Celebrating Women’s Entrepreneurship in October
October marks a significant time to honor women in business as it is designated as National Women’s Small Business Month. In Maryland, this initiative will culminate in the 2025 Women’s Small Business Celebration, which recognizes and showcases exemplary women leaders, entrepreneurs, and business owners.
This year’s event will concentrate on themes of wellness, empowerment, and leadership. Attendees can look forward to insights from four distinguished women who bring varied expertise from leading international, national, and local organizations. These speakers will share their unique challenges and the successful strategies they have adopted, emphasizing wellness practices, leadership, and effective planning for achieving successful outcomes.
In addition to the inspiring talks, the event will also provide valuable information on the state’s socioeconomic procurement programs. Attendees will gain insights into available resources to enhance their competitiveness in both private and government contracting sectors.
Featured Speakers
Maria Martinez, Special Secretary
Appointed by Governor Wes Moore, Maria Martinez is at the forefront of promoting economic opportunities for women, minority, veteran, and small businesses across Maryland. As the leader of socioeconomic procurement programs spanning 73 agencies, she plays a pivotal role in enhancing state-wide outreach and training relevant to procurement practices. A successful entrepreneur, Martinez founded Respira, a multimillion-dollar sleep medicine company, and possesses over 25 years of experience in the private sector.
Catherine Horta-Hayden
Catherine Horta-Hayden serves as Chair and Professor at Towson University’s Department of Dance. She has a distinguished background, having previously held roles such as Assistant Provost for Academic Affairs at Towson and President of the International Council for Research and Pedagogical Studies (CORPs) de Ballet Inc. Currently, she also chairs the Commission on Accreditation for the National Association of Schools of Dance.
Bel Leong-Hong
Bel Leong-Hong is the Founder, President, and CEO of Knowledge Advantage Inc (KAI). Her career includes roles within the Senior Executive Service in the Department of Defense and significant leadership positions such as Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense. A Fellow in the National Academy of Public Administration, she currently serves on the Maryland Cybersecurity Council.
Krish O’Mara Rignarajah
Krish O’Mara Rignarajah is the President and CEO of Global Refuge, with an impressive background as the former Policy Director for First Lady Michelle Obama. She has also served as a Senior Advisor within the State Department and has contributed to various programs regarding refugee support and migration issues.
Dr. Zina Pierre
Dr. Zina Pierre is the Founding President and CEO of Reyarp Strategies Group, LLC, and also oversaw operations as President & CEO of Quora Alkaline Water Bottling Company. With a solid background in public service during the Clinton Administration, she held significant roles at the U.S. Office of Personnel Management and the Small Business Administration.
Event Details
Women leaders and small business owners who are eager to enhance their skills in wellness and leadership strategies will find this event especially beneficial. It’s a unique opportunity to learn from experienced speakers and network with like-minded professionals to identify resources and approaches that can bolster their organizations.
Date: Thursday, October 10, 2024
Schedule:
9:30 a.m. – Check-in and Refreshments
10:00 a.m. – Program and Featured Speakers
11:20 a.m. – Moderated Q&A Session
11:30 a.m. – Open Networking
Location:
Live! Casino & Hotel Event Center
7002 Arundel Mills Cir #7777,
Hanover, MD 21076
