Early this summer, Kingsborough Community College was host to California-based Women’s Initiative for one of their first New York classes. Women’s Initiative provides low-income women with the training and resources they need to start their own businesses. Over the years, they have helped hundreds of women turn their personal dreams into a reality while also supporting local economies with jobs and increased incomes, all while creating a deep sense of community.
In October I had the chance to speak with three recent graduates who participated in the Kingsborough group. These women came from very different backgrounds, but all came to Women’s Initiative with a desire to take charge of their futures.
Hugette, founder of Cup-A-Cake Creations, has had an interest in culinary arts for years, even informally catering events for friends and family. Peggy’s interest lie specifically with nutritional baking–creating health-focused baked goods for all kinds of events at Frazier’s Fabulous Bakery. Charmaine, guided by her entrepreneurial spirit and support from her current employer, plans to start her catering business, Charming Delights Catering, after everything is in order.
What struck me most was the positivity coming from each of these women. The three had nothing but wonderful things to say about the training and attention they received from everyone at Women’s Initiative, from instructors to fellow participants. Talking about the instructor, Charmaine knew he cared about teaching: “this is not just a job to him.” That commitment has kept Charmaine engaged even after classes finished. She has signed up with Success Link and has already participated in a number of events including a visit to an industrial kitchen in the Bronx.
Surprisingly, each of these women have a connection to Kingsborough–from the past, present and, hopefully, near future. Peggy started here in the late 80’s, taking general education requirements that helped her earn a degree in Early Childhood Education from Brooklyn College. Hugette was a participant in CUNY CareerPATH’s Culinary Arts & Hospitality program based out of Kingsborough. Finally, after visiting Kingsborough’s campus and hearing about the culinary programs we offer, Charmaine is eager to begin training either at one of our workforce education programs or enrolling as a degree-earning student.
We are so thrilled to have been part of Women’s Initiative’s first phase of their east coast expansion and excited to hear how these women progress. If you are interested in learning more about Women’s Initiative, visit their website and sign up for an upcoming information session.