Miss EmpowHer Blog

Networking for Success: How to Build Powerful Connections as a Woman

@emmstell Networking is a crucial element in the journey towards personal and professional success. Whether you're aiming to delve into a specific career field, broaden your social circle, or uncover new opportunities, effective networking can be a game-changer. The key is to approach it as a genuine and mutually beneficial exchange rather than a mere transaction. Here's a beginner's guide to mastering the art of networking. 1. Leverage Online Platforms: Utilize resources like LinkedIn, Handshake, indeed, and even industry conferences. College students? Leverage LinkedIn to find alumni working in your dream industry – they can be valuable mentors! 2. Set Clear Goals: Prioritize quality over quantity when reaching out to individuals. Before making connections, ask yourself, "Who do I want to meet and why?" Having a clear goal in mind ensures meaningful and purposeful networking interactions. 3. Research is Key: Once you've initiated a conversation and scheduled a meeting, invest time in research. Familiarize yourself with the individual's professional background and take note of any personal interests. Did you notice interesting volunteer work on their profile? Mention it! It shows you're genuinely interested. 4. Craft a Compelling Elevator Pitch: Perfect your introduction by creating a concise and compelling elevator pitch. Include details about your current involvements, relevant work experiences, and your career aspirations. 5. Stay Connected: Networking doesn't end with the initial conversation. Keep the momentum going by staying in touch. Regularly check-in, share updates on your progress, or extend congratulations for their achievements. Building a lasting connection requires ongoing engagement and mutual support. Remember, networking is about building relationships, not just collecting contacts. By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to building a powerful network that fuels your success!

5 Reasons Why Maria from “The Bachelor” Is A Role Model for Confidence

@maria.georgas If you’re anything like me, your Monday nights are reserved for watching “The Bachelor.” Since the newest season aired on January 22 for Joey Graziadei’s season, fans have been obsessed (myself included). One contestant in particular has drawn extreme attention on social media, largely due to her confidence and “take it or leave it” personality. That contestant is none other than Maria Georgas, a 29-year-old executive assistant from Canada. During the show, Maria has faced her fair share of obstacles as she has been bullied by many of the other contestants. Through all of this, Maria has remained confident and graceful, and has set a great example for girls everywhere. Here are 5 reasons why Maria is the perfect role model for confidence: She Doesn’t Let Drama Get the Best of Her While in Malta for episode four, Maria was put on a two-on-one date with another contestant, Sydney Gordon, who had taken issue with Maria for what seemed like no reason. The date was on a boat in a beautiful location, and even though a two-on-one wasn’t ideal, Maria still remained optimistic about her relationship with Joey and even managed to make jokes with him despite Sydney being present. Sydney made multiple jabs at Maria in her discussion with Joey, saying, “Maria… is not someone you would want as your wife” and claimed that Maria had been disrespectful to multiple other women in the house (which we have not seen evidence of, btw). In Maria’s discussion with Joey, she simply tells him that she is there to further what she has with him, not to focus on petty drama. That’s how you ignore drama and focus on yourself! She Makes Bold Moves In episode three, Maria was having a one-on-one discussion with Joey, while wearing a gorgeous white corset dress. She turns to Joey and says “I can’t breathe in this dress” and mentions that she needed to “slip into something more comfortable.” When Maria returns, she is wearing a black lace two-piece dress. The bold move left Joey too stunned to speak. This bold energy has helped her to go after what she wants in such a competitive environment. She Works Smarter, Not Harder In episode six of “The Bachelor” Maria was chosen for a one-on-one “princess” date with Joey. While in the car on their way to their destination, Maria attempts to teach Joey a few words in French. She asks Joey to say “je t’aime,” and he does, unaware that this phrase means “I love you.” With this, Maria is the first contestant of the season to get Joey to utter those three little words… Who said it had to be in English? She Takes Accountability In a TikTok video posted February 18, Maria explained that she didn’t consider herself completely innocent in the drama on the show. “I’m not innocent in this,” Maria said. “If I could go back, honestly, I would do things differently, especially when whatever you’re gonna say or do is just not gonna make the other person happy.” Maria also explained that taking accountability doesn’t mean not defending yourself when you or your character is being attacked. “I like to say that I am a woman that speaks her mind and will defend herself at all costs. That’s just how I was raised,” Maria said. She added in text placed over the video,“When it comes to defending my character, I will stand up for myself every damn time.” She’s the Ultimate Girl’s Girl In the same TikTok video posted by Maria, she explained how she didn’t want to place blame on other people, and instead wanted to encourage an atmosphere of positivity. “I really do want to give grace to all of the women involved,” Maria said. “Being in an environment like this, it heightens everything. Your emotions, everything is just overwhelming. So it does get the best of us at times and it did get the best of me.” Even though she faced relentless bullying on the show from multiple other contestants, Maria didn’t let it get the best of her, and even acknowledged that the environment of the show and constant filming heightened the tension for everyone involved. I think this is the perfect example of rising above and “killing with kindness.”

Here’s to Barbiecore and to no longer being “not like other girls”

@pinterest Barbiecore has entered the fashion zeitgeist as the hottest fashion trend of the summer, courtesy of director Greta Gerwig, whose highly-anticipated, upcoming Barbie movie has everyone excited to see Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling grace the screen in hot pink neon. Barbiecore is a fashion movement filled with a flood of hot pink and magenta colors, usually being worn on dresses, skirts, and platform heels, allowing girls to embrace unapologetic girliness and femininity, like Barbie herself. It is the latest in a long line of fashion trends sweeping the world of fashion, but its relevance goes beyond good looking clothes. Barbiecore offers a rebuttal of the “not like other girls phenomenon,” a form of denouncing femininity, in which girls proudly declare themselves as being “not like other girls,” in order to gain more respect for themselves and to make themselves seem more desirable to boys. The term “not like other girls,” hints at a low-maintenance girl who isn’t afraid to eat lots of food, isn’t shrill, and doesn’t care about her appearance, but does so by putting down the type of girl who does care about all of those things. Pushback against the “not like other girls” trope has been long standing, with its sexist connotations being emphasized. Barbiecore is a celebration of femininity by letting girls know that it is okay to be like other girls, wearing pink and caring about your appearance. The implicit joy of these bright colors is a welcome change from other fashion movements. It’s warm and cheerful, implying and prioritizing the happiness of the wearer. Encouragingly, Barbiecore has caught on in a big way, with celebrities stepping out in full pink. Female celebrities who have exuded this girl power aesthetic include: Zendaya, Lana Condor, Sydney Sweeney, Hwasa, Anne Hathway, Ariana DeBose, Ashley Park, Anya Taylor-Joy, Kylie Jenner, Lizzo, Hailey Bieber, Florence Pugh, and Kim Kardashian. The verdict is in: Barbiecore has been the answer to our “not like other girls” prayers. Now, if you say that you’re like other girls, the response should be: come on Barbie, let's go party. How to get the Barbiecore look: There are a few hallmarks for the Barbiecore look. Barbiecore is all about the cohesion and the soft lines of the silhouette. Outfits are typically form fitting and polished, giving an elevated look to casual clothes worn on a daily basis. Think Cher from Clueless. Barbiecore can be either minimalist or maximalist. Like the original mattel doll, you can come with whatever accessories you'd like. Articles of clothing to buy: Platform heels Plastic skirts Heavily-patterned Y2K vintage Fuzzy slippers Heart shaped glasses Hairbands Colors to look out for: (hint: there’s so much pink) Bubblegum pink Hot pink Magenta Neon/highlighter colors Reminder: the louder the hue, the better. Makeup: With this also comes an unapologetic attitude towards makeup Lip gloss Pink eyeshadow A touch of glitter Pink nails (either pale pink or a darker shade) Once you get the Barbiecore look down, you’ll be a Barbie girl in a Barbie world.

Empowered Women, Power Women

@pinterest We’ve all, if not most of us, have experienced a time where we felt as though we didn’t quite fit in. Receiving side eyes, snide remarks, and backhanded compliments from other girls alike. But ladies, let’s be real, have you ever been one of those mean girls? Because we’ve grown and matured we’d like to think that being a “mean girl” is a thing of the past. It seems elementary, immature even, and it is but that does not mean that this trope doesn’t exist in our adult lives and that some of us have adopted it at times. Try to think of a time where you may not have been a light in another woman’s life. Even if you can’t or can, here are some ways we can do better by each other. Turn “Competition” into Congratulation We as women have fought for so long to have a valuable seat at the table. Whether that be in tech, in the OR, or on the Supreme Court. We know what it means to work ten times harder therefore whenever you see another woman achieving great things, celebrate her. In the end, it's a win for all of us. Dish Out Random Compliments Have you ever been walking down the street and really liked someone's hair, shoes, etc? Let her know! You may have to step out of your comfort zone but it’ll brighten another woman’s day. Scrolling on Instagram and liking a picture is one thing but try swiping up on a story and spreading love, it’ll mean a lot. Embrace What Makes Us Different As we head into the big girl world, we will be introduced to women from various backgrounds, different sizes, skin tones, dialects, all the things that make us uniquely beautiful. Instead of allowing these facets to create a divide, allow them to create a space of unity. Help A Girl Out If you see another woman’s hair out of place, kindly ask if you could fix it. If you see that another woman is struggling with something, lend a hand. We are not placed on this earth to gate keep kindness. Spread it! To be a truly empowered woman, it takes a little bit of self reflection. Don’t be afraid to acknowledge your faults and, most importantly, grow from them. Hopefully these four tips will allow you to build and foster safer and more uplifting spaces!

How Savage X Fenty Helped Miss EmpowHer Empower Women

Rihanna is inspiring the next generation of Black Women Entrepreneurs. @badgalriri When Rihanna launched Savage x Fenty, I was inspired. Like me, Rihanna does not have a background in business, and she does not fit the typical profile of an entrepreneur that is often celebrated in the media. Even though less than 1% of black women receive venture capital funding, Rihanna defied the odds, secured venture capital funding, and hired some of the best talents in the world to launch one of the most disruptive brands of the 21st century. Her entrepreneurial journey has inspired many Black women like me to start their entrepreneurial journeys. I knew the world was changing after watching Rihanna launch Savage x Fenty, a lingerie brand that celebrates fearless, confidence, and inclusivity. A direct challenge to the prominent legacy lingerie brand of the time that built its empire on exclusivity. @missempowher @looksattached The success of Savage X Fenty showed me that there would be opportunities for women that looked like me. I just needed to look for people willing to invest in me, support my vision, and help me turn my dreams into a reality. Most importantly, Rihanna's courage to launch Savage x Fenty helped me overcome my feelings of imposter syndrome because I realized that no one is you, and that is your power. Different people have similar ideas at the surface, but no one can execute them like you, and no one can turn those ideas into reality as you can. After a few months of building my confidence and entrepreneurship courses, I launched Miss EmpowHer, my women empowerment brand dedicated to helping women of all shades and shapes feel confident and empowered. @missempowher @looksattached Watching Savage x Fenty evolve over the years has also challenged me to ask myself questions like: How can Miss EmpowHer be better? How can we better connect with our audience and deliver a brand experience that resonates with them? One of how I challenged myself was through partnership opportunities. We recently partnered with a digital magazine, Looks Attached, to celebrate confidence, inclusivity, and women empowerment in their latest room, "UNAPOLOGETIC.” The Savage X Fenty team even supported our creative vision by sending our team lingerie for the photoshoot campaign. @missempowher @looksattached Miss EmpowHer would not exist without Rihanna launching Savage x Fenty. Rihanna’s success and visibility represent the importance of representation in the entrepreneurial community and media. It inspires Gen-Z entrepreneurs like myself. I’m grateful that young women will grow up with the confidence to start their entrepreneurship journey because they'll be able to see entrepreneurial journeys like Rihanna’s and mine being told in the media.

Celebrities Are Using their Platforms to Spread Body-Positive Messages

For years, celebrities, especially female celebrities, have been viewed as representative of beauty ideals unattainable for the average person. Some, however, are now using their platforms do combat this perception of celebrities and influencers as perfect. Celebrities such as Anne Hathaway and Ashley Graham are encouraging body positivity from their followers through honest posts and motivating words. Ashley Graham encouraged her followers to embrace their bodies this summer, writing on Instagram “Believe me when i say your body is beautiful, and i know it's easy to tell yourself the lie that you're not good enough, thin enough, sexy enough, 'flawless' enough to wear a tank top or a swimsuit, but it's hot out there and so are you.” @ashleygraham Hilary Duff also shared on Instagram a photo of her in a swimsuit with a body-positive caption: “Ladies, let’s be proud of what we’ve got and stop wasting precious time in the day wishing we were different, better, and unflawed.” Amy Schumer expressed gratitude for her post-pregnancy body on Instagram, writing in her comments to followers “I am loving my warm soft post baby body. Grateful to be feeling so strong again!” Serena Williams shared a photo of her daughter and celebrated her strength and beauty with her caption: “I was looking at my daughter (OMG, yes, I have a daughter 😳) and she has my arms and legs! My exact same strong, muscular, powerful, sensational arms and body. I don’t know how I would react if she has to go through what I’ve gone through since I was a 15 year old and even to this day….” @serenawilliams Lena Dunham shared a nude photo of herself and encouraged her followers to practice self-love with the caption “Any negativity that comes your way is just an excuse to love yourself even more, right? Comment below with a reason you love yourself.” On Instagram, Anne Hathaway commented on the unrealistic expectations that new mothers face. She shares “There is no shame in gaining weight during pregnancy (or ever). There is no shame if it takes longer than you think it will to lose the weight (if you want to lose it at all). There is no shame in finally breaking down and making your own jean shorts because last summer‘s are just too dang short for this summer’s thighs. Bodies change. Bodies grow. Bodies shrink. It’s all love (don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.)” Danielle Brooks expressed gratitude for her body on Instagram, too, writing “Why I am grateful for MY BODY: The body is your ride or die, literally. So I’m thankful for Good Health!! I’m thankful that my body functions at 💯 regardless of the imperfections the world might see. It holds me up. It sustains me through long work weeks. It takes me on trips around the world, and carries me through my most stressful days and my most exciting. My body has my back, because it knows that I am learning to listen to what it needs to have it function at its best. I don’t take my body for granted, so thank you body for taking me on an incredible ride this year!” @daniebb3 This summer, follow celebrities and influencers who inspire you to feel confident and celebrate your summer body and share your body positive posts with us on Instagram!

Feel Like an Imposter? Don't Worry, You’re Not Alone.

My Journey Have you ever felt like in whichever setting or place you’re in, you do not belong? Like those around you will somehow one day discover you’re an imposter who does not deserve any of the accomplishments you have achieved? If so, I am here to tell you that you’re not alone. Having grown up in the South to immigrant parents from Mexico, I was never able to receive the guidance and mentorship I needed throughout my educational experience. As a result, my experience was filled with the pursuit of self-discovery all while also trying to navigate things like learning to read and write in English to going through the college application process. Throughout my educational experience, I always felt as if there was a need for me to go above and beyond in order to be at the same academic level as my classmates. However, even when doing so and being rewarded for it, I felt as if my efforts were only recognized for the pure sake of being the only Latinx student in my classes. This feeling continued into college where I often heard things like “you only got in because you’re Hispanic” and as much as I hate to say it, it got to me. I had (and continue to) struggle participating in class given the fear of saying something incorrect even when part of me knows that I’m not. However, if there is one thing college has taught me is that neither I nor you are alone. This cruel and hard to combat feeling is nothing other than the imposter syndrome. Imposter Syndrome? What does that look like? The imposter syndrome is a psychological phenomenon referring to a pattern of behavior in which individuals doubt their accomplishments and have a consistent, often internalized fear of being exposed as an imposter. Often people with imposter syndrome attribute luck or good timing to the accomplishments they have achieved. Not only that, but they often dismiss others who believe that they are more intelligent and competent than they actually are. Essentially, they remain convinced that they are not capable and do not deserve the success or position they are in. Now, with this, let’s take a look at some common signs of imposter syndrome which include: Self-Doubt Fear of being discovered Attributing own success to external factors Constant fear of not living up to expectations Negative self-talk Overachieving Constant comparison to other people Setting challenging goals and feeling disappointed when falling short Irrational fears of the future Now that I know what it is, How can I combat it? It is without a doubt that learning to overcome imposter syndrome can be challenging. However, here are some small steps you can take to combat it: Recognize imposter feelings when they emerge Remember that success is subjective Take ownership of your success Refrain failure as a learning opportunity Accept that perfectionism is impossible Set boundaries away from systems or individuals who do not contribute to your personal wellness and growth Have consistent self-care check-ins where you are kind to yourself Here's what you can do to support those with Imposter Syndrome: As someone who has been battling this syndrome for years now, I have recognized the importance of having a strong support system around me. Sharing feelings with trusted loved ones such as your parents and teachers, who have more experience, can reassure you that you’re worthy and capable of anything. Don’t let the fear of others finding out you’re a “fraud” get in the way of you seeking help. Let your guard down and let others who you trust see the real you. It is important that you recognize the symptoms of imposter syndrome amongst others. Listen to them whenever they are ready to open up but most importantly, reassure them that you’re proud and that you know they are capable of achieving all of their dreams. A Message from ME to YOU Remember that if you are ever feeling like an imposter, it means that you have achieved some form of success in your life that you’re simply neglecting. Instead, turn that feeling into gratitude and look at all that you have accomplished in life. Most individuals experience moments of doubt, and that is normal. However, we must not let that doubt control our actions. It is okay to have an imposter moment, but not an imposter life.

Recognizing Black Creativity: The Need for Black Voices on Platforms Like TikTok

Black Tiktok creators are on strike, protesting a pattern of appropriation and failure to credit black creators on the app. Many white Tik Tok creators have made millions off viral dances conceptualized by black creators on the app who receive little or no credit for their work and creativity. The phenomenon is reflective of a long history of white communities profiting at the expense of black Americans who are not compensated for their work. TikTok is one platform of many where creators are able to gain followings, share creative ideas, and receive compensation for their contributions to the platform. Young TikTok creators and audiences calling out the lack of credit given to black creators on the platform is one step towards recognition of black voices and black creators. However, racial injustice in creative fields is widespread and calls for a new norm of giving credit to black creators where credit is due. Appropriation on TikTok and other platforms is silencing to black voices on platforms that should allow freedom of expression and serve as a place for black voices to be heard. Black creators striking on the platform aim to draw attention to the importance of their contributions to the app’s success. The act of protest raises awareness about a long history of lucrative white mimicry of black creativity. The widespread lack of crediting black creators has direct implications on socioeconomic justice. A Bloomberg report found that white creators make significantly more than black creators on TikTok. Recognition leads to compensation in these cases, and creators are demanding that the discrepancy be addressed. Miss EmpowHer and other brands such as EveryStylishGirl which focus on empowerment are intertwined with social movements and current events such as the striking by TikTok creators. Empowerment involves recognition for hard work and creative contributions like those of black TikTok creators. The creators’ efforts to demand recognition and the news of the strike highlights the need for black creativity and representation of black creators on platforms such as TikTok. By appropriately recognizing and compensating black creators and artists for their contributions to these platforms, we can highlight the importance of black voices and stand up against appropriation of their work. The TikTok phenomenon that black creators are drawing attention to is reflective of a larger pattern which we can combat by supporting and demanding the recognition of black creators on the platforms we regularly use.

Celebrating Juneteenth

This Saturday, June 19th, we are celebrating one of the most important anniversaries in US history. Juneteenth commemorates the day that enslaved African-Americans in the city of Galveston were finally informed of their freedom on June 19, 1865, about two and half years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on Jan. 1, 1863. However, slavery in the US did not end on June 19th, 1865. Many states attempted to hold onto the system of slavery after the Emancipation Proclamation. Nonetheless, Juneteenth and the Emancipation Proclamation represent the federal government taking a stand against slavery. People have been celebrating Juneteenth ever since the Proclamation. In the beginning, Juneteenth was used as an occasion to help newly emancipated black people learn about their voting rights. Juneteenth celebrations have expanded to include cookouts, parades, church services, musical performances and other public events to celebrate empowerment and hope rooted in emancipation. As Juneteenth becomes more widely recognized and celebrated in the United States, we encourage you to find a way to celebrate Juneteenth in whatever way allows you to reflect on and acknowledge the history that Juneteenth represents. Below, we’ve listed a few of our ideas for how to celebrate Juneteenth this year. Support black-owned businesses Supporting black-owned businesses is a great way to celebrate Juneteenth and show support for black business owners. Find black-owned businesses to support in your area throughout June and the rest of the year to provide the goods and services you need. Celebrate and gather If you are comfortable, participate in Juneteenth celebrations held by your city or neighborhood as COVID-19 restrictions become less stringent, or celebrate with friends and family. Look forward While recognizing that Juneteenth is an important historical event to celebrate, also acknowledge the change that still needs to occur in the United States regarding racial equality. Research ways for you to protest racial inequality in your area, whether through attending events held by organizations to support black communities, participating in Juneteenth Freedom Marches, or pressuring lawmakers to prioritize legislation that takes steps towards racial equality. Donate to organizations that support black communities Celebrate Juneteenth by donating to organizations that support black communities. This is a great way to support organizations that align with your values and the causes you are passionate about. Learn the history of Juneteenth and have conversations about it It is important to celebrate Juneteenth by acknowledging the full history behind the holiday and educating yourself. You can read books and online articles about the history of Juneteenth and have open and honest conversations about the holiday with your friends and family. However, you choose to celebrate Juneteenth, remember to rest, reflect, and support others in their celebrations. Juneteenth is a day to celebrate hope, freedom, and joy. You deserve to celebrate the holiday in a way that makes you feel fulfilled and restored, however that may be.

What are Waist Beads and What are their Purpose?

Different waist beads, depending on color, can convey different values. The history of waist beads, however, does not limit who is able to wear them!