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Celebrating Women Entrepreneurs: Fidelity Bank's Recognition
In a heartwarming celebration of entrepreneurship and community support, Fidelity Bank recently honored ten inspiring female business owners during its inaugural POWER U Graduation Celebration held on May 16, 2025, at the Junior League of New Orleans Headquarters. The event marked a significant step forward for women in business, showcasing not only their achievements but also the continuing journey toward empowerment in the Southern Louisiana business landscape.
The POWER U Program: A Unique Empowerment Initiative
POWER U is an innovative initiative by Fidelity Bank, designed to elevate female entrepreneurs’ leadership potential. Launched in January 2025 in partnership with Landry Training, it aims to provide accessible and affordable professional development for women business owners throughout the region. Kati Morse LeBreton, the Director of POWER, emphasized its uniqueness, stating, "POWER U is the first of its kind in our region. This program makes high-level professional development programming accessible and affordable for female business owners throughout Southeast Louisiana." Through this initiative, Fidelity Bank directly invests in woman-owned businesses, reshaping the local economy.
Meet the Graduates: Inspiring Leaders of Tomorrow
The ten graduates celebrated at the graduation ceremony are a testament to the local entrepreneurial spirit and resilience. They include:
- Amanda DeLaup, CEO of Palette Northshore and Owner of Cup of Grace
- Anna Zimmer, Owner of Middle C Music
- Mimi Fallo, Owner of Mimi’s Laser Alternatives
- Sara Habetz, Owner of Hype Haus Fitness
- Maria S. Terry, Owner of Maria Terry Nutrition & Wellness
- Jennifer Maraist, Owner of Tighten Up to Go & Triumph Fitness
- Ashley Pecquet, Owner of The Rind
- Erin Snow, Owner of Zentilly Cove
- Christina Rusca, Owner of dharm|a|ware
- Marie Goodly, Branch Manager at Fidelity Bank
Amanda DeLaup, who was chosen as the Class Speaker, expressed the profound impact of the program by saying, "POWER U was one of the best experiences of my entire life. We learned, laughed, and leaned on one another. It was so much more than professional development." This collective testimonial underscores the power of community and mentorship in propelling women forward in their business endeavors.
The Importance of Networking and Mentorship
Networking and mentorship play critical roles in the success of new entrepreneurs in a competitive marketplace. The POWER U program's focus on collaboration among established peers fosters an environment where participants can share experiences, insights, and support. Such connections are invaluable for budding business leaders navigating the challenges of the entrepreneurial journey.
Future Implications for Women in Business
The creation of initiatives like POWER U is not only a triumph for women in the Greater New Orleans area but also serves as an example for other regions looking to enhance their business ecosystems. As more women step into leadership roles and seek out networking opportunities, the ripple effects are set to improve gender diversity in leadership across various sectors, thereby enriching the local economy.
Join the Movement: Supporting Women Entrepreneurs
As New Orleans continues to thrive as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, supporting programs that uplift women in business becomes crucial. Whether through mentorship, networking, or direct investment, every effort counts toward creating a more inclusive economic landscape. If you enjoyed this story, why not stay connected? Join New Orleans Local Unplugged on Facebook and YouTube for exclusive local information. @neworleanslocalunplugged
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