Devoted to women of color in business

IBM, always on the cutting edge, just recently co-hosted a series of work/life forums in Toronto, Canada. Because  management is so focused on encouraging women to contribute (as staff, suppliers, strategic partners, and all-around superstars), IBM launched their "Global Women Initiatives" program to promote the growth of women-owned businesses. Smart move for a company that's preparing for the future.

Our friend Wanda McKenzie sent us over some great pictures of their last few events in my country of origin (I was born in Ontario), where IBM held a  Women of Color Multicultural Town Hall with Working Mother Media and the National Association of Female Executives. The town hall addressed key concerns affecting women in the workplace. Awesome! (or as my 4-year-old says, "Awesome, Blossom!")

Josephine Anderson (2nd left), Business Unit Executive, IBM Canada, is pictured here during the Trailblazers Panel with (l-r) Yasmin Meralli, vice president Diversity and Workplace Equity, BMO Financial Group; Evelyn L. Ackah, Sr. Associate Lawyer, Gowling Lafluer Henderson LLP, and panel moderator Merella Fernandez, the weekend anchor at CityNews.

Here's a photo of IBM's business breakfast forum with NAFE, the largest women’s professional association and the largest women business owners’ organization.

Marilyn Johnson (far right), vice president, Market Development, IBM USA, is joined by (l-r): The Honorable Mary Anne Chambers, Minister of Children and Youth Services; Joan Sheridan, president and publisher, Working Mother Media, and NAFE president Dr. Betty C. Spence.

It's going to be decision-makers at companies like IBM that will help all of us ascend.... so keep on working' it ladies, become a decision-maker at your organization or company and help create other women of color's success.... and great job IBM!