Mar 26, 2023
I remember when I wrote my first article for Kern County Family Magazine. I shared with LJ that I really wanted to curate a series of stories highlighting local moms and the gifts that they are sharing to make our community a better place. I believe that we have been able to do that…one story at a time. Today, I return as a guest writer to highlight some amazing moms in business and to share their thoughts on what it means to “bring business back” to Bakersfield as we count down to the 34th Annual Bakersfield Women’s Business Conference on April 27th at Mechanics Bank Convention Center and Theater.
How has motherhood changed you? Has it helped you to be a better leader in the community?
Johnson: In all aspects of my life, motherhood has made me a stronger woman. It has made me want to do better for myself and others. I have learned to go beyond expectations and break every ceiling possible to be a role model for my children and my community. As I strive to achieve the best in my community, I’ve made a commitment to excellence in all that I do.
Blaise: Being a mother has taught me patience, how to be more creative, and how to include others that may feel left out. It has definitely helped me to be a better community leader through more compassion for people and how to stand up for what's right.
Bauer: Being a mom is the hardest thing I have ever done, however the most rewarding. I love and adore my son so much. Being a mom teaches you, patience and kindness. I also believe being a mom puts things into perspective of what’s really important, for me Faith, Family, and then my company.
Ross: Motherhood helped me to be a more selfless person, and a better friend, and knowing that I had two little people depending on me to be the best version of myself for them and for me. Being a good example of a servant leader for my kids and others to see is important to me. It's about giving back to the community and paying it forward.
Nichols: I am a better woman because of my opportunities to be a mother it’s taught me to be flexible, kind, loving, patient, understanding, caring, respectful, supportive, curious & teachable!
I have learned empathy and compassion as I have loved my children and watched other mothers love theirs.
Why do you choose to serve on the Bakersfield Women’s Business Conference Board?
Johnson: It’s provided me with the incredible opportunity to influence and serve others. I want to have a strong impact on how decisions are made for women in Kern County. Being a part of the BWBC Board, allows me to bring a variety of diverse perspectives to empower women in our community. It allows me to share in the connectedness of other like-minded women.
Blaise: I choose to serve on the BWBC Board to help connect women with resources that are so needed, to help women build their confidence to take action on their dreams and to serve my community.
Bauer: I truly have the BWBC to thank for launching my company Fairy Godmother Event Co. After acting as Chairperson for the Conference, I was encouraged by fellow board members and several event partners to pursue more work in the area of event planning and execution.
Ross: I love what the conference stands for - providing women and young women opportunities for networking, development, and a day of self-care. Being able to serve on the Board for the past 17 years has blessed my life. I am a better woman and person for having served on the BWBC Board.
What does the theme, “Bringing Business Back” mean to you?
Johnson: It means supporting the resiliency of the many challenges businesses have faced over the last few years due to difficult economic times. It means providing educational resources and tools for businesses to shift and
pivot from uncertainty to reassurance with support. Not only for small businesses, but for all types of businesses in our lives including personally, professionally, financially, and spiritually.
Blaise: To me, it means let's get back to basics and focus on what matters to get our momentum back.
Bauer: Personally, Covid almost shut down the Event Industry and so many other businesses. I love our theme so much because it is saying what we all need to hear! Bring Business Back!
Nichols: Kicking it up a notch to get things rolling in our community since the pandemic put a damper on things due to restrictions. Making sure all women, in all communities, know that their options are unlimited! Reminding us all that we just need to get started! Whether it’s in their own education or whether they want to start a business or work their way up in their current career-they have resources and women available to encourage them.
Well, mama, I hope these testimonials shed some light on motherhood, community leadership, and why attending the annual Bakersfield Women’s Business Conference can benefit you in so many ways! Tickets are selling out, so please visit our website to get yours today!
www.bakersfieldwomen.org
As I close, I would like to thank LJ Radon for the opportunity to return as a guest writer and celebrate, Callie Collins who continues to breathe new life into “Hello, Happy Mama” for the readers in Bakersfield and beyond!
Keep shining, Mama. ~ Janelle Capra
