In Celebration of Women's History Month: Meet some of our members

March is Women's History Month, and there's no better time to mark the occasion. The pandemic has made painfully clear how important women are to the success of our society. 

As a company with women in leadership that welcomes community members of all genders, we are excited to celebrate and acknowledge Women’s History Month. This month we are honoring some of our inspiring and brilliant women business owners that we have the pleasure of working with each day.

We were curious about what was the #1 piece of advise these women would give to others, here’s their insight!

Neeta Satam, Photojournalist, National Geographic Explorer

Neeta is a freelance photographer and a National Geographic Explorer based in Mumbai and Saint Louis, Mo whose work explores the themes of cultural assimilation, the human condition, and the environment through photography. In 2021, she joined the International League of Conservation Photographers as an Associate Fellow. Neeta’s personal history and cultural identity have always influenced both the issues that draw her as a visual journalist and the work itself.

Here's the advice she gives to those looking to start a business: 

"Take risks in life. Don't let someone or something define you, your life, and your future."

Dr. Maurya D. Cockrell, Founder, Leaves Speak Healthcare

Dr. Cockrell uses serial entrepreneurship, education, and community collaboration to improve how people live, learn, work, and play. Dr. Cockrell founded YKNOT Consulting in 2015 and Leaves Speak Healthcare in 2017

Having founded two businesses Dr. Cockrell emphasizes the importance of living actively everyday.

"I would tell my younger self to slow down enough to celebrate my successes. Life is not a race to achievement; it's about enjoying the journey and the lives you impact along the way. Be kind to yourself and give yourself grace because society will put so much pressure on you. Focus on developing your emotional intelligence just as much and maybe even more than your academic abilities."

Debi, CEO, Acumaxum

For more than 30 years, Debi has helped business owners analyze risks so they can make business decisions. She specializes in helping a variety of organizations increase cash and company profits while scaling their businesses.

"I would tell myself to stop worrying about mistakes. You're going to make mistakes no matter what you do. Mistakes are a part of life if you're an entrepreneur and want to take chances to grow your business. Mistakes will happen, you won't be judged on your mistakes, but you will be judged on how you rise from those mistakes and make things happen."

This month, don't forget to take a few moments to appreciate your own experiences, insights and the value you bring into the world. The world needs women like you.