“The Emerging Leaders Development Program didn’t just change how I see myself—it expanded my network and built lifelong connections. My peer mentor was a younger man from a completely different background, but we connected. We listened, supported, and learned from one another. “

Pauline Mburu

“The Emerging Leaders Development Program helped me overcome several internal challenges, but the biggest was self-doubt. Before the program, I struggled with impostor syndrome, I often questioned whether I truly belonged in leadership spaces, especially when surrounded by people with more experience or louder voices.”

Jebeth Rubio

“Personal development isn’t always easy, it means confronting where you’re comfortable and deciding to grow anyway. RIBBA felt like a space where I could do that while being surrounded by others who are also trying to level up and create impact. That mix of support and challenge was exactly what I needed.”

Steven Rodriguez

“The program helped me overcome self-doubt and the feeling that I had to have it all figured out on my own. Being surrounded by a supportive community of leaders reminded me that growth is a journey, not a destination.”

Neyda DeJesus

“I was inspired to apply for RIBBA’s LEAP Mentorship & Training Program because I am always seeking opportunities to grow both personally and professionally.”

Milly De La Cruz , LEAP Mentorship & Training Program Graduate

“Knowing there are others like me—driven, collaborative, and always learning—keeps me from settling. I’m committed to pushing my boundaries, whether through studying, networking, or exploring new places, because growth doesn’t happen in comfort zones.”

Abraham Cortez, LEAP Mentorship & Training Program Graduate

“The Emerging Leaders Development Program helped me reclaim my greatness...It pushed me out of my comfort zone and challenged me to no longer settle for ”good enough” personally and professionally.”

Kia Minor, Emerging Leaders Alumna

“I believe that being in a space where different perspectives are welcomed and shared, not only enhances individual growth but also strengthens our collective ability to lead with empathy, awareness, and impact.”

Nichole McChord, Emerging Leaders Alumna

"There’s strength in being curious and open to learning. No one has all the answers starting out, and that’s okay. What matters is the willingness to grow. That’s exactly what RIBBA offers: a safe, supportive, and value-driven space where minority entrepreneurs can learn, connect, and build without judgment."

Milen King, Owner of FAD Services Inc.

“If I could tell other entrepreneurs one thing, it’s this: don’t give up. Even when it feels impossible, keep pushing. Even when the progress is slow, keep showing up. Daybreak always comes”

Carla Donatien, Owner of HighClass Bookkeeping & Tax Services

“Don’t try to do it all alone. While it’s tempting to wear every hat in your business, true growth and sustainability come when you invite others into the journey. There are people, programs, and resources ready to help, you have to be willing to seek them out. “

Jessica Bankston, Owner of Virtual Oasis Solutions

“RIBBA has given me a platform to connect with my community and meet individuals who have been tremendous in the growth of my business.”

Charise Wilson, Owner of Workforce Ready Solutions LLC

“Become a RIBBA member NOW and get your business off the ground.”

Mike & Tamara Tardy , Owners of MAAT Future LLC

"RIBBA has motivated me to continue to fight not just for myself but for my community and its future."

Crystal Cardones, Owner of Crystal Clear Marketing

“The strengths-based approach employed by RIBBA’s Emerging Leaders Development Program has been extremely transformative in my personal life as well as my career and business.”

Jean Alexandre, Emerging Leaders Alumni

"I think a huge takeaway is being matched up with a mentor that fits your prior experience as well as desired growth. This really allowed us to always bring a mutual effort to the table. The monthly workshops serve as a great way to reel back in our focus and make sure we get everything covered while we are in the 6 month program (even though I am confident I will be speaking with my mentor well after that)."

Nicholas Rose, LEAP Mentorship & Training Program Graduate

"RIBBA is like a GPS tool for my business."

Vennicia Kingston, Owner of Eagle Eye Post Construction Services LLC

"This loan has helped my business Urban Thread tremendously... I was able to reach a wider audience through marketing and advertising my small business online and through local publications. Effective advertising, along with the right tools, helps to bring in the sales and target specific demographics. This loan also allowed me to make a few aesthetic improvements. These changes have brought better reviews and a returning clientele."

Mindy Britto, Owner of Urban Thread

"Getting to know my strengths at deeper level has helped me to better navigate what opportunities I want to pursue and how to authentically connect with people along the way."

JaTia Rollins, LEAP Mentorship & Training Program Graduate

"My biggest takeaway is understanding the power that we have in this world. Being apart of this cohort has means a lot to me, seeing there aren’t a lot of examples of leaders that look like me in this region! I feel confident as I continue to navigate my journey as a leader, especially as I come to know my own leadership style."

Julia Hall, Emerging Leaders Alumni

"RIBBA gets the job done! The team understands our needs as a company and meets us where we at."

Elisabeth Borno, owner of Born-O-Uniforms