Corporate Partner Corner
Special benefits and offers from our corporate partners for NAWBO members.
President’s Message | March 2025
Dear NAWBO Silicon Valley Sisters,
As we step into March, we celebrate Women’s History Month, a time to reflect on the incredible contributions of women in business, leadership, and beyond. It is also a time to recognize our own journeys as women entrepreneurs—our resilience, determination, and the impact we make in our communities and industries every day.
At NAWBO Silicon Valley, we continue to foster a powerful network of women business owners who support, uplift, and inspire one another. This month, I encourage you to take a moment to acknowledge how far you have come, celebrate your achievements, and set bold intentions for the future.
We have exciting events and initiatives ahead that will help you grow your business, expand your network, and access valuable resources. If you have not already, be sure to join us at our upcoming events where we’ll connect, collaborate, and continue driving success together.
I also invite each of you to reach out to a fellow woman entrepreneur who might benefit from our NAWBO community. Together, we can strengthen our collective voice and create even greater opportunities for women in business.
Thank you for being part of this incredible organization. Let us make March a month of empowerment, progress, and celebration!
With gratitude,
Wendy Roberts, CPA
President, NAWBO Silicon Valley
wendy@northstar-sp.com
www.northstar-sp.com
#NAWBOSV #NAWBO
International Women’s Day 2025
On March 9, 2025, I had the incredible opportunity of representing the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Silicon Valley at the International Women’s Day Networking Event hosted by Rotary District 5170.
It was an evening filled with powerful conversations, meaningful connections, and a shared commitment to uplifting women in business and leadership.
From engaging with like-minded professionals to hearing from an inspiring panel of women leaders, the event reinforced the importance of women supporting women—not just on International Women’s Day but every day.
Let’s keep the momentum going beyond International Women’s Day—because when women support women, we all rise!
—Griselda Quezada-Chavez, Past President, Corporate Partner Directory, International Affairs Director
B2B Success With Amazon Business
Join Tonia Chagnon from NAWBO HQ and Lois Rouder, Senior Partner Manager at Amazon Business, for an insider look at the tools and strategies her team has developed to help Amazon Business sellers grow—with a focus on small and diverse sellers, sustainable products and the Buy Local initiative. In just 15 minutes, you’ll learn about Amazon Business (where B2B lives on Amazon.com), the shopping experience and how to leverage it to connect with new customers as you scale and grow.
NAWBO Silicon Valley Highlighted in National Leader News
March, 2025
NAWBO Silicon Valley Communicates Collaboration, Support, Mentoring and More to Win Members
Chapter President Wendy Roberts and Membership Director Robin Fisher share the strategy and best practices that put them on top during the last Membership Campaign:
What’s so special about NAWBO and your chapter that you communicate as part of your Membership Campaign efforts?
Silicon Valley: Collaborating women business owners, a supportive environment, mentoring opportunities, promoting sisterhood and advantages of being a NAWBO member both locally and nationally.
What was most effective in attracting new members this past fall?
Silicon Valley: Personal networking, outreach to current and past members, social media such as LinkedIn, membership events and promoting the advantages of membership at our monthly meetings.
Did you do anything differently this year that you plan to do again for the Spring Campaign?
Silicon Valley: We are going to use the same strategy that we used for the Fall Campaign. It has been very effective.
Now that your chapter has grown your members, what’s one best practice you can share about retaining them?
Silicon Valley: Continuing to ensure we involve them in the conversation, spotlighting them in our newsletter, reaching out to invite them to our events and ensuring every woman knows she is supportive and respected.
Harbir Bhatia Power 100 Recognition
Celebrating Harbir Bhatia
The Silicon Valley Business Journal has recognized Silicon Valley Central Chamber CEO (and NAWBO SV member), Harbir K. Bhatia, as one of Silicon Valley’s Power100 individuals shaping the region alongside other exceptional leaders!
Described as a “nontraditional leader committed to creating social impact and tackling pressing societal issues head-on, often by leveraging public-private partnerships.” Harbir Bhatia is a civic entrepreneur at heart.
Her leadership, dedication, and vision continue to drive innovation and positive change in our community. She stands alongside other exceptional leaders making a lasting impact.
Join us in congratulating her with all the Power100 on this well-deserved honor!
Janice Edwards
Mastering Your Media Presence: A Five Key Guide for Women Business Leaders
In today’s digital-first business world, your media presence isn’t just an add-on—it’s a vital leadership tool. After conducting over 12,000 interviews with leaders and celebrities and coaching countless C-suite executives, Janice discovered that success leaves clues. The most impactful leaders realize they are the star of their own life’s reality show—and they know how to use that mindset to achieve extraordinary results.
Janice shares five keys to becoming the star of your own reality show:
Connect to Your Passion and Purpose
Align your media presence with your deeper mission. When you lead with purpose, you naturally inspire others and attract aligned opportunities.
Craft Your Message
Every star has a signature story. Create a message that resonates, influences, and drives action—whether in a boardroom, on camera, or with stakeholders.
Prep for Your Inner Selfie
True presence starts within. Build the confidence, clarity, and authenticity that make you camera-ready from the inside out.
Cut Bad Guests from the Roster
Be strategic about who and what gets airtime in your life. Set boundaries, choose the right opportunities, and know when to say “no.”
Get Ready for Lights, Camera, Action
Preparation meets opportunity. Be ready to shine in any professional setting—from media interviews to keynote speeches.
Download the eBook at . For more on elevating your media presence, contact CARE@THEJANICEEDWARDS.COM.
As women business owners, it’s time to amplify your voice and lead with impact.
Edwards Unlimited Media
Janice Edwards
Contact: care@thejaniceedwards.com
President & CEO
thejaniceedwards.com
care@thejaniceedwards.com
P: 866.433.8658
President’s Message | February 2025

Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash
Dear NAWBO Silicon Valley Members,
As we step into February, a month often associated with connection, celebration, and warmth, let us reflect on the power of unity and shared purpose within our wonderful NAWBO chapter and organization.
This year, we are committed to creating opportunities that empower each of you to reach new heights in your business journey. February is also a time to honor the progress we have made as women in business and the possibilities that lie ahead Whether it is forging new partnerships, discovering fresh ideas, or overcoming challenges, let us remember that our greatest strength is in the network we have built together. I encourage you to use this month to reconnect, refocus, and recommit to your personal and professional goals.
Plan to attend our upcoming events, reach out to fellow women business owner members, and take full advantage of the resources available to you. Together, we will make 2025 a remarkable year of growth and success.
Here is to a month of thriving connections and meaningful progress.
With warm regards,
Wendy Roberts, CPA
President, NAWBO Silicon Valley
wendy@northstar-sp.com
www.northstar-sp.com
#NAWBOSV #NAWBO
President’s Message | January 2025
Happy New Year
To Our NAWBO Sisters,
Happy New Year! As we step into 2025, I am inspired by the energy and potential that a fresh start brings. This is the time to look ahead with clarity and determination, embracing the possibilities that lie before us.
Leadership, at its core, is about envisioning the future and boldly pursuing it. Each of you, as a woman of ambition and talent, possesses the power to shape that future—not just for yourself, but for those around you. This year, let us lead with courage, inspire with our actions, and make meaningful strides toward our goals.
Our NAWBO Silicon Valley chapter is built on the strength of community—a network of women empowering women. Together, we can accomplish so much more. By supporting one another, sharing insights, and fostering connections, we will turn challenges into opportunities and aspirations into achievements.
As your President, I am dedicated to championing initiatives that help each of you grow, both professionally and personally. Let us work together to make this year extraordinary—a year defined by growth, collaboration, and success.
Here is to an inspiring and impactful 2025. Together, let us lead with purpose and thrive!
With warm regards,
Wendy Roberts, CPA
President, NAWBO Silicon Valley
wendy@northstar-sp.com
www.northstar-sp.com
#NAWBOSV #NAWBO
President’s Message | December 2024
Celebrating Women Business Owners
As we gather to celebrate the joys of the holiday season, I want to take a moment to reflect on
the incredible resilience, creativity, and impact of women business owners across our NAWBO organization. This time of year reminds us of the values that unite us: community, perseverance, and the drive to create a brighter future for all.
The year 2024 has been one of remarkable achievements as well as challenges, where women
entrepreneurs have continued to break barriers, innovate, and inspire. As we look ahead to 2025, we embrace new opportunities to amplify our voices, strengthen our networks, and champion a future where women-owned businesses thrive like never before.
In 2025, let us boldly envision new heights for women entrepreneurs. Together, we will harness the power of technology, foster inclusive partnerships, and advocate for equitable opportunities in every sector. The coming year is a chance to not only grow our businesses but also to mentor and uplift the next generation of women leaders who will shape the world.
This holiday season, I encourage us all to reflect on our shared successes and plan for the
exciting opportunities ahead. Let us carry forward the spirit of collaboration, determination, and
hope into the new year.
Thank you for your passion, dedication, and the remarkable contributions you make to your
industries and communities. May your holidays be filled with warmth, joy, and inspiration, and
may 2025 bring prosperity and purpose to us all.
Warmest regards and happy holidays,
Wendy Roberts, CPA
President, NAWBO Silicon Valley
wendy@northstar-sp.com
www.northstar-sp.com
#NAWBOSV #NAWBO
International Delegates Visit Hosted by NAWBO Silicon Valley and Global Ties San Francisco
Global Women Entrepreneurship — what an incredible experience!
Recently, NAWBO SV had the honor of partnering with Global Ties San Francisco whose parent organization is the World Trade Center Northern California to host 24 international delegates from various countries.
Together, we engaged in candid conversations about women’s entrepreneurship, how to build support systems for women business owners, and how to tackle workforce challenges across cultures. Being in a room full of global thought leaders who are passionate about driving change was truly inspiring!
The exchange of ideas was rich, insightful, and left us all with new perspectives on how to uplift women entrepreneurs around the world.
I was happy to help coordinate this event, alongside the amazing Alannah Crandall of Global Ties San Francisco.
A special thank you to Dr. Cynthia Teniente-Matson, Nina Chuang and Khristine Lugo for your generosity in hosting us on campus San Jose State University!
And a big shout-out to Alexandra Martinez-Villarroel and Fatemeh Ari Mirabedi, MBA, two of our incredible NAWBO members, for sharing their expertise and experiences as business owners. Together, we are shaping a future where women entrepreneurs can rise, thrive, and lead.
#WomenInBusiness #GlobalLeadership #NAWBOSiliconValley #Entrepreneurship #SupportSystems #CrossCulturalCollaboration
President’s Message | November 2024
Dear Inspiring Women,
As we approach the Thanksgiving season, I am reminded of the incredible strength, resilience, and generosity that each of you brings to our community of NAWBO-SV women business owners. This moment in time, with its unique challenges and opportunities, calls upon us to not only persevere but also to support one another more than ever.
The essence of Thanksgiving is gratitude, and I am truly grateful to be part of an organization that embraces this spirit. Together, we are creating a network of support, innovation, and growth. It is inspiring to see how we uplift each other, share our successes, and find new ways to thrive, even in uncertain times.
This season, let us pause to appreciate our achievements and to reflect on how far we have come—not just as individuals but as a collective of strong, ambitious women. Let us remember that our journeys, while different, are bound by a shared vision of success and support for one another.
I invite each of you to join me in celebrating not only the achievements of this year but also the relationships we have fostered and the impact we have made together. As we look to the future, may we continue to grow, inspire, and pave the way for other women to realize their full potential.
Wishing you all a warm and wonderful Thanksgiving filled with gratitude, joy, and renewed strength.
With heartfelt appreciation,
Wendy Roberts, CPA
President, NAWBO-Silicon Valley
wendy@northstar-sp.com
www.northstar-sp.com
#NAWBOSV #NAWBO
President’s Message | October 2024
Dear NAWBO Silicon Valley Members & Friends,
As we welcome the crisp air, vibrant colors, and spectacular sunsets of the fall season, it is the perfect time to reflect on the changes and opportunities that come with this time of year. Fall reminds us of the importance of preparation, growth, and the abundance that follows when we nurture our seeds. Just as the trees shed their leaves to prepare for new development, we, too, can embrace this season as a time to cultivate new ideas, forge stronger connections, and invest in the future of our businesses. It is a wonderful season to realign our goals, both personal and professional, as we continue to support each other in this incredible journey of entrepreneurship. In the same way, nature thrives by shedding the old, our businesses grow when we adapt, innovate, and remain open to new possibilities.
One of the most powerful ways we can foster growth is through giving—whether it is sharing our time, expertise, or resources. In business, giving is not only about philanthropy; it is about creating a cycle of support and empowerment that helps everyone succeed. By mentoring others, collaborating with fellow entrepreneurs, or offering a helping hand, we strengthen our foundations while contributing to a thriving, supportive community. When we give, we not only build valuable relationships but also open doors to new opportunities, insights, and partnerships that fuel our business growth. As we move through this season of change, let us embrace the power of giving as a tool for expanding our businesses and enriching our personal lives.
Joining NAWBO Silicon Valley is one of the most impactful ways to experience the power of giving and growth firsthand. By becoming a member, you gain access to a network of inspiring, like-minded women who are passionate about supporting one another’s success. In our community, every interaction is an opportunity to share knowledge, create lasting connections, and collaborate on new ventures. Together, we can build a stronger future for each of our businesses, harnessing the collective wisdom and strength of women entrepreneurs. I encourage you to join us in this season of growth and giving, as we work together to create lasting impact in our businesses and beyond.
In spirit together,
Wendy Roberts, CPA
President, NAWBO-Silicon Valley
wendy@northstar-sp.com
www.northstar-sp.com
#NAWBOSV #NAWBO
President’s Message | August 2024
Dear NAWBO Silicon Valley Members & Friends,
As I step into the role of President, I am filled with both gratitude and excitement. It is a privilege to lead this incredible organization, one that is dedicated to empowering women in business and fostering a community of support, growth, and success.
Our mission has always been clear: to provide the tools, resources, and connections that help our members thrive. In the coming months, my goal, with our esteemed Board, is to build upon this foundation, ensuring that each of you not only grows your business but also finds immense value in your membership with us.
Growing Your Business
Now, more than ever, it is crucial to embrace opportunities for growth. Whether you’re scaling your current business, launching a new venture, or navigating the complexities of the market, NAWBO Silicon Valley is here to support you every step of the way. We will be introducing new programs, workshops, and networking events designed to provide you with actionable strategies, innovative ideas, and the confidence to take your business to the next level.
Maximizing Your Membership
I want to remind you that your membership with NAWBO Silicon Valley is more than just an affiliation; it’s an investment in your future. I encourage you to engage with the resources available, attend our events, and connect with fellow members. The value you gain is directly linked to the effort you put in, and I assure you, the returns can be substantial.
Our strength lies in our community. By sharing our experiences, challenges, and successes, we create a network of powerful women who inspire and uplift one another. Together, we can achieve remarkable things.
Looking Ahead
As we look forward, I am committed to listening to your needs, understanding your goals, and working alongside our talented board and staff to ensure that NAWBO Silicon Valley continues to be a beacon of empowerment for women in business. Your success is our success, and I am honored to be a part of your journey.
Thank you for your trust and confidence. I am eager to see what we will accomplish together.
With warm regards,
Wendy Roberts, CPA
President, NAWBO-Silicon Valley
#NAWBOSV #NAWBO
President’s Message | June 2024
Dear NAWBO Silicon Valley Members & Friends,
As I pen this final President’s Message, my heart is filled with gratitude and reflection. Serving as your President for the past four years has been a profound honor and privilege. Together, we have navigated through unprecedented times, and it is with mixed emotions that I conclude my term.
I extend my deepest thanks to the incredible Board of Directors, both past and present. Your servant leadership, dedication, and unwavering support have been the cornerstone of our chapter’s resilience and progress. Through the challenges posed by COVID-19 and its aftermath, we have stood united, ensuring the continued growth and strength of NAWBO Silicon Valley.
To our valued members, your passion, innovation, and tenacity have been the driving force behind our community. Your successes and milestones have inspired me daily, reinforcing my belief in the power of women business owners. It has been a true joy to work alongside you, creating a more inclusive and empowering environment for all.
I also want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our corporate partners and affiliates. Your support and collaboration have been instrumental in advancing our mission. Together, we have built strong, lasting relationships that have enriched our chapter and provided invaluable resources and opportunities for our members.
As I pass the torch to the next leader, I do so with confidence and hope for the future. Our chapter is poised for even greater achievements, and I am excited to see the incredible journeys you will embark upon together.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve and for making these years unforgettable. Let us continue to support, uplift, and empower one another, as we build on the strong foundation we have laid.
“Fight for the things that you care about but do it in a way that will lead others to join you.” —Ruth Bader Ginsburg
#NAWBOSV #NAWBO
Maximizing Business Growth Through Customer Success

Leena Mendoza / Coble Tree / www.cobletree.com Co-Founder/Executive Coach/Business Strategist
In the competitive business landscape, exceptional customer success and retention are vital. AI and automation now play crucial roles in enhancing client relationships by facilitating consistent touch points and personalized communication. Here are concise, actionable steps to improve customer success:
- Implement AI-driven analytics to understand and predict customer needs.
- Automate routine communications like updates and check-ins to keep customers engaged.
- Train your team in both technology and soft skills for effective support.
- Regularly review feedback to refine customer service strategies. Top-tier service, characterized by proactive value delivery and readiness to assist, sets businesses apart. Leveraging AI and automation not only boosts efficiency but also deepens client relationships, driving growth and differentiation in a crowded market.
Leadership and Company Culture

AMV Business Solutions, LLC Alexandra Martinez Villarroel Human Resources Consultant
Creating a positive and strong work culture is like growing a tree. It takes time and effort and is critical to an organization’s success. As a leader, you are responsible for steering your team’s ship and laying the foundation of their success. Your behavior sets the tone for your team, and by being a positive role model, you can empower them to perform their best. Let’s now discuss the four critical components of a positive mindset: your reading material, the shows/media you watch, the people you socialize with, and your attitude. Your attitude is the steering wheel that guides your responses to challenges. Focusing on drama will only lead to more drama. Have you ever noticed that you see more of them everywhere when you buy a car or are pregnant? That’s the Baader-Meinhof effect. Establishing open lines of communication with employees is vital. Conduct stay interviews with open-ended questions to understand your employees’ motivations and goals. A calm demeanor can instill confidence in your team and help you navigate challenges more effectively. So, let’s spread positivity like confetti!
Alexandra Martinez
Cell 415.259.9032
hello@amvbusinesssolutions.com
“Your HR Partner for Success”