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We are thrilled to celebrate a monumental achievement within our Women Into Networking (WIN) community. Our very own corporate partner, Ernise Cummings, has officially launched her first book, "How to Do Business with the Federal Government,"   and has already skyrocketed to the status of a bestselling author on Amazon! Ernise's journey from a seasoned expert in contracting and small business to a published author is nothing short of inspiring. With over 43 years of experience in federal service, Ernise has poured her wealth of knowledge into this guide, making it an essential resource for entrepreneurs looking to navigate the complexities of federal contracting. This milestone is a testament to Ernise's dedication, hard work, and passion for empowering others. Her book is not just a guide—it's a beacon for small businesses aiming to succeed in the federal marketplace. As members of the WIN community, let's come together to support Ernise by purchasing her book and spreading the word. Click here  to grab your copy today and join us in celebrating this incredible achievement! Congratulations again, Ernise! We are so proud of you and can't wait to see the impact your book will have on countless businesses. Join the WINNING atmosphere and support our WIN Members!!! Grab your copy of " How to Do Business with the Federal Government,"  ebook on Pre-order NOW!!!

We are thrilled to introduce LaShana West, a distinguished Business Therapist and Leadership Coach, as a speaker at the Connect HER 2 WIN Conference 2024. With over 20 years of expertise in mental health and professional development, LaShana brings a unique blend of personal growth and business strategy to the table, making her an invaluable asset to high-achieving professionals. About LaShana West LaShana West specializes in helping dynamic entrepreneurs, CEOs, and industry leaders scale their businesses without scarcity, focusing on mindset and wellness activities. Her profound understanding of both personal and professional development allows her to guide clients through the complexities of leadership and business challenges, offering a holistic approach to growth. A Career Rooted in Compassion and Excellence LaShana's career began in a hands-on role with individuals with developmental disabilities, a foundation that instilled deep compassion and a commitment to servant leadership. Progressing through various roles, she honed her skills in program restructuring, professional training, quality assurance, and behavior modification techniques. These experiences have uniquely equipped her to guide creative and business minds towards achieving their full potential. Holistic Approach to Leadership and Business LaShana's dual expertise in mental health and business acumen allows her to address both the mindset and strategic needs of her clients. She is passionate about transitioning corporate professionals into coaching roles, empowering them to achieve greater financial success, time freedom, and peace of mind. Whether you are looking to enhance your leadership skills, overhaul your business strategy, or achieve personal growth, LaShana is committed to navigating you through the complexities of professional and personal transformation. Join Us to Hear LaShana West Speak At the upcoming Connect HER 2 WIN Conference 2024, LaShana looks forward to sharing insights that will help you redefine your potential and elevate your life and business to unprecedented heights. Her sessions will offer invaluable guidance on achieving personal and professional growth through a holistic approach. Special Offers Healing While Building Winter Wellness (11/9 and 11/10):   Learn More Complimentary Breakthrough Call for 1:1 Life Coaching and Business Therapy:   Learn More Connect with LaShana West Website:   Accountability On Demand Instagram:   @lashanawest , @accountabilityondemand Facebook:   Ms West Creative Coach , Accountability On Demand TikTok:   @lashanawest LinkedIn:   LaShana West YouTube:   Healing While Building Pinterest:   Accountability On Demand Join us at the Connect HER 2 WIN Conference 2024 to be inspired by LaShana West's empowering journey and transformative vision. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a leader dedicated to helping others achieve their highest potential. Learn More Discover more about LaShana West and her impactful work by visiting the links provided. Let’s come together to empower and support each other in our entrepreneurial journeys! Join us at the Connect HER 2 WIN Conference 2024 and be part of this transformative experience!

We are thrilled to announce that Sarah Curcio, CEO and Social Media Strategist of Sarah’s Social Strategy LLC, will be joining us at the Connect HER 2 WIN Conference 2024! Sarah is a #1 Amazon best-selling author and a leading force in organic social media marketing. As the WIN Program Manager and NJ Leader, she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. Her expertise lies in crafting magnetic marketing strategies that are tailored for ambitious and driven entrepreneurs. At Sarah’s Social Strategy LLC, Sarah develops innovative social media strategies that ignite engagement and drive insights. Her approach is designed to enhance visibility and build credibility for goal-oriented entrepreneurs. Through her strategic efforts, she helps her clients open doors to exciting networking opportunities, including guest blogging, podcast appearances, and book collaborations. Sarah is also an advocate of content marketing and offers strategy sessions and an informative ebook to support entrepreneurs in their marketing journey. Her passion for helping others succeed is evident in everything she does, making her a valuable addition to our conference lineup. Don’t miss the chance to gain insights from Sarah Curcio and learn how to elevate your social media presence. Learn More Connect with Sarah on social media: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn For inquiries, reach out to Sarah at Sarah@sarahsocialstrategy.com . We look forward to seeing you at the Connect HER 2 WIN Conference 2024, where you'll have the opportunity to learn from the best and take your social media strategies to new heights! Join us at the Connect HER 2 WIN Conference 2024 and be part of this transformative experience!

We are thrilled to introduce one of the most remarkable speakers at the upcoming Connect HER 2 WIN Conference 2024: Mrs. Ernise Cummings, the Founder/CEO of Secret Miracles, Inc & EAC Group. Mrs. Cummings brings a wealth of experience, passion, and dedication to her work, making her a standout leader and advocate for underrepresented students and women in business. About Secret Miracles, Inc. Secret Miracles, Inc. began as a community initiative in 2007 when a group of passionate volunteers successfully started mentoring low-income students in New Orleans, LA. They provided these students with essential college and career guidance, igniting a spark of hope and opportunity. This initiative evolved into an IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) organization on January 21, 2015. Today, Secret Miracles Inc. embodies a journey of transformation and resilience, dedicated to supporting underrepresented students as they prepare to transition out of high school and into adulthood. The organization's mission is to equip students with the necessary resources and guidance to become the next generation of leaders. About Mrs. Ernise Cummings Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana, Mrs. Cummings is a retired Department of Defense federal employee with over 43 years of federal service. She is considered an expert in the areas of contracting and small business. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from Northwood University and a Master's Degree in Public Administration from Troy State University. Additionally, Mrs. Cummings is an active Real Estate Agent in the State of Georgia. As the Founder/CEO of Secret Miracles, Inc., a Georgia-based non-profit, Mrs. Cummings mentors students in college preparation, career planning, entrepreneurship, and other essential life skills. She is also a Corporate Partner with Women Into Networking (W.I.N) , a business networking community designed to empower women and their supporters by fostering connections, collaboration, and professional growth. Mrs. Cummings is widely recognized as a philanthropist, generously sharing her resources, experiences, skills, and time to help create a better world. Join Us to Hear Mrs. Ernise Cummings Speak Mrs. Cummings' story is one of perseverance, dedication, and a deep commitment to making a positive impact. Her insights and experiences will undoubtedly inspire and motivate attendees at the Connect HER 2 WIN Conference 2024. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from a true leader and changemaker. Learn More To find out more about Mrs. Ernise Cummings and her incredible work with Secret Miracles, Inc., visit her profiles on Facebook  and LinkedIn . Join us at the Connect HER 2 WIN Conference 2024 and be part of this transformative experience!

We are delighted to introduce Karon Fayerweather, founder of Educate & Empower, LLC, and the visionary behind The Affirmation Whisperer, as a speaker at the Connect HER 2 WIN Conference 2024. Karon’s work is dedicated to fostering growth, positivity, and empowerment through uniquely crafted products and personalized consultations. About The Affirmation Whisperer Welcome to The Affirmation Whisperer, where every word we craft is a step towards positive transformation. Our products are designed to be more than just items; they are tools for your self-care and personal discovery journey. Whether it’s our uniquely crafted affirmation candles, our inspiring children's book, or our personalized affirmation consultations, each offering is created to foster growth, positivity, and a profound sense of empowerment. Dive into our curated selection of products, each carefully designed to support you in nurturing a positive and resilient mindset. For a truly tailored experience, book a consultation with Karon. Together, you’ll explore personalized affirmations that resonate deeply with your individual journey, helping you to unlock your full potential. Karon Fayerweather’s Mission and Vision Karon's mission is to empower women aged 45-60 to reclaim their lives with confidence and grace, transforming their past traumas into pillars of strength and wisdom. Her vision is to create a global community where women feel valued, understood, and equipped to take charge of their second act in life with vigor and purpose. She integrates affirmations into the healing process, helping women not only recover but thrive by reshaping their internal dialogues and beliefs. Empowering Women to Thrive Karon works with women aged 45-60 who are navigating the rebuilding phase of their lives after experiencing trauma. These professional to retired women value growth and seek guidance to enhance their quality of life through empowerment and resilience. They desire a supportive coach who understands their unique challenges of transitioning through midlife crises, identity shifts, and new beginnings. Karon encourages her clients to bounce back from setbacks and foster a spirit of endurance. She inspires continuous personal development and learning as a lifelong process, empowering women with the tools and confidence to take control of their lives and make impactful decisions. Her compassionate approach acknowledges each woman's unique journey and supports them with empathy and understanding. Special Offers Personalized Custom Affirmations Affirmation T-Shirts Affirmation Candles & Melts Books Join Us to Hear Karon Fayerweather Speak At the upcoming Connect HER 2 WIN Conference 2024, Karon looks forward to sharing her insights and empowering women to discover the power of affirmations. Her sessions will provide invaluable guidance on fostering a positive and resilient mindset, transforming past traumas into strengths, and reclaiming life with confidence and grace. Connect with Karon Fayerweather Website:   The Affirmation Whisperer Instagram:   Karon Fayerweather Facebook:   The Affirmation Whisperer Join us at the Connect HER 2 WIN Conference 2024 to be inspired by Karon Fayerweather’s empowering journey and transformative vision. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a leader dedicated to helping women reclaim their lives and thrive. Learn More Discover more about Karon Fayerweather and her impactful work by visiting the links provided. Let’s come together to empower and support each other in our journeys towards growth and positivity! Join us at the Connect HER 2 WIN Conference 2024 and be part of this transformative experience!

We are excited to announce Sheila Sturgis Craig, founder of Equity Action Alliance, as a distinguished speaker at the Connect HER 2 WIN Conference 2024. Sheila brings a wealth of experience and a profound commitment to fostering equity and organizational effectiveness on a global scale. About Equity Action Alliance Equity Action Alliance is a transformative force with a global reach, dedicated to changing systems, organizations, communities, and individuals worldwide. By leveraging principles of equity, the Alliance aims to create lasting and meaningful change in diverse settings. Sheila Sturgis Craig: A Leader in Equity and Organizational Development Sheila Sturgis Craig is a seasoned leader and facilitator with specialized expertise in organizational effectiveness, equity, training, and leadership development. Her career spans state government roles and private consulting in Louisiana and Texas, demonstrating her versatility and commitment to public service and equity. Career Highlights and Expertise Sheila’s illustrious career includes positions such as Director of Civil Rights, Director of Substance Use Programs Planning and Policy in Behavioral Health Services, and Associate Commissioner for the Office of Minority Health Statistics and Engagement, also known as the Center for Elimination of Disproportionality and Disparities within the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. She is also a professional facilitator and consultant in diversity, equity, inclusion, and leadership across the United States and Canada. Sheila holds a Master of Arts Degree in Counseling and is the author of the inspiring book "My Heart Speaks." Services Offered by Equity Action Alliance Equity Action Alliance offers a comprehensive range of services designed to promote equity and organizational transformation: Strategic Guidance:  Provide organizations with tools and skills to navigate and lead equitable practices and outcomes. Facilitation and Training:  Conduct equity and cultural humility workshops and curriculum development tailored to organizational needs. Policy and Data Analysis:  Examine policies and data through a race equity lens. Leadership Development:  Equip leaders with the tools to implement equitable policies and embed equity into organizational foundations. Sustained Transformation:  Demonstrate and support the creation of transformative practices within organizations and systems. Collaborative Partnerships:  Establish and maintain partnerships across various sectors and organizations. Community Engagement:  Engage with stakeholders, customers, and clients to foster an inclusive community. Technical Support:  Provide ongoing support and resources tailored to specific organizational needs. Join Sheila Sturgis Craig at Connect HER 2 WIN Conference 2024 At the upcoming Connect HER 2 WIN Conference 2024, Sheila will share her profound insights and experiences, guiding attendees through the complexities of fostering equity and organizational transformation. Her sessions will be invaluable for anyone looking to understand and implement equitable practices in their organizations. Connect with Sheila Sturgis Craig Website:   Equity Action Alliance LinkedIn:   Sheila Sturgis Craig Join us at the Connect HER 2 WIN Conference 2024 to gain insights from Sheila Sturgis Craig and learn how to embed equity principles into the foundation of your organization. Don’t miss this opportunity to be inspired by a leader dedicated to making a global impact. Learn More Discover more about Sheila Sturgis Craig and the transformative work of Equity Action Alliance by visiting the provided links. Let’s come together to create a more equitable and effective world! Join us at the Connect HER 2 WIN Conference 2024 and be part of this transformative experience!

Triumph Through Trials: The Journey of Mrs. Ernise Cummings Description : In this inspiring episode of "OVERCOMING," we are honored to have Mrs. Ernise Cummings, the remarkable Founder of Secret Miracles and CEO of EAC Group , share her incredible journey of resilience, determination, and triumph. Join us as we delve into the challenges and struggles that Mrs. Cummings faced and how she overcame each obstacle to become the influential leader and philanthropist she is today. Highlights of the Episode : Early Life and Background : Mrs. Cummings reflects on her roots in New Orleans, Louisiana, and the formative experiences that shaped her strong character and unwavering spirit. Career Challenges : From her early days in federal service to her rise as an expert in contracting and small business, Mrs. Cummings discusses the professional hurdles she encountered and the strategies she employed to navigate them. Personal Struggles : Discover the personal adversities that tested Mrs. Cummings' resolve, including moments of doubt, financial difficulties, and balancing her career with family responsibilities. Turning Points : Learn about the pivotal moments that transformed challenges into opportunities, including the founding of Secret Miracles and the establishment of the EAC Group. Philanthropy and Community Impact : Mrs. Cummings shares her passion for giving back and how her initiatives, like Secret Miracles and Women Into Networking (WIN), have made a lasting impact on countless lives. Lessons Learned : Gain valuable insights and practical advice from Mrs. Cummings on resilience, leadership, and the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity. Tune in to hear the compelling story of Mrs. Ernise Cummings, a woman who embodies the true meaning of overcoming. Her journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the belief that, no matter the challenges, success is within reach for those who never give up. Listen Now : https://www.wincommunity.org/wincommunitypodcast Don't miss this episode filled with motivation, wisdom, and the remarkable story of Mrs. Ernise Cummings. Subscribe to "OVERCOMING" for more empowering stories from women who have turned their trials into triumph s.

Entering the workforce is an exciting (yet daunting) notion for many of us. In theory, a professional career is achievable because we believe we’ve been prepped for it our entire lives. From honing our listening through class lectures to keeping track of deadlines, many would think it a solid foundation for kick-starting a career. However, we are also becoming increasingly aware that life in the real world differs drastically from life in a classroom. While the collaborative skills developed in school are advantageous, certain traits can only  be obtained through first-hand experience in the corporate world.  Now, what can one do to learn career-world skills without the definite requirements of a full-time job? Do an internship, of course! An internship, regardless of your chosen field, is an excellent way to gain experience for a potential career. You have the grace of being a student, but you also take on more responsibility to prepare yourself for the demands of a future job. Internships are a safe space where you can steadily shift your perspective as a student to that of a working adult. A glimpse into the day-to-day workings of a job, an internship is also hugely beneficial in emphasizing traits that are required in the workforce but aren’t apparent as a student.  Here are a few skills that one can gain from an internship: Communication As students, we often establish a group of friends and acquaintances to whom we regularly talk. As a result, we have a certain comfort level when interacting with people. However, with internships, we are introduced to people of different backgrounds, perspectives, and thought processes. These are people we’ve often never met or conversed with. Here, our comfort zone is tested; now, we learn to talk to people we know nothing about and, more importantly, channel those conversations into a mutually positive working relationship. Internships also instill the importance of frequent (and multi-person) conversation (digitally or in person) to keep work running smoothly. For instance, there are often different departments working on a project; interns quickly learn how everyone  needs to be in touch to ensure a solid performance.  2. Problem-Solving Now, I know most of us think we already know how to do this, but problem-solving in a professional environment is different than tackling issues as a student. It’s more than just missed deadlines or technical issues; it’s about being comfortable to tackle mishaps on the go. Internships provide a window into how one should tackle problems at work. This often includes teaching us how to handle unnoticed discrepancies in documents or resolve conflicts we have with co-workers of polarizing views.  3. Flexibility During an internship, many interns have supervisors. The two work out mutually appropriate times to meet or discuss projects throughout their time together. This very aspect lays the foundation for flexibility in the workplace, as future (and current) grads learn the importance of adjusting their schedules and activities (at times) to foster a healthy work relationship. Additionally, internships reflect how many full-time jobs include people working from different time zones; we now understand better that everyone’s workday looks different, and we need to be open about shifting things around to ensure productivity isn’t negatively affected.  Internships and College Students Internships are crucial in expanding skill sets, especially for college students just stepping into the workforce. While there are multiple other skills one can gain as an intern, the ones mentioned above are (I believe) some of the most essential ones. No matter the career one chooses, everyone should partake in an internship to gauge their potential job more closely and understand the traits necessary for the professional world.

My First Steps in W.I.N After graduating from college, I found myself lost in thinking about how and where I could start building a better profile and resume. While working full-time, I was also looking for an internship that would work well with my work schedule and align well with my interests and goals. After many days of scrolling and researching, I picked out a few internships that meant and aligned well with everything. After interviewing and learning more about each internship workload, I found myself gravitating more toward the Women in Networking program. Their program met and exceeded my initial thoughts about internships. In my first few months, I have already learned so much from the leaders and mentors in the program. With only a few months left in the program, I’m excited to learn as much as possible from this amazing program.   Growing and Learning Skills  W.I.N.'s summer internship has helped shape and grow my skills in many ways. It has also shown me new skills and tools that have helped my career path. Here are just some of the ways the program has helped me grow:  Developing a more professional social media presence.  Growing my communication skills for all platforms.   Improved my writing skills for different media styles.  Interview Preparation for potential jobs.   This program has taught me much about presenting and showcasing my skills and accomplishments to potential jobs. W.I.N has taught me how to find a career path I could grow and love.  Perseverance is growth Women in Networking has not only helped grow my skills. They also helped me feel more confident in the professional space. By looking over resumes, cover letters, and interview preparation. W.I.N. has given me a new outlook on my career path. I’m excited to see where this new knowledge will take me in life. Here are some links to my platforms Instagram , Facebook , and .

For a college student like myself, there is no experience more valuable than an internship. I’ve poured countless hours into studying, writing essays, and taking tests, but that isn’t what will launch my career. While the knowledge I’ve gained has proven itself essential, nothing compares to what can be learned from practical experience and working alongside professionals. What the Classroom Can’t Provide In the classroom, we have the chance to study and try out our skills for the first time. However, this practice isn't the same as working on a real project and seeing real life success or failure that isn’t determined by a letter grade. By applying skills to real projects, college students see beyond theoreticals in the classroom, have the chance to fill in the gaps in their knowledge, and learn additional skills to stand out from their peers. We have the chance to adjust to the workplace, and how the expectations of a company differs from their professors. This practical experience proves to future employers that we can handle a position in their company, and already know how to apply what we’ve learned in school. Connections With Professionals Aside from the work that is done throughout an internship, there is also the invaluable chance for both networking and learning directly from professionals who have the most up to date knowledge. Professionals can share their tips and tricks for success, and skills students don’t learn in the classroom. They know what is most important for interns to learn, and can help guide them in the right direction for success. Furthermore, networking is a powerful tool. It provides the chance for continued guidance after the duration of the internship, and opportunities for jobs. Some college students have the chance to continue working with the company again, securing their future while other students continue to anxiously job hunt. Being a WINtern I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to be an intern myself, especially for an organization like WIN. I’ve already learned new skills with SEO, canvas, and blogging, and I’m eager to see what the rest of the program holds. Being an intern is an exciting opportunity to jumpstart my career, and I’m so happy to be one for this community.  I would love the opportunity to connect with everyone at WIN, so feel free to connect with me on Linkedin or read my introductory blog post to get to know more about me.

Internships are more than just a way to pad your resume – they're opportunities to develop crucial skills that will serve you throughout your career. I've gotten to firsthand experience the wealth of knowledge and abilities you can gain from internships! Here are some of things I have taken: 1. Practical Industry Knowledge In my role as a digital marketing intern at Simon Property Group, I'm learning the intricacies of luxury brand marketing – knowledge that simply can't be gained from a classroom setting. I'm gaining insights into how high-end brands position themselves, engage with consumers, and maintain their exclusive image in the digital space. 2. Professional Communication Whether it's drafting emails, participating in meetings, or collaborating with team members, internships hone your professional communication skills. At Women in Networking, I'm constantly improving my ability to communicate effectively in a professional environment. 3. Technical Skills Many internships provide training in industry-specific tools and software. As a digital marketing intern, I'm gaining practical experience with various marketing platforms and analytics tools that will be invaluable in my future career, especially in the context of luxury brand marketing. 4. Networking Internships offer a unique opportunity to build professional relationships. Through my roles, I'm connecting with industry professionals who can provide guidance, mentorship, and potentially even job opportunities in the future. 5. Adaptability Every workplace has its own culture and way of doing things. Internships teach you to adapt quickly to new environments, a skill that's crucial in today's fast-paced job market. My experiences as a marketing intern at Women in Networking and as a digital marketing intern at Simon Property Group have been instrumental in developing these skills. I'm gaining practical marketing knowledge, improving my professional abilities, and building a foundation for my future career! Internships are a valuable learning experience that can shape your professional future. If you have the opportunity to take on an internship, do it!

Introduction Internships are life-changing experiences that provide you with a multitude of skills vital to your professional development. They are more than simply a stepping stone into the working world. Internships provide priceless chances to build hard and soft skillsets, whether you are a student trying to improve your resume or a recent graduate ready to dive into the real world professionally. To me, the essential skills you should learn during an internship and how they might influence your career in the future are: 1. Communication 2. Interpersonal 3. Time Management Communication Skills When becoming an intern at any company within any industry, a big skill set that you will gain is communication skills. Let’s start with written communication. Through an internship, mentors and the experience as a whole will guide you down the path of sounding more professional when drafting emails, reports, and any other important documents. With internships improving your written communication skills reaps many benefits: Has a positive impact on how people view you - “I remember that intern! They always sent me an email weekly for feedback and any next steps.” With verbal communication, internships help improve your ability to articulate any new ideas you form clearly and confidently in meetings. Building your verbal communication through an internship allows you to seem professional, competent, and well-informed to your superiors and peers. Interpersonal Skills Another skill set an internship will help you gain is interpersonal skills. The impersonal skill I will be touching on is teamwork. Everyone knows that when accepting an internship, you are not the only intern the company has hired. There were many applicants chosen who may have different viewpoints than you. The point of this experience is to learn how to collaborate effectively with colleagues from diverse backgrounds and with varying skill sets. Internships help you learn how to professionally disagree with others and then find a common solution that will generate the best outcome for the project. Time Management Skills The last skill set I will mention is time management. An internship, like college, trains you to improve your time management skills and determine what tasks and assignments need to be completed now and what can be done later. Let’s try this, order these tasks from most urgent to least urgent: 1. The company wants you to research the current trends in the market - Deadline: 3 days 2. The company wants you to prepare a presentation of your final learnings from the internship as a whole - Deadline: End of internship 3. The company wants you to draft a possible email to send to a new target segment - Deadline: 4 days The correct order to manage your time would be to complete the tasks that have the earliest deadline. It is easy to complete tasks that may seem easier to you, such as drafting an email, but an internship will help you understand that it is important to focus your time on a task that your mentor is asking for sooner rather than later. Conclusion These skills are not only essential for your immediate role but also lay the groundwork for long-term career development. They enable you to navigate complex work environments, build meaningful professional relationships, and maintain productivity amidst competing demands. As you continue to grow in your career, the communication, interpersonal, and time management skills gained through internships will remain pivotal to your success. Embrace the opportunities presented during your internship, and you'll find yourself well-prepared for the challenges and achievements that lie ahead.