Do You Own a Business? Consider the BOND Card Incentive Program

Bringing On New Direction (BOND) is a Maryland based, membership driven nonprofit that hosts networking & social events, facilitates personal & professional development workshops and coordinates volunteer opportunities for women of color.

In 2015, we would like to partner with women owned businesses to offer BOND members discounts for a variety of services/products. We would like to include your business in this opportunity. Your business name and web address will be listed in our quarterly newsletter. There is no cost to you!

Also, we will be launching our Business Membership in the coming days.  This membership will offer additional marketing and promotion opportunities for your business.  Please let me know if you are interested in receiving information about our business membership.

If you are interested in growing your customer base by participating in our incentive program, please reply with the following information at your earliest convenience. 

How About Minding Your Own Business?

Welcome to the 1st of many

"Minding Your Own Business" Series

A blog about the joyful journey of small business ownership.

 

Growing up in a Jamaican home, I often heard older family members sternly tell the young’uns “fi mine yuh bizniz” followed by a vicious ‘cut eye’.  The stern warning and cut eye was normally a read between the lines warning for those (normally the girls) who wanted to get verbally involved in matters that the adult felt did not concern the child.  In addition, “yuh own bizniz” also referred to events that occurred at home that were not to be discussed with ‘strangers’- technically anyone who did not physically reside in the home or was not present for the event.  I would often think to myself, “what does that mean?” “What the heck does it mean to mind my own business?” I was further confused because if I minded my own business and something happened, I would get in trouble because I wasn’t paying attention.  Double standards…right?! This concept of minding one’s business is a skill that we learn in order to guard ourselves, emotions, relationships, etc.  However, if not clearly defined, we can miss important life changing opportunities, become confused or get involved in matters that distract us from our goals or purpose.

I was twelve years old when my dad left my mom for another woman.  This was the first time when “mining mi own bizniz” included others: I was now knowingly responsible for my siblings, my mother and the house upkeep.  At this point, my primary business included helping my mother take care of my siblings and being an A student.  In 1992, my mother decided to homeschool my five siblings and myself.  My business development continued.  I became tutor, lesson plan developer, teacher, student, caregiver…the list goes on.  My business skills would now include time management, multitasking and self-discipline.

When I was almost 17, I got my first job and added money management to my business.  Fast forward almost 17 years later and I now own a small business, Compass Consulting and Training Solutions, LLC.  Yet, I still ask myself, “What is my business?” Yes, yes I know! I OWN a business with a catchy name, so how can I NOT answer the question, what is MY business?? Sounds simple, eh?

KNOWING your business is the first step to MINDING your business.  As I child, when I finally learned to decipher that loaded statement, “mine yuh own bizniz”, it became easier to KNOW what was MY business and what business belonged to others.  This lesson is just as important for folks who want to start their own business.  The first step to MINDING your business is KNOWING what you want to do as a business.  Give it a name.  Set goals.  Guard it with your life.  Set boundaries for others so they know where YOUR business begins and THEIR business ends.

When I was young and living what I often thought was a life that was hard, I never could have dreamed that the skills I developed as a child and young adult would one day catapult me into small business ownership.  Your life is a journey.  Small business ownership is a journey.  Both start with an existence followed by a name.

 

So what is YOUR business?


For more information on Rachel Dolcine or Compass Consulting & Training solutions visit www.compasscts.comor email compasssoultions@gmail.com.

You May Also Be Interested In Reading
The Will to Live and Succeed
That Darn Oprah...She Does It Again
Finding Pleasure After Pain

This Week's Spotlight ~ Rachel Dolcine: The Will to Live and Succeed.

Rachel Dolcine was born in Jamaica, West Indies, raised in Brooklyn, New York and relocated to Baltimore nine years ago.  She is  the oldest of six children raised on public assistance by a single mother.  By all accounts, she should not have turned out well.  However, her mother prayed for her children every night and although born premature, Rachel had a will to live and succeed. 

Here’s Rachel's Story…

I must credit much of my success to the principle of giving back to others.  Giving back defines my life and I am raising my son to understand the importance of citizenship and “being your brother’s keeper”.  I am also a business owner, mother, wife and mentor.  I have been an avid volunteer since the age of twelve.  The last 10 years of my volunteer career has been spent helping at risk women and their families discover their potential and guiding them through the process of accessing resources to improve their quality of life.

I obtained a Bachelor of Arts from John Jay College of Criminal Justice, a Masters in Public Administration from the University of Baltimore and completed the Associated Black Charities (ABC) Board Pipeline Leadership Program.  I am an Adjunct Faculty member at Anne Arundel and Baltimore County Community Colleges; an approved Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) Childcare Trainer; an experienced GED Instructor; and a certified Health & Safety Institute (HSI) CPR/First Aid Instructor and CPR/First Aid Train the Trainer Instructor.

I have worked in a management capacity in the Nonprofit sector for the last twelve years.  My most recent position was the Outreach, Partnership and Training Director for Baltimore Reads, Inc., a local nonprofit that provides adult literacy services to adults with the lowest literacy levels in Baltimore City.  Throughout my Nonprofit career, I have been recognized and sought after for my experience and expertise in strategic planning; program development, implementation and assessment; curriculum writing and development; social enterprise development; professional development planning and implementation; and resource partnership recruitment and retention.  I also have experience in Nonprofit Board development and grant writing.

In 2010 I started Compass Training Solutions with the intent to offer trainings to individuals that were looking for ways to build their professional and personal portfolios.  In 2011 I added on a Consulting component renaming my business to Compass Consulting and Training Solutions.  I added the consulting component because I realized that there were so many people who wanted to start their own businesses and nonprofits, but had no idea where to start.  Some were brimming over with ideas, desires, commitment and passion…BUT…their fear crippled them and banished their dreams to the desert of “I wish I could”.

Today, Compass Consulting and Training Solutions, LLC focuses on the individual who has limitless potential but is held back by fear: fear of failure, fear of making mistakes, fear of being incompetent, etc.  We help clients develop a plan and connect them with the best suited resources for their business needs.  Additionally, we offer high energy, hands on trainings that are specifically designed to suit the needs of an individual who has the desire to add value to their professional and personal life by attending professional and personal development trainings and workshops.

Our motto: We know where you’re heading…we’ll help you get there.

 

I currently serve on the Imagine Discovery Public Charter School PTA Executive Board and Bringing On New Direction (BOND) Board of Directors.

My Greatest Accomplishment to Date Has Been:

My greatest accomplishment has been two-fold: becoming a mother and taking the leap of faith to focus on building my business.

The Most Challenging Thing I Ever Experienced:

Taking the leap of faith to focus on my business without working full time or part time.  It is amazing that over my professional career, I have been praised for my brains, wit, work ethic, commitment, drive, tenacity, conscientiousness, thoroughness and passion whilst making a living working for someone else.  Yet, the moment I decided to use my brains, wit, work ethic, commitment, drive, tenacity, conscientiousness, thoroughness, and passion to making a living working for myself…I had a room full of doubters.  A never ending commentary from the “but sayers”…”but this”…”but that”.  I actually had more job offers when I became a “free” agent than I have had over my entire career.  Nevertheless, I stepped forward bolding.  After all, the response my associates confirmed that I had indeed made the right choice to work for myself.
 

10 Most Valuable Lesson(s): 
1.) The most valuable things and relationships are worth a relentless fight

2.) Nonprofit work and small business ownership is not for punks

3.) I attract what I think.  As a man/woman thinketh in his heart, so is he/she

4.) Sometimes the road to small business success is a lonely one

5.) I am my brand…my brand is me.  I am Compass Consulting and Training Solutions, LLC.  When clients see me, they see Compass Consulting and Training Solutions…so…I better live right!

6.) Not to cast my pearls before swine.  My business and time are valuable.  I have learned to be more discerning with whom I share my business and my time

7.) God has given me these talents.  If I do not use them to the best of my ability AND to give him glory, they will be taken and given to someone else

8.) Trust is a two way street.  It is earned not given

9.) Forgiveness is a choice.  When you choose to forgive yourself, it is easier to forgive others.  Love your neighbor as yourself.  You can’t do one without the other

10.) I am awesome! I am created in the image of an amazing, wonderful and powerful God.  So, I can’t help it…I’ve got to be on point!

Final Remarks: 

“As you travel through life, keep your eyes on the donut and not on the hole cause you might fall in” (my elementary school custodian).  Be grateful! Be thankful! Be grateful! Focus on what you have…not on what you don’t have.  Focusing on what you don’t have will only lead you to a bottomless hole of misery that takes a hell of a time to climb out of.

For more information on Rachel Dolcine or Compass Consulting & Training solutions visit www.compasscts.com or email compasssoultions@gmail.com.

BOND Inc Spotlight features ordinary African American women from all around who are doing extra-ordinary things. If you or anyone you know would like to be featured, send your requests for more information to iambondinc@gmail.com.

BOND Inc Quarterly Newsletter- April - June 2013

Happy Spring to You!

Aren’t you excited that the weather is finally beginning to break? The sun is beginning to shine much longer, the flowers are starting to bloom and slowly but surely we are starting to ease up on having to bundle up. Similar to the change in weather, BOND Inc is also changing…for the better.

In the last few months I have realized the importance and the necessity for the need to evolve. BOND’s mission is to “uplift, motivate and empower women of color to reach their highest potential”.  I often struggled with the question...

Click here to continue reading


 

May 2013 BOND Gathering- "Her Story"

BOND May Gathering Save the Date!!!
Special Guest: Cindy Tawiah

Fri. May 17th 2013
Begins promptly at 7:30 PM
1500 Union Avenue, Baltimore, MD
$5.00 Price includes your entrance, light refreshments and handouts

RSVP with your email

Click here to RSVP

- Gatherings are strictly for women over the age of 21

- Energy is high and atmosphere is inviting
- Discussion will be nonstop
- RSVP is a must so please be sure your name is on the list

 

*** A Grand Time, Will be Had for Sure***

 

If you never attended a BOND Gathering, it’s an absolute must. There is never a dull moment when you're in the company of a BOND Sister. Browse our site to read the reviews.

Click here for an awesome interview with our Special Guest Speaker Cindy Tawiah. Cindy
 

We hope to see you there.

That Darn Oprah...She's Done It Again

Did you see this? Did you hear about it? Well as I was perusing through Facebook checking messages and sending out some announcements, I came across a rather short yet one of the most powerful videos I’ve seen in quite some time. You know I had to watch the video because the discussion was centered on a subject near and dear to my heart. Women getting along. Not to mention, the video had two of my favorite people, Iyanla Vanzant and Oprah Winfrey in it. So you know I couldn’t just bypass it right?

In the video, Iyanla shares with the audience, “5 Reasons Women Betray Each Other”. In the midst of Iyanla going through the various reasons, my girl Oprah chimes in and hits the nail on the head with this very powerful statement here ...

"If you want to know the difference between a truly successful woman and one that is just trying to be..."Truly successful; powerful people want other people to be empowered".

 

Did she step all in BOND’s business or what? This is the very principle that BOND Inc continues to drive to home since day one. We don't take our name lightly; hence the name Bringing On New Direction nor do we our mission; which is to uplift, motivate and empower women to reach their highest potential. Our very existence is to support women of color in any way we possibly can.

But don’t take our word for it. Go ahead and check out this short video so you can learn a thing or two. And while you’re at it, let us know how we can continue to uplift, motivate and empower you?

5 Reasons Women Betray Each Other

It's often the first weapon women use against one another. Watch as relationship expert Iyanla Vanzant runs through the reasons betrayal is so common in female relationships.

For more information on BOND Inc click here

The Law of Attraction Explained Interview

It brings me great pleasure to interview not one but two powerhouse women. This dynamic duo and our two guest speakers for the March 8^th BOND Gathering- “Law of Attraction” is none other than Teresa Hamilton and Lisa Saunders.  Ms Hamilton, a self-published author of “Eight Steps to A Fulfilling Life”, a motivational book that helps people lead successful lives. Her current projects include developing a Purpose Profile to help people discover their God-given purpose while on earth. Ms. Saunders is a public speaker, wife, mother and most importantly a child of God. She is rising to National prominence by delivering high energy messages which helps people to live up to their greatness, and their God given potential.

BOND Girl: Thank you ladies for joining us for this interview. The buzz is growing with next month’s Gathering. What a great way to bring in the New Year. Our guest are really excited about you both coming. 

So Lisa, tell us how helping others realize their dreams became your own personal mission in life?

Lisa Saunders

Lisa Saunders: Helping others realizing their purpose/dreams is something I have always done even as a child. When I was younger, I was just doing what came natural not realizing it was a “gift.” As I continue to grow in wisdom, I realized that not everybody has this gift. It wasn’t long before I realized that this is my “calling” and my purpose

BOND Girl : How important is it to know your purpose in life? 

Teresa Hamilton: It is critical to know your life’s purpose.  I believe that when we were pushed out of the womb that God gave us a destiny or purpose.  When we are on that path, we feel joy and peace.  However, when we are not on the path we feel lethargic, and unsure of ourselves.  When we are truly operating in our purpose, we are sure of our path, and find that in most cases things turn-out our way.  Hence, the Law of Attraction is truly working in our favor.



Teresa Hamilton

BOND Girl: Why do you think some people find it difficult to realize that one “thing” they are good at doing?

Teresa Hamilton: They do not have a connection to God, or they have not done enough introspection within themselves to find out their true passion.  Society does not teach us about purpose.  We are often taught to “go to school, get good grades, and get a job”, but not to follow our true purpose in life.  Most successful people, like Oprah Winfrey, Bill Gates, and others had a burning passion or desire to do something in a given area, and they will tell you that they were inspired by God or the object itself (computers).  Hence, when you have a connection to God and maintain the connection.  He will eventually lead you to your ultimate destiny.

BOND Girl: Lisa in those cases where someone is already well on their path of realizing and fulfilling their dreams, is a vision board even necessary?

Lisa Saunders: Yes. A vision board is very necessary. No matter who you are and how far we have come on our journey, it helps to not only mentally have a vision, but to put it in front of you so you can SEE it all of the time.  

Habakkuk 2:2 states: “And the Lord answered me saying, “Write the vision, and make it plain on tablets so one may easily read it.” A vision board is all about “focus.”

BOND Girl: Teresa what are some obstacles that stand in a person’s way of realizing their dreams and aspirations?

Teresa Hamilton: There are both internal and external obstacles that keep us from pursuing our dreams. The internal obstacles are our thoughts and they are numerous:  “I’m too old to start doing…,  I do not have the money to ….., I do not have the confidence to …., I have never done this before…, I am afraid…”,   The key is to replace these negative thoughts with positive ones, “I will have the money to….,  I am able to exceeding and abundantly, more than anything I could think or ask, according to the power that is within me., I am more than a conqueror through Christ who strengthens me.”

And then there are those external obstacles. The external obstacles are the noise that you hear from those closest to you, or those you may come into daily contact.  The external obstacles are our family, friends, and others. They say things such as; “You are just like your father, and you’ll never amount to anything, you are foolish to consider….you will never succeed, you need a better work ethic, you can never get it right, and you have two left feet….” “”What makes you think you can dance?”  Whenever, you hear these words from others you must reject them immediately, and replace them with positive affirmations such as:  “I can accomplish whatever, I desire, I am born to do…., I will be successful.”

BOND Girl: Is there anything that the ladies should bring with them on that day?

Lisa Saunders: Bring pictures of things that they would like to have now or in the future. Most importantly, bring a Creative mind and a positive attitude!

BOND Girl: Who do you think should attend March's Gathering the Law of Attraction?”

Lisa Saunders: Anyone who wants to move to the next phase of their journey in love, peace and joy! Anyone who wants to make radical bold changes in their lives by starting with the “renewing of mindset!” Anyone who has a dream that they want to see manifest. And anyone who wants to have FUN while learning something “NEW!”

Teresa Hamilton: The Law of Attraction March Gathering should be attended by anyone who desires to live a joyous and peaceful life.  Each day we wake up, we should feel good about our lives.  We should have so much joy that we feel like we have a million bucks or more.  We should also have love for ourselves and our brother.  If we are lacking in any of these areas, then we need to have a significant change in our lives. Most importantly, if you feel a lull in your life, and not quite satisfied, but you cannot put your finger on what is bothering you, then you should attend this session so that you may GET on purpose”!

BOND Girl: The older I get the more I realize the importance of keeping your vision in the forefront. What better way to have a constant reminder than with a vision board. Ladies, thank you both for this wonderful opportunity.  We most certainly are at the edge of our seats waiting to see you both in action March 8^th. The RSVPs have been pouring in and I’m just excited about the things to come. I think these women are hungry for this type of Gathering. 

                                                    ************************

For more information on the March 2013 Gathering, “The Law of Attraction” click here.  Due to the overwhelming responses RSVP's will shut down March 1st. If you RSVP after that date your name will be added to the waitlist.

You May Also Be Interested In Reading

January Gathering Guest Speaker-Lisa Saunders
January Gathering Guest Speaker-Teresa Hamilton

BOND Gatherings- A Space Free to Be Exactly Who God Intended Me to Be

www.iambondinc.blogspot.com

This Week's Spotlight~Laquita Thomas-Banks-"A Natural Born Leader"

At the age of 13, Laquita Thomas-Banks started an in-home braiding business, styling hair for her family and friends. She's been styling hair - doing everything from natural hair styles, braids and weaves for over 25 years.  Laquita also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism. Throughout her writing career she's written and edited for both print and online media. Over the past few years, she has been combining her writing skills with her love of natural hair and had the opportunity to write for several online and print magazines and hair sites. She loves sharing the knowledge that she's gained throughout her natural hair journey - i.e., hair care and maintenance techniques, DIY recipes and hairstyles. Laquita has written for Clutch magazine and its sister site Coco and Cream, She writes for the Examiner.com as the DC Natural Hair Examiner. She also writes natural hair articles for Pumpsicle, AfroGlitz, Living No Lye, Sanata International print magazine, and a guest blogger on Kinnks. Laquita also has her own blog and YouTube channel All Naptural. She's also a member of eBraiding/eNaturals Advisory Board, where she assist with the eBraiding/eNaturals’ mission of helping uplift the hair braiding and natural hair care industry into a healthy environment, and promoting unity within both hair care communities. She works as one of the Press, Advertising and PR board members, providing guidance and input to the organization’s executive team.

My Greatest Accomplishment to Date Has Been:

Along with sharing the knowledge that I have gained throughout my natural hair journey, I started my own natural hair products business. Bobeam (bo-bee-um) Natural Hair Products.  Bobeam’s specialty is shampoo bars made with all natural ingredients and they can be used on all hair types. 

Through Bobeam I have been able to donate proceeds to various organizations including 1 in 8 Foundation.org - supporting the fight against cancer through early detection, and S.E.L.F. Image Awards Foundation, a non-profit organization that aids families affected by domestic violence.

The Most Challenging Thing I Ever Experienced:

I would have to say the most challenging, but still rewarding thing that I have experienced is creating products that will work for all types of hair. This is a challenge because what works for some may not necessarily work for others. In turn it’s rewarding when, through research, I come across natural ingredients that are beneficial to all types of hair.

Most Valuable Lesson(s): 

The most valuable lesson that I have learned so far is to make my passion my business. My mother always told my brother and I to work for ourselves, turn what we like doing - things we are passionate about - into our business.  It took me years to realize that in doing so - waking up every morning doing something that I love, writing, creating my own products, giving back to others - is the key to a happy, stress-free life, and I encourage others to do the same. It’s never too late.

Final Remarks: 

I would like to thank BOND Inc. for giving me the opportunity to be profiled along with all the other African American women who have been spotlighted. I feel that recognizing African American women who are doing extraordinary things personally and/or professionally, and sharing their accomplishments is a great way to encourage and inspire others.

For More Information Visit:

All Naptural Natural Hair Blog http://allnaptural.blogspot.com/
Examiner.com Natural Hair Articles http://www.examiner.com/natural-hair-in-washington-dc/laquita-thomas-banks
Bobeam Natural Hair Products http://www.etsy.com/shop/Laquita33
eBraiding/eNaturals http://www.ebraiding.net/

BOND Inc Spotlight features ordinary African American women from all over who are doing extra-ordinary things.  If you or anyone you know would like to be featured, send your requests for more information to iambondinc@gmail.com.