Happy Fall to everyone,
It’s that time of year when we look forward to cool evenings, but we are still having some hot days here in Silicon Valley. This week, to prepare the garden for winter, I have been pruning out the dead leaves in the yard. Planting some California native plants that will take root over the fall and thrive with wildflowers in the spring is also on the agenda.
If you have been here for years or if you are newly transplanted, we want to see you at one of our events.
The focus of the September “A Seat at the Table” meeting was to ask for help and to learn what your needs are. We gathered to hear from some NAWBO-SV members on how they built their business. Some are ready to exit their business, and of course, don’t we all want to know how to do that – to retire and enjoy life someday. Well, okay some of us don’t want that, personally I know I’m a workaholic, and I love what I do, but plans change and our business morph into something that has lasting roots in our communities.
Know someone who’d be a great fit for NAWBO? If a friend joins as a new member, they can save $75 on their membership fee until October 31. Details on membership and benefits are available here: NAWBO-SV Membership. NAWBO-SV ladies are here to help you shape your business, whether you have a startup or if your business has been around for a while.
Save the date for October 29th for our annual gathering of like-minded women who have been there, and of course those of us who are chasing what we do mid-stream. November, we will be giving thanks, not just to each other, but for how very grateful we are to have our Corporate Partners. December, we are cooking up a delightful holiday season celebration; more details to come.
Our international ties run deep — NAWBO Silicon Valley has a strong connection with FCEM, and this year we’re sending a delegation of two, possibly three, of our own members to their congress. Learn more here: FCEM Congress
Miami is calling! NAWBO Rise is a smaller, more exclusive gathering — just 150 women — unlike the larger conference NAWBO National hosts every summer. There are still a few openings, and I’d love the company if you’re able to join me. Details here: NAWBO Miami Rise
We’re actively recruiting new board members for two important roles: our Advocacy Chair and DEI&B Chair. If either speaks to you, I’d love to talk more.
In the meantime, NAWBO California is hosting a three-part series starting October 8th on advocacy and women-owned businesses right here in our state. I plan on attending — won’t you join me? Learn more here and register: NAWBO CA
This week, I’d like to invite you to pause and turn to the woman — or women — who’ve helped you along the way, and simply say thank you. We don’t do that enough, and I think we owe ourselves a moment to slow down and be grateful before November arrives. Don’t you think?
Sincerely,
Heather Durham
President, NAWBO Silicon Valley
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