This is the November 14th issue of the ForbesBLK newsletter, dedicated to elevating and empowering the world’s top Black entrepreneurs, leaders and investors. Delivered every Thursday straight to your inbox, it’s a must-read for those looking to stay inspired. Click here to get on the newsletter list!
Hi ForbesBLK, Ayisha Mendez here.This year, Veterans Day coincided with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)’s 11th annual National Veteran’s Small Business Week, which kicked off on Monday at New York’s Veterans Day Parade.
During this week, the SBA recognized the essential role that, “Over 1.9 million small businesses owned by veterans” play in advancing our economy – that’s nearly one in ten small businesses, according to SBA.
One of those business owners is ForbesBLKMember Tiffany Pilgrim, a former U.S. Army veteran and founder of Corelini, who advocates for uplifting the lives of veterans. Seeing firsthand how some veterans struggled after leaving active duty led her to help them, “Understand that their skills from the military are transferable and valued in every sector, especially creative ones.”
Tiffany uses her network to help expose veterans to industries like entertainment and media, where their voices and stories are often underrepresented. This week, Tiffany extended the opportunity for ForbesBLK military members and staff to attend New York’s Veterans Day Parade and enjoy a VIP experience at CBS’ Late Show with Stephen Colbert.
Her work is essential, especially considering Black and African American veterans in the United Statesexperience higher unemployment rates compared to African Americans who did not serve.
Tiffany says, “Community is critical for veterans when they transition back into civilian life, because it provides a safe, understanding space where shared experiences create bonds that help heal and strengthen.” ForbesBLK being a community and platform that acknowledges and celebrates cultural diversity, “has become a support system that helps veterans – like myself rebuild a sense of purpose and belonging.”
That’s why for this Veterans Day, we’re honoring community veteran members like Tiffany, who, “have consistently demonstrated an impressive commitment to their communities and economic growth worthy of celebration.”
Until next time, stay connected with me on LinkedIn & Instagram!
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