Say We – A Woman’s Place

‘Say We’ Debuts

You’ve heard about the Old Boys’ Network – so how about something for women? Reema Rasool, a young entrepreneur, has come up with Say We – which stands for South Asian Young Women Entrepreneurs, an organization that brings together mentors and emerging entrepreneurs. The launch event at Vermilion brought in over a hundred women to mingle and brainstorm and listen to some savvy women who’ve established successful companies.

“When I started my own business, I was all over the place,” says Rasool, who runs Reemarani, a small private label of custom made embellished shawls and scarves. “I had to really put myself out there and ask people for advice. I wished that there was some sort of forum for South Asian business women that I could tap into.”

She spoke with several accomplished women and the idea of Say We was born. At the very first event, the brainpower was stimulating:  Benita Singh of Source4Style, Divya Gugnani of Behind the Burner, Rohini Dey Owner/Founder of the Vermilion restaurants, and Asema Ahmed of Magnolias Linens all shared tips on succeeding as entrepreneurs.

Rasool is planning lecture series with various speakers from different industries as well as social networking events. She says, “I think the best way to network is to be in a relaxed setting, where you are making connections that are going to be beneficial business-wise, but you are also making an acquaintance that you are connecting with on a personal level.”

Also on the drawing board are fundraisers which will support education for underprivileged girls in South Asia. Says Rasool, “I think it is so important for us to realize how truly blessed we are. If we don’t feel a responsibility towards the underprivileged women in South Asia, who will?”

In recent months there have been many new women’s networks and this one is geared toward emerging entrepreneurs, many of whom are in the corporate world and debating about getting their feet wet. “It’s this amazing feeling of girl power and women’s solidarity” says Rasool.

“Everyone is so excited to be a part of this, because there is such a real need for this sort of organization. You wouldn’t believe how many emerging South Asian women entrepreneurs there are, all with amazing ideas and vision and creativity.”

For more details on SAY WE and to get involved visit www.sayweonline.org
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