Last month, the Metropolitan Business League (MBL) hosted its highly anticipated “14th annual Women Who Mean Business” summit at the Richmond Convention Center. This inspiring gathering celebrated women shaping the future!

Photo courtesy of The Metropolitan Business League
As seen on MBL’s Facebook page, “our theme aims to inspire, educate, and empower women to flourish in all aspects of their lives while shaping a better future for themselves and their communities”.
This energy was seamlessly executed, from the keynote speaker, Adranae Mena, founder of S.O.A.R. Fearlessly Coaching, to local leadership-driven workshops like career mapping, to community love for the first Black Woman owned patio furniture collection, founded by Tara Paige, the Patieaux Chick!
“The only way you can grow, and flourish is to slow down.”
– Adranae Mena
Adranae M. Mena: A Commitment to Being Fearless!
The event kicked off with an empowering opening keynote from Adranae M. Mena, President, Founder, and CEO of S.O.A.R. Fearlessly Coaching. Adranae captivated the audience with her passion and humor. She talked about resilience, growth, and the importance of pursuing one’s dreams “fearlessly”.
Her journey as a successful entrepreneur and coach resonated with many attendees, serving as a reminder that challenges can be transformed into opportunities for growth. Adranae’s keynote not only set the tone for the day but also encouraged attendees to embrace their unique journeys and strive for excellence in their respective fields. See more from Adranae Mena here.
Workshop: Career Mapping
The career mapping workshop panel included Kaisha McCrea, founder of Growing Perspectives Career Consulting, Kelly Suazo-Davis, Co-Founder and CEO of DauvCo and Wendy Burchard, University of Richmond’s Director of Procurement. The workshop was hosted by Kelly Til, President and Publisher of the Richmond Times-Dispatch, (the first woman to lead the organization in over 170 years).
The theme of the Career Mapping workshop was basically, “…if there’s one thing I’m willing to bet on, it’s myself“, in the words of Queen Bee (aka Beyonce’). The panel spoke candidly on the importance of pivoting, trusting your skills, taking strategic risks, building intentional-strategic partnerships and getting out of your own way.
Championing Minority Owned Business
The Metropolitan Business League has long been a champion for empowering minority-owned businesses and ensuring equitable opportunities in the economic landscape. This event exemplified that mission, showcasing the power of collaboration among women in business. The MBL’s commitment to service and economic advancement resonates deeply with the attendees, who are dedicated to making a positive impact in their communities.
Join the MBL on their mission to promote economic prosperity in Virginia and learn more about their programs, from educational opportunities and youth entrepreneurship to member events and signature events.
About the Metropolitan Business League
MBL’s mission is to promote economic prosperity in Virginia through education, advocacy, access to resources, and building relationships for small, women-owned, and minority-owned businesses.
About Fearless Coaching
S.O.A.R. Fearlessly Coaching is a dynamic coaching business specializing in both Life Coaching and Business Strategy services. With a focus on empowering individuals and businesses to overcome obstacles and achieve their full potential, we provide personalized guidance and actionable strategies to help clients soar beyond their fears and limitations. Unlock your inner strength, embrace change, and navigate challenges with confidence through S.O.A.R. Fearlessly Coaching.