Cameka Smith is the founder of The BOSS Network. BOSS, an acronym for “Bringing Out Successful Sisters” serves to promote and encourage the business spirit and professional development of women. The BOSS Network is a community of career and entrepreneurial women who support each other through conversation, online and event-based networking.
How did the idea for The BOSS Network come about?
I wanted to increase my network of professional women. I didn’t see any outlets for young women of color in Chicago to network and support each other’s endeavors and so I decided to start a series of events that allowed women to be in that space. The BOSS Network is the Facebook for professional women to connect. I think what makes us unique is that we live in the online space as oppose to a traditional women’s organizations. We still have face to face events to connect women, but there is so much more opportunity to reach women all across the country and expand your network internationally social media platforms, live chats and webinars hosted online.
Who inspires you?
My network inspires me. When I started, I reached out to every woman I knew that had access to resources and business experience that could share their journey to success with me. They’ve done just that and I took all the wisdom and advice and put it into my own business model.
What accomplishment makes you proudest?
The proudest moment for me as a business woman has to be being listed in Forbes magazine as one of the top 10 online business networks for women alongside of Oprah, Martha Stewart, etc, after launching our online network 6 months prior. It showed me what dedication, passion and team work could produce.
Any favorite affirmations?
Do unto other as you would have them do unto you. Good karma is a beast 🙂
What do you do to unwind?
I spend time with my family and friends or watch a funny movie… Laughter is good for the soul.
Any advice or words of wisdom for aspiring entrepreneurs?
Do your research. Before you ask for assistance from someone else take time to do some self-education online studying the trends of your business or shadowing someone in your field.
What’s next for The BOSS Network?
Our current goals for BOSS next year is to build stronger alliances with professional organizations and brand partners to expand our reach. We are launching our new website in January of 2014 and it will provide more resources and content to members of The BOSS Network to have professional growth. I have an amazing team of women who work with me to provide our members with the latest information on developing as a career woman to starting and maintaining a thriving business.
For more info on The BOSS Network, log onto www.thebossnetwork.org or email any inquiries to [email protected].
