Location Matters
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned in both business and life is that location matters. When I was 21, I landed my first job that wasn’t as a waitress, cashier, or in retail. I became a call center rep for a company I had never heard of growing up: T. Rowe Price. On my first day at 100 East Pratt Street, sitting in the call center answering phones, I knew I had found my calling – business. I felt at home, even as I was starting at the bottom. It was just a few miles away from where I grew up on a street in a redlined neighborhood in Baltimore City. It was a different world. People in my community didn’t talk about working at a financial services firm. My childhood mentor, at nine years old, taught me how to shoplift a swimsuit (though I didn’t follow through) and how to sneak into the public pool after hours. By fifteen, she was on welfare. Yet here I was, in an office with people in suits, discussing the stock market. It wasn’t just a job – it was a window into what was possible. Although I didn’t climb the corporate ladder there, it gave me a glimpse of a world I hadn’t known existed. That’s why I wanted my current cohort of Maryland Business Opportunity Center (MBOC) entrepreneurs to experience something similar – a beautiful office space that reflects the success they can achieve. They’re underrepresented in the business community, but part of climbing the ladder is feeling like you belong. A big thank you to COPT Defense Properties for making this vision a reality! And a special thanks to Lawrence Twele CEcD for making the connect. Not only did COPT provide an incredible space, but they also did so free of charge. It took some time to work out the details – special thanks to Omoré at MBOC for helping with that process – but the support from COPT, including CEO Stephen Budorick who was quick to say yes, and VP Krysta Herring who handled the details, was truly outstanding. COPT is a great example of community leadership. They understand the power of building an ecosystem and giving back. Let’s continue to support and invest in anyone who has the courage to follow their entrepreneurial dreams. Thank you, COPT, for being a partner in real change!
MBOC Annual Showcase and Pitch Competition
ummm…I think…you know… I had the honor of giving the keynote at the Maryland Business Opportunity Center (MBOC) Annual Showcase and Pitch Competition, where six amazing companies were selected to showcase their business ideas. If I’m being honest, every single one of the entrepreneurs in this cohort (~12) could’ve delivered a great presentation. But here’s the thing: no one’s immune to nerves. I shared with the entrepreneurs: “Everyone gets nervous. And that’s okay.” It’s true! Even the most experienced speakers have moments where they wish they’d said something differently…or remembered something afterwards they wanted to say. Just ask anyone who’s stepped onto a stage! One of the presenters had a technical glitch with his slideshow. The video wouldn’t play—but he handled it like a pro. 💪 It happens! And the filler words…let’s talk about those little transitions we all use… After hearing a prominent person on TV yesterday say “I think” 20x in 5 minutes, I was reminded of the importance of self-awareness. ✨ So, here’s a pro tip: Record yourself, then watch it. You’ll catch the habits you didn’t even know you had! 💡 For me, it’s “you know”…at least that’s what my podcast manager (and son) had to say…Ouch! But we’re all growing, right? Here’s what I’ve learned over the years about presenting on stage, even when you’re feeling nervous: 🔹 Acknowledge the nerves: They’re normal! Even seasoned speakers feel them. Stepping out of your comfort zone means you’re strong! 🔹 Focus on your message: Shift your focus to the fact that you know this content. No one knows it better than you. 🔹 Practice makes perfect: The more you practice, the less it feels like memorizing…and the less you have to rely on notes. 🔹 Don’t fear the glitches: Whether it’s a technical issue or a forgotten line, roll with it. The audience appreciates how you handle the bumps. 🔹 Slow down: Consciously slow down your pace…and take pauses to let your message sink in. 🔹 Visualize success: Before you step on stage, take a moment to picture yourself succeeding—it’s a powerful mindset shift! 🔹 Learn from every experience: Reflect after each presentation—what went well, and what could be better? We’re all learning, improving, and growing! I wrapped up my speech by celebrating the incredible people I’ve had the privilege of working with. Check them out—these entrepreneurs are the real deal! And a shout-out to the amazing MBOC staff: Virginia Dinzey-Taveras, MBA | Niani McDonald | Jada Riley | Jasmine Simms
