Capital Region Women

24/07/2024

Amanda Beedle started The Caring Closet, a not-for-profit in Guilderland that provided feminine hygiene products to people who cannot afford them.

21/06/2024

We extend a profound thank you to all who joined us yesterday at the eighth annual Women@Work Summit: Take a Chance on Change. We are deeply appreciative of our keynote speaker, Liz Plosser, editor of Women's Health, our esteemed panelists who generously shared their stories, our supportive members and our wonderful sponsors: Bank of America, Empire State University, Northwestern Mutual, Akira Medical Imaging + Wellness and the University at Albany, SUNY Foundation.

Eighth annual Women@Work Summit: Take a Chance on Change on June 20, 2024, at the Hearst Media Center

19/06/2024

The eighth annual Women@Work Summit: Take a Chance on Change is TOMORROW! There's still time to sign up for this fun, interactive and AIR CONDITIONED conversation about how we can all challenge ourselves to step away from the familiar and choose a different future.

Register here: https://womenwork.memberclicks.net/events

14/06/2024

Meet Summit 2024: Take a Chance on Change panelist Emily Dessingue, realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Blake, Inc. She will be part of "The Strategic Pivot" panel discussion.

Emily has always been in the sales and business development world. Up until four and a half years ago, she wasn't over zealous about the work she was doing and decided to give residential real estate a try. After a few months of doing it part time, Emily knew she found her niche and wanted to make it full time. So she removed all safety nets; she left her comfortable full time job and dove head-first in an extremely competitive field, that’s 100% commission and has a high turnover rate of 87% within the first 2 years. Emily hasn’t looked back since, and although nothing is perfect, it was the perfect decision for her.

Just a couple of tickets remain for the June 20th event: https://womenwork.memberclicks.net/events

12/06/2024

We are just over a week away from this year's Summit: Take a Chance on Change. The eighth annual event will take place from 8 a.m. to noon Thursday, June 20. We certainly couldn't pull it off without our sponsors who support Women@Work and our mission to inspire, educate and empower women: Bank of America, Empire State University, Northwestern Mutual, Akira Medical Imaging + Wellness and the University at Albany, SUNY Foundation.

A limited number of tickets were just released so if you haven't registered, be sure to do so as soon as possible!

https://womenwork.memberclicks.net/events

10/06/2024

Meet Summit 2024: Take a Chance on Change panelist Karen "Kema" Maxwell!

Kema is a multifaceted entrepreneur whose journey is defined by resilience, creativity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. With over 15 years of experience in New York State Medicaid Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), Karen's expertise in the healthcare sector positioned her as a respected professional in her field. However, when the Covid-19 pandemic disrupted industries worldwide, Karen found herself facing unexpected challenges.

In the midst of uncertainty, Karen turned to her lifelong passion for sewing, a skill she had cultivated since her early years. Drawing inspiration from her family's legacy of craftsmanship, she immersed herself in the art of creating bespoke bags, channeling her creativity into tangible works of art. What began as a part-time business and therapeutic retreat during turbulent times soon blossomed into a full-fledged entrepreneurial venture.

With dedication and determination, Karen transformed her passion project into a thriving bag manufacturing business under the brand name "Kema." Her commitment to quality craftsmanship and attention to detail quickly gained recognition. Karen sent bags to a colleague in California as she states, “on a wing and a prayer”. Well, that wing spread, and her prayer was heard. One of her exquisite bags caught the eye of the renowned actress Vernee Watson-Johnson and the producers at the long-running daytime soap opera General Hospital, earning them coveted spots on the show.

Karen's journey from a seasoned healthcare professional to a successful entrepreneur is a testament to her adaptability, creativity, and unwavering resolve.

Through her entrepreneurial endeavors, she continues to inspire others to pursue their passions fearlessly and embrace the unexpected opportunities that life presents. As "Kema," she brings a unique blend of innovation, craftsmanship, and authenticity to the world of fashion and design, leaving an indelible mark on those who encounter her creations.

This year's Summit is sold out. If you would like to be added to the waitlist, you can do so here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/summit24waitlist

03/06/2024

Meet Summit 2024: Take a Chance on Change panelist Sara Ali!

Just a few seats remain for the eighth annual event slated for June 20: https://womenwork.memberclicks.net/events

Sara is the founder of Sara's Kitchen (2022), an authentic Middle Eastern restaurant on Broadway in Saratoga Springs. Initially trained as an electronics engineer, Sara discovered her passion for cooking and left her 13-year engineering career to pursue her culinary dreams. She established her brand and a loyal following at local farmers markets before embarking on a permanent quick-service model in the Wilton Mall in 2022. Sara was raised in Abu Dhabi, UAE and studied Electronics Engineering at the German University in Cairo, Egypt, graduating with honors and a master's degree.

As a mother to Adam and Mia, Sara is determined to show them the importance of following their dreams, no matter how challenging it may seem. Her diverse background and academic excellence have greatly influenced her dedication and approach to her culinary career. Specializing in authentic Middle Eastern dishes like shawarma wraps, skewers, fattoush, tabbouleh salads, and desserts like baklawa and kunafeh, Sara's Kitchen has become a local favorite. In early 2024, the restaurant relocated to 419 Broadway in the historic district of Saratoga Springs, New York.

The new location offers indoor seating for 45 guests and an additional 10 for al fresco dining during the summer. It has always been Sara’s dream to have a restaurant serving authentic Middle Eastern food, allowing her to express her love for hospitality and serving others. To pursue this dream, Sara made significant sacrifices, leaving a stable engineering career back in May 2023, dedicating countless hours to perfecting her recipes and managing her business. Her journey from a promising senior product engineer to a successful restaurateur is a testament to her unwavering commitment and passion for sharing the rich culinary traditions of her heritage. Through Sara's Kitchen, she aims to create a warm, welcoming environment where guests can experience the flavors and home-centered hospitality of the Middle East.”

28/05/2024

Meet Summit 2024: Take a Chance on Change panelist Emily Dessingue, a realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Blake, Realtors.

Emily has always been in the sales and business development world. Up until four and a half years ago, she wasn't over zealous about the work she was doing and decided to give residential real estate a try. After a few months of doing it part time, Emily knew she found her niche and wanted to make it full time. So she removed all safety nets; she left her comfortable full time job and dove head-first in an extremely competitive field, that’s 100% commission and has a high turnover rate of 87% within the first 2 years. Emily hasn’t looked back since, and although nothing is perfect, it was the perfect decision for her.

As a reminder, the event takes place from 8 a.m. to noon June 20. You can find out more and register here: https://womenwork.memberclicks.net/events

24/05/2024

Before you head out for the holiday weekend, be sure to sign up for next month's Summit 2024: Take a Chance on Change!

Register: https://womenwork.memberclicks.net/events

22/05/2024

Meet Summit 2024: Take a Chance on Change panelist Miranda VonFricken who will be part of the discussion, “The Strategic Pivot,” an intentional move made by our three panelists on that discussion.

Miranda, a self-described “reformed 9-to-5er,” a LinkedIn strategist and “personal branding evangelist,” decided to spring into entrepreneurship after leading teams in the education, sales and human resources fields. She now runs her "Own Your Awesome!" brand via a podcast, book and global movement to coach and consult people to become their most elevated selves.

Miranda is a certified life & business coach, earned a Master’s in Motivation from Empire State College, and has studied the Science of Happiness at Yale University. She’s an International Women’s Day Featured Speaker and was named 2021 Woman of Empowerment by the YWCA of Northeastern NY.

We hope you will join us! Tickets are selling quick.

Register here https://womenwork.memberclicks.net/events

16/05/2024

Meet Summit 2024: Take a Chance on Change panelist Riham LaRussa who will be part of the "The Big Leap" discussion featuring women who’ve taken their work life in an entirely new direction.

The Summit will return Thursday, June 20 at the Hearst Media Center in Colonie. Tickets are selling quick (link below)!

After two decades in corporate America, Riham LaRussa took a leap of faith into entrepreneurism, acquiring Small Packages, an e-commerce gifting company. Her extensive knowledge in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, and Operations is now directed toward streamlining processes and optimizing cost efficiency.

However, Riham's ambitions extend beyond business success. As the daughter of immigrants, she is passionate about using her platform to uplift minority and underrepresented communities. By bringing their companies to the forefront of the mainstream consumer marketplace, Riham aims to level the playing field and foster economic empowerment for marginalized entrepreneurs.

With a unique blend of business acumen and advocacy, Riham LaRussa exemplifies how a successful entrepreneur can drive positive change. Her dedication to diversity and inclusion is not only making her company thrive but also inspiring others to follow suit in creating a more equitable and diverse business landscape.

Through her leadership and vision, Riham is demonstrating the potential of entrepreneurship as a force for social good, leaving a lasting impact on both the industry and the society it serves.

Register: https://womenwork.memberclicks.net/events

14/05/2024

Meet Women@Work Summit 2024 panelist Nishaea Richardson!

Nishaea will be part of the discussion, “The Big Leap,” in which three women will talk about taking their work lives in new directions.

You may know Nishaea from her moniker as the PlayMoney Coach (Wealth Phenom LLC d.b.a.She's the Budget Guru). A human resources expert, Nishaea took on the task of helping other people, particularly women, tackle their own financial hardships, something she did for herself.

A Six Sigma Yellow Belt and a student of the Financial Coach Academy, Nishaea is a constant learner. From her own words: “Nishaea's mission is clear: to empower high-achieving women to take charge of their finances with confidence and grace, enabling them to cultivate more play money for the activities and pursuits they value.”

The eighth annual Summit takes place from 8 a.m. to noon June 20 at the Hearst Media Center.

Registration is required and tickets are selling quick! Admission is $60 for members (and is free for Innovator and Leader members). For non-members, admission is $90 and includes a year-long Professional membership to Women@Work.

Register: https://womenwork.memberclicks.net/events

29/04/2024

Our friends at the The Martin Group recognize the importance of continued support for women and mothers in the workplace – specifically in and around the halls of the State Capitol – which is why they will host "The Capitol View" at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 7 at 8:30 a.m. at the Bull Moose Club in downtown Albany.

Attendees can hear from some of the women who have been around for the “three men in a room” and are spearheading change. This lively discussion will focus on Albany of the past and today and where we need to go as a society to fully support women and mothers in government, politics, and policy.

With Mother's Day around the corner, we focus on the continued support of women and mothers in and around the State Capitol.

24/04/2024

We hope you will join us for our next Morning Mixer on May 8. We will gather to share stories and re-connect in this fun, interactive networking event. Bring your business cards and prepare your pitch!

Register here: https://womenwork.memberclicks.net/events

23/04/2024

Were you seen at Vanderheyden's 190th Anniversary Royal Blue Gala Fundraiser on April 20, 2024, at Loft 433, Troy

16/04/2024

We hope you will join us for this year's Summit: Take a Chance on Change on June 20 where you'll have an opportunity to hear from keynote speaker, Liz Plosser, editor-in-chief of Women's Health magazine. In "How to Be Braver at Work," Plosser will share science-backed tips and strategies to unlock your bravest, boldest, most authentic self to win big at work and in life.

Register: https://womenwork.memberclicks.net/events

12/04/2024

It was our great pleasure to host a Women Who Lead forum with the incomparable Deshanna Wiggins, CEO of the Albany Black Chamber of Commerce & Social Club. We hope you will join us for our next breakfast event - a networking seminar - on May 8. Registration for this year's Summit: Take a Change on Change is also open. Tickets are limited!

https://womenwork.memberclicks.net/events

09/04/2024

ICYMI

Where is Elaine Houston now? The former anchor is going to work for Business For Good.

08/04/2024

We are excited to announce that this year's Women@Work Summit 2024: Take a Chance on Change will take place from 8 a.m. to noon Thursday, June 20. We hope you will join us for a conversation about how we can all challenge ourselves to step away from the familiar and choose a different future.

This year's keynote speaker is Liz Plosser, editor-in-chief of Women’s Health. The event will also include two interactive panel discussions with local leaders and women who have embraced risk to achieve success at work and in life.

Register here: https://shorturl.at/isCW4

Not a member? Grab your ticket and a one-year membership at a discount: https://shorturl.at/nJLW2

04/04/2024

Women entrepreneurs hope to revolutionize leather market with plant-based alternatives. Uncaged Innovations started in Troy uses plant protein for bio leather.

26/03/2024

Were you Seen at the Women’s Fund of the Capital Region 2024 celebration of Trailblazers and the Community's Leading Star?

19/03/2024

Many big events and telecasts coming up this week, and for the rest of the month

12/03/2024

Kathleen and Amy Smith, a mother-daughter team, run the Saratoga Arms hotel on Broadway, and recently won a Best Hotel award from U.S. News & World Report

11/03/2024

Entrepreneurial spirit, vision, a commitment to a mission — these are traits needed to take any big idea from concept to reality, whether you’re building a business or any organization.

Join us Wednesday to hear several women involved with leading the charge of founding and running the day-to-day operations of the newly opened Nurses Middle College Charter High School — Capital Region.

Longtime educator and school Executive Director Dr. Maxine Fantroy-Ford and nurse/nurse educator Dr. Susan Birkhead, president of the school’s board of trustees, will be joined on a panel by their colleagues Allison Cohen, school counselor, and Jenny Santana, director of nursing at the Rhode Island Nurses Institute Charter High School, the Capital Region school’s sister program after which it was modeled.

Register here and bring a guest: https://womenwork.memberclicks.net/events

11/03/2024

Were you SEEN at the Girls Inc. "Daubing For Dollars" Bingo event, at The Connect Center, on Friday March 8, 2024 in Cohoes, N.Y.?

10/03/2024

Congratulations, Aneesa!

Aneesa Waheed of Tara Kitchen wins SBA award. Named Small Business Person of the Year for NY.

10/03/2024

League of Women Voters of Albany, Rensselaer and Saratoga counties unite to promote Equal Rights Amendment to NYS Constitution

08/03/2024

Happy International Women's Day!

The Times Union’s Women@Work membership organization is committed to bolstering the global effort by empowering and supporting women through mentoring, networking, education and professional development.

Through Monday, we invite you to take half-off a Professional membership with code WOMENSDAY24!

Visit https://shorturl.at/nrwzH to sign up.

Women@Work is dedicated to empowering women professionals everywhere. By sharing our experiences and our learnings, we equip ourselves with insights from some of the most impressive women in the workforce. When we work together, we are stronger, smarter, happier and better for it. Let’s get to wor...

08/03/2024

Join us Wednesday!

Register: https://womenwork.memberclicks.net/events

Leaders from the newly opened Nurses Middle College Charter High School — Capital Region to be featured at March 13 Women@Work breakfast.

07/03/2024

Troy YWCA’s Bread & Roses lunch, being held Friday on International Women's Day, will honor women and the Y's history