 Small businesses and the passions that fuel them are the root of American dream. Makisha Boothe, founder of Sistahpreneurs, has made it her life's work to enable women of color to succeed in their own small business ventures. Read on to find out how she creates an open and welcoming community, her keys to success, and more!
What unique impact do you make on the world through your work? I create safe spaces for black women to grow as entrepreneurs, and tools and support to help them move from bootstrapping business mode to established and playing big. Tell us about a recent accomplishment you're proud of? Our recent mention in Ebony Magazine covered our "Business Breakthrough Brunch on Cannabis". We plan for 25-30 at these brunches - 60 showed up and it was an amazing time. What actions do you take to support and empower other women? I wake up every day with service to women of color on my heart and mind. I coach, mentor, train, and develop black entrepreneurs daily. I create discussions, collaborative structures and programs that give them a safe space to evolve and grow as entrepreneurs. I work daily to connect them to the mainstream business networks and resources. How did your career take off, and what do you attribute your success to most? I started working at the SBA in 1998. I fell in love with small business then and I've always been an entrepreneur at heart. I attribute my success to being grounded in a spiritual practice that helps me to combat fear, ego and pride, things that can deter your success. Also, because I am committed to growth and life-long learning, an insanely intense work ethic and passion for serving and walking in my purpose is important. Finally, a lot of GREAT women and men have mentored and supported me over the years. How do you keep yourself passionate and driven regardless of how busy you are day to day? I don't do anything that I'm not passionate about. I'm typically decisive and committed to my decisions. Whatever I do - I go hard, I go big, and I'm all in. It's just in my DNA. I'm always just trying to do the very best I can. My grandmother always told me that she wouldn't ask me to be better than the person to the left or right - but she expected me to always do Makisha's best. Everybody dies, but not everybody lives. To me living is about finding your passions, purposes and living your best life. What do you see as the future of your industry? I see small businesses having to find new ways to thrive in the global and internet economy by being agile, more collaborative, and by constantly finding new David and Goliath strategies to compete with big businesses. What is the best piece of advice you've ever received? I don't know if I'd call this advice but it was a compelling reflection that changed my life. A coworker once told me she was in deep reflection and study regarding the practice of grace. I began to do the same and it allowed me to forgive and be more compassionate toward myself and everyone around me. It softened me in a good way. I tend to be all business in business - this helped me show my heart more in business. It helped me to lighten up and enjoy the hills and the valleys more. What's been inspiring you lately? Women all over the world speaking out, finding our voice, taking names and kicking ass. What do you love most about Women of Denver? I love the accessibility. I feel the community is welcoming, authentic, diverse, and deeply inclusive. That means a lot to me. What else would you like our readers to know about you? I deeply believe in the movements in this country right now. People of color, immigrants, and women are fighting for voice and equity. I believe activism comes in many forms. I plan to continue to be a contributing voice and action-taker for my people, in my own way, using my gifts, during this historical time. Get in Touch: Twitter Handle: @sistahbiz Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/sistahbiz/ Instagram Handle: @sistahbiz Website: http://www.sistah.biz |
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