I'm excited to share my experience with the Women's Networking Alliance (WNA), a fantastic organization that has been instrumental in helping my business grow.
Shornrapar Lobberecht, owner of EstiGlo Beauty
The Power of WNA: Building Businesses and Building Community
The Women's Networking Alliance, founded in San Jose in 2007, is a powerful force for women entrepreneurs. It's a networking organization specifically designed to empower and support women business owners. In 2018, two long-time members, Carla Bohnett and Tracey Lee Davis, whom I greatly admire, purchased the organization. Their passion for empowering women entrepreneurs is truly inspiring, and their vision for WNA completely aligns with my own.
WNA's mission is to provide a supportive, fun environment that inspires and enables the growth of the members as professional business owners and, personally, as people in business. They offer a platform for women business owners to connect, share ideas, collaborate, and celebrate each other's successes.
Following the WNA Journey: Inspiration from Carla and Tracey
My connection to WNA actually goes back to 2017. I met Tracey Lee Davis, owner of ZingPop Social Media and co-owner and Vice President of WNA, while taking one of her marketing classes through SCORE Silicon Valley. Tracey introduced me to WNA, and while I knew it was something I was interested in, I couldn't join then.
Around the same time, I attended the 3rd Woman Empowered event, sponsored by SCORE Mentors Silicon Valley, San Jose Public Library Works, City of San Jose - City Gov't, among others. I attended another one of Tracey Lee’s talks, and I had the pleasure of meeting Carla Bohnett, WNA co-owner and President, at the WNA booth. I was immediately impressed by her– she was informative and engaging and left me wanting to learn more. Carla's passion for empowering women entrepreneurs was truly inspiring, and I knew that WNA was something special. This further sparked my interest in the organization, and I followed both Carla and Tracey's journeys for several years, always impressed by their achievements and the supportive community they were building.
Fast forward to August 2023, and I decided the time was finally right. I joined WNA Chapter 122 in Mountain View, and let me tell you, it's been an incredible journey ever since. WNA is an organization full of supportive and inspiring women business owners, and I'm so happy I took the leap to join.
Building Relationships, Building My Business
One of the most impactful aspects of WNA has been the opportunity to connect with other members. Since joining, I've not only formed strong friendships, but I've also been fortunate enough to do business with many talented women.
Within my chapter, I've had the pleasure of working with:
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Maria Abelaye of Heartbox Photography – Maria captured some fantastic headshots for me, and I'm so grateful for her expertise. I have used two in this article.
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Debby Leong of Panorama Bookkeeping – Debby will be setting up my bookkeeping soon, giving me peace of mind knowing my finances are in order.
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Victoria Bracha of VB Fine Chocolates – Victoria's chocolates are not only delicious, but also a delightful treat I love sharing with clients.
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Jerylann Mateo of Compass – Jerylann was my first facial client from WNA, and she's become a loyal customer who enjoys my skincare products.
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Tricia Dolkas of KickStart Career and Keyla Zorzella of Keyla Zorzella Life Coaching – These amazing women were among the first to purchase from my website, showing incredible support for my business.
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Lucia Garcia of Iconova Design – I recently had a consultation with Lucia, and I'm confident her design expertise will take my website to the next level.
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Kavita Melwani of Aligned and Soulful – I'm a huge fan of Kavita's Podcasts and recently purchased her "Finding Your Inner Gems" affirmation cards from her website. They're beautifully designed and make wonderful gifts.
These are just a few examples.
Beyond my chapter, WNA has connected me with wonderful women in other chapters as well:
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Tracey Lee Davis of ZingPop Social Media – Not only am I a member of Tracey's group coaching program, but she is also a valued client and supporter of EstiGlo.
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Joan Escover of JP Graphics – Joan designed a beautiful table runner for EstiGlo.
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Gloria Webb-Williams of Ancient Stones Nurturing Naturals – Gloria's sunscreen powder is amazing, and I highly recommend her natural makeup products.
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Perinaz Avari of Simply Bhonu – I discovered Perinaz's delicious teas during the 2023 holidays, and I'm a huge fan.
The Value of Community
The connections I've made through WNA have been invaluable. Not only have I gained new clients and collaborators, but I've also found a supportive network of women who understand the challenges and triumphs of running a business. We share ideas, offer encouragement, and celebrate each other's successes.
If you're a woman business owner looking for a supportive community and a chance to connect with like-minded individuals, I highly recommend joining the Women's Networking Alliance. It's been a game-changer for EstiGlo, and I know it can be for your business too! Please come visit us for a meeting!
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Shornrapar Lobberecht, EstiGlo Beauty
Originally from Bangkok, Thailand, I've called the US home since September 2001. I'm a licensed California esthetician, currently balancing part-time work at a medical spa with my own online beauty product business, EstiGlo Beauty.
Giving back to the community is important to me. I recently completed training from Lipstick Angels program to become an In-hospital Ambassador at Stanford Cancer Center South Bay, offering complimentary skincare and wellness services to cancer patients. Additionally, I volunteer with the Montalvo Service Group, supporting events at the Montalvo Arts Center.
When I'm not working or volunteering, I enjoy traveling with my husband, participating in tea groups and book clubs, staying active at the gym or walking, and socializing with friends.