Woman-led Stories

2022 Community Builders to Watch event at Power & Light

Attack of the 40-foot Community Builders: KC changemakers celebrated at Power & Light (Photos)

Coworkers, fans and family members of this year’s Community Builders to Watch pulled up to the big screen Wednesday at Power & Light to see five of their favorite changemakers honored for efforts to improve Kansas City. Videos showcasing the select community builders — nominated by Startland News readers and members of the public — played on…

Fahteema Parrish, Parrish & Sons Construction, right, accepting the Business Equity Award at the 2022 KC Chamber Small Business Celebration; photos by Channa Steinmetz/Startland News

Inclusivity succeeds when founders are held accountable, says winner of Chamber’s equity award

Fahteema Parrish doesn’t mind putting forward extra work to make sure her employees feel included, she shared, embracing an environment that supports individuals of all backgrounds.  “Parrish & Sons Construction is an example of what intentional execution of equitable work within an organization actually looks like. Equality and inclusivity are key focal points as my…

Alley Gage, Alley Gage Beauty

That purple smokey eye? It’s a mask of confidence, KC beauty entrepreneur says

At first glance, beauty is a superficial industry, Alley Gage admitted, her reflection showing in a nearby mirror as she spoke about her decade-long career in cosmetics. The truth she’s learned about the industry — well, it’s a reality she isn’t willing to gloss over.  “I’ve always loved the concept that a tiny jar of something…

Simone Curls shares the mic with James Watts at a recent Prospect Business Association workshop

Generational wealth is coming to Prospect; meet the business group (and KC woman) leading the charge

As a former small business owner herself, Simone Curls wants Kansas City entrepreneurs to avoid the struggles she experienced. “I did it through the fire,” said Curls, executive director of the Prospect Business Association. “I walked those burning coals.” Curls grew up around the corner from the Prospect Business Association’s offices on Linwood and Prospect….

Vicky Kulikov, Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce

Community Builders to Watch: Vicky Kulikov embraces ‘Tikkun Olam’ in journey to supporting KC’s small business owners

Editor’s note: Startland News is showcasing five Kansas City changemakers from five local organizations through its second annual Community Builders to Watch series. The following highlights one of the 2022 honorees, selected from more than 100 initial nominees. Click here to view the full list of Community Builders to Watch — presented by Engenious Design. Vicky…