From left are Georgette Taylor and Audrey Bell-Kearney. Photo provided.
(Editor’s note: Audrey Bell-Kearney is a native of Albany, Ga, and was raised in New Jersey. She has lived for 10 years with her husband in Lawrenceville. They have one daughter and one granddaughter. She attended Montclair State College and Essex County College in New Jersey. Her media and marketing agency is Noise Media Network.—eeb
By Audrey Bell-Kearney
LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. | In a departure from traditional chambers of commerce, the Gwinnett Women’s Chamber of Commerce is beginning to blaze a trail by prioritizing the holistic success of women. With a focus on wellness, access to funding, and embracing technology, this new organization is seeking to empower women entrepreneurs and professionals to achieve their full potential.
Led by founders myself and Georgette Taylor, we are visionary business partners with a history of collaboration spanning over two decades. The Gwinnett Women’s Chamber of Commerce aims to transform the way women approach business success. Our shared journey began in the doll industry, where we revolutionized the market by introducing the first plus-size fashion dolls, adding a new dimension to the world of dolls.
Our idea in conceptualizing the Gwinnett Women’s Chamber was to have a mission to go beyond the conventional boundaries of business support. Recognizing the multi-faceted nature of success, this new chamber incorporates innovative components rarely found in traditional chambers. One such element is the provision of grants to members, including a small grant specifically designed to help entrepreneurs hire virtual assistants for short-term support. This initiative acknowledges the fact that many entrepreneurs operate as solopreneurs and could benefit from a little extra help to alleviate the burdens they face.
The Gwinnett Women’s Chamber of Commerce places a strong emphasis on wellness as a foundational pillar of success. The organization understands that a woman’s overall well-being plays a crucial role in her professional achievements. To support members in their journey toward wellness, the Chamber provides resources and support for physical, mental, and emotional health. By prioritizing self-care, members are equipped with the resilience and vitality necessary to thrive both personally and professionally.
Access to funding is another key area where the Gwinnett Women’s Chamber distinguishes itself. The organization recognizes the financial challenges that women often encounter when starting or growing their businesses. In response, the Chamber offers a range of funding opportunities, including grants, to its members. These grants empower women to take their ventures to new heights and make lasting impacts within their communities. By removing financial barriers, the Chamber is leveling the playing field and fostering an environment where women can flourish.
The Gwinnett Women’s Chamber also recognizes the vital role of technology in today’s digital landscape. By embracing technology and providing educational resources, the Chamber ensures its members stay at the forefront of innovation. Through various initiatives and programs, including workshops and training sessions, the Chamber equips women with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the rapidly evolving business landscape with confidence and proficiency.
While success is often portrayed as an individual pursuit, the Gwinnett Women’s Chamber emphasizes the power of community and collaboration. By fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, the Chamber encourages members to build strong networks and benefit from the collective wisdom and experiences of like-minded individuals. Women in business are not alone; they have a community behind them, ready to offer guidance, support, and opportunities for growth.
The Gwinnett Women’s Chamber of Commerce is redefining the concept of business support for women. With its unwavering commitment to wellness, access to funding, embracing technology, and fostering a supportive community, the chamber is setting a new standard for empowering women in Gwinnett County and beyond. By providing comprehensive resources, innovative opportunities, and a collaborative network, the Gwinnett Women’s Chamber ensures that women can thrive both personally and professionally.
For more information about the Gwinnett Women’s Chamber of Commerce and its transformative initiatives, visit the website at www.GwinnettWomensChamber.com.
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