It was one of those days when the cold isn’t just a number on the thermometer—it seeps into your bones. Zero degrees Fahrenheit. That’s what my car dashboard read as I stepped outside, bracing myself against the icy air. My body was still fighting off a lingering cold from last weekend’s walk along Lake Erie, but today wasn’t a day to stay in bed.
I wrapped myself in warmth—the kind that comes from both layers and confidence. A soft, velvet suit, the kind that feels like luxury but moves like comfort. Over it, a vintage
Jordache ‘70s faux fur coat, and on my head, my trusted
Vivienne Westwood beret. People always see me wearing it, and for good reason. It’s not just a hat; it’s a statement. A reminder of everything Vivienne stood for—re-wearing, repeating, and making fashion sustainable and personal #fashionforgood. Besides, it keeps my head warm, which today was more than necessary.
I drove downtown to
Franklin University, where the
Seeds for Growth event, hosted by the
Columbus Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by
Huntington Bank, was taking place. As I pulled into the parking lot, I was grateful—really grateful—for good event planning. Clear signage led the way, sparing me from wandering around in the bitter cold searching for the entrance. Little details like that? They make all the difference.
Walking inside was like stepping into a room filled with warmth—not just from the heating, but from the people. Familiar faces, genuine smiles. Fellow
minority business owners, Chamber staff, and longtime acquaintances. These weren’t just professional contacts; they were people I truly admire. And if you’ve ever wondered why I hold the
Columbus Chamber in such high regard, it’s simple:
They care.
For years, I’ve worked with them in different capacities—first as staff for corporation and nonprofit organizations in town, then as minority-owned, woman-owned, immigrant-owned entrepreneur. No matter the role, the people remained the same:
authentic, invested, and passionate about supporting local businesses. They don’t just show up, check a box, and clock out. They are in it—front stage and backstage, during business hours and after. That kind of consistency in character? It’s rare. And it’s why I love them.
Before the official programming began, they handed us something truly special—local market vendor money to shop from various small businesses before we took our seats for lunch and a series of insightful panels. Supporting small businesses before even sitting down to learn about growth? That’s the kind of thoughtful touch that makes an event memorable and dear. But then—the moment that took my breath away.
As the first award slide appeared on the screen,
Columbus Fashion Academy logo pop up. For a second, time paused. It was a mix of excitement and gratitude. Out of all the incredible businesses in the room, our social enterprise was among the ten selected to receive a
$1,000 mini grant.
I will always remember that moment.
Receiving that check, knowing it came from an organization I admire so much, was already special. But getting to hold it alongside
Abiona Harper, one of the most genuine, remarkable people I know, made it even better. We first met a year ago through
Accelerate Columbus, and here we were, standing together again.
So yes, the check was great. The event was incredible. But what truly matters at the end of the day?
The people.
It’s always the people. That’s what life and business are about—genuine connections, lifting each other up, showing up, wearing what you love, being yourself, and showing up every day to give your gift to the world.
(📸 Official event photos coming soon!)
