’s time to step up, get involved and make the most of this incredible network ready to support your success. Here’s to another year of growth, impact and strategic engagement.
Always in your service,
Roz Lewis
Parting Thoughts: "You can't just sit there and wait for people to give you that golden dream. You've got to get out there and make it happen for yourself." Diana Ross