Tiffany Benitez- CSM, SAFe, ITIL

We did it again…and at a significant increase! Atlanta again has the highest rate of Black-owned businesses in the U.S. 8.8% of businesses in Atlanta are Black-owned, a jump from 7.4% in 2020 but still the highest among the 50 metros with the most Black-owned businesses. Among those metros, Atlanta has the second-highest number of Black-owned businesses and the fifth-highest Black population rate. Following Atlanta with the next highest rate of Black-owned businesses are Washington, D.C. (7.6%), and Memphis, Tenn., and Augusta, Ga. (tied at 6.7%). #BlackMecca #HotLanta Byna Elliott Frederick Royall III Marvin Clark Naima Tyson Shea Taylor Nichole Harmon , MBA Kanayo Oweazim Joey Womack Robert Hines Xamayliz G. Derick Duchodni Ryan Wilson Jay Bailey Joey Womack

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Target is committing $2 billion to support Black-owned businesses by 2025. This is a great step towards equity in retail as it will expand product offerings and create many opportunities. Here at Growmetix, we think that this is a huge deal! Lots of big corporations in the Charlotte area aim to diversify their supply chain because it drives innovation. If you are a supply chain leader struggling to meet these types of organizational goals, we can help you grow the number and quality of diverse suppliers. To read the full article on Target’s $2 billion dollar commitment, go to https://lnkd.in/eN3-MXzx  #BlackOwnedBusiness #DiversityAndInclusion #SupplyChain #CorporateSocialResponsibility #GrowYourBusiness

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Supporting Black-owned businesses is more than a transaction—it's an investment in our community, our growth, and our future. Every dollar spent helps empower entrepreneurs, create jobs, and build generational wealth. Let’s uplift each other and create lasting impact! 💪🏾✨ Check out this powerful testimonial from one of our happy customers at Scrap-It Junk Removal! Together, we’re making a difference one haul at a time. 💼♻️ Show your support and book your service today at scrapit.io 🙌🏾 #SupportBlackBusiness #BuyBlack #BlackExcellence #ScrapIt"

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What does it look like to integrate faith into business? I recently had the opportunity to sit down with Pastor Bimbo Akinjokun on his podcast, Stewards of Grace, to discuss how faith can transform the way we do business. We explored key themes like serving others as an act of worship, maintaining integrity, and recognizing God as the ultimate source—rather than deifying clients or whoever is 'paying the bills'. For faith-driven entrepreneurs, this episode is full of wisdom and practical insights on leadership, technology, and building high-quality relationships with internal and external clients. I invite you to watch the full episode at the link below. 👇 https://lnkd.in/dvUCeQt9

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Happy Monday! Reflecting on last week, I can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. AFROTECH 2024 was nothing short of phenomenal, and the impact it left on me is immeasurable. A heartfelt thank you to Cynthia Bryant, MBA, CSM, for orchestrating such an incredible event within SDP. Your leadership brought this vision to life, and it’s clear how much thought and care went into every detail. AfroTech was packed with insights and inspiration, but here are the takeaways that resonated with me most: Failure Fuels Success: I was reminded that failure is not the end—it’s a stepping stone. Giving yourself permission to fail forward unlocks the door to growth and learning. Networking: I’m truly grateful for the meaningful connections I made and the opportunities for collaboration I discovered within this incredible tech community. Emerging Technologies: The AI and cybersecurity sessions blew me away! One quote that stuck with me: “AI won’t take your job, but people who leverage AI will.” Inspiration: Hearing stories of resilience and success renewed my drive to achieve my goals and leave a positive impact on the world. Here’s to carrying this energy and these lessons into the week ahead! #Microsoft #AI #Afrotech #Technology #innovation

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New Episode Alert! 🔔 In the latest episode of the Mindful Leadership Podcast, Shellye Archambeau, an influential CEO and Fortune 500 board member, shares her inspiring journey. Overcoming many a challenge and being very intentional about her choices led her to become the iconic CEO credited with MetricStream’s transformation. Her experiences and wisdom on leadership are not only inspiring but also entertaining. A must-listen for anyone aspiring to be a great leader! Shellye's book, "Unapologetically Ambitious," is also a must read. Watch or listen to the full episode on your favorite platform. Links in comments below. #leadership #management #coaching #humanresources Shahana Banerjee Just Human

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🌟 Exciting Opportunity Alert! 🌟 Want to win a $25 Amazon card for just 3 minutes of your time? Your name can be entered into the contest by completing three simple actions! Don't miss out on this chance to win big! One winner will get a personalized post announcement on August 30, 2024. 1. Connect with me on LinkedIn or refer someone who is passionate about AI https://lnkd.in/ghV-xbTc 2. Follow the Mave Sparks page for insights on the rapidly evolving AI landscape: https://lnkd.in/gsTjPv6x 3. Subscribe to 'Chat About AI' Youtube channel to stay updated on the latest AI developments: https://lnkd.in/em4jM7XQ Once you've completed the steps, reach out to me via chat to confirm. Let's talk AI! 💡 #AI #MaveSparks #ChatAboutAI

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August is National Black Business Month and a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the Black-owned businesses enriching the Amazon store with incredible products and inspiring entrepreneurial stories.   Amazon is committed to supporting the success of Black entrepreneurs and providing resources to launch and grow sustainable businesses all year long. This includes our Black Business Accelerator (BBA) program, which offers specialized training, advertising support, and networking opportunities to help Black-owned businesses succeed. We've also made it easier for shoppers to discover and support these businesses through dedicated storefronts like the new Black Business Month storefront and the Buy Black store, along with the Black-owned business badge. All of these build on the large investments we make in other powerful selling tools, fulfillment services, educational resources, and more. .   If you haven’t already, I hope you’ll consider shopping the unique selection of products from the many Black-owned businesses selling in the Amazon store. You’re bound to find something you love.   Read more about how we’re supporting Black-owned businesses at the link: https://lnkd.in/gyzM7AGx   #NationalBlackBusinessMonth #SupportSmallBusinesses #SellingPartners

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Style It Up Saturdays‼️ We're 3 days away. Here are some styling tips for the upcoming Awards Gala at the Howard University & PNC National Center for Entrepreneurship Black Commerce Conference at the Gaylord! https://lnkd.in/etiyeEjz 1. Embrace Elegance: Aim for a sophisticated and elegant look. Evening gowns or even a badazz women's tux are perfect for this occasion. Opt for luxurious fabrics like silk, satin, or velvet (lightweight). 2. Accessorize Wisely: Pair your look with statement jewelry that complements your outfit without overpowering it. 3. Choose the Right Shoes: High heels are a go-to for galas. BUT make sure they're comfortable enough to wear throughout the evening. Looking like Sophia walking through the fields Color Purple style because your dogs are barkin, is not it. Consider a classic pump or strappy sandal at a comfortable height. OR rock a dope pair of sneakers. 4. Focus on Fit: Ensure your attire fits. Tailoring can make a huge difference, so consider alterations if needed to achieve a flawless fit. Pro Tip: Dry cleaners have some of the best tailors + reasonably priced. 5. Hair and Makeup: Go for a hairstyle that complements your look and enhances your overall beauty. Makeup also isn’t mandatory - don't feel any pressure to put on makeup if it isn't your thing! Keep it elegant and polished. 6. Showing Skin? Do so tastefully. #thatsallIwillsayaboutthat Last, Confidence is Key! The most important accessory is confidence. Stand tall, smile, and enjoy the evening knowing you look fabulous! #FunFact I was a published Fashion Stylist for high profile men & women, NFL, Philadelphia Fashion Week, and more. Every once and while I like to tap into that creativity. 🥰🚀🤘🏾 #FashionTips #GalaStyle #HowardUniversity #PNC #BlackCommerceConference #StylingTips #GalaReady

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✨Relationship Building - Everyone Needs A Kenyatta✨ I always give honor where honor is due. Duke University Health System is always a place I will give honor to. It introduced me to Renee who introduced me to Danita who introduced me to Michelle who put me in a position to work with someone like Kenyatta Elliott - MBA, MHA. I always tell yall that your name should walk into a room before you do. I was the entry level recruiter on my team which meant I had all of the high turnover positions. I was so good at my job that my hiring managers would speak my names in rooms Kenyatta Elliott - MBA, MHA was in. Once I met Kenyatta, we naturally built a relationship. Let’s not forget, she is my Soror! Kenyatta and I started to build a relationship outside of work. I did such good work that building an organic relationship was easy and natural. I would be beside myself if I didn’t mention that she was obviously a black woman in an executive position. And, she was (is) a real one! Kenyatta and I had dinner yesterday. We laughed, caught up, and shared. When I asked if we could take a pic, she said, “Oh that’s cute. Post that!” Kenyatta is our reminder that executives are also people. I can’t speak for all of them. But, for someone like Kenyatta, if you are good at what you do, she can trust what you do, and you represent YOURSELF well, the person in her wants to know the person in you. Even if you were struggling, I promise, she wouldn’t turn a blind eye to it. She’ll roll up her sleeves to help you turn it around. Building and keeping your relationships at all levels are really important. The goal is for my name to carry weight. The goal is if someone needs a job, mentorship, or even a hug and they say, “Chenae’ sent me,” that’s validation for the receiver and that’s all they need. Kenyatta, thank you for being the executive we all need. You don’t know how your example helps subordinates shape their perspective around how they see executives. P.S. yes, Kenyatta is an Associate VP for Duke and yes, she graduated from an HBCU and yes, she is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Yes, she is! #recruitercousin #LinkedIn #community #buildingrelationship #jobseekers

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Jessica Garrett, MBA, and I hosted another incredible ATL Pavilion dinner this week with 22 of our executive members. Whenever you get some of the top C-level ATL leaders in a room together, it never fails to amaze me how willing everyone is to help each other out with challenges, be a resource, make an introduction, or offer up their best practices...we have an all-star community here 🤩 Over delicious food and great wine, we discussed: 👉 Why members are looking outside of B2B tech for new roles 👉 Bringing the skills you have to a company that needs to innovate 👉 Setting expectations around marketing channels and ROI 👉 Short-term vs long-term bets in today's economic climate 👉 Making revenue generation a team sport & having 'one budget' for GTM 👉 Getting buy-in on brand investments 👉 Favorite tools recently purchased: answers ranged from tech stack purchases to nifty things for around-the-house Big thanks to our sponsor Terminus for an amazing evening 🔥 We have more dinners and events planned for the ATL community this year. If you're a GTM leader looking to level-up your skills and expand your executive peer group, let's chat!

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🗓️ If you’re in Atlanta, please consider joining us for the upcoming OPEN Atlanta Annual Retreat on October 26th! We have a great lineup of speakers and sessions, and it’s a great way to expand your network. 💡OPEN is a global non-profit dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship and business leadership, with a primary focus on the Pakistani-American community. However, we always welcome and support professionals from all backgrounds and industries. 🔗 Our theme this year is “Reignite Leadership: Tranform Business Visions into Reality.” Check out the agenda and registration link below! Would love to see you there! #OPENATL #OPENAtlanta #networking #atlantaprofessionals

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Target buckling on what and how they will be displaying #lgbtqia merchandising is very telling of where their mindset lies on matters of the "community." For instance, the choice to only sell adult-sized clothing insinuates that our youth can't be part of the #queer community, and is quite frankly insulting. You (Target) are actually pushing the false right-wing grooming narrative, and are coming off kind of yuck! Bowing to the right-wing political pressures from a sect of the nation that would like to see the total demise of our "community" says enough about where Target morals and values lie (VERY VERY LOW). Just one more reason to buy local and avoid corporate weakness and BS. https://lnkd.in/ebTYT2Av

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It is great to see nearly 200 members from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention exploring such a wide range of mind mapping topics, including Program Evaluation, Project Management and more! I have fond memories of my Atlanta visits and training workshops with these awesome folks from 2016-2019!!! Take a look: https://lnkd.in/d6JpJq_q #evaluations #programevaluations #projectmanagement #mindmap #mindmapping #biggerplate

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A lot more going on at NCR Voyix and its strategy for software and payments for restaurant and retail businesses. It's fascinating to learn more about how fintech companies go about their investments in new tech and are trying to ease friction in payment methods. Here's more on how this Atlanta-based public company is doing almost a year after the NCR Corp. split. https://lnkd.in/eS8SPyjt

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🛑Stop trying to fix the STEM education pipeline. ✅Start fixing STEM employers. Our resources and collective attention are in the wrong place. #GirlsinSTEM - In college! In high school! In middle school! In elementary school! Fill the #STEMpipeline with more people of color! HBCUs! MSIs! 8th grade math scores fell during the pandemic! Community colleges! Build the workforce for the semiconductor chip manufacturers we re-shore! In short, blame education. Now, let me be clear. Education is critical. And I really don’t want us to ignore it. BUT… ❌Only 28% of STEM grads work in STEM jobs!! (Census) Let that sink in. 72% of STEM grads aren’t in the STEM labor market. Not designing and building the future. Not designing and building a future that represents and works for us all. ❌If you break it down by gender and race, the STEM education to STEM employment outcomes are worse. McKinsey and Pivotal Ventures data show that Black, Latinx, and Native Women STEM graduates are up at the same time their share in the STEM workforce went down! LinkedIn labor economists found that if* women start a STEM job right out of college, within 12 months, 20% of them leave the STEM workforce. *(it’s a big if too) Such a loss in human capital. Why? Tech cultures. Bro cultures. Pay practices. Corporate policies. L&D underinvestment. Values misalignment. 💥So here’s the punchline: If we don’t fix employers, all that education investment is for naught. A big giant waste of time and money and worry. Job #1 is fixing STEM employers. Job #2 is fixing STEM education. If we don’t focus on #1 we are feeding a dangerous and inefficient cycle throwing good money after bad. (Unflattering picture of me telling my 14 yo to 🛑 taking the picture. Like we need to STOP blaming education for the STEM workforce crisis.)

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