Women get crash course in business

By JUSTIN JONES
Today Staff

Have you found out what your passion is?

That was among a handful of powerful, thought-provoking questions Terry Neese asked an excited and intrigued group of women as she served as guest speaker for the first Women Entrepreneurs Business Expo Feb. 24, at the Cedar Hill Recreation Center.

The expo was sponsored by the Best South-west Small Business Development Center and Women Entrepreneurs.

“In business, you have to identify your passion and act on it,” said Neese, who is the co-founder of Women Impacting Public Policy. “Often times it’s the enthusiasm, drive and motivation that will take you further in the world.”

Those qualities were definitely in the air during the Expo, as about 100 business women attended and nearly 30 booths graced the floors.

In an empowering environment where networking was at its finest, the Expo also consisted of a buffet breakfast, lunch and numerous giveaways.

“This has been a true blessing to have met so many great sisters,” said Nita McKeethen, who started WE last year. “There is such a need out there for women in business to get together, share ideas and network with one another.”

That was evident from the booths that were on display, which ranged from realtors to floral designs to custom jewelry and beauty products.

“I’ve always wanted to get my business started, and this is a good foundation to not only get experience but to network,” Marsha Hale, of Netta’s Fine Art, said.

“Being a single mother, it also gives me motivation to know that I can do this.”

The Expo ended in style as Helene Royal offered commentary on a fashion show that displayed women in various types of business attire.

“This is extremely important,” said Monique Crittendon, coordinator for the development center’s Small Business Management Support Services.

“By networking, you can bounce ideas, learn and meet great women.”

Juston Jones