Local Entrepreneurs Panel: Thriving in a Post-Pandemic World

Keynote Speaker: Kenny Lambert of Just a Dad From Akron

Hear from local leaders as they share their keys to success and overcoming obstacles with attendees, aspiring entrepreneurs, and each other. Kenny Lambert will keynote this engaging evening.

Join business leaders and entrepreneurs from Kenmore and beyond for an informative evening of conversation and exploration.

Kenny Lambert of Just a Dad From Akron will be our keynote speaker. Kenny is an entrepreneur who has overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges, and now gives back to the Kenmore/Akron community in extraordinary ways.

Panelists will discuss their business successes, the planning that went into launching an enterprise, the challenges they faced, and how they overcame them.

Leaders represented include those in business, non-profit organizations, and the arts.

This program will be co-moderated by Tracy Williams, microbusiness specialist in the Business, Government & Science Division of the Akron-Summit County Public Library, and Wendy Zarara, branch manager of the Kenmore Branch Library.

Keynote speaker:

Kenny Lambert of Just a Dad From Akron: Owner Kenny Lambert began his journey of sobriety on May 16, 2018. Shortly after completing treatment, he was inspired to create a positive and uplifting clothing brand called "Just a Dad From Akron." He now owns and operates a storefront at 937 Kenmore Blvd. in Akron. What started as a clothing brand has now become a movement in Northeast Ohio. Within the walls of his brick and mortar is much more than just a clothing store. It has become a safe place for kids in the community, an inspiring place for adults, a venue for weekly sober support meetings, and so much more! 

Panelists include (subject to change):

• Helen Wray of Called to Success, LLC: CEO and human potential strategist providing individuals with the tools they need to thrive mentally and professionally.
• Isiah Kaiser or Aperna Agarwal of Auxilium Health: They provide a low-cost biomaterial wound dressing that can reduce severe would infections by 80%.
• Lawrence Jackson of YourSource, LLC: He has a phone app where a user can customize news preferences and resources from global media outlets, available in Android and iOS.
• Saarah Na’Allah of Mwalimu Saarah, LLC: She has a culturally-affirming e-learning and consulting platform.
• Jennifer Tidwell: Local chef and owner of Jenuine Cuisines.
• Travonte Junius: Owner of Future Motives clothing retailer and mental health advocate.
• Lori Parnell: Owner of Black Culture Candles, which creates hand-poured candles.
• Jerry & Yoreli: Owners of Love Like Crazy Flooring, LLC.

Related Resources:

"The Family-First Entrepreneur: How to Achieve Financial Freedom Without Sacrificing What Matters Most" by Steve Chou

"American Entrepreneur: How 400 Years of Risk-Takers, Innovators, and Business Visionaries Built the U.S.A." by Willie Robertson and William Doyle

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