Today we’d like to introduce you to Tammy Smith.
Hi Tammy, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I have always been the type that loved throwing parties, gatherings, celebrations for myself and my friends accomplishments. From that moment, I decided to support as many women as I can through networking and mentoring. I started women inspired now network in 2017 with my first networking event. From there I’ve done multiple events yearly that brings something new and different to the community through natural hair meetups, educational seminars, beauty expos and more. My goal is to empower women to be their true selves and shine through their professional and personal lives. My grandmother was my biggest supporter in any and everything I’ve done. It doesn’t matter how many times I change my mind on what I want to do, as long as I do what’s true to myself, even if it means trying to find that passion, she supported me. I want every Black woman to feel that same support in whatever they want to do. We are a community that gives experiences that will lead to real relationships and connections with one another, build alliances and transform our community. Today, we are still creating networking, volunteering and mentoring opportunities that promotes and enhances the success of professional business women. The saying, “Each one, Teach One” is a true statement only if we apply it in our lives.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
It has not been an easy road to create a networking organization and flourish from scratch. I am generally a shy person who has a fear of public speaking, but I am also very outspoken amongst my friends. I had to build my following by connecting and meeting new people in my community. It has helped me build up my confidence and create special relationships with new people. I believed that even if I had 5 people attend my events, they would experience the best time they’ve had to where they will tell 10 of their friends. Through the process of building this organization, I know hard work and dedication pays off and I have gratitude for the support of everyone who follows the organization and attends the events.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My career is in health care, I have always had a love for science and wanted to be a doctor since I was a young child. I have a Master’s in Public Health and Epidemiology and is currently pursuing my PhD in Public Health. My desire is to help minorities with health education and awareness in marginalized communities. I have also started a nonprofit, 501 (c)3 called Inspired Now Networks, Inc. dedicated to improving the quality of life for marginalized communities by helping to provide wellness education, health awareness and outreach programs to families and children. My goal is to give children in marginalized communities access to free STEM programs.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
My grandmother was my biggest supporter and a huge inspiration in my life, even when she’s not here with me on Earth, she is still my guiding light. My father has always been my mentor, anything I need help with and guidance was through him. I owe them so much more than I can give. The toughest thing was working fulltime, attending school full time, starting multiple businesses and raising a young daughter all at the same time. We are called strong Black women for our many success and achievements, but for me, it’s natural and it’s by the grace of God that I can continue through. I have my tribe of friends that are the most supportive and wonderful cheerleaders and I encourage everyone to get with friends who love to see you succeed and grow.
Contact Info:
- Email: Winnetwork20@gmail.com
- Website: www.womeninspirednownetwork.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/womeninspirednownetwork/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/womeninspirednownetwork/
Image Credits
Images of Tammy Smith by Elizabeth Ashley & Co. in Durham, N.C.
