Mentorship Program: Cohort 3
Abigail Kimble “Ark” (She/Her)
CEO & Founder | Works of Ark
Business Description:
Works of Ark encompasses all endeavors of multimedia artist, singer/songwriter, and live painter, Ark.
Why are you most excited about the program?
"I struggle with the ability to believe deep down that I’m capable of running my own business and receiving financial stability through my art. Everything that has happened up until this point seems like luck & happenstance, but I know that ‘s not true. I’ve just been throwing dust in the wind to see what sticks. I’m excited to be a part of this program to feel confident about my future endeavors by gaining the basic understanding of how to run a business. "
Brooke Ross (She/Her)
CEO & Founder | Dame Culture Studio
Business Description:
Photography Production and Consultation Programs to assist creatives in expanding their businesses
Why are you most excited about the program?
"There are so many things I am excited about, but I think most of all I am looking forward to working with someone that has gone through similar things being a founder and owning a business. Right now support and encouragement means a lot."
Carmeann Foster (She/Her)
CEO & Founder | Fostering Families
Business Description:
As a family law attorney with a focus on father’s rights, I offer legal services on a sliding fee scale to enhance accessibility. With credentials as a certified mediator and licensed clinical social worker, I am transitioning my practice towards mediation and educational outreach.
Why are you most excited about the program?
"To grow my business beyond my expertise and grow from targeted mentorship."
Sheila Sweeney (She/Her)
CEO & Founder | Peaces 'n PuzSouls
Business Description:
Peaces ’n PuzSouls is a trusted psychotherapy private practice in Saint Paul, Minnesota. Our mission is to provide high-quality mental health services to agency systems, focusing on multigenerational-multisystemic healing, reflective consultation, psychoeducation, and psychotherapy coaching services.
Why are you most excited about the program?
"BLOOM’s mentorship program can assist me in my personal and professional development by providing insights from experienced mentors, advisors, and a coach to guide me through challenges. The program can offer me feedback, advice, and support to help me achieve my goals and reach my full business potential. By committing to this program, I can reap many benefits that can greatly impact my business and future. Thank you!"
Mentorship Program: Cohort 2
Air Gustafson, Founder & CEO
Morty's Bark & Brew; MeatSpace
Why are you most excited about the program?"People! I’m super excited to learn from, grow, and collaborate with people involved in this program and beyond."
Ashley Oolman, Founder & CEO
Allied Folk
Why are you most excited about the program?
"I am so excited to be selected, to take time to really dig into my dreams! I have been at it for three years, and have the next three years sketched out. I can't wait to add some muscle to what's been in my heart and on my mind for so long."
Cydney Walker, Founder & CEO
The 47 Club
Why are you most excited about the program?
"I'm most excited about the program because not only will I be getting the guidance I've been looking for, but I get to do it with People of Color! I'm elated to be able to learn from and work with people who look like me."
Corenia Smith, Founder & CEO
Wholesome Management
Why are you most excited about the program?
"This is exactly what I have been looking for. A mentorship program that will hold my hand through the entrepreneurship process. As I grow and develop a small business."
Lauren Johnson, Founder & CEO
The Grind
Why are you most excited about the program?
"I am so excited to be welcomed into a community of entrepreneurs and change-makers! I know that this community will help me to not only reach my goals but surpass them. By building my confidence as a business owner and cultivating a network of support, my vision is going to come to life in ways I can’t even imagine."
Rasheda Jenkins, Founder & CEO
Gone Bananas
Why are you most excited about the program?
"People! I'm super excited to learn from, grow, and collaborate with people involved in this program and beyond! "
Mentorship Program: Cohort 1
Essence Johnson, Founder & CEO
E.Bazz Beauty Supply
What inspired you to become an entrepreneur?
"My grandfather and biological father inspired me to become an entrepreneur. My grandfather owned farmland that was passed down to future generations like myself and my father has owned retail stores my whole life. They have both taught me the freedom behind being an entrepreneur and also the idea of black people owning their own."
Nubiah Taylor, Founder & CEO
Taylor'd Cosmetology School
What inspired you to become an entrepreneur?
"I wanted to work for myself doing some sort of trade and came across waxing. That's when I knew I wanted to open my own salon."
Shaneka Greer, Founder & CEO
Her Shoe Fetish
What inspired you to become an entrepreneur?
"My mother's shoe collection sparked my love for shoes. But what really inspired me to become an entrepreneur is the drive I have to show myself and my daughter that anything you put your mind to is possible. Who knew I would turn my passion for shoes into a business that helps other women feel just as important as a new pair of cute shoes on a special day. The smiles that are left on their faces when they have found the perfect shoe for their occasion truly warms my heart. Being able to compliment other women but simply showing them the respect, they deserve. I always tell myself, the shoes you purchase is an added bonus. I pride myself on the experience that I create.
Yee Yang, Founder & CEO
Caring Solutions
What inspired you to become an entrepreneur?
"I want to be my own boss and able to put my knowledge and expertise to serve my own community. "
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