Welcome to our Summer Newsletter!
As we approach August, I'm pleased to share results from cumulative efforts, as dreams become reality. It's been a busy year! I'm adding an exciting new tech project to manage, partnering to expand youth programs, launching a new sister business called RISE Cycles, and beginning a new Board of Directors role at Bublr Bikes. As always, thank you to my friends, family, and business associates for all of your support. Connect Business Consulting, LLC is the project management and relationship bridge between the community and corporate partners, making social impacts for a stronger community. We collaborate with partners to make dreams happen. First, the new project: I am thrilled to become a community partner of the Milwaukee Tech Hub Coalition to help design and power the Hour of Tech program! This project aligns with my business focus of working with youth, technology, and education. Starting in August, I’ll reach out and help unite local business, education, and non-profit communities to inspire the next generation of local tech talent. The Goal: To collectively set a new record of over 10,000 hours of mentorship with area students. Spending an hour of your time with a student or class may be just the spark they need to explore a new career idea. Are you in? Contact me! Registration will open in August for corporations, non-profit organizations, K-12 teachers, and higher education institutions. I will soon be in touch with those who have been involved in the past. Save the date! Our program will be held Dec. 6-12, during Computer Science Week.
SUMMER FOCUS: YOUTH PROGRAMS
The planning phase is complete for August and we’re ready to launch both in-person and virtual youth programs. These meaningful STEAM & Dream programs are free, courtesy of American Family Insurance Institute of Corporate and Social Impact.
Our Youth Transformation Series, which gained traction in June, is switching from virtual to in-person. The sessions offer support to youth ages 12-17 who are having a hard time managing social and emotional responses. Do you know a student who could use some support?
HIP HOP ARCHITECTURE CAMPS
Our Hip Hop Architecture Camps are expanding to Atlanta, Georgia, and Washington, D.C. after a 2021 pilot program in Milwaukee. At the free camps, students will learn about the world of 3D modeling and 3D printing while also enjoying writing raps! It's the intersection of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math, or STEAM. Please spread the word to friends in Atlanta and D.C.!
TEEN VENTURE CAPITAL (VC) ACADEMY
Rashaun Williams, Technology Investor, Executive, and Adjunct Professor from Atlanta will teach a free weekly workshop on venture capital during August.
NEW BUSINESS: RISE CYCLES
Say hi to RISE Cycles, an upcoming bicycle business in the Sherman Park neighborhood in Milwaukee. RISE is a second business venture I am involved in as an owner, this time with partners.
On Juneteenth Day, RISE Cycles hosted Bike Your Block, a solidarity ride to celebrate Juneteenth Day and in honor of Black lives. After the morning ride, there were free refreshments, bike clinics, and giveaways.
Below is a photo recap of our event, held at Sherman Phoenix in Milwaukee.
(Top left): Me and my husband, Dr. Reginald Adams, and RISE co-owners JoAnne Johnson-Sabir and Maanaan Sabir. Bottom row: Dancers gathered outside Sherman Phoenix, and Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett mingled at the bike ride. The Milwaukee bike club, DreamBikes, joined community members on our ride.
Photos courtesy of Trek Bicycles, which helped support the event.
SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY
I am delighted to announce that I’m the newest Board member for Bublr Bikes, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing personal transportation options in the Greater Milwaukee area. I am all about community and humbled and grateful to be voted into this Bublr board role.
Volunteering to support missions aligns with my values. I am a servant leader. I have been on the Woodlands School Board since 2019, for instance, working on education opportunities. I also serve on the Sherman Phoenix Board of Directors in an operations capacity, expanding my reach into the community.
Additionally, I am very excited to have joined the impressive group of nearly 800 executive and emerging women leaders at TEMPO Milwaukee! TEMPO was founded in 1975 and is the largest professional women's group in Wisconsin, providing leadership, professional development, community, and mentorship opportunities.
INSPIRATION TAKEAWAY
It's been exciting to celebrate summer space flights by business leaders Jeff Bezos and Richard Branson, following in the flight path of space pioneers like Dr. Mae Jemison. A salute to all space explorers and the tech specialists behind the scenes who are critical to the missions!