Search Results

This is part of our membership plan

Creciendo juntas: Presentamos la nueva membresía de Midwest Mujeres Over the past several years, Midwest Mujeres has grown from a grassroots volunteer movement into a thriving nonprofit organization serving hundreds of Latina and Black women through entrepreneurship, leadership development, storytelling, financial education, wellness programming, and community connection. These programs have only been possible because of the generosity of volunteers, donors, grant funders, and community partners. As we continue to grow, we also want to build a stronger, more sustainable future that allows us to serve women year-round. OUR WORKSHOPS AND ACADEMY WILL CONTINUE TO BE FREE! For that reason, our free membership program will officially transition to a $10/month Business Membership beginning September 10, 2026. Durante los últimos años, Midwest Mujeres ha crecido de un movimiento comunitario impulsado por voluntarias a una organización sin fines de lucro que acompaña a cientos de mujeres latinas y afrodescendientes a través del emprendimiento, el liderazgo, la narración de historias, la educación financiera, el bienestar y la creación de comunidad. Todo este trabajo ha sido posible gracias al apoyo de voluntarias, donantes, fundaciones y organizaciones aliadas. Ahora queremos construir un modelo más sostenible que nos permita seguir sirviendo a nuestra comunidad durante todo el año. Por eso, nuestro programa de membresía gratuita cambiará oficialmente a una Membresía de Negocios de $10 dólares al mes a partir del 10 de septiembre de 2026. Become a Founding Member by September 10 Conviértete en Miembro Fundador antes del 10 de septiembre If you join before September 10, you'll receive your Business Directory Listing set up at no additional cost. Your business listing can include: Business name Logo Photo Description Website Social media links Contact information Business category After September 10, new business listings will require a separate setup fee. CLICK HERE TO JOIN NOW! Si te unes antes del 10 de septiembre, prepararemos tu perfil en nuestro Directorio de Negocios sin costo adicional. Tu perfil puede incluir: Nombre del negocio Logotipo Fotografía Descripción Sitio web Redes sociales Información de contacto Categoría del negocio Después del 10 de septiembre, el registro inicial del directorio tendrá un costo adicional. What's Included? ¿Qué incluye la membresía? For only $10 per month, members receive: A business listing in our online directory Networking opportunities Member newsletters and resources Discounts on workshops and special events Opportunities to be featured through Midwest Mujeres Access to member-only announcements Exclusive member benefits throughout the year Por solo $10 dólares al mes, recibirás: Un perfil en nuestro Directorio de Negocios Oportunidades para hacer networking Boletines y recursos exclusivos Descuentos en talleres y eventos especiales Oportunidades para destacar tu negocio Acceso a anuncios exclusivos para miembros Beneficios especiales durante todo el año New Member Benefit: Community Office Hours Nuevo beneficio: Horarios de Consultoría para Miembros Membership now includes access to discounted consulting and coaching through our Community Office Hours. Whether you need guidance on launching a business, growing your nonprofit, marketing your work, public speaking, leadership, or strategic planning, we're here to help. Members receive 50% off coaching sessions, making a one-hour consultation only $50. Como parte de la membresía, ahora tendrás acceso a nuestros Horarios de Consultoría Comunitaria. Si necesitas apoyo para iniciar o hacer crecer tu negocio, fortalecer una organización sin fines de lucro, mejorar tu mercadotecnia, desarrollar tus habilidades para hablar en público o recibir acompañamiento estratégico, estaremos aquí para apoyarte. Las personas miembros recibirán un 50% de descuento en las sesiones de consultoría, pagando solo $50 dólares por una sesión de una hora. Why This Change? ¿Por qué este cambio? This membership is more than a monthly contribution. It is an investment in Latina and Black women entrepreneurs, future leaders, artists, business owners, and changemakers. Every membership helps Midwest Mujeres continue creating opportunities, expanding programs, and building an ecosystem where women can thrive. Thank you for believing in our mission and growing with us. We look forward to welcoming you as one of our Founding Members. Esta membresía es mucho más que una cuota mensual. Es una inversión en mujeres latinas y afrodescendientes emprendedoras, futuras líderes, artistas, dueñas de negocios y agentes de cambio. Cada membresía ayuda a Midwest Mujeres a seguir creando oportunidades, ampliar nuestros programas y fortalecer una comunidad donde las mujeres puedan crecer y prosperar. Gracias por creer en nuestra misión y por seguir creciendo junto a nosotras. ¡Esperamos darte la bienvenida como una de nuestras Miembros Fundadoras antes del 10 de septiembre de 2026!

Introducing the Voices and Dreams Academy by Midwest Mujeres Last year, we produced a show with 10 extraordinary local women about why our stories have value. This year, we're asking a new question: What does the American Dream look like through the eyes of women from the Americas? El año pasado produjimos un espectáculo con 10 mujeres locales extraordinarias sobre por qué nuestras historias tienen valor. Este año planteamos una nueva pregunta: ¿Cómo se ve el sueño americano a través de los ojos de mujeres de las Américas? This summer, we’re proud to launch the Voices and Dreams Academy—an 8-week storytelling and speaker development journey that culminates in our signature showcase event, "Voices & Dreams Live," taking place on Sunday, Nov. 1st. READ about Last Year's Show! Article Link This graduation will reconnect with Midwest Mujeres' roots in organizing prior Día de los Muertos Events at local libraries for many years! And now we get to do it again! This year's event will be at the Goodman Community Center. This community center has given our community a space for elders and intergenerational/multicultural events for many decades. Whether you're building a business, seeking to grow your confidence, or dreaming of taking the stage, this program is for you. Our academy helps participants gain practical skills in financial wellness, branding, and storytelling—preparing you for real-world speaking opportunities and entrepreneurial growth. Why join? Comprehensive training – Wellness lifestyle, networking events, photography, videography, business listings, and storytelling workshops designed for real-world impact. Career & business boost – Polish public-speaking skills that translate to pitches, panels, and boardrooms. Supportive community – Learn alongside women who, like you, believe their stories have value. Access & inclusion – Child-care stipends, light snacks, and bilingual instruction (ESL learners welcome!). WE have a Spanish coach this year! Welcome Leti Rico Networking begins at 5:30 PM Class runs 6 – 7 PM every Wednesday Location: Midwest Mujeres HQ, Madison, WI 306 E Wilson St, Second floor, Madison, WI 53703 ¿Por qué unirse? Formación integral: talleres sobre estilo de vida saludable, *networking*, fotografía, videografía, presencia empresarial y narración de historias (*storytelling*), diseñados para generar un impacto real. Impulso profesional y empresarial: perfecciona tus habilidades de oratoria para presentaciones, paneles y reuniones de alto nivel. Comunidad de apoyo: aprende junto a mujeres que, al igual que tú, creen en el valor de sus historias. Acceso e inclusión: ayudas para el cuidado de niños, refrigerios ligeros e instrucción bilingüe (¡bienvenidas las estudiantes de inglés!). ¡Este año contamos con una instructora de español! Bienvenida, Leti Rico. And Karina Sucasaire's story from last year will take your breath away! 2026 Voices and Dreams Course Roadmap | Las Clases Academy Schedule La Agenda Date/Fecha Topic & Guest |Tema y Presentador Kickoff Event at One Social Club 123 E Wilson Street Madison, WI Wednesday, Aug 12 5:30 PM LINK TO SIGN UP! Meet our Coaches! Network with social entrepreneurs + artists + authors + podcast hosts + award-winning presenters + Black women-owned businesses + Latina-owned businesses. Food and light beverages are limited, so come on time. Join us for Forward Fest, the largest Tech Entrepreneurial conference in the region. Location: 306 E Wilson St., Second floor Thursday. Aug 20 10:30 -1 PM Link to register: https://forwardfest2026.sched.com/event/2P0F4/from-stage-to-strategy-voices-dreams-in-action Light food and beverages will be provided. Mini Sound Bath with Aracely Wehr and Master Class in Story Development How do you talk about yourself without talking? Location: 306 E Wilson St., Second floor Wed. Aug 26 5:30 PM Networking 6 PM Class Araceli Wehr Araceli Esparza and Let Rico We are all empowerment coaches for both Latina and Black women. Our Spanish speakers will be supported by Coach Leti Rico this year. We are so excited for this session. Sound Baths are a good method for de-stressing and will prep us for our storytelling! Public Speaking/Confidence building + The art of storytelling Commitment: You must join by this date and attend 100% moving forward to get on stage and be recorded. Secure your seat--fill out our registration! LINK What is your Story? with Speaker and Trainer Gregg Potter Location: 306 E Wilson St., Second floor Wed. Sept 9 5:30 PM Networking 6 PM Class Guest Speaker: Gregg Potter, Owning your presence Upfront and scared-- what do you say? Overcoming fears. With Anita + Leti Location: 306 E Wilson St., Second floor Wed. Sept 16 5:30 PM Networking 6 PM Class Guest Speaker: Anita Rodriguez and Leti Rico Paquita Raddish "Your Story for Power" Location: 306 E Wilson St., Second floor Wed Sep 23 5:30 PM Networking 6 PM Class Guest Speaker: Paquita Raddish When Stories Graduate Podcast Host Vendor Author and Faith-Based Business Coach Has been in business for over 10 years! Qiana Holmes "Embody Your Story" Location: 306 E Wilson St., Second floor Wed. Sep 30 5:30 PM Networking 6 PM Class Author, Empowerment Coach Qiana Holmes - Embody Your Voice Make-Up Professional Photoshoot with BrandHuse Location: 306 E Wilson St., Second floor Wed. Oct 7 5:30 PM Networking 6 PM Class Picture Day! We begin to write your blog and create your social media kit and podcast guest bio page--because who knows! Right?! Academy Schedule Date Coach and Topic Public Speaking Like a Rockstar! Amber Swenor Location: 306 E Wilson St., Second floor Wed Oct 14 5:30 PM Networking 6 PM Class Amber Swenor, national award-winning keynote speaker, author, and hard rock musician! Miriam Hall Mindfulness Session Location: 306 E Wilson St., Second floor Wed Oct 21 5:30 PM Networking 6 PM Class Miriam Hall – Overcoming stage fright, Mindfulness coach. Spanish Storytellers will be recording this day. First Rehearsal Session Johnathan Delgado Location: 306 E Wilson St., Second floor Wed. Oct 28 5:30 PM Networking 6 PM Class Fine-tuning your story for impact and clarity. Reflect on your American Dream and tie your story! ¡Johnathan Delgado! Final Rehearsal Location: 306 E Wilson St., Second floor Fri Oct 30 5:30 PM Networking 6 PM Class Final prep class Your personal blog will be live. Free Business listing. Social Media highlight. Possible media appearances. Stage-Ready Goodman Community Center This will be live-streamed and recorded. Sunday, Nov 1 12-2 final run-through Break 4 PM Return for light networking and take pictures. 5 PM Show Begins 12-2 PM Run-through: With Johnathan Delgado, pick your stage partner and walk-up song. Voices and Dreams LIVE Voces y Sueños En Vivo Sunday, Nov 1 3-4 PM Community Alter 4-5 PM Networking 5 PM Dinner + Show! Videography, photography, and opportunities will be on tap! Provided by Cass From BrandHous 📚 Speaker & Faculty Biographies Araceli Esparza – Founder & Director of Midwest Mujeres. Araceli is the lead facilitator of the Voices and Dreams Academy. She is an award-winning speaker, poet, and author who brings over a decade of experience in community storytelling and women’s leadership development. Her facilitation style is culturally rooted, healing-centered, and always joyful. Araceli believes that storytelling is a tool for economic empowerment, and her mission is to amplify the voices of women who are often left out of the spotlight. https://www.linkedin.com/in/araceliesparza/ Joanna Roldan- Program Coordinator - Joanna is the heart behind so much of what happens at Midwest Mujeres. She works closely with our participants, coaches, and community partners to make sure every woman feels bienvenida, supported, and connected throughout her journey. Email: joanna@midwestmujeres.com Leti Rico - Spanish-speaking Life Coach- Leti specializes in helping women and professionals navigate workplace wellness and dismantle limiting cognitive patterns. Through public speaking, strategic masterclasses, and interactive workshops such as Código de Abundancia, Despierta tu Esencia, and El arte de sanar, she equips individuals with the tools to refine communication, elevate their leadership presence, and cultivate a success-oriented mindset. Gregg Potter – Speaking & Presentation Coach. Gregg is a professional speaking coach who guides participants through public speaking techniques, including vocal strength, body language, storytelling structure, and overcoming stage fright. He helps women unlock the confidence they need to command any room or audience. Johnathan Delgado – Stage Manager: Johnathan coordinates rehearsals and handles all behind-the-scenes logistics for the ¡Yo Quiero Dinero! showcase. His attention to detail and experience in live events help ensure a smooth and empowering stage experience for all participants. Photo by Cass Hoye from TheBrandHaus Amber Swenor - Public Speaker Hi, I’m Amber Swenor. Transformational leadership and business coach and consultant. Musician. World traveler. Dog mom. Proud auntie. Deep feeler. Also a professional speaker, certified retreat leader, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author. I work with leaders who are done performing their way through their careers and ready for something deeper, something more expansive. Coaches Miriam Hall – Contemplative Arts Teacher. Miriam is a Madison-based photographer, writer, and contemplative arts teacher. She is the co-author of Looking and Seeing: An Introduction to Contemplative Photography, and she helps participants connect with their story through mindfulness and artistic reflection. Qiana Holmes – Guest Speaker: Embodiment & the Dynamics of Storytelling. Qiana is a seasoned adult educator and skilled facilitator who specializes in women’s leadership and embodied storytelling practices. Her session invites participants to move from head to heart, connecting the body to the voice. Paquita Reddish – Guest Speaker: Faith-Rooted Entrepreneurship. Paquita is a graduate, professional speaker, and multiple business owner based in Beloit, WI. She is the visionary co-founder of Blessed Divine Creations and founder of The Divine Solutionist, where she equips purpose-driven entrepreneurs with faith-rooted strategies and empowered coaching. With a deep passion for personal growth and leadership, Paquita inspires women to align their businesses with their values and divine purpose. Mentors Marta Carrion – Milwaukee Chapter Manager & Madrina. Marta acts as both Mentor and Madrina (godmother) for the women in the Academy. She offers hands-on guidance, emotional support, and logistical coordination throughout the program. Marta is a trusted and nurturing presence who makes sure every mujer feels seen, supported, and celebrated. Prenicia Clifton – Business & Success Coach. Prenicia is a trusted coach who specializes in helping women of color build successful businesses. With a keen understanding of systemic barriers, she offers clarity, accountability, and strategic planning to help entrepreneurs break through limitations and grow with purpose. Tennisha Loggins - Mentor/Coach for Business Owners Just starting out; Tennisha is a leadership coach, facilitator, and founder of Purposeful Solutions, where she helps individuals and organizations lead with clarity, confidence, and purpose. With a passion for personal growth and community impact, Tennisha specializes in helping people identify their strengths, overcome barriers, and take intentional steps toward the life and leadership they envision. 2025 Graduates Voices and Dreams Academy: Our Stories Have Value What you’ll walk away with A polished seven-minute TED-style talk and Blog Post with Website Presence (SEO)! Brand kit (Bio + Headshot with makeup), Professional Photography + Potential Media appearances Introductions to local coaches and master classes with them for FREE! A new network of mentors, peers, and potential collaborators How to apply Fill out our quick interest form! Complete the online application with our member manager(first 25 spots go fast!). Look for a welcome email confirming acceptance. Our staff will connect you to our coaches for free 1:1 sessions to map your goals. Attend the kickoff on July 16. Rolling applications accepted until September 9 (must apply to get on stage). Apply now and show the world that Our Stories Have Value! Questions? Email us at info@midwestmujeres.com Need-to-knows Child-care stipends available • Light snacks every session Semi-bilingual classes – basic English required; final talks may be in Spanish or Spanglish Commitment matters: from Sep 9 onward, 100% attendance is required for stage performers Whether you’re an emerging leader, an entrepreneur, or simply ready to claim your voice, this academy was built for you. Join the VVoices and Dreams Academy: Our Stories Have Value and step into the spotlight with Midwest Mujeres—helping close the wage gap, one story at a time. See you on Wednesday, August 12th for the Preview--at the new fun spot, One Social FoodHall, 123 E. Wilson Street. Photography and Videography will on tap. Learn about the art of storytelling.

~Welcome~ A Collective Statement from Midwest Mujeres, Village Girl Consulting, Purposeful Coaching & Consulting, and The Divine Solutionist Our hearts are with the family and loved ones of Corey Ruiz, and with every person in our community carrying grief, fear, anger, or uncertainty. In moments like these, we believe compassion should come before assumptions, listening before judgment, and community before division. As Black and Brown women leaders, we recognize that many members of our community are hurting. We also know healing is not passive. It happens when neighbors show up for one another. If you're wondering what you can do today, here are a few ways to support our community. Three meaningful ways to help ❤️ 1. Help feed those gathering in remembrance. Community members have been providing meals and water for those attending the vigil. If you're able, consider contributing. Cash App: $ImpactDemand PayPal: @JazzmanB1 Venmo: @Jazzman-Brown-1 🕯️ 2. Show up with compassion. Attend a vigil or community gathering if you are able. Listen. Check in on your neighbors. Hold space for those who are grieving. Sometimes presence is more powerful than words. 🤝 3. Support organizations working for healing and justice. Consider volunteering, donating, or participating with organizations working every day to strengthen our community, including: Urban Triage MOSES Madison Journey Mental Health Center Look up more organizations! We have many local neighborhood organizations supporting families and community healing Closing There are moments when the greatest act of leadership is not having all the answers. It is choosing compassion. Choosing presence. Choosing one another. With love, Midwest Mujeres Village Girl Consulting Purposeful Coaching & Consulting The Divine Solutionist ¡Hola! Queremos darle una cálida bienvenida a Joanna Roldán, our Voices & Dreams Academy Program Coordinator. If Voices & Dreams is a community, Joanna is the water that connects us all. She helps ideas flow, keeps people connected, and makes sure every participant feels bienvenida, supported, and informed throughout their journey. Working closely with our participants, coaches, volunteers, and community partners, Joanna coordinates the many moving pieces that bring the Academy to life. Whether she's answering questions, organizing workshops, or helping someone feel a little more at ease, she is often the friendly face behind the scenes making sure everything comes together. Passionate about building community, Joanna believes every person has a story worth sharing and deserves a space where they can learn, grow, and be heard. ¡Bienvenida, Joanna! We're so excited to have you helping guide this year's Voices & Dreams Academy. Resume and Cover Letter Writing with Madison College Resumes Land You Jobs What You Will Learn: How to craft a standout resume that highlights your skills and experiences Techniques for writing a persuasive cover letter that captures attention Tips for tailoring your documents for online submission Common mistakes to avoid in your application materials Insights into what employers look for in resumes and cover letters Who Should Attend: Job seekers at any stage of their career Individuals looking to update or revamp their existing resumes and cover letters Students preparing to enter the workforce Event Details: Date: Thursday, July 30 Time: 5-7 PM Location: Midwest Mujeres Center 306 E Wilson Ave, Madison, WI 53703 FREE Supported by Old National Bank, Family Foundation Grants by Piece-Jacobson Family, and all of the women who are supporting us on a monthly basis: Olivia Buenorostros Dr. Giselle Argento-Berrio Esther Ama S. Elise Gresch Kate Mascio Paula SteinHorst Aida Leflore Marta Carrion Karla Pinon Evelyn Galindo Kaziah Anderson Tainara Zanini Sonia Rondon Holly Marley-Henderson Penelope Pack Traycee Mayer Rosa Ed Paquita Purnell Marlena Matos Jeliel Pena de First Tomy Tepepa Mary Perez Graciela Laguna Monica Weitzel Juliana Johnson Silvia Gomez Vanessa Cook Michelle Mckoy Shirmeil Duncan Fenandaa Alayo Antonella Diaz Thank you to our supporters! Because of you, we can offer these workshops with food and childcare for free! And circulate money in our community. MORE EVENTS! Networking Night: A Voices & Dreams Academy Preview Event Join Midwest Mujeres for a summer evening of connection, storytelling, and possibility at One Social Food Hall. This networking night offers an exclusive look at the 2026 Voices & Dreams Academy, our transformational leadership program designed to grow confidence and community. Apply Now A free 8-week course on public speaking Kinda like a summer support group, more like a transformational life-changing event to uncover your voice and Dream. Spanish Speakers welcome! **We have Bilingual Coaches this year** Join us on our members' app to stay updated and keep in touch. Download & Join

Latest News Mar 17, 2023 5 most promising Fintech startups This is placeholder text. To change this content, double-click on the element and click Change Content. Read More Mar 21, 2023 Gadget review: release of new Airy Pods This is placeholder text. To change this content, double-click on the element and click Change Content. Read More Mar 22, 2023 Best smart wearables of 2023 This is placeholder text. To change this content, double-click on the element and click Change Content. Read More Mar 19, 2023 How technology can help curb attention disorders This is placeholder text. To change this content, double-click on the element and click Change Content. Read More Mar 18, 2023 Entering a new era of IoT This is placeholder text. To change this content, double-click on the element and click Change Content. Read More Mar 20, 2023 Long-term benefits of clean energy sources This is placeholder text. To change this content, double-click on the element and click Change Content. Read More

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