2 weeks Ago By Pacific Daily News
Karmen George, the founder of Nemin Boutique, won the 2024 Elevate-HER Pitch Program competition on Thursday, according to Bank of Guam, in partnership with the Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce and KUAM Communications. She's one of those who submitted a business pitch, which was selected as the grand prize winner among three talented finalists. Abby Crain, founder of The Blue Latitude, and Kayla Mari Del Rosario, founder of CannaCutlery, are the other finalists.
George will receive a prize package that includes $5,000 in funding from Bank of Guam, $5,000 worth of advertising credit for TV, radio, and digital from KUAM Communications, and a one-year membership in GWCC. Bank of Guam launched the inaugural Elevate-HER Pitch Program in late August, aimed to empower female entrepreneurs at any stage of their business journey. More than a dozen of majority women-owned and women-run businesses submitted applications.
Through a series of workshops and coaching sessions, the finalists also received guidance on content creation, storytelling, overcoming obstacles, adding value, branding, visual presentation, and pitch practice. The announcement took place in front of a live audience of more than 400 attendees at Fanachu Famalåo’an 2024: ElevateHER, GWCC’s signature women’s summit, on Sept 19 at Dusit Thani Guam Resort in Tumon. "The experience has been inspiring, giving me the confidence to take my business to new heights.
This isn’t just a win for me, but for every woman entrepreneur who dreams big and works hard. Thank you to Bank of Guam, KUAM and the Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce for believing in me and helping me bring my vision to life," George said in a press release on Friday. "This is just the beginning for me and my business, and I can’t wait to see how we all continue to elevate women entrepreneurs across the island.
" George is a passionate entrepreneur and dedicated advocate for Micronesian women. Her Nemin Boutique is inspired by the vision of empowering women through modern interpretations of traditional dress. The name is derived from the word Nemin, which means women in Chuukese.
George creates bold and beautiful muumuus for a new generation, transforming the classic muumuu into a contemporary statement piece. Her designs celebrate Micronesian heritage while embracing a modern aesthetic, fostering confidence and individuality among Micronesian women. Currently a solo operation, George has ambitious plans which includes outsourcing distribution to streamline operations and increase reach.
In addition to the grand prize, George was presented with The People’s Choice Award, as selected by the live audience at Fanachu Famalåo’an. The People’s Choice Award winner receives $1,000 in funding from Bank of Guam, $1,000 in advertising credit from KUAM Communications, and an annual membership to GWCC. All three finalists presented their business pitches before a distinguished panel of judges, including Mika Caldwell, vice president of Archway Inc.
; Jessica Leon Guerrero, president of M80 Systems; and Maria Eugenia Leon Guerrero, executive vice president and chief operating officer of Bank of Guam. All finalists were judged on their pitch, including clarity, persuasiveness, market opportunity, business model, and significant potential for positive community impact. “We’re incredibly proud of these women for showcasing their dedication, creativity, and drive throughout this competition.
Their hard work reflects the true spirit of what the Elevate-HER Pitch Program is all about – empowering women to step forward, share their vision, and make an impact. Each finalist has inspired us with their unique story, and we look forward to seeing how they continue to grow and contribute to our community," Bank of Guam's Leon Guerrero said. "Congratulations to Karmen and to all our finalists.
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