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Who We Are: The Heart of Midwest Mujeres Midwest Mujeres is more than an organization, we are a community rooted in storytelling, healing, and economic empowerment. Founded by Araceli Esparza, a first-generation Chicana from the Midwest, Midwest Mujeres was created to break the isolation many Latina and Black women experience as they navigate leadership, entrepreneurship, and personal growth. At our corazon, we believe in one simple but powerful truth: If we can tell the story that sets us free, we can set others free. The heart of Midwest Mujeres is connection. We exist to create spaces where women, especially those who have been historically under-resourced and underrepresented, can reclaim their voices, define their goals, and build pathways toward financial independence and community leadership. Olivia our Circle Mujeres Member and Ana Cheng our speaker at our Milwaukee event Word and Worth What We Do: Turning Stories Into Strategy Midwest Mujeres designs programs that sit at the intersection of storytelling, professional development, and economic mobility. Our work is not just about inspiration—it is about transformation. Storytelling as a Tool for Power We teach women how to shape their lived experiences into powerful, structured narratives. Using frameworks such as the 4 Pillars (People, Places, Purpose, Plot) and the 5 Cs (Character, Context, Conflict, Climax, Closure), participants learn to communicate their value with clarity and confidence. This is not about “talking about yourself.”This is about crafting a story that moves people, opens doors, and creates opportunity. At our Voices and Dream's Yo Quiero Dinero Event Voices & Dreams Academy Our flagship program supports Latina and Black women—many over 40, many caregivers, many building businesses from the ground up. Through multi-week cohorts, participants receive training in: Public speaking and storytelling Personal branding Financial wellness Goal setting and entrepreneurship The program culminates in Yo Quiero Dinero , a live storytelling showcase where women take the stage and share stories that reflect not just survival, but vision and ambition. Community-Centered Design We remove barriers so women can fully participate: Childcare support Meals during sessions Bilingual programming Flexible learning environments Because access is not an afterthought—it is the foundation. Las Mujeres de Latinas Connect! At our Word and Worth event! Why We Do This Work: From Isolation to Collective Power The women we serve are often navigating systems that were not built for them. Many are: Earning under $50,000 annually Raising families while building careers or businesses Lacking access to mentorship, capital, and networks But what we have seen, again and again, is this: When a woman is given the space to tell her story and the tools to shape it, everything changes. Confidence grows. Shame begins to dissolve. Goals become tangible. And most importantly, community forms. Our participants consistently report increased earning potential, stronger belief in their value, and deeper connections with other women walking similar paths. The Impact: More Than a Program Midwest Mujeres is not just a class or an event. It is a movement toward: Economic equity Cultural visibility Collective healing We are building social capital! Woman by woman, story by story! Through our programs, women don’t just learn skills. They become: Speakers Business owners Community leaders Mentors for the next generation What Makes Us Different We don’t separate personal growth from professional development. We don’t separate art from economic mobility. We don’t separate healing from leadership. We understand that all of it is connected. Our work is grounded in culturally rooted practices like Curandera writing, community storytelling circles, and trauma-aware facilitation. We honor where women come from while helping them step into where they are going. What makes us different is our intentional unity that we cultivate with Black women! Looking Ahead: A Future Built on Voice and Vision As Midwest Mujeres continues to grow, our vision remains clear: To expand our reach across the Midwest and beyond, bringing storytelling, economic empowerment, and community-building to more women who are ready to step into their power. Because when one woman finds her voice, she doesn’t just change her life, she changes the lives of everyone around her. Join Us Whether you are looking to grow your confidence, build your business, or find a community that sees you fully—there is a place for you here. Midwest Mujeres is where your story becomes your strategy. And your voice becomes your power.

Midwest Mujeres (Midwest Women) is a mentoring collective helping to raise social capital for grassroots organizations. We help high-impact multicultural women expand their platforms. Midwest Mujeres helps Latinas and women expand their networks and grow their businesses or professional knowledge,  while helping national brands and nonprofit organizations reach their target audiences. The how we do what we do As a networking collective, we curate and connect people through our signature workshops and provide opportunities that expand their platform. We ultimately want to connect mentees and mentors through a month-long mentorship that will set short, attainable goals to expand their networks and professional knowledge, build their digital footprint, resumes, virtual workshop facilitation, content creation, and networking. The why we started what we did We created Midwest Mujeres to help Latinas and all women expand their networks and grow their businesses or professional knowledge. We focus on networking, mentoring, marketing, and building nonprofit organizations serving health, wellness, the arts, consultant/freelance work, and social justice issues. I say we because I am not alone; I have worked with several project assistants, board ambassadors, and community partners to grow this corner of Wisconsin online. Where women of all classes and backgrounds living in the Midwest have a passion for helping people with a social justice corazón!

When I think about the power of community and mentorship, especially for Latina and other Black and Brown women entrepreneurs, I begin to remember all these moments from our events that have connected Latinas and women in our community. Even though some of them are not with us, their example and energy remain. There’s something truly magical about women coming together to lift each other up, share wisdom, and create opportunities where none seemed to exist before. That’s exactly what the Midwest Mujeres Inc. is all about. This vibrant group is transforming the entrepreneurial landscape by empowering women to grow their businesses, find their voices, and close the gender wage gap. Let’s dive into how mentorship plays a pivotal role in this inspiring journey. Mentorship for Midwest Women is about empowering women through community and networking skill-building. Why Mentorship Matters for Midwest Women Entrepreneurs Mentorship is more than just advice or guidance. It’s a powerful relationship that fosters growth, confidence, and resilience. For women entrepreneurs, especially those from marginalized communities, mentorship can be the key to unlocking doors that have historically been closed. When you have a mentor who understands your unique challenges and celebrates your culture, you gain more than business tips—you gain a trusted ally. This support helps you navigate obstacles, build networks, and develop skills that propel your business forward. Here’s why mentorship is a game-changer: Personalized guidance: Mentors tailor their advice to your specific goals and challenges. Accountability: Having someone to check in with keeps you motivated and on track. Networking: Mentors introduce you to valuable contacts and resources. Confidence boost: Knowing someone believes in you fuels your courage to take risks. Skill development: Mentors help you sharpen your business acumen and leadership abilities. By embracing mentorship, you’re not just growing your business—you’re building a legacy for your community. Eye-level view of a Latina coach presenting at our center. We provide these meetups for free! How Midwest Mujeres Creates a Supportive Mentorship Network The Midwest Mujeres Collective is a shining example of how mentorship can be structured to maximize impact. This organization is dedicated to Latina and other Black and Brown women entrepreneurs, providing a space where mentorship is accessible, culturally relevant, and empowering. Here’s how Midwest Mujeres makes mentorship work: Offering workshops and training: These sessions equip both mentors and mentees with tools to communicate effectively and set clear objectives. Creating safe spaces: Midwest Mujeres fosters an environment where women feel comfortable sharing struggles and celebrating wins. Encouraging peer mentorship: Beyond one-on-one relationships, group mentoring and peer support amplify learning and connection. This approach ensures that mentorship is not a one-time event but a sustained journey of growth and empowerment. We are building a wraparound membership system that will Matching mentors and mentees thoughtfully:  They connect women based on industry, goals, and personal experiences to ensure meaningful relationships. Providing ongoing support:  The collective offers continuous check-ins and resources to keep mentorship relationships thriving. We host events around the region Event Summary: Word & Worth Word & Worth: Storytelling, Finance, and the Art of Being You  is a free community gathering designed to support women navigating financial stress, life transitions, and personal growth. Co-hosted by Midwest Mujeres, Beacon of Light, and The National Conference of Puerto Rican Women (NACOPRW), this event brings together storytelling, financial education, and community connection in a safe, judgment-free space. Through guided reflection, practical tools, and meaningful conversation, participants are invited to reconnect with their story, build confidence, and make informed decisions about their future. Key Takeaways Participants will: Gain practical financial insights and resources Learn how personal storytelling shapes confidence and decision-making Connect with a supportive community of women Walk away with tools for personal and economic growth Feel more grounded in their self-worth and next steps Event Details 🗓 Date:  Saturday, April 11, 2026🕘 Time:  9:00 AM – 1:00 PM📍 Location:  Milwaukee, WI🎟 Cost:  Free 👉 Register: https://givebutter.com/word-worth-storytelling-finance-art-of-being-you Building Confidence and Closing the Wage Gap One of the most inspiring outcomes of mentorship through Midwest Mujeres is the boost in confidence that women experience. Confidence is the foundation of success—it empowers you to negotiate better, take on leadership roles, and innovate fearlessly. Mentors help women recognize their worth and advocate for themselves in ways that directly impact their earnings. This is crucial in closing the gender wage gap, which disproportionately affects women of color. Practical ways mentorship helps close the wage gap: Negotiation skills: Learning how to ask for fair pay and contracts. Financial literacy: Understanding budgeting, pricing, and investment. Business strategy: Developing plans that increase profitability. Leadership development: Building skills to lead teams and projects confidently. Visibility: Gaining opportunities to showcase talents and expand reach. By empowering women with these skills, Midwest Mujeres is not just supporting individual success but driving economic survival and prosperity for entire communities. Close-up view of a notebook with business goals and a pen on a wooden desk Practical Steps to Find and Make the Most of Mentorship If you’re ready to embrace mentorship, here are some actionable tips to help you find the right mentor and make the most of the relationship: Identify your goals: Be clear about what you want to achieve—whether it’s growing your business, improving skills, or expanding your network. Look for mentors who resonate with you: Seek out women who share your values, background, or industry. Be proactive: Reach out with a clear introduction and express your interest in learning from them. Set expectations: Discuss how often you’ll meet, preferred communication methods, and goals for the mentorship. Be open and honest: Share your challenges and successes to build trust. Take action: Apply the advice and feedback you receive. Give back: As you grow, consider mentoring others to keep the cycle of empowerment going. Remember, mentorship is a two-way street. Your enthusiasm and commitment make the relationship rewarding for both of you. Celebrating the Power of Community and Sisterhood At the heart of Midwest Mujeres is a vibrant community that celebrates sisterhood and collective success. When women come together, amazing things happen. You gain not only mentors but also friends, collaborators, and cheerleaders. This sense of belonging is vital. It reminds you that you’re not alone in your journey. Together, you can overcome barriers, share resources, and amplify your voices. If you want to be part of this incredible movement, I encourage you to explore the Midwest Mujeres  Collective. It’s a place where your dreams are nurtured, your voice is heard, and your success is celebrated. Empowerment starts with connection. Let’s lift each other up and create a future where every Latina, Black, and Brown woman entrepreneur thrives! Empowering women through mentorship is a powerful way to create lasting change. By embracing the support and wisdom of others, you can grow your business, build confidence, and help close the wage gap. Midwest Mujeres is leading the way, and you can be part of this inspiring journey. Let’s rise together!

Midwest Mujeres focuses on education, employment, and mental health. This project is dedicated to recruiting women with barriers to re-entry work from a long pause or formerly incarcerated women. The groups or facilitators we work with are skilled in holding spaces that foster safety for women, especially women of color. We create circles where the women can use our platform to create campaigns to support their business events and gain support as they embark on a new social media channel.   Learn about us and discover how YOU can collaborate with Midwest Mujeres. About Midwest Mujeres Midwest Mujeres (Midwest Women) is a mentorship collective for multicultural women entrepreneurs. We educate Latinas and Black women on storytelling, networking, mentoring, and marketing. We empower women to build their businesses to close the wage gap for all women. Our members gain exclusive coaching calls and mentoring to help them reach their dreams. In our community cohorts, we work with organizations to empower Latinas to free their voice in community event planning and invite them to participate in our annual event, "Yo Quiero Dinero!" We create a culture of belonging for everyone who wants to celebrate equity, unity, and empowerment for women. What is the thing that brings us together? Our Stories! Learn. Watch. Enjoy. Subscribe to our YouTube Channel! Collaborate Meet the people we Collaborate with us to empower the participants of Voices and Dreams Academy! Executive Director Araceli Esparza, MFA Community Manager Marta Carrion Graphic Designer and Social Media Manager Yajaira Brooks Blog Writer for Midwest Mujeres Fernanda Alayo Faculty Johnathan Delgado, Stage Manager Website Designer and Consultant Carla Medina of Iris Designs Voices and Dreams Faculty Qiana Holmes, Empowerment Coach Faculty Prenicia Clifton, Speaking Coach Faculty Gregg Potter, Speaking Coach Faculty Miriam Hall, Mindfulness Coach Faculty Veronica Figueroa, Empowerment Coach Faculty Olivia Buenrostro-Soto, Financial Wellness Advocate Faculty Katie Myers, Business Coach Interested in Collaborating? Click Here Leflore Accounting We share offices with Leflore Accounting and able to refer wraparound tax services for our community. Financial Education Partner Old National Bank was our financial education partner for Voices and Dreams Academy 2025 MyArts Theater Madison Youth Arts Theater has been the home for Yo Quiero Dinero for four years. Advisory Board Meet our board and volunteers! Yo Quiero Dinero Team Johnathan Delgado, Yazmin Sulem Lopez, Liz Camacho, and Giovanni Aleman Sotelo "Together, we will close the wage gap for all!" Aida Leflore With an unwavering commitment to precision and client satisfaction, Aida excels in streamlining financial processes and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. "I'm an avid volunteer who enjoys spending time with my community." Paula Steinhorst MBA, PMP, Prosci, CSM Senior Enterprise Portfolio Governance & Project Delivery professional "I love giving back to our Latina Community!" Sonia Tellez VP of Finance at Gilman Cheese I am passionate about process improvement and have successfully led several initiatives to streamline workflows, optimize resources, and reduce costs. "Latinas deserve to thrive regardless of where we come from!"

This is a page where donors, sponsors, and grantors can learn about Midwest Mujeres and make an online donation. Community Investment Who We Are and the Social Capital We Create! We Need Your Support to Don Francis EDUCATE AND TRANSFORM THE LIVES OF LOCAL LATINAS AND BLACK WOMEN This year alone, we have supported and provided quality master classes to over 80 women of color. We host monthly virtual classes and in-person education for Latinas and Black women. We partner with local organizations to provide storytelling and self-esteem-boosting classes for participants. We have provided these services to groups in Waukesha, Milwaukee, Racine, and rural Dane County, as well as to the UW-Madison Latino student organizations. Last year, we supported over 400 women. Email us to learn about our sponsorship returns on investments. Connect | Support MIDWEST MUJERES Inc. Is a nonprofit organization! EIN: 92-1175244 Support Future Women Leaders Ashley Jones Voices and Dreams has graduated 15 women in full-stage storytelling, allowing them to pitch their businesses live. In 2024, over 400 people participated in our programs, while our Program with Dane County Libraries reached over 150 attendees at rural events, enhancing access for women in underserved communities. Connect | Support Making Connections Building Social Capital Sponsor Our Educational Programs Tess Brown The Voices and Dreams Academy is not only a business accelerator; it is a trauma-informed, bilingual safe space where women reclaim their voice, develop public speaking skills, and pitch their businesses to a live audience. Since inception, we’ve helped 10 women move from idea to business launch. I'll Ready To Give! Didn't go to College? Quality Education is a Right Be the Change Agent for our Annual Event Lisa Rose In 2022, we conducted a membership survey of nearly 100 Latina and Black women, supervised by the Mobilizing Action Toward Community Health (MATCH) Group in partnership with the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute. Data was collected via Google Forms and reflects the lived experiences and financial realities of our participants. Our findings revealed that over 75% of respondents qualified as low- to moderate-income, and 77% required childcare support to attend programs. Additionally, 88% believed the skills gained through our training would increase their income or benefit their business. Telling your story is Powerful Growing Together is Powerful These insights have shaped our programming, including Voices and Dreams Academy, which provides culturally grounded entrepreneurial training, storytelling, and financial literacy support. This work not only uplifts individuals—it addresses structural inequities and economic disparities in our community. What do your dollars help with? Anchor 1 Sponsor Anchor 2 I want to support! First name* Last name* Email* Phone Company name Comment Submit

Take a front seat in the improvement and empowerment of your personal and professional life by joining Midwest Mujeres at any of our events or through our cohort programs designed just for you. Our Programs Education and Empowerment for Everyday Women Ambassador Program Juntas, together we are growing and writing, speaking out about our goals. Midwest Mujeres is a support group for women who need professional speaking and networking tools. Join our events, get to know our community of empowerment, networking, and education. We focus on the art of storytelling. We help you redefine yourself today, not based on your past. We welcome all women, but we focus primarily on women over the age of 45. We center low-income women and survivors, and formally incarcerated women. I'm Interested! Voces y Sueños Academy 🌟 Calling All Women Entrepreneurs! 🌟 Are you ready to take your business to the next level? Join Voces y Sueños Academy, a transformational accelerator designed to support Latina and Black mujeres entrepreneurs—especially those over 50—on their journey to financial success! Participants will receive over $5,000 in high-quality business coaching in storytelling, public speaking, marketing, branding, legal assistance, and financial education—all to help you scale your business! Plus, you'll have the opportunity to share your story on stage at our annual Yo Quiero Dinero event! Sign Up Yo Quiero Dinero Event Mujeres Circles Support Group Guest Speakers on topics that you want! Networking Shared Learning Adult Education Childcare + Light Food is available for our inperson meetings I'm Interested...