Welcome Amigas,
We want to invite you to our annual ¡Yo Quiero Dinero! event!
Join us for our annual ¡Yo Quiero Dinero! event on Saturday, June 15, at the MyArts Theater, where we'll spotlight women of color who are thriving despite the racial wage gap. Local women and keynote speaker Dr. Xochitl Yadira Gonzalez will share their stories of resilience and empowerment in a society that undervalues them. Get ready to be inspired and motivated to make the change.
Dr. Xochitl Yadira Gonzalez (Keynote Speaker)
Professional title: Senior Director of Operations, Planning & Strategy at Northwestern Mutual Linked In profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/xochitl-yadira-gonzalez/
Dr. Gonzalez, Senior Director of Operations, Planning & Strategy at Northwestern Mutual, holds a PhD in Global Leadership & Change from Tiffin University, Ohio. She also earned a Business Management & Entrepreneurship Technical degree from Milwaukee Area Technical College and a Bachelor of Science in Leadership & Organization from Marquette University. Dr. Gonzalez embodies values of excellence, integrity, and innovation, which is evident in her work.
Join us to hear Dr. Gonzalez’s insights and meet the inspiring local women who have significantly contributed to our community. This year, we feature eight local women as speakers, prepared by our expert mentors dedicated to helping you find your voice and share your story.
Our mentorship program, open to all members, provides essential guidance in mastering public speaking and enhancing self-presentation skills, vital for expanding your business, project, or brand. These women have recognized the transformative power of storytelling in attaining financial success and have embraced the opportunity to share their narratives. Today, they stand before us to inspire.
Amigas, meet this year’s honorees and trailblazers in their own right.
Gabriela Tellez, Sun Prairie Skincare Clinic Business Owner: "From Teen Mom to Successful Entrepreneur"
Gabriela, a second-generation Mexican American, is a dedicated wife and mother of three. Her career initially began in healthcare, but driven by her aspirations, she transitioned into entrepreneurship. Today, she fulfills her passion as a skincare esthetician and business owner.
Vanessa Cook, Foster Parent, and Fitness Coach: "Vibrant Holistic Healer"
Vanessa is a passionate advocate for women's rights with expertise in Holistic Healing, Fitness, and Trauma. She dedicates herself to empowering women in every aspect of their lives: Mind, Body, and Soul. Beyond advocacy, Vanessa enjoys hiking, camping, running, and being a dedicated mother to her seven children.
Karina Sucasaire, Higher Education Professional: "Women Empowerment and Community Advocate"
Karina, a compassionate and proactive advocate for women, arrived from Peru six years ago, embracing new beginnings and overcoming challenges. Now, she passionately serves as a victim advocate, finding joy as a devoted dog mom and homeowner. Having experienced the journey of moving herself, Karina has cultivated a deep sense of gratitude and resilience, allowing her to empathize with others facing similar transitions.
Monica Mims, Business advocate, Alliant Energy: "Healing Artist and Innovative Marketer."
Monica is a Professional Marketeer, Business Consultant, and Visual Artist. She serves on the Board of Directors for YWCA Madison as the Vice Chair and is a member of the Women in Focus organization. Monica finds immense fulfillment in serving her community and inspiring future generations.
Shirmiel Duncan, Child Care Center Owner: "Proud Child Care Center Director and Owner"
Shirmiel Duncan is a dedicated wife and mother to six beautiful children. Together with her husband, she has embraced entrepreneurship and now proudly owns Journey Together Child Care Center in Madison, WI, which has enjoyed success for the past six years.
Paquita Purnell, Entrepreneur: "Passionate Creator and Woman of Faith"
Paquita Purnell, a mother of three, is an entrepreneur with two businesses: Blessed Divine Creations LLC and PLP Consulting LLC. Originally from Syracuse, NY, she now resides in Janesville, WI. Paquita is passionate about using her businesses to help others and is dedicated to seeing everyone succeed.
Andrea White, Nonprofit Professional, and Athena Award Winner 2024: "Social Justice Advocate"
Andrea White, a student at UW Madison pursuing her Bachelor's in Social Work, hails from Chicago, Illinois, and was raised in Galesburg, Illinois. She is strongly committed to fostering housing stability for families and single mothers, so she works at the YWCA. Andrea also serves as Vice President at the Urban League of Greater Madison Young Professionals (ULGMYP), shaping the organization's mission. Her dedication to community service has earned her nominations for the Sustain Dane award, Madison 365’s Young Professional of the Year award, and the Athena award.
Michelle Mckoy, Community Center Director: "Caring, Compassionate, and City Motivator"
Michelle Mckoy's childhood was shadowed by addiction and domestic violence, but she courageously broke free from the cycle of abuse. Overcoming the challenges of teen motherhood, she emerged as a devoted mother of three. Despite hardships, Michelle pursued her dream job as a community center director.
Each of these women has a powerful story to share. Their journeys remind us of the importance of storytelling in closing the wage gap, advancing financial freedom, and unlocking greater opportunities. Join us as we celebrate their achievements and learn from their experiences.
“We are dedicated to addressing the racial wealth gap, and this empowering gathering will provide a platform for women to share their authentic narratives of economic survival, fostering understanding and solidarity within the community. We answer the call of economic development with our annual storytelling event, Yo Quiero Dinero! We want Money! Our Stories Have Value!” Says Araceli Esparza, Founder of Midwest Mujeres Inc.,
Join Midwest Mujeres on Saturday, June 15, at the MyArts Theater for their annual "Yo Quiero Dinero" event, spotlighting the stories of women undervalued and marginalized by mainstream society.
Come for stories and manifest your wealth!
A special thank you to out dedicated sponsors for making this event possible
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