Letter from the Founder

By Lisa Henry |

Ahh…where do I start? Let’s go back to 5 years ago when I published my first post on smartgirlbrand.com. I had no idea what I was doing. I was working at a Think Tank in Washington DC, The Urban Institute with some of the best and brightest people in America. Remarkable company, but I also had a desire to help professional women. I reached out to my colleague in the Marketing Department and told her my ideas. Immediately, she got her phone and started filming me. Love you girl! Years went by and I published a post here and there. Only last year, did I take this passion more seriously. Next, my website viewership doubled in 2023 and is read in more than 63 countries globally. I got the chance to connect with some phenomenal people and significant companies who not only empowered me to be and do better but who really poured into me and supported me. That’s when I realized this Girl boss movement is essential. Women need and want a community.

This year, Quarter 1, I have taken deliberate steps in building and growing my company. I don’t have all the answers and don’t claim to be perfect but will vow to be better. That’s all us ladies can do, right? ❤️ Oh, and by the way, mistakes are okay. It’s part of the ride.

Thankful for my opportunities!

I am very thankful for the network of people that I am blessed to have in my life. Last year, I was able to connect with people at Costco who are doing awesome work for women and the community. This year, I was introduced to an amazing group of crowdfunding leaders who are connecting startups and investors. Thanks David and Kevin! I have been able to witness first-hand progressive work that is being done with a group named Baltimore Young Professionals and with commercial investments in a specific district. Due to this work, I was also able to connect with a lead Investment Management Company (Thanks Venroy!) Not to mention, I have now partnered with a Marketing agency in California who will be creating my podcast content in Q2. My company has also started mentoring a very small group of creatives in business skills to scale and grow.

Curious for where God will take me. That said, I am on this ride and excited to share and bring you along.

PS: Shout out to the amazing Girl Bosses at Colorvision, Black Girls Vote, The Beauty Hub, The Well Network, K-Stewart Beauty and Wellness, Create and Cultivate, Dow Janes. and Life with Ryan. I love and follow each of you. ❤️

For those who are curious as to what events to attend to network like a Maven, here is a link to the “Women’s Event Guide” booklet that I created in 2023. Many of these events recur each year.