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Keep up-to-date with what’s happening in the supply chain diversity space both nationally, regionally, and locally as well as get the latest NYNJMSDC news.

Farewell to The Council’s 50th Anniversary Year

As this year comes to a close, everyone at The New York & New Jersey Minority Supplier Development Council would like to take a moment to reflect back on the moments that made our 50th Anniversary year one of the best yet, because there was a lot to celebrate! 

But, before we dig into what made 2023 so memorable, we’d like to thank our 50th Anniversary VIP Sponsors: Alpha Business Solutions and Walker SCM. Your support and guidance this year have allowed us to truly live up to our 2023 theme: Amplifying Capabilities and Fostering Growth. 

In fact, we found many ways to engage with our members and supporters,  including finally being able to host all of our signature events in person again. This was the first time since the COVID 19 pandemic began that we were able to do this.

We kicked off our signature events in May by hosting our 2023 Business Opportunity Exchange in the offices of one of our esteemed corporate members,  BNY Mellon. The event was a sold-out success that brought together Council board members, corporate members and local MBE’s for a day of panels and workshops focused on ways to expand existing business relationships. . 

In August, we welcomed members and colleagues aboard the Horizon’s Edge yacht, where we Networked & Navigated our way through Biz Connect. This was our first time hosting an event on a yacht and we enjoyed sailing along the New York harbor and taking in the stunning views of the city. And we’re so grateful it finally stopped raining so we could see Lady Liberty! 

In September we swung into success at our 26th annual Networking for Scholarships. Not only was the weather beautiful for those who enjoyed time on two of the best golf courses in the Northeast, but  we had more people than ever partake in networking activities off the golf course. We hope that we can bring even more activities to golfers and non-golfers alike in 2024–when we return to the prestigious Crystal Springs Resort in Hamburg, NJ.

Finally, in October we closed out our signature events with our 50th Anniversary Partnership Awards Gala. We rolled out the red carpet and dressed to impress as we celebrated our 2023 awards winners. View a full list of those who were recognized at this year’s Partnership Awards Gala: 2023 Awards Gala Recipients

Check out all the photos from our signature events on our website

Save the Date for our 2024 Signature Events:

April 17, 2024 — Business Opportunity Exchange

July 25, 2024 — Biz Connect 

September 19, 2024 — Partnership Awards Gala

September 26, 2024 — Networking for Scholarships

AMPLIFYING CAPABILITIES AND FOSTERING GROWTH

Perhaps the most important thing about our 50th anniversary year, is that we were able to continue to promote the growth of our MBEs and corporate members. Which is the true mission and spirit of The Council. This year, we hosted many educational programming events to help amplify opportunities and foster growth for our MBE’s. 

For example, our “How to Do Business With…” series—a program designed to help our certified-MBEs get more information on the supplier acquisition process—had the honor of partnering with corporate members like Estee Lauder, Pfizer, Tough Leaf, Vizient and Northwell Health. 

We also hosted workshops like Taking on Debt with Purpose (and Confidence) with the Business Consortium Fund and Public Sector Contracting: Best Practices and Opportunities with the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. 

These were great opportunities to connect with big, influential businesses in our area, make connections with them, and learn how to better your business.  

In our continued effort to do more with our members outside of New York City, we traveled upstate for MWBE summits in Rochester, NY in January—and  in June. We’ll be returning this year with an event hosted in collaboration with the University of Rochester. Stay tuned for more information on that event because registration will be open soon! 

We also traveled to Long Island for the 2023 Healthcare Symposium, which was hosted by Northwell Health this year at their offices in New Hyde Park, NY. And of course our 2023 Sustainability Symposium was held just a few days ago at Citi headquarters in NYC. 

Luckily, we were able to host a majority of these workshops and symposiums in-person and online so that any member who wanted to join could do so—and we will continue this practice into 2024 as we begin to incorporate more programming events throughout the state of New York and northern New Jersey. 

LOOKING FORWARD

For us, 2023 was a busy year! And our efforts paid off, because by the end of this year, we will have welcomed 360 new MBE’s and 27 new Corporate Members to The Council. We are excited to continue our partnership with all new and existing members into 2024. 

Looking forward to 2024, we have already begun planning our calendar of events and hope to bring more unique opportunities for you and your business in the next year that will enhance your membership experience.

Print our 2024 event roadmap to stay in the loop on Council events

For more ways to stay up-to-date with The Council and receive notifications about upcoming events, sign up for our newsletter and follow us on our social media (LinkedIn, Facebook, X, Instagram).

We look forward to meeting more of our constituents and creating lasting connections that will create a better future for you, and for the Council. 

We wish you all a happy Holiday season and a prosperous New Year!

Sincerely,

Terrence Clark

2023 Veterans Day Message

When November 11th was officially named Veterans Day in 1952, United States President Dwight D. Eisenhower called upon all citizens to join together in “solemnly remember[ing] the sacrifices of all those who fought so valiantly on the seas, in the air, and on foreign shores, to preserve our heritage of freedom.” As our troops continue to serve with dedication and honor, so too do we take this time to recognize the commitment and sacrifices of our soldiers, sailors, airmen, and all other military service members. 

And, more importantly, we use this day as a chance to say a heartfelt thank you to the brave men and women who have served our country. The United States was built on hard-won freedoms, and we wouldn’t be where we are today without heroes like our World War 2, Korean War, Vietnam War, Desert Storm, and Afghanistan Veterans. Their sacrifice ushered in an era of unprecedented growth and prosperity in our country, and one day alone each year will never be enough to express the deep gratitude of our thanks. 

As a supporter of minority-owned businesses and a stark advocate for supply chain diversity, we owe the crux of our work to the military servicemen and women who’ve defended our freedoms, allowing for everyone’s freedoms of speech and expression and the freedom to secure a future free from want. It’s these fundamental rights, among others, that have created an economy of acceptance and abundance, offering those from all walks of life a seat at the entrepreneurial table. The Council sees this as the embodiment of civil liberties for all, and for that, we will always owe our gratitude to our enlisted military. 

We hope to never forget to not only give thanks, but live thanks. Barack Obama said it best, “It’s about how we treat our veterans every single day of the year. It’s about making sure they have the care they need and the benefits that they’ve earned when they come home. It’s about serving all of you as well as you’ve served the United States of America.”

This Veterans Day, be sure to appreciate your freedoms and thank all of those who have won them for you. 

Sincerely,

Terrence Clark

MBE Spotlight: Ezra Salami

Ezra Salami specializes in business law-related matters spanning a business’s entire life cycle, namely corporate formation and governance, investment agreements, and contractual agreements. On top of his business law expertise, clients who work with Ezra gain first-hand exposure to years’ worth of small to mid-sized commercial litigation experience, adding an invaluable perspective on the real-world implications of poorly written contracts and how to avoid them. 

Before Ezra founded the Firm, Ezra Law, he practiced law on both sides, advocating for both plaintiffs and defendants at several high-stakes litigation law firms in New York City and, he even served as a judicial law clerk. Throughout his career, he’s also taken steps to expand his background by studying business internationally and practicing law abroad. This background affords him, and more importantly, his clients, the benefit of approaching each legal issue with a unique and layered perspective.  Against this backdrop of knowledge and capabilities, Ezra Law was founded to help bring a diversified voice to the entrepreneurial and corporate landscape.   

Ezra graduated from Fordham University School of Law after completing his undergraduate degree in Business Administration at Morehouse College, where he took on some of his studies abroad in the international financial capital of Dubai, United Arab Emirates. He is licensed to practice in New York federal and state courts 

During his free time, you can find Ezra taking golf too seriously, offering his unsolicited opinions on movies and television shows, and supporting local mom-and-pop restaurants (and that’s not just because he cannot cook to save his life). 

About Ezra Law

Running a business can be daunting –  Let us do the leg(al) work! We are a mission-driven, nimble, commercial litigation law firm based in New York, NY. We are equipped to quickly respond to the varying twists and turns that startup founders and business owners encounter. We address our clients’ various legal endeavors, throughout the entire business life cycle, with expert thought, care, and consistency from start to finish.

They say “business is business and never personal,” but we disagree!  As entrepreneurs ourselves, we know that your dreams are personal, and sharing them with the world through your venture is an investment you don’t (and shouldn’t) take lightly. Our well-versed counsel is here to help you navigate the entrepreneurial journey with peace of mind as you transition and grow. 

What does being a minority business, or supporting minority businesses, mean to you?

Offering legal support to minority-owned businesses with the aim of helping to create a more self-reliant, self-referring, diverse business ecosystem is our north star and is the essence of our law firm. 

How has being certified with the NMSDC helped your business?

Yes, the MBE2MBE Tool is a game-changer! Its First-in-class!

For more information on Ezra Law, please visit: ezralaw.co or follow them on their social media: LinkedIn & Instagram

Native American Heritage Month: Honoring Indigenous Businesses & Contributions

Native American businesses play a crucial role in the economic landscape of the United States. Collectively their business encompasses a wide array of industries, from agriculture and manufacturing to technology and healthcare. As such, they contribute not only to our local and regional economies but also to the overall prosperity of our nation. We want to take a moment during Native American Heritage Month to highlight the importance of these businesses and their contributions to our country. 

The history of Native American entrepreneurship is deeply intertwined with the story of America itself. Indigenous people were trading goods and services long before the arrival of the European settlers. The resilience, innovation, and cultural diversity of Native American-owned businesses are a testament to the enduring spirit of entrepreneurship within these communities. A spirit that continues to this day. 

We are proud to have many successful Native American businesses certified with the Council including Brett Bucktooth from Ongweoweh, who wrote an inspiring MBE Spotlight last year on the impact of his upbringing and how he transformed the lessons learned in his youth to help him find success in business. 

During this month, we encourage all of our members to explore partnerships, collaborations, and opportunities to engage with Native American-owned businesses. Let’s also take this moment to educate ourselves and our teams about the unique challenges and triumphs of these businesses. By amplifying their voices and celebrating their accomplishments, we can build stronger, more inclusive economies that honor the contributions of all Americans. 

In the next month, the Council will be hosting a wide range of events created to help businesses come together and build connections while also sharing important business practices. We invite you to join us at the following events in November to take the first step toward creating deeper connections.

Thank you for your commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Together, we can foster a business environment where everyone has the opportunity and ability to thrive.

Sincerely,

Terrence Clark

2023 Sustainability Symposium


About the Event

The Council continues to be a leader in minority business development and capacity building including, being one of the first to provide consistent workshops on the topic of Supply Chain Sustainability. As we continue to evolve into an understanding of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) matters, we remain committed to keeping our supplier and corporate partners aware and engaged.

Join us on Tuesday, December 12 for our 12th annual Sustainability Symposium. The goal of the session this year will be to speak broadly about ESG and its current applicability to, and impact on, all businesses, inclusive of small or diverse businesses. Specific attention will be provided to pending global regulatory considerations and supply chain awareness.

Date

Tuesday, December 12, 2023

9:30 AM – 11:30 AM

Location


Agenda

Attendees will hear from industry leaders, including Citi, CDP, and other members of both the Legal and Corporate community. Speakers will share their perspective on Supply Chain Sustainability, ESG metrics and Diverse Supplier Business Growth. MBEs will have the opportunity to engage in discussion and dialogue about existing practices currently in place as best practices.

Session Information
Welcome from the Council
Welcoming remarks from President & CEO of the NYNJMSDC – Terrence Clark
Opening Remarks & Kick-off – I. Javette Hines
Legal View – What’s on the Horizon?
Citi will be providing legal thoughts to ponder relative to existing and pending regulations like SEC, CRSD, CSDDD, and more.
Panel Discussion
40 minutes with corporate leaders and NGOs
Did You Know? A Breakdown of ESG and Supply Chain Readiness
Climate, Net Zero, Human Rights, and Reporting
Mini Workshop with Citi
Join Citi for a brief awareness session and a reminder of what ESG is and why it is important for MBEs and corporations to keep in mind while conducting business.

Meet The Speakers

I. Javette Hines

Director, Global Head of Supply Chain Development, Inclusion & Sustainability
Citi Bank

IlLonka (Javette) Hines is the Director, SC Supplier Senior Group Manager, and Global Head of Supply Chain Development, Inclusion, and Sustainability at Citi. Javette leads Citi’s efforts to ensure the consideration and inclusion of diverse firms within Citi’s sourcing practice. She works across the firm to align supplier selection efforts a global strategy to continue to spend $1B with diverse suppliers globally, support capacity and supplier development, and create awareness and understanding of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) matters.

Javette has over 25 years of experience in supply chain management, operations, leadership, diversity, and management, including 11 years at International Business Machines (IBM). She holds a Bachelor of Science in Middle Grades Education from Clark Atlanta University, a Juris Doctor from the Wake Forest University School of Law, and holds a certificate as a Certified Professional Supplier Diversity (CPSD) from the Institute of Supply Management. Additionally, she earned a certificate in Human Rights from the Leitner Center for International Law and Justice, a certificate in Diversity and Inclusion from eCornell, as well as a certificate in Leading Effective Decision Making from the Yale School of Management.

Terrence Clark

President and CEO
NY & NJ Minority Supplier Development Council

Terrence Clark leads the way forward for staff and members of The Council community by providing oversight and guidance in relation to The Council’s goals and objectives. Prior to this position, he served as the Vice President of Entrepreneurship and Business Development for the National Urban League, where he was responsible for the management of all small business and entrepreneurship programs. Mr. Clark also served as the Senior Vice President of Knowledge Sharing for the Opportunity Finance Network, where he was responsible for community development for financial institutions nationwide.

In addition to serving on The Council’s board, Mr. Clark is proud to sit as a board member for TruFund Financial Services and the Supplier Diversity Development Council of New Jersey. He also sits on the Economic Impact Committee of Stonehenge Capital and on the Minority and Women Business Enterprise Advisory Councils for the NYC Comptroller and the NYS Governor. In 2021, he was named as one of the Notable Black Leaders and Executives by Crain’s New York.

Noah A. Smith

Human Rights Coordinator
UN Global Compact Network USA

Noah is a human rights coordinator with the UN Global Compact Network USA. In this role, he helps run programs and initiatives that support over 1000+ American companies doing business responsibly.

Before joining UN Global Compact Network USA, Noah was a Law & Policy Intern with OutRight Action International, a research fellow with The National Union for Democracy in Iran (NUFDI), and co-editor of RightsViews, a Columbia University blog published by the Institute for the Study of Human Rights (ISHR). He also worked as a Faculty Specialist in the Laboratory of Cognition and Emotion and the Laboratory of Motivated Cognition at UMD. In addition, Noah has been published with Amnesty International and has presented his psychological research at the Association for Psychological Sciences Annual Convention.

Noah holds a BA in Psychology focusing on neuroscience from the University of Maryland and an MA in
Human Rights Studies from Columbia University.

Ben Ngobi

Global Supplier Inclusion & Sustainability Lead
Accenture

Ben Ngobi leads Accenture’s Global Supplier Inclusion & Sustainability programme. Ben is responsible for the strategy to embed Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) factors into purchasing decisions, working closely with multiple stakeholders in the company. Ben has also been instrumental in building strategy, operational and technological excellence with regard to implementing supplier inclusion and sustainability programmes.

Ben was responsible for enhancing Accenture’s approach to integrate small, medium, and diverse suppliers in its supply chain, in addition, he is helping establish innovations/initiatives that support Accenture’s approach on ESG due diligence in procurement, reporting of progress on modern slavery, human rights, biodiversity, audits, stakeholders engagement, and is part of the team setting new corporate goals in supply chain.

Ben participates in several nonprofit organizations around the world in the areas of supplier inclusion and sustainability. He was part of the team that attended the Climate Conference (COP21) in Paris, setting an ambitious supply chain goal which the company achieved on time. He is a speaker on climate and human rights topics within procurement, and a subject matter advisor on implementing supplier diversity programmes. Ben has degrees in Business Management and Environment, Development Studies, and International Management from UK universities.

Amanda Zalk

Senior Strategic Account Executive
EcoVadis

Amanda has driven sustainable behavior changes since her earliest days. With a background in carbon-emission mitigation policy and international relations, Amanda is passionate about harnessing the power of global business for positive change. Now at EcoVadis, Amanda partners with the world’s largest Financial Services organizations to leverage ESG as a performance and value driver for procurement as well as various bank lending products and investment strategies. 

Betty M. Huber

Corporate Partner & Global Co-Chair
Latham’s Environmental, Social, and Governance Practice

Betty Moy Huber, a corporate partner and Global Co-Chair of Latham’s Environmental, Social, and Governance practice, shapes business-critical corporate sustainability initiatives, policy, and reporting for leading companies, funds, and their boards. Ms. Huber also advises on sustainable finance products, M&A transactions, and capital markets offerings.

An ESG and corporate sustainability trailblazer since the field’s nascency, Ms. Huber leverages
more than 25 years’ experience and trusted C-suite relationships to guide clients on:

  • ESG policies and disclosure
  • Corporate culture and corporate social responsibility (CSR)
  • Sustainable finance, impact investing, and “net-zero” and other climate change matters
  • SEC and other mandatory and voluntary reporting and disclosure requirements
  • Board oversight, risk management, composition, and refreshment
  • Fiduciary duties
  • Board assessments
  • Stakeholder engagement
  • Shareholder proposals

Ms. Huber serves on the Board of Advisors for NYU’s School of Law Institute for Corporate Governance & Finance. She frequently speaks and writes for the American Law Institute, the American Bar Association, Aspen Institute’s Business & Society Program, the New York State and City Bar, the Practising Law Institute, and the Society for Corporate Governance.

A recognized thought leader and former member of the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board Advisory Council, Ms. Huber is quoted in various media outlets, including the Financial
Times, the Wall Street Journal, Fortune, and American Banker. She lectures on ESG matters at law schools, including Harvard Law School, New York University School of Law, and Stanford Law School’s Rock Center for Corporate Governance.

Before joining Latham, Ms. Huber was co-head of the ESG Group and Environmental Practice Group at another global law firm.

 

Delia Creveling

Sector Lead
CDP North America’s Corporate Engagement Team

Delia Creveling is a Sector Lead on CDP North America’s Corporate Engagement Team. The team works to support 3,000+ companies requested to disclose environmental data by investors and guides them along their environmental journey from first response to adopting best practices like science-based targets. Her areas of focus include the Financial Services and Manufacturing sectors.

Lullit Jezequel

Procurement Manager, Sustainability & Partnerships for Unilever North America

Lullit Jezequel leads the region’s partnership agenda as well as social sustainability programs including supplier diversity, responsible sourcing, and living wage programs, while being a central point for environmental sustainability programs in plastics and carbon.

Lullit joined Unilever in 2017 as an Assistant Procurement Manager with a focus on marketing services. Prior to that, she held sourcing and supply chain positions at Avon and the World Economic Forum after graduating from Columbia & Sciences Po Paris with a Master’s in International Affairs.


Thank You to our 2023 Sustainability Symposium Host

Citi logo

2023 Annual Sponsors

2023 Healthcare Symposium

About the Event

This November, we’re partnering with Northwell Health to discuss different ways to increase supplier diversity in the healthcare sector and help MBE’s discover emerging opportunities at the largest healthcare provider in New York state.

Date

Thursday, November 30
8:30 am – 12:00 pm

Location

Northwell Health Headquarters
2000 Marcus Avenue
New Hyde Park, NY 11042


Agenda

TimeSessions
8:30 amRegistration & Breaktfast
Breakfast provided by: The Nourish Spot – SBE, MWBE, HUBZONE
The Nourish Spot is a quick-serve healthy food and beverage restaurant. Many of the foods we offer have the power to fight diabetes, heart disease, and cancer and can literally help save our customer’s lives.
9:00 amNorthwell Health — DE&I and Community Health
Dr. Debbie Salas-Lopez, SVP, Community & Population Health
9:10 amWelcome from the Council
Terrence Clark, President & CEO, NYNJMSDC
9:15 amMBE Input Committee
Cheryl McCants, MBE Input Committee Chair, President & CEO, Impact Consulting Enterprises
9:25 amNorthwell Health Procurement/Supply Chain
Phyllis McCready, SVP, Chief Procurement Officer, Northwell Health
9:30 amDoing Business with Northwell — Supplier Risk & Onboarding Process
Jessica Olphie, VP of Supply Chain
Alfio DiFranco, Director, Supply Chain
9:45 amOpportunities — Current & Emerging
Scot Silberlust, VP, Digital Finance
Mark Cahill, AVP, Marketing
10:15 amPanel Discussion
Dawn Wells, AVP, Supply Chain | Northwell Health
Amber Patino, Program Manager | Northwell Health
Anthony Pellicone, VP, Facilities Management | Northwell Health
Seema Bhansali, VP, Employee Experience & Inclusion | Henry Schein
Cheryl McCants, Foudn & CEO | Impact Consulting Enterprises
11:05 amMBWE Spotlights
Jeanette McClennan, CEO of the McClennan Group
Adrienne Nicole, CEO of Adrienne Nicole Productions
Dawn Kelly, Founder & CEO of the Nourish Spot
Rizwan Chaudhry, CEO at Cenmed Enterprise
Vanessa Best, CEO at Precision Healthcare Consultants
11:35 am
Networking Opportunity (in-person only)


Session Overview

♦ Welcome from Northwell Health

A senior Northwell Health leader will speak to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and how the commitment to supplier diversity and inclusion is the intersection between economic empowerment and health equity.

♦ Doing Business with Northwell – Supplier Risk and Onboarding Process

With Jessica Olphie and Alfio DiFranco

♦ Current & Emerging Opportunities at Northwell Health

Find out about current and emerging opportunities at Northwell Health from their category managers and targeted department leadership teams. Learn how MBEs can submit their information for consideration on these projects.

♦ Panel Discussion: Sustainability and MWBEs

Join Dawn Wells, MPH, AVP, Supply Chain and GPO Operations at Northwell Health for a discussion on how MWBEs and small businesses can engage with healthcare organizations to help reach sustainability goals and engage with facility project managers. Hear from a panel of experts and get answers to these questions and more.

♦ MBE Spotlights

Up to three MBEs will have the exciting opportunity to spotlight their business for all attendees.

♦ Networking Opportunity

Get those Capability Statements ready! At the conclusion of the above session, event attendees will have the opportunity to discuss their unique business offerings with Northwell Health and network with other companies in attendance.


About the Speakers

Terrence Clark

President and CEO
NY & NJ Minority Supplier Development Council

Terrence Clark leads the way forward for staff and members of The Council community by providing oversight and guidance in relation to The Council’s goals and objectives. Prior to this position, he served as the Vice President of Entrepreneurship and Business Development for the National Urban League, where he was responsible for the management of all small business and entrepreneurship programs. Mr. Clark also served as the Senior Vice President of Knowledge Sharing for the Opportunity Finance Network, where he was responsible for community development for financial institutions nationwide.

In addition to serving on The Council’s board, Mr. Clark is proud to sit as a board member for TruFund Financial Services and the Supplier Diversity Development Council of New Jersey. He also sits on the Economic Impact Committee of Stonehenge Capital and on the Minority and Women Business Enterprise Advisory Councils for the NYC Comptroller and the NYS Governor. In 2021, he was named as one of the Notable Black Leaders and Executives by Crain’s New York.


Thank You to our 2023 Annual Sponsors

Hispanic Heritage Month: Honoring Diversity & Achievements

It is with great joy that I extend my warmest greetings to each and every one of you as we begin Hispanic Heritage Month!

This annual observance serves as a reflection and reminder of the immense contributions that Hispanic and Latinx communities have made to our nation’s fabric. Their rich cultures, histories, and accomplishments have indelibly shaped our society, enriching our collective identity and inspiring future generations.

During this month, let us come together to honor the trailblazers, visionaries, artists, activists, and countless individuals who have tirelessly worked to pave the way for progress and prosperity. Their determination, resilience, and innovation are a testament to the power of diversity in fostering creativity and positive change. To name a few:

  • Maria Contreras-Sweet: The founder of ProAmérica Bank which was the first Latino-formed commercial bank in more than 35 years. She also founded Contreras-Sweet Enterprises, which is a marketing and research firm with noteworthy clients like the Coca-Cola Company, Pacific Gas and Electric Company, and the Walt Disney Company.  
  • Anthony “Tony” Jimenez Jr.: He is the Founder, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer of MicroTech which is known as one of the largest Hispanic-owned IT Integrators in the Country. This company started as a kitchen table startup and has grown to a half-billion-dollar company under his leadership. 
  • Betro Perez: He was the founder of the well-known Zumba Fitness. He started as an aerobics instructor in Columbia, who improvised by adding dance moves to his exercise program after forgetting his usual tapes. There are now 15 million people who take Zumba classes. 

I encourage all of our members and partners to engage in meaningful conversations, educational initiatives, and cultural events throughout this month. By deepening our understanding of Hispanic heritage, we strengthen the bonds that unite us and foster an environment where every individual feels valued and empowered.

Let us take this opportunity to not only celebrate the achievements of the past but also to envision a future where diversity is embraced, equality is upheld, and opportunities are accessible to all. Together, we can continue building bridges of understanding and collaboration that transcend borders and propel us toward a brighter tomorrow.

Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication to our mission. I look forward to the inspiring stories and meaningful connections that Hispanic Heritage Month will undoubtedly bring.

Sincerely,

Terrence Clark

MBE Spotlight: Amy (Archana) Banala

Amy Banala is the proud owner of a minority woman-owned business called Praxis Consultants based in New Jersey. As a woman coming from an underrepresented community, she has harnessed her entrepreneurial spirit to create an IT service solutions company that serves the needs of their customers in various industries. 

Despite facing numerous challenges, Amy has been running this company since 2019, continuously acquiring contracts–even during the pandemic. During COVID, Amy dealt with a lot of difficult situations, especially with the number of people losing their jobs. But her true character shined through during this time as she helped people financially so they were still able to take care of their families.

About your company

Praxis Consultants is a Minority Woman Owned business, offering professional IT services such as cloud services, IT staff augmentation, cyber security consulting, business intelligence, and data analyst. Their strength is sourcing talented resources to meet your goals in a quick turnaround time, and by helping you stay in control of your timeline, expectations, and budgeting. With Praxis IT staff augmentation services, you can contract or hire permanently from our company.

Praxis Consultants brings a fresh perspective to the industry by leveraging their diverse experiences to drive creativity and problem-solving. Their dedication to quality and their values of inclusivity and equality shines through in everything they do.

At Praxis, they are a team of tech experts, obsessed with technology innovation and creating custom solutions for you by making sure they take your business to the next level. Their expertise is placing talented resources and making them available to their esteemed clients across all domains. 

By choosing to support Praxis Consultants, you are not only gaining access to their exceptional services but also becoming a part of their mission to promote diversity and empower underrepresented voices in the business landscape. You will have the most in-demand skills, budget-friendly resources, and a provider with deep experience in making projects happen on time. At Praxis, they create tailored solutions, from cybersecurity to data backup and disaster recovery – their team of IT experts can help you with any technology you need and lead you through any technology crisis. They strive to be competitive in the digital world and use AI tools to improve their operational goals.

What does being a minority business, or supporting minority businesses, mean to you?

Minority businesses have an opportunity for federal grants and contracting opportunities that corporations offer. Some corporations are willing to invest in entrepreneurial growth.

I believe in supporting minority businesses as it helps create jobs and opportunities. 

How has being certified with the NMSDC helped your business?

I was certified a month ago and waiting for some contracts to materialize. I am looking forward to the benefits of NMSDC certification as an MBE.

What is one thing you wish you had known when you were starting out in your career?

I wish I knew more about the grants available to women and minority-owned businesses. They truly do offer a helping hand with business operations. 

I also wish I knew to not be scared of failure. Staying positive in situations has helped me to succeed in different aspects of my life and business.

For more information on Praxis Consultants, please visit: praxisconsultantsinc.com or follow them on their social media: LinkedIn.

MBE Spotlight: Ashish Garg

Ashish Garg started his company, Net2Source, at the age of 23 by taking out a personal loan. He approached 15 banks to gather a total of $100k in loans and started operations in India with five employees, zero clients, and a 500 square foot office. His company is now in 32 countries and is a recognized award winning market leader in Global Workforce Solutions. He started as a college dropout with a dream of becoming a game changer in the staffing world and is now managing a global company with several others like N2S Healthcare, N2S Industrial, and N2S Global Workforce Solutions in addition to Net2Source. 

He believes in his vision, employees, and strategy to shape the future of Workforce Management. His motto is to be the best in whatever they do. He has been a role model for many and his “never say never” spirit allows him to uphold integrity in everything he does.  He believes in doing things differently and is very unconventional in his business strategy and approach. 

Ashish has also invested in providing help where he can by setting up NGOs like Aashayein for Elderly and underprivileged kids and orphans. He has been a member of Community Seva, Feed the Need, and initiated the We Support Women campaign to promote women hiring and career advancement. 

He is unstoppable and is a role model to many who believe in the motto – The Sky is the Limit.

About your company

Net2Source has made it to the SIA’s Largest US Staffing Firms 2023 list (5 years in a row).  They have global locations in 32 countries across North America, Latin America, EMEA, APAC, and ANZ specializing in Contingent Labor, Direct Hiring, Payroll Management, RPO, SOW, and Nearshore/Offshore services

What does being a minority business, or supporting minority businesses, mean to you?

Being a minority business or supporting minority businesses holds a unique significance for an Indian entrepreneur like me who has always been an avid risk taker with an unconventional approach.

Being a minority business for me means:

  • Breaking Norms: Challenging the status quo and defying traditional expectations in a business landscape dominated by conventional practices. As an entrepreneur, I see being a minority as an opportunity to disrupt industries, redefine norms, and introduce fresh perspectives.
  • Innovation: Recognizing that diversity of thought and experience often leads to innovation. I believe in leveraging their unique background and perspectives to create novel solutions and products that cater to underrepresented markets or address unmet needs.
  • Resilience: Embracing challenges and setbacks as an inherent part of their journey. I understand that navigating uncharted territories requires resilience and determination, traits that are often developed through overcoming the adversity faced as a minority entrepreneur.
  • Empowerment: Viewing success as a means to empower others from similar backgrounds. 
  • Community Impact: Recognizing the potential of their business to uplift and support minority communities. My company actively seeks to create jobs, provide opportunities for skill development, and contribute to the economic growth of underserved areas.
  • Global Perspective: Embracing a global outlook, and understanding that unconventional ideas can transcend cultural boundaries and have a broader impact. 

Supporting minority businesses, from my perspective means;

  • Promoting Diversity: Valuing diversity as a driver of innovation and progress. I recognize that supporting minority businesses contributes to a more inclusive and dynamic business ecosystem.
  • Economic Empowerment: Acknowledging that supporting minority businesses can uplift marginalized communities, promote economic self-sufficiency, and reduce disparities in wealth and opportunity.
  • Fostering Innovation: Believing that diverse perspectives lead to more creative and innovative solutions. I support minority businesses as a way to encourage fresh ideas and unique approaches.
  • Driving Social Change: Understanding that backing minority businesses aligns with broader social and economic goals of reducing inequality and promoting social justice.
  • Networking and Collaboration: Seeing the value of building a network of diverse entrepreneurs and thought leaders. I support minority businesses to foster collaborations that can lead to mutually beneficial partnerships and ventures.

Being a minority business owner and supporting minority businesses embody a powerful combination of empowerment, innovation, resilience, and the potential to drive meaningful change in both business and society.

How has being certified with the NMSDC helped your business?

Our certification with the NMSDC has helped us in so many ways:

  • Access to Corporate Contracts: NMSDC certification provides access to a network of major corporations that prioritize supplier diversity. Many large companies have supplier diversity programs and initiatives aimed at sourcing goods and services from certified minority-owned businesses, including staffing services. This opens doors to potential contracts and partnerships that might not have been accessible otherwise.
  • Business Opportunities: Certification has led to increased visibility and recognition within the business community. This exposure results in new business opportunities and client relationships.
  • Competitive Advantage: Being NMSDC-certified sets a staffing firm apart from competitors, demonstrating a commitment to diversity and inclusion. This can be particularly appealing to clients who value supplier diversity and are seeking to align their business practices with social and economic goals.
  • Networking and Relationship Building: Certification provides opportunities for networking and relationship building with other NMSDC-certified businesses, corporations, and organizations. This can lead to collaborations, partnerships, and knowledge-sharing that enhance business growth and development.
  • Credibility and Trust: NMSDC certification is a recognized symbol of credibility and trust. It signifies that a staffing firm has met certain criteria and standards, which can instill confidence in potential clients and partners.
  • Visibility in NMSDC Events: NMSDC organizes events, conferences, and trade shows that provide certified businesses with opportunities to showcase their services and connect with potential clients, partners, and industry leaders.
  • Advocacy and Support: Being part of the NMSDC community means having an advocate for the interests of minority-owned businesses. The organization provides guidance, support, and representation on issues that impact minority entrepreneurs.
What is one thing you wish you had known when you were starting out in your career?

Experience is the Best Teacher – I am a firm believer in the fact that no matter how brilliant your mind or strategy is, if you’re playing a solo game, you’ll always lose out to a team. If everyone is moving forward together, success will take care of itself. With time, I have realized even more that loyal, sincere, responsible, and hardworking employees are rare to find. And if you have found them, then keep them. Loyalty cannot be bought, it has to be earned and a degree does not define an individual’s merit alone, it’s the passion and the go-getter spirit that does.

For more information on Net2Source, please visit: net2source.com or follow them on their social media: LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

MBE Spotlight: Ajeta Sinha

Coming from a small town in India and migrating to the US in 2017, Ajeta Sinha, or AJ, has moved her way through leadership roles at Net2Source. When she first joined the company, she was the first woman in their leadership team. Now, after 8 and a half years with the company, she has been promoted to the President of Net2Source. In this role, she is responsible for setting up and growing global businesses and managing a team of 2,000+ indirectly.

Through her work at Net2Source, AJ has received countless awards and recognition, both internally and externally, for her outstanding performance and success. It’s a true testament to the dedication, honesty, and sincerity that she puts into every aspect of her work.

Growing up, AJ was heavily influenced by the work ethic of her mother. She saw her as a superhero in their house who managed to be a homemaker and still take out time for her NGO. Her mother knew the importance of getting work done and AJ took inspiration from how much her mom could do with the limited resources that they had in India. In addition, she was also fascinated and inspired by the Google founders who took the world by storm with their inventions, and it led to her always looking for the answers in the problem itself. 

Since childhood, her parents always told her, “Whatever you do in life, always give it your best self, because if you do so, the results will speak for themselves.” AJ was not born into luxury and didn’t excel in academics either, but she used the skills she saw from her mother and was consistent, hardworking, and resilient. Once she started working, she faced massive resistance at her workplace from her male colleagues and had to prove herself every day to make her presence felt. She kept pushing and working hard and proved to herself and her colleagues just how much she was capable of. 

About Net2Source

Net2source (N2S) was formed in 2007 and they specialize in global workforce solutions in 32 countries. Net2Source is a certified-MBE company and is recognized as one of the largest and fastest IT staffing companies in North America for the last 3 years. They specialize in contingent hiring, full-time, RPO, EOR, SOW, and Nearshore/co-shoring services.

What does being a minority business, or supporting minority businesses, mean to you?

Being a minority business means facing unique challenges and barriers that can limit access to resources, opportunities, and capital. It often involves overcoming systemic inequalities and biases that exist in the business world. Supporting minority businesses involves intentionally and actively promoting their growth, sustainability, and success. This support can take various forms, such as purchasing goods and services from minority-owned businesses, investing in their ventures, mentoring and providing guidance, advocating for equitable policies and legislation, or creating inclusive business environments.

Supporting minority businesses is crucial for fostering diversity, inclusion, and economic empowerment. It helps address historical and ongoing disparities by providing opportunities for marginalized communities to participate fully in the economy, build wealth, and create jobs. By supporting and promoting diversity in entrepreneurship, we can encourage innovation, stimulate economic growth, and contribute to a more equitable society.

How has being certified with the NMSDC helped your business?

We are proud to be certified by NMSDC as it has opened floodgates of opportunities for us as an organization and given us a platform to shine.

What is one thing you wish you had known when you were starting out in your career?

One thing that many women of color like me face when starting out in their careers is the potential for encountering biases and stereotypes that can affect their opportunities for advancement and recognition. It is important to be aware that these biases exist and to develop strategies for overcoming them. I wish I had known the importance of having sponsors and mentors, building networks, finding your voice in a room full of opportunities, and cultivating resilience. As a woman of color, nothing is impossible, and your appearance doesn’t define you – your grit does.

For more information on Net2Source, please visit: net2source.com or follow them on their social media: LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.