At BAMKO, we’re all about inclusivity and empowerment 365 days a year, not just when the rainbow flags are flying high. Our fabulous LGBTQIA+ alliance, GLAMKO, is a testament to that, creating a space where our community members can connect, grow, and basically just be their awesome selves.
Recently, GLAMKO’s dynamic duo, Stephanie Wheeler and Shane Maddox, along with GLAMKO’s extraordinary co-chair KJ Summers, swapped their office chairs for poolside lounges and headed to the NGLCC International Business & Leadership Conference in sunny Palm Springs. It was a chance to network, connect with potential clients, and show the world that BAMKO is serious about supporting the LGBTQIA+ community.
NGLCC: Where Business Meets Pride
The National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) is the largest advocacy organization dedicated to expanding economic opportunities and career empowerment for LGBTQIA+ people. They also serve as the exclusive certifying body for LGBTQIA-owned businesses. The NGLCC provides a platform for genuine business networking and collaboration, celebrating the achievements of the community and creating a space for like minded business experts to connect and network. They’re all about expanding economic opportunities and making sure everyone has a fair shot at success, regardless of who they love.
The NGLCC conference is like the Super Bowl of LGBTQIA+ business events. It’s where the brightest minds and biggest hearts come together to celebrate achievements, forge connections, and pave the way for a more inclusive future. Our GLAMKO sales savants attended this conference to engage with the community and show the world what BAMKO/GLAMKO is all about.
Key Takeaways: Empowerment and Allyship
Our GLAMKO crew didn’t just show up to the conference; they showed OUT! They prepared t-shirts, brochures, and other fun merch to showcase BAMKO’s pride. Instead of kicking back, they proactively scheduled meetings with key contacts, aiming to share BAMKO’s capabilities, introduce the company to new markets, and reinforce their dedication to the community.
The conference proved to be a valuable platform for networking and building relationships. It was also a powerful reminder of the strength and determination within the business leadership of this community, despite the discrimination, obstacles and other challenges they may have faced along the way.
“Witnessing the support and collaboration within the community served as a powerful reminder of the positive impact that can be achieved when we all stand together, said Stephanie. “It was truly impressive to hear about the journeys of LGBTQ+ individuals, and their stories reinforced the importance of allyship in fostering a more inclusive and equitable business world.”
Get Involved with the NGLCC
BAMKO’s participation in the NGLCC conference exemplifies our ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive, empowering, and supportive workplace. We believe that diversity is our strength, and we’re proud to stand alongside our LGBTQIA+ employees and the broader community in the pursuit of equality and progress.
If you’re passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ businesses, check out the NGLCC and see if there’s a chapter near you. Let’s create a world where everyone feels empowered to chase their dreams, succeed, and thrive.
