Ms. LaKara Williams and members of Delta Academy and GEMS
Photo| Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
BENNETTSVILLE—Members of the Bennettsville-Cheraw Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. sponsored an entrepreneurship workshop for members of Delta Academy and Delta GEMS Saturday, November 9, 2024 at the Marlboro Adult Education Center.
The guest speaker was Ms. LaKara Williams, a Bennettsville native who currently lives in Florence, S.C. Ms. Williams is a professional hair dresser and owner of Krafty K Kreations. The theme of the workshop was “Be A Boss.” Ms. Williams spoke to members of Delta Academy and Delta GEMS on why she became interested in entrepreneurship and steps to becoming an entrepreneur. Ms. Williams stated that an interest in entrepreneurship was sparked when she was a youngster helping her mom who owns her own hair salon and later continued through high school when she took a cosmetology course. Ms. Williams also talked about her love for creative arts and graphics that lead to her Krafty K Kreation t-shirt customized printing business. She stated that steps to becoming an entrepreneur requires more than a plan; it requires professionalism, taking risks, teamwork, networking with others, setting goals, hardwork, and willingness to keep trying. As she discussed each step, she asked participants questions to probe their thinking. She advised participants to explore business interests now instead of waiting until they are older. Ms. Williams emphasized the positive role that social media plays in promoting a business. She also reminded the group that there is no single path to success because we are all different. In closing, Ms. Williams mentioned her interest in real estate to show that you can have multiple businesses and interests. Each participant was given a t-shirt and chose from different colored stencils, then used a heat press machine to design their “Girl Boss” t-shirt. While participants were in their workshop, a Risk Management session was held for parent volunteers.
Delta Academy and Delta GEMS provide educational programs for at-risk young ladies in elementary, middle, and high school. The program offers mentoring and educational learning opportunities to assist girls in setting goals for their future. In collaboration with community support, organizations, and professionals, workshops are offered monthly in the following areas: science, leadership, technology, self-esteem, etiquette, physical and mental health, cultural enrichment and field trips. Chapter president is Gina Owens, Vice-president is Margaret Primus, and program chair is Eunice Ray.