Women’s Business Network-San Lorenzo Valley
The Women’s Business Network-San Lorenzo Valley is a newly-formed organization that help mold women in leaders. — contributed

Throughout history, women have demonstrated leadership. And, when women band together, their abilities foster growth, support and wisdom. Without getting into our modern-day cultural and diversity correctness, let’s say everyone in business knows about the power of how networking groups work. When you take like-minded and skilled members who share their diverse areas of expertise, networking has unquestionable value to its members.

With this in mind and our enthusiasm bursting at the seams, Mary Andersen, President of SLV Chamber of Commerce, and I formed the Women’s Business Network-San Lorenzo Valley (WBN-SLV). 

Our first speaker is Jennifer Mount, consultant and lead trainer for Cabrillo College Supervision & Leadership Academy, on Sept. 22, at the Satellite Offices downtown Felton. What she has to say is relevant in today’s times for all people in business.

Why We Network

Women’s networking groups have existed for years. Researcher, Robin Buckley, Ph.D., says, “over the past decade, technology, the #MeToo movement, and the pandemic have all contributed to the surge of these groups.” Hope was on the horizon by March this year, and face-to-face gatherings began emerging.  

We are all aware of how the pandemic and its demand for isolation impacted us.  

Zoom meetings came to our rescue, but the longevity of the pandemic changed our lifestyles on so many levels, and Zoom fatigue became real. While the threat of ongoing Covid-19 variants still exists, with caution and common sense, nothing replaces face-to-face connections.

We network because we want to support and promote members, help equalize societal roles, and much more, but let’s not forget the importance of fun and camaraderie.

Who Are We?

The newly formed WBN-SLV is here. Our first sponsor, CyAs, Cyber Ascend Technologies in Scotts Valley, a local IT and web management firm, is hosting our first event. The speaker’s topic is Embracing Your Emotions. In business, we discuss the importance of emotional intelligence in the workplace. We are excited to address this topic and future ones, such as time management, leadership, digital marketing, selling and customer service skills, with all of these and more on the horizon.

When & Where

Everyone is welcome to the first event at Satellite Workplaces Felton (6265 Highway 9), but you need to RSVP and register at bit.ly/3BVedYB. Parking is available in the back and guests are asked to arrive early, 8:45am, as the speaker begins at 9am. Our sponsorships make this a free event possible.

If you are in business, join our Facebook group and help promote this event with these links:

Why We Matter

Our basic philosophy supports the overall concepts of why women’s groups continue to thrive.

We believe that businesswomen who learn together flourish in their personal and business lives. 

  • Women in business become successful not only by skill alone but who trust their intuitive nature and ability to unite.
  • Women value the art of communication. They welcome other perspectives on developing and growing their businesses and personal lives.
  • Women learn from each other because they know business life is challenging, and together, they become empowered by sharing their experiences, strengths, and challenges. They become business builders.

Come join us. Please let us know if you would like to be on our mailing list. We are looking for sponsors, speakers, and business persons in our Valley. Contact [email protected] for speaker and sponsorship information and Mary at [email protected] for event details. Questions? Call 831-335-0553.


Janet Janssen is a Life in Business coach, distinguished speaker and district winner in Toastmasters International. She offers training for local business owners and their teams. Contact her at [email protected]

Previous articleFocus on the Valley: Steve Kuehl
Next articleScotts Valley Starts Nonprofit Grant Program
Janet Janssen is a Life in Business and Speaking Coach, Leadership Santa Cruz County board member, local Chamber member and Distinguished speaker with Toastmasters International. She provides individual and team-building workshops in leadership and public speaking. Currently, she is a volunteer coach for April’s TEDx Santa Cruz. Contact her at janetjanssen.com.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here