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The Essence
Ladies Network (E'Ladies Network; ELadies of Houston)has
been in existence since May 1989 when it began as
Essence of a Lady. It originated as a social and
charitable organization for women and aspiring women
entrepreneurs. Twenty 23 women gathered at the Holiday
Express near the Astrodome to socialize, mix and mingle
under the leadership of JoAnn Ajayi (Scott). Each month
afterwards, a women hosted the networking event at her
home as she spotlighted her products and services.
After
several years of growing, supporting girls as
philanthropists, and coordinating fundraising events,
Essence of a Lady had its first-ever "Lady's Only"
conference in 1993. Then, after a brief hiatus, Essence
of a Lady reorganized in 1995 only to go on hiatus as a
group for 8 years. Meanwhile, the founder, JoAnn Ajayi-Scott
continued to mentor women entrepreneurs as they explored
business ventures.
July 2003,
Essence of a Lady reorganized again with seven ladies,
who were constantly pursuing their dreams of
entrepreneurship. In August 2003, incorporation papers
were filed and our IRS determination letter was granted
for 501(c)3 status.
In 2007,
E'Ladies Network was established to be the support arm
of Young Essence Ladies¡Learning (YELL!). Since its
inception, women entrepreneurs have supported the growth
of YELL! Particiipants as mentors, volunteers at special
events, chaperones at field trips, and partners and
donors to YELL! Programs.
June 2012,
over 20 women joined the E'Ladies Network to be on the
planning committee of the first-ever Females are
FABULOUS! Conference, celebrating girls who participated
in YELL! Programs and women and women entreprenuers in
E'Ladies Network who supported these programs.
In 2013, the
E'Ladies Network has evolved by establishing strategic
partnerships with diverse women entrepreneurs who are
providing funding for field trips, incentives for
participating in our weekly group mentoring sessions,
and monthly hair services for academic achievement and
personal growth.
JOIN
THE MOVEMENT....contact us at
eladiesinfo@eladies.org
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