Empowering Women in Business: Highlights from Aiken’s 4th Women in Business Symposium

Empowering Through Experience: Aiken’s Women in Business Symposium

Aiken, South Carolina, was buzzing with inspiration on October 25, 2024, as the 4th Women in Business Symposium took place at USC Aiken. This vibrant gathering was an amazing opportunity for local women to share their insights, experiences, and valuable advice on navigating the world of business. Aiken is fortunate to have a strong group of female leaders, and four of the five women on the City Council participated in a lively panel discussion that left attendees feeling motivated and equipped to take on their entrepreneurial aspirations.

Sharing Experiences and Valuable Insights

The panel featured Mayor Teddy Milner, along with City Council members Kay Brohl, Gail Diggs, and Lessie Price. These remarkable women discussed their personal experiences in the professional landscape and offered practical suggestions for establishing and maintaining a successful business. They emphasized the importance of learning from both successes and failures, which is often key to cultivating a flourishing enterprise.

Lessie Price, who manages community relations and government affairs for AECOM, opened the discussion with an impactful piece of advice: “My advice would be to get input from someone else who already is successful, No. 1,” she shared. She further elaborated on how learning from those who have faced challenges – including those who have failed – can provide invaluable perceptions on running a successful business.

The Power of Confidence and Resilience

Kay Brohl, who boasts experience in public relations and various international endeavors, underscored the significance of confidence in business. “You need to pitch your idea with conviction,” she encouraged attendees. Recognizing that obstacles are part of the journey, Brohl championed being resilient, urging aspiring entrepreneurs to embrace challenges rather than shy away from them. “Market your product or services, whatever you have, in order to reach your audience,” she added, highlighting the importance of understanding one’s market.

Brohl also expressed the value of mentorship, noting how giving back can create a supportive community for upcoming entrepreneurs. This advice aligns perfectly with the spirit of the symposium, where sharing knowledge and forging connections were central themes.

Financial Preparedness and Passion

Gail Diggs, who previously owned a party supply store and now serves as the director of outreach and community services for Rural Health Services, stressed the necessity of financial preparation for anyone looking to start a business. “You’ve got to have some money first,” she remarked, sharing her own experiences of not paying herself while managing overhead costs.

Importantly, Diggs also reflected on her journey toward finding a career that aligned with her passions. “Sometimes it’s not about the money; it’s about what you can give back,” she expressed. This philosophy reflects a broader theme at the symposium, showcasing how personal fulfillment can be just as significant as profitability.

Never Say Never

Mayor Teddy Milner, who has owned two restaurants during her career, shared her story of determination, asserting, “Never say never,” regarding the power of perseverance. Milner’s journey from having no cooking experience to successfully running eateries serves as an encouraging testament for anyone considering venturing into their business.

Dr. Sanela Porca, the executive director of USC Aiken’s Pacer Center, expertly moderated the discussion, ensuring each speaker had the opportunity to impart their wisdom. The event also featured a special appearance by Roberta Tardani, the mayor of Aiken’s sister city in Italy, Orvieto, who offered her greetings via video presentation, further enriching the symposium’s international atmosphere.

Creating a Strong Community

While all four panelists shared valuable insights, it was clear that Aiken’s focus on supporting women in business is both a community effort and a source of empowerment. With such strong female leadership, Aiken is setting an example of how collaboration and encouragement can foster a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.

The Women in Business Symposium not only brought local leaders together but also served as a vibrant reminder of the strength that comes from sharing experiences and lifting one another up. Aiken is indeed lucky to have such inspiring role models in the community!