MBE Spotlight

Shamis Pitts (she/her) is the Founder and CEO of Pitts Leadership Consulting (PLC). She has operated at the intersection of strategy, people management and leadership and operations for 25+ years within various industries. Helping organizations and the people within them thrive is the purpose of her work.

Shamis holds an MBA from Cornell’s Johnson Graduate School of Management, concentrating in leadership and strategy, and a BA in Sociology from the University of Pennsylvania. She is an ICF-Certified Professional Coach at the PCC level, a SHRM-SCP, an ATD member and holds other DEI and coaching-specific certifications.

Shamis has been featured in Employee Benefit News and in Authority Magazine. She’s also a Featured Expert in the Growth Leadership course within The Bank of America Institute for Women’s Entrepreneurship at Cornell online certification. Shamis was awarded a Bronze Stevie for “Mentor or Coach of the Year – Business” at the 21st annual Stevie® Awards for Women in Business and was also selected  by Profiles in Diversity Journal® as a 2024 Women Worth Watching® in Leadership. 

Shamis is passionate about mentoring early and mid-career women of color, playing golf with her spouse and watching Columbo reruns.

About Pitts Leadership Consulting

Pitts Leadership Consulting is a human capital consulting company specializing in organizational health and business readiness. Their purpose is to help organizations create the conditions that drive employee retention and performance to amplify profitability and impact. To achieve this, PLC collaborates with clients to amplify organizational resilience without sacrificing employees in the process. 

Their services include consulting, advising, training and facilitation, coaching (individual, group, team), and keynote speaking. Their client services team understands that organizations must have the ability to adapt to changes over time and they utilize their expertise across organizational development, learning and development, strategic and operational HR and diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.

PLC is known for being thorough, thoughtful and compassionate in their work while addressing accountability. Launched in 2019 and formally established in 2020, PLC is an NMSDC-Certified Minority Business Enterprise and a WBENC-Certified Women’s Business Enterprise.

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

Being a minority and women-owned business means that I get to walk the talk. I am committed to supporting other minority and women-owned businesses. All of my service providers are minority and/or women-owned. 

I also serve on The Acceleration Project’s President’s Council. TAP is an innovative, award-winning consulting firm focused on under-resourced and underfunded small businesses, particularly women and minority-owned enterprises.

How has being certified with the NMSDC helped your business

Being part of the NMSDC community has been a wonderful experience. I have gained mentors who are willing to share knowledge and “real talk” advice to help me grow my business. I have developed friendships with other suppliers who provide me with helpful insights regarding what they are seeing and experiencing in the market. Finally, the support that I have received from NMSDC affiliate leaders, especially my home NYNJMSDC and Mid-States MSDC, have been instrumental in inviting me into spaces where I can connect with potential buyers and build awareness about PLC.

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

I wish I had understood the importance of my personal wellbeing to enable sustained effectiveness at work. When I entered the workforce, I was an overachiever, which translated into perfectionism and workaholism. I loved being given the opportunity to learn and be involved in so many intellectually stimulating projects. I was highly engaged, but my wellbeing was low, which led to burnout. 

Wellbeing is multidimensional. I have so many tools in my toolbox now and endeavor to help others build wellbeing practices to enhance their leadership capacity and capabilities.

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For more information on Pitts Leadership Consulting, please visit: https://pittsleadership.com/ or follow them on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pitts-leadership-consulting/ 

MBE Spotlight

Stephen Ball began his career practicing law at a major firm in New York City. Since then, he has held senior roles across several industries, including financial services, technology, and higher education. Stephen earned his J.D. from Harvard Law School, along with a master’s degree in public policy and a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Michigan.

A first-generation college graduate from Metro Detroit, Stephen is deeply passionate about guiding and supporting students as they pursue their educational aspirations. He strongly believes in the mantra of lifting others as we climb.

While Michigan remains his foundation, Stephen now proudly calls the Garden State of New Jersey his home. Living in such a vibrant metropolitan area filled with diverse entrepreneurs and business owners continues to energize and inspire him.

About Wisdem USA

Founded in 2019, Wisdem USA specializes in college admissions advising, essay coaching, and digital resources designed to help students approach the college admissions process with confidence and clarity. The name “Wisdem” reflects the company’s mission to democratize wisdom and empower individuals to achieve their goals.

Wisdem USA has served clients across the Tri-State area, throughout the United States, and internationally. By meeting with clients online, the company ensures accessibility to students virtually anywhere. Committed to inclusivity, Wisdem USA welcomes students of all academic levels—whether they have a 4.0 GPA or a 2.0 GPA. Additionally, the company offers a range of products and services tailored to fit the needs of clients from diverse economic backgrounds.

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

Being a minority-owned business carries an inherent sense of responsibility to serve the community through the products and services we offer. While profitability is a goal for any business, I believe there’s a deeper purpose at play. The opportunities I’ve had are rooted in the sacrifices of previous generations—many of whom were community-focused business owners. Honoring their legacy means doing my part to support and uplift my community, both today and for future generations.

How has being certified with the NMSDC helped your business?

As a newer business focused on growth and building partnerships with educational institutions and corporations, NMSDC certification has been invaluable. It serves as a trusted mark of credibility that resonates with prospective partners. Additionally, the educational programs and events offered by the NMSDC have provided insights and opportunities that I might not have encountered otherwise.

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

One thing I wish I had known when starting my career is that the arc of a career is long and full of possibilities. Just as we grow and evolve as individuals, our careers can evolve with us. We’re not limited to a single path—we can explore new interests and passions, finding fulfillment in the process. Early on, I assumed my options were confined to one direction, but I’ve since learned that our paths can shift and expand in ways we may not initially imagine.

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For more information on Wisdem USA, please visit: wisdemusa.com or follow them on Instagram, Facebook, and X.

MBE Spotlight

Parag Shroff is an experienced and dynamic corporate leader at 22nd Century Technologies, Inc., bringing extensive expertise in information technology, cybersecurity, personnel and human resources, sales and marketing, financial management, operations, and business development. His broad base of executive management experience stems from roles in both large organizations and start-up companies, showcasing his versatility and strategic vision.

Parag’s core competencies include strategic business planning, profit and loss accountability, corporate finance and budgeting, organizational development, staff and policy development, operations management, and sales and marketing development. His leadership in personnel and human resources further underscores his ability to build and sustain high-performing teams.

At 22nd Century Technologies, Inc., Parag leads the Commercial Practice, driving growth and innovation for the organization.

About  22nd Century Technologies Inc.

For over two decades, 22nd Century Technologies has established itself as a trusted partner, achieving significant milestones in the industry. The company serves a wide range of clients, including several Federal and State agencies, as well as prominent organizations such as Boeing, UPS, Northrop Grumman, NetApp, Spirit AeroSystems, Rentokil, Coca-Cola, Cox Communications, Carrier Corporation, Lockheed Martin, Rockwell Collins, Parker, Ball Aerospace, Raytheon, Iron Mountain, Kimberly-Clark, and many others.

22nd Century Technologies specializes in delivering comprehensive cybersecurity and compliance services, encompassing endpoint, network, and cloud security, 24/7 Security Operations Center (SOC) support, vulnerability assessment and penetration testing (VAPT), and more.

The company also provides a full spectrum of staffing solutions, including contingent workforce management, temporary staffing, permanent placements, payroll services, recruitment process outsourcing (RPO), and vendor-on-premises solutions.

With top-secret facility clearance, SOC 2 compliance, and Nationwide Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) certification through NMSDC, 22nd Century Technologies is positioned as a leader in the industry. Headquartered in McLean, VA, the company operates over 35 offices across the United States, Canada, and India.

How has being certified with the NMSDC helped your business?

When I first started working for a certified diverse supplier, I had the privilege of attending an annual GNEMSDC conference. At the time, I had little understanding of how to engage with the diversity and sourcing professionals I met. It was an enjoyable experience, and everyone was welcoming, but I wasn’t sure how to turn those interactions into meaningful opportunities. Since we operated in the life sciences and healthcare space, the GNEMSDC was a crucial platform for networking and growth.

During a matchmaking session, I met a diversity professional from one of the largest healthcare companies. I gave my usual sales pitch for our staffing business, only to be told there were no opportunities available. They already had the category covered and a long list of suppliers waiting. It was a disappointing moment—I felt as though we’d never win business with such a large company.

Over the next few months, I attended more meetings and gained a clearer understanding of what it takes to succeed at diversity conferences. I realized that consistent engagement and a compelling value proposition were key. It wasn’t just about attending events but demonstrating why a company should work with us and how we could deliver unique value.

In the first year, we achieved a few small wins, which boosted my confidence. I continued to engage with the individual I’d met earlier from that healthcare company and eventually had the opportunity to meet a senior procurement leader at one of the conferences. 

After 2.5 years of consistent follow-ups, relationship-building, and staying engaged, I received an email from their staffing MSP. The procurement team had requested that we be added as a staffing supplier.

Within six months, we had over 200 contractors billing with that company.

This journey taught me the importance of perseverance, building relationships, and delivering value. Being certified with the NMSDC opened doors, but consistent effort and engagement turned those opportunities into lasting success.

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

Persistence can get you to the door, but consistency is the key that unlocks it. I wish I had understood how vital this principle is, especially as a diverse supplier. Building meaningful relationships and proving your value over time are what truly create opportunities.

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For more information on 22nd Century Technologies Inc., please visit: tscti.com or follow them on social media: LinkedIn, Facebook and X.

MBE Spotlight

Beverly White, President of BKW Transformation Group, has worked in both domestic and international settings within major corporations, bringing a wealth of experience to her professional endeavors. Passionate about helping clients transition from their current state to a targeted future state, including implementing AI strategies, she is certified in AI strategy, Six Sigma, and other advanced methodologies.

In addition to holding a master’s degree in Business, Beverly has completed executive programs in business at esteemed institutions such as Kellogg and Dartmouth. While she does not claim to know everything, she possesses extensive knowledge of business operations and is deeply committed to problem-solving and research. Beverly excels in creating roadmaps for success and prioritizes enhancing the knowledge and capabilities of her clients and peers by leveraging their unique experiences and perspectives.

Dedicated to lifelong learning, Beverly actively engages in studies on business and technology through renowned institutions like MIT and insights from Big Five experts. For her, the journey of learning is ongoing and ever-evolving.

About BKW Transformation Group

BKW Transformation Group specializes in strategy, process improvement, technology, and change management. Our focus is on driving competitive performance within and across teams, helping clients achieve even greater success. We aim to take what’s best in our clients and make it better.

We are expanding our subcontractor opportunities, collaborating with clients where we can deliver measurable value. Our solutions extend to key areas such as sustainability and organizational health, ensuring comprehensive support for long-term success.

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

For us, it means the same as it does for non-minority businesses: providing valuable solutions to our target markets. However, as a minority-owned business, we often face additional challenges, such as gaining access and overcoming perceptions of lower performance. Despite these hurdles, we remain committed to delivering exceptional results and consistently perform at a high level.

How has being certified with the NMSDC helped your business?

Being certified with the NMSDC has helped by opening doors to key companies and organizations, providing the support needed to effectively pitch my business. This certification has been a valuable tool in gaining access to new opportunities and expanding our reach.

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

The constantly evolving landscape of business.

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For more information on BKW Transformation Group, please visit: thebkwgroup.com or follow them on social media: Facebook and X.

MBE Spotlight

Colin Hall, an entrepreneur and founder of Alpha International Travel, started his company in 1984, bringing over 30 years of experience to the travel industry. With no marketing budget at the time, Colin conducted his own market research by polling passersby on the streets of Manhattan while working as a FedEx courier. Driven by a strong work ethic, he self-funded his business by juggling multiple jobs, embodying the true Jamaican spirit. Colin is also passionate about supporting others, often making introductions and connecting people with mutually beneficial opportunities. He holds a BS from the University of Pittsburgh and completed the Building High Performing Business program at Dartmouth Tuck School of Business in 2012. 

Outside of work, Colin is deeply involved in his community through Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and his church. A proud husband and father of two adult children, Colin enjoys staying active with golf, soccer, and basketball. He’s also a passionate fan of the Yankees and Cowboys.

About Alpha International Travel

Alpha International Travel Inc. (AIT) is a boutique travel management company founded in 1994 by Colin Hall. As one of the few 100% black-owned businesses in the field, AIT specializes in delivering personalized domestic and international travel services with a boutique touch.

AIT is hosted by Internova/Global Travel Collections (GTC), a premier travel management company with over $24 billion in annual sales and ranked #11 in Travel Weekly’s 2024 Power List. This partnership enables AIT to offer competitive pricing, exclusive perks, and access to top-tier resources while maintaining its signature high-touch service.

At AIT, we provide each client with a dedicated advisor who is committed to understanding your needs and delivering expert guidance. From planning to execution, our consultants ensure a seamless travel experience, leveraging in-depth destination knowledge and insider tips. Our services include vendor negotiations, policy consultation, visa and passport support, proprietary discounts, and VIP priority status with airlines and hotels.

We also offer 24/7 support for peace of mind during emergencies. Recognized for excellence and resilience, AIT and Colin Hall were honored with the 2024 Supplier of the Year Award by the New York and New Jersey Minority Supplier Development Council.

Experience the perfect balance of boutique service and global resources with AIT—a trusted partner in travel management.

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

Being a minority business means that I am participating in the economy in a fundamental way by providing people with a livelihood.  It also shows what can be accomplished by minority vendors and expands the view of what is achievable by minorities and spur others to greater accomplishments.

How has being certified with the NMSDC helped your business?

Being certified with the NMSDC gives us the opportunity to bid for contracts with companies seeking to diversify their vendor base.

It also provides clients with the assurance that we are a vetted company with the experience and credentials to provide our services.

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

One thing I wish I had known when I was starting out in my career is the value of having mentors and advisors who could provide more guidance. Their experience and insights would have helped me avoid common pitfalls, navigate challenges more effectively, and better understand how to access capital, secure funding, and manage finances. Having the right mentors would have accelerated my growth and provided a clearer path to success.

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For more information on Alpha International Travel, please visit: alphatravel.net.

MBE Spotlight

Ellie Reda, a Hispanic woman CEO of Stratford Solutions, leads an IT staffing firm based in New Jersey. With roots in Brooklyn and a deep connection to her Colombian heritage, Elizabeth founded Stratford Solutions in 2015, growing it into a certified WMBE, DBE, and SBE provider. She brings over two decades of expertise in contract staffing, with a focus on database and data warehousing, business intelligence, and application development talent solutions. Elizabeth is committed to advancing diversity in tech by connecting highly skilled professionals with impactful roles and fostering inclusivity through strategic partnerships across the industry.

About Stratford Solutions Inc.

Stratford Solutions Inc., an IT staffing firm in New Jersey, stands as a certified WMBE, DBE, and SBE dedicated to connecting exceptional talent with industry leaders. Established in 2015, Stratford Solutions specializes in placing skilled professionals across database and data warehousing, business intelligence, and application development fields. Known for its commitment to diversity and excellence, Stratford Solutions empowers organizations to achieve their goals with a strong focus on inclusivity and innovation. Under the leadership of CEO Ellie Reda, the firm is passionate about advancing opportunities for minority and underrepresented professionals in the tech sector.

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

Being a minority business means proudly embracing and reflecting the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and strengths that make up our communities. It’s about more than just representation; it’s about the resilience and unique perspective that minority-owned businesses bring to the table. For me, it means using my platform to show that success and impact are within reach for anyone, regardless of background.

Supporting minority businesses is equally powerful. It’s an opportunity to uplift those who have historically faced challenges accessing the same resources or networks. By partnering with and promoting these businesses, we build a more equitable and inclusive economy. Each connection, contract, and success story contributes to a larger movement for diversity and opportunity, ultimately benefiting society as a whole.

How has being certified with the NMSDC helped your business?

Being certified with the NMSDC has been invaluable for Stratford Solutions. The certification opened doors to opportunities with corporations and government agencies seeking to diversify their supplier base, and it positioned us as a trusted partner in the tech staffing field. The NMSDC’s network has enabled us to connect with like-minded businesses and industry leaders committed to diversity, providing valuable networking, mentorship, and collaboration opportunities.

Through the NMSDC, we’ve showcased our capabilities to larger organizations, including securing contracts with the City of New York. This certification has helped us build credibility, expand our reach, and grow our business while supporting our mission to elevate diverse talent in tech.

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

One thing I wish I had known early on is the power of intentional networking. At first, I focused primarily on honing my technical skills and knowledge, believing that hard work alone would propel my career. While those qualities are essential, I later realized that building relationships and surrounding yourself with mentors and advocates can open doors in ways that skills alone sometimes cannot. Meaningful connections offer guidance, new perspectives, and resources that are crucial for growth, especially as an entrepreneur. Knowing this from the start would have helped me establish a strong support network even sooner.

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For more information on Stratford Solutions, please visit: stratfordsolutionsinc.com or follow them on LinkedIn.

MBE Spotlight

The Founder and CEO of The Ultimate Side Dish brings many years of experience in crafting the company’s signature product. Born out of a deep love, passion, and a cherished family potato salad recipe created by the family’s Matriarch, the business honors tradition while offering a delightful experience tailored to modern palates.

About The Ultimate Side Dish

Founded in August 2020, Ultimate Side Dish By Evelyn delivers the fresh taste of home with real ingredients and no preservatives. Discover a heavenly potato salad that keeps customers coming back for more, where “One Spoonful Is Simply Not Enough.” Each batch pays tribute to the legacy of the Matriarch who first created this recipe, carefully prepared with a perfect blend of flavors using only the freshest ingredients.

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

Being a minority business, or supporting minority businesses, means creating opportunities for brand visibility, variety, and options within the communities we serve.

How has being certified with the NMSDC helped your business?

Since I was recently certified, I am still in the early stages of the process. However, I look forward to exploring new opportunities in the food service and retail sectors.

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

I wish I had known that the people who are supposed to have all the answers sometimes don’t.

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For more information on Ultimate Side Dish, please visit: ultimatesidedish.com or follow them on Instagram or Facebook.

MBE Spotlight

Sanjeev Welling, Co-Founder and CEO of Avira Digital, leads a technology services firm specializing in digital transformation and AI-driven solutions. With over 20 years of experience, he drives innovation and strategic growth. Under his leadership, Avira Digital has become a leader in delivering transformative solutions that enhance business operations

Sanjeev’s expertise spans multiple technology sectors, with significant experience in digital platforms and data-driven initiatives. Previously, he headed the technology division of a global conglomerate, managing M&A and integration efforts. At Avira Digital, Sanjeev continues to push the boundaries of technology, advancing AI and digital transformation to achieve impactful results and industry-leading efficiency.

About Avira Digital

Avira Digital is a leading technology solutions provider specializing in digital transformation and innovation across diverse industries. We offer a comprehensive suite of services—including cloud solutions, AI-driven analytics, and technology consulting—designed to help organizations navigate the complexities of today’s digital landscape.

Our purpose-driven platform leverages generative AI-powered analytics and self-service tools to deliver actionable insights directly to business users, empowering better decision-making and enhancing operational efficiency. With expertise in cloud-native app development and strategic consulting, we provide tailored solutions that drive sustainable business growth.

Committed to excellence and client-centric service, we partner with clients to create transformative technology strategies that align with their unique needs and goals.

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

Being a minority business means embracing diversity and innovation. It enables us to offer unique perspectives, drive inclusive growth, and create opportunities for underrepresented communities. Supporting minority businesses helps build a more equitable marketplace where diverse voices are both empowered and valued.

How has being certified with the NMSDC helped your business?

The NMSDC certification has strengthened our credibility and opened valuable opportunities to connect with corporate partners committed to supplier diversity. It has expanded our network and positioned us to collaborate with organizations focused on inclusive sourcing, paving the way for future partnerships and growth.

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

I wish I had known the importance of balancing innovation with scalability early on. Ensuring solutions are both forward-thinking and sustainable is key to long-term success.

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For more information on Avira Digital, please visit: aviradigital.com or follow them on LinkedIn, Facebook, or X.

MBE Spotlight

Danielle Chery is a self-taught artist and the founder of DMC Original Art, an award-winning home decor business based in Brooklyn, NY. What began in 2012 as her hobby has evolved into a passion that led her to launch her own business in 2021.

She specializes in creating functional abstract art for residential and commercial spaces, drawing inspiration from the vibrant, dynamic flow of nature. In addition to her art, Danielle is a published author with a deep love for travel. Having explored over 60 international cities, her experiences abroad serve as a constant source of creative inspiration. She embraces the motto, “Happy is the girl who travels the world.” Whether wandering the streets of Brooklyn or discovering new destinations abroad, these experiences shape her artistic vision.

Passionate about teaching, Danielle also leads workshops, guiding participants of all ages through the meditative process of creating fluid art.

About DMC Original Art

DMC Original Art creates custom decor for both residential and commercial interiors, as well as special events. Our collection includes wall and table art, such as canvas paintings, marble-like ceramic coasters, wooden serving trays, and custom-painted tiles for kitchen and bathroom backsplashes. Every piece is a handcrafted, functional work of art, inspired by nature’s colorful flow, designed to elevate any space.

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

Being a minority business owner holds deep meaning for me, both personally and professionally. As the first business owner in my family, it represents breaking new ground and creating opportunities where none previously existed. I take pride in offering goods and services of real value to the marketplace and in bringing my unique perspective into procurement spaces.

It’s also about building a legacy—paving the way for future generations in my family and community to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. Every piece of art I create, every product I design, and every service I provide reflects that pride and my commitment to quality.

How has being certified with the NMSDC helped your business?

Being certified by the NMSDC has provided valuable opportunities for my business. It’s given me access to unique events where I can network with other certified minority-owned businesses and connect with corporations that are committed to diversifying their suppliers. These events have helped me establish important relationships and explore potential partnerships that support the growth of DMC Original Art.

The certification also adds a level of credibility that helps open doors in procurement spaces, and it’s been a great way to connect with companies that prioritize working with diverse suppliers.

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

One thing I wish I had known when starting out in my career is the importance of understanding strategic marketing. Early on, I was so focused on creating my art and building my business that I didn’t fully grasp how essential it is to have a clear marketing strategy in place. It’s not just about having a great product or service—it’s about knowing how to position it, connect with the right audience, and communicate its value effectively.

Learning the key elements of strategic marketing—like branding, audience targeting, and leveraging the right platforms—has been crucial to growing my business. If I had understood the power of marketing earlier, I believe it would have helped me scale faster and reach more customers. Now, I see how valuable it is to invest time and effort into marketing from the start, as it plays such a pivotal role in building long-term success.

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For more information on DMC Original Art, please visit: dmcoriginalart.com or follow them on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn.

MBE Spotlight

Aneesha Varma serves as the Director of Client Relations and Strategy for the healthcare team at Diverse Lynx. In this role, she thrives on the dynamic challenges of business development, from cultivating new client relationships to strengthening existing partnerships. She is passionate about driving growth and ensuring client success. Managing operations across global teams keeps her engaged and continuously learning, which she considers one of the most rewarding aspects of her job. With an MBA from NYU Stern, she brings both a strategic mindset and a collaborative approach to everything she does.

Outside of work, Aneesha embraces the energy of New York City—exploring new workout classes, catching up on podcasts, and discovering hidden gem restaurants. Travel is her ultimate escape, and she prioritizes exploring new destinations whenever possible. Whether at work or on the go, she remains curious, inspired, and connected.

About Diverse Lynx

Founded in 2002, Diverse Lynx is a leading provider of IT and healthcare staffing solutions. Headquartered in New Jersey, the company has expanded into a global enterprise with a presence across the USA, Canada, UK, EU, Philippines, and India. With a workforce of over 2,000 employees and women holding more than 50% of leadership roles, Diverse Lynx is deeply committed to diversity and inclusion. As a woman-owned business, it has built a reputation for delivering top-tier talent and innovative workforce solutions, helping organizations meet their staffing needs while fostering a culture of growth, diversity, and excellence.

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

At Diverse Lynx, being a woman-owned business is not just a designation—it embodies our core values of diversity, equity, and inclusion. It means breaking barriers, amplifying the voices of women in leadership, and creating pathways for underrepresented groups to thrive. With over 50% of leadership roles held by women, we strive to foster an environment where diverse perspectives are celebrated and innovation is driven by inclusion.

As a minority business, we actively recruit from underserved communities, helping individuals find their dream jobs and creating pathways to success for those facing the greatest barriers. We’ve proudly partnered with a school dedicated to helping girls in underprivileged areas graduate high school, reinforcing the importance of creating opportunities for those who need them most. This experience has deepened our commitment to supporting minority businesses and communities.

I find myself continuously learning from these different individuals and communities while helping them realize their potential and create opportunities where they may not have existed before.

How has being certified with the NMSDC helped your business?

Being certified with the NMSDC has been instrumental to Diverse Lynx’s growth and success. This certification has opened doors to a vast network of corporate partners and opportunities that align with our values of diversity and inclusion. It has enhanced our credibility as a minority-owned business and allowed us to connect with like-minded organizations that are committed to fostering diversity in their supply chains. For over 20 years, we’ve benefited from networking, meaningful conversations, and personal connections within the NMSDC community.

Through the NMSDC, we’ve gained access to resources and collaboration opportunities that have helped us innovate, expand our reach, and build impactful partnerships. The certification has been a catalyst for growth, empowering us to better support our mission of creating pathways for underrepresented talent and reinforcing our commitment to giving back to communities.

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

I wish I had known the importance of staying curious, always being open to learning, and never becoming complacent. Curiosity is a powerful driver—it pushes you to question, explore, and go beyond your comfort zone. The most successful people aren’t those who know everything but those who seek to know more and surround themselves with others who are knowledgeable.

In today’s fast-paced, ever-evolving world, continuous learning is crucial for long-term success. Industries—whether technology, healthcare, or business—are rapidly changing, making it essential to keep skills sharp and knowledge current. Embracing a mindset of lifelong learning helps you stay ahead, remain competitive, and seize opportunities that others might miss.

Curiosity not only enhances problem-solving abilities but also builds resilience, allowing you to adapt to change with confidence. Whether learning a new technology, attending workshops, or seeking mentorship from diverse perspectives, there’s always something new to discover.

By staying curious and consistently learning, you not only future-proof your career but also unlock endless potential for innovation and personal fulfillment.

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For more information on Diverse Lynx, please visit: diverselynx.com or follow them on LinkedIn.