Victoria Franklin
Trailblazing Women
Empowering Boss Life
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your background?
Victoria Franklin: I am an accomplished and passionate individual who has dedicated my life to making a positive impact in the world. I am the founder of Dear Music, a 501c3 organization devoted to helping youth, creators, entrepreneurs, and under- resourced and underserved communities unlock their potential by providing them with the resources they need to create and innovate. I am also the owner of The Love Bistro in Clarksville, TN, a community, resource, event, and business center that is a platform for others to start their own businesses, host events and workshops, and provide resources and mentorship in the local community.
My passion for the arts has also led me to two successful events, the Beale Street Art Crawl and the Little Five Points Arts and Vegan Festival. My contributions to the communities I work with have been invaluable, and I have been recognized for my community advocacy by both the City of Memphis and Downtown Memphis Commission.
I am a remarkable and accomplished individual, excelling in geospatial engineering, website design, photography, and writing. I am working towards my Doctoral degree in Public Policy and Administration, concentrating on examining the utilization of government policies, public management, and economic development strategies to diminish disparities in access to quality education, healthcare, and other public services. Through my research, I hope to bring about meaningful change in the lives of those living in poverty and to create an equitable society for all.
Empowering Boss Life
What challenges have you faced as a woman in your field, and how have you overcome them?
Victoria Franklin: As a woman in my field, I've encountered significant challenges that have tested my resilience. One of the hurdles has been the struggle for recognition and support for the platforms I've created to assist others. Whether it's pitching my nonprofit to potential sponsors or seeking acknowledgment for my efforts, and doubts have often met my endeavors. This skepticism has made securing necessary funding and deserving recognition an uphill battle.
To surmount these challenges, I've had to exhibit unwavering resilience and persistence. I've taken proactive steps to create visibility within the industry, generating my own opportunities to be seen and heard. Building relationships with key stakeholders and decision-makers has been crucial. Leveraging these connections has granted me access to essential resources. Additionally, I've adopted innovative approaches to presenting my work and ideas, ensuring I stay ahead of industry trends.
In the nonprofit sector, particularly for black women, financial underfunding is a pressing issue. Despite their invaluable contributions, they often face inadequate financial support. This scarcity impedes their ability to sustain their vital work, impacting the lives of those they serve. It's a cycle that demands intervention. We must facilitate access to financial resources for women-led nonprofits, providing opportunities for seed funding and loans. Education and workshops focusing on financial resource access and utilization skills are essential. Creating a culture of financial support within the nonprofit space is imperative. This guarantees that women can confidently obtain the necessary backing to sustain their influential initiatives.
While these challenges have been daunting, they've molded me into a more resilient and confident professional. I've learned to assert myself, trust my abilities, and stay resolute in the face of challenges. Armed with these lessons, I am determined to overcome any challenge and continue making a meaningful impact in my field.
Empowering Boss Life
What accomplishments are you most proud of since being featured in Empowering Boss Life magazine?
Victoria Franklin: I take pride in my feature in Empowering Boss Life magazine and the subsequent positive impact it has made. I'm particularly proud of the organizations I've established, transforming lives and making a meaningful difference. The support from my family and friends fills me with pride. I cherish the opportunities I've had to inspire and empower others, guiding them toward their aspirations. The valuable connections I've formed, professionally and personally, have contributed significantly to my growth. Most importantly, I'm proud of my ability to pay it forward, assisting others in achieving their goals.
Empowering Boss Life
How have you continued to empower and mentor other women in your industry?
Victoria Franklin: I've actively engaged in empowering and mentoring fellow women in my industry through various avenues. I've been a speaker at diverse events, from intimate workshops to large-scale conferences, both locally and internationally. In these forums, I've shared my experiences and expertise, aiming to guide and uplift other women in their professional journeys. I've taken on mentoring roles, providing valuable advice and helping women navigate their paths to success.
Additionally, I've made myself readily available to answer questions, extend resources, and offer support whenever needed. Giving back to the industry, I've financially supported startup businesses led by women and provided mentorship opportunities to young women, equipping them with the essential skills for success.
Furthermore, I've established a dynamic business hub, fostering connections and collaborations among women professionals. My ultimate objective is to nurture and develop a robust network of empowered and prosperous women in my industry. This network serves as a source of inspiration and mutual support, encouraging women to thrive together.
Empowering Boss Life
Could you share an impactful story or experience that has shaped your journey and outlook on life?
Victoria Franklin: I will share an impactful story about Jessica Adams, a talented chef specializing in Sushi cuisine. When she expressed her dream of becoming an independent vendor and owning her culinary venture, I saw an opportunity to help her achieve her goals. I offered her the chance to set up her business within the Love Bistro, providing her with essential resources for success.
As our platform expanded, we recently relocated to a larger space, aligning with our shared vision. Since joining my initiative, Jessica's brand presence has significantly grown, leading to numerous business opportunities. Now, she actively mentors high school students in my Youth Culinary Program and participates in various events and cooking shows.
This story exemplifies the impact my platform can have. By mentoring Jessica and providing necessary resources, she has not only flourished in her business but has also become an integral part of our community. Today, she assists me in mentoring our youth interns, showcasing the power of support and collaboration in shaping successful journeys.
Empowering Boss Life
How has your life and career evolved since being featured in Empowering Boss Life magazine?
Victoria Franklin: Since my feature in Empowering Boss Life magazine, my life and career have experienced a profound change. The exposure provided by the magazine has allowed me to reach a significantly wider audience, enabling the growth of my personal brand. This increased visibility has brought forth opportunities beyond my wildest expectations.
I've had the privilege of sharing my story, inspiring others, and assisting them in achieving their aspirations. Moreover, the feature has facilitated meaningful connections with influential figures in my industry, proving to be an invaluable asset to my professional journey.
Furthermore, I've utilized my experiences to support others facing similar challenges. The magazine feature has been a turning point, drastically altering the trajectory of my life and career. I am profoundly grateful for the doors it has opened and the opportunities it continues to bring my way.
Empowering Boss Life
What have you learned about yourself and your leadership style since being featured in Empowering Boss Life magazine?
Victoria Franklin: Since my feature in Empowering Boss Life magazine, I've discovered that my leadership style is most effective when I empower others instead of trying to be the sole leader. This experience has significantly boosted my self- confidence in my leadership abilities. I've realized the significance of active listening understanding the diverse perspectives of those around me.
Moreover, I've learned the importance of dedicating time for self-reflection, enabling me to align my personal goals with the team's objectives effectively.
Overall, this journey has taught me that I can achieve by instilling trust in my team members. I foster an environment where they are encouraged to express their ideas and actively contribute to our common goals.
Empowering Boss Life
How have you continued to challenge yourself and grow as a leader?
Victoria Franklin: I challenge myself to continuously learn new skills, such as problem-solving techniques, communication strategies, and organizational techniques. Additionally, I remain current with the latest industry trends and changes by reading industry publications, attending webinars, and attending conferences. I also seek out mentors and sponsors who can provide me with valuable feedback and guidance. Additionally, I have become a more effective leader by becoming better attuned to the needs of my team. I dedicate time to listen to their concerns and ideas, fostering an atmosphere where everyone feels at ease expressing their thoughts and opinions. I also strive to empower my team members to take ownership of their work and have implemented strategies to ensure they are able to work autonomously and without micromanagement. By doing so, I am able to foster a collaborative environment where everyone is able to contribute to the team’s success. I persist in pushing my creative boundaries, and devising inventive solutions for challenging issues. Ultimately, I enhanced my management approach by being a positive role model and leading through actions.
Empowering Boss Life
What does being an empowering boss mean to you, and how do you strive to embody that in your everyday life and interactions with others?
Victoria Franklin: Being an empowering boss signifies recognizing that my employees drive the core success of my business. It involves fostering an environment where their success is paramount, appreciating their unique contributions, and honoring their ideas. It means acknowledging my limitations and relying on my team's expertise. Empowering means granting them the freedom to lead projects, offering guidance when necessary, and maintaining clear, consistent expectations with constructive feedback.
In my daily interactions, I uphold these principles by listening, recognizing and valuing their input, and treating everyone equitably and respectfully. I encourage collaboration and open communication, ensuring that everyone has a platform to contribute meaningfully. Leading by example, I initiate action and set a positive precedent for my staff to emulate.
Empowering Boss Life
How do you prioritize self-care and maintaining a healthy work-life balance? what tips can you offer other busy women?
Victoria Franklin: In my hectic schedule, prioritizing self-care and achieving a healthy work-life balance can feel daunting. However, I manage this by establishing clear boundaries and discerning about my commitments. Learning to say no to requests and invitations allows me to safeguard time for relaxation and rejuvenation, ensuring I maintain my well-being amidst a busy life.
For other busy women, my tip is to recognize the power of boundaries. It's essential to delineate work hours, personal time, and moments for self-care. Don't decline tasks or social invitations if they infringe upon your precious downtime. Remember, saying no can be an act of self-care, allowing you to nurture your needs and maintain balance in your life.
Empowering Boss Life
How do you stay motivated and inspired, even in the face of adversity?
Victoria Franklin: My motivation and inspiration stem largely from prayer and gratitude. When life throws challenges my way, these practices help me focus on my goals. Surrounding myself with positive, encouraging individuals provides crucial support during discouraging moments. I hold unwavering faith in my abilities and the power of my dreams, allowing me to concentrate on the ultimate success, regardless of the time it takes to achieve it. Staying motivated and inspired demands resilience, especially in challenging situations. Yet, my faith, my supportive community, and my unwavering determination serve as guiding lights, helping me persevere through tough times and stay motivated and inspired, no matter the circumstances.
Empowering Boss Life
What new projects or initiatives are you currently working?
Victoria Franklin: Currently, I am focused on launching our restaurant/community center in a new location, offering diverse cuisine and engaging activities for people from all backgrounds. Additionally, I'm planning educational initiatives, including classes on cooking, finance, and health, within the community center. Building a dedicated team is also a priority to ensure the success of this venture, which I believe will unite the community in an exciting way.
Myself along with my mentor/community partner is launching a book called "Entrepreneur Express," a comprehensive guide to fast-track business startups. This guide equips entrepreneurs with essential knowledge on business planning, marketing, and overcoming challenges. It also provides resources for further education and training, serving as a valuable asset for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Through our affiliate partner, Harvey House, we offer Love Bistro extensions for private catering, event spaces, and accommodations in Memphis, TN. Additionally, with Legacy House Orlando, we provide entrepreneurs with a platform for skill development, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Legacy House offers workshops, seminars, and networking events, creating a vibrant environment for entrepreneurs to learn, grow, and succeed.
Empowering Boss Life
What are your future goals and aspirations, both personally and professionally?
Victoria Franklin: My future goals involve being a positive and influential leader in my community earning respect for my impactful work. I am deeply passionate about empowering others to reach their full potential, and I aim to broaden my outreach for a more significant impact. Additionally, I prioritize my health and well-being, recognizing that self-care enables me to assist others. I am committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including nutritious eating, regular exercise, and dedicated self- care time. Balancing my dedication to others with self-preservation is crucial. These objectives guide my path forward, and I eagerly anticipate the journey ahead.
Empowering Boss Life
What changes or advancements do you hope to see for women in your industry in the next 5- 10 years?
Victoria Franklin: In the coming 5-10 years, I aspire to witness significant advancements for women in our industry. I envision increased funding opportunities, widespread access to mentorships, and a rise in women occupying leadership positions. Many women harbor a passion for community service yet often lack the necessary resources and support to bring their visions to fruition. By providing additional funding channels for female entrepreneurs and innovators, paired with mentorship opportunities led by experienced industry professionals, women can be empowered to instigate meaningful and transformative change within the nonprofit sector. My hope is that these changes will pave the way for a more diverse, inclusive, and equitable nonprofit landscape, enabling every individual to thrive and succeed.
Empowering Boss Life
What do you envision for the future of women in your industry, and how do you plan to contribute to that vision?
Victoria Franklin: In the future, women in our industry will stand united as innovators, challengers, and creators, armed with the expertise to drive positive change. Together, we will advocate for inclusive policies, equal access, and fair opportunities. Empowering and mentoring each other, we'll share knowledge to strengthen our collective impact. Personally, I'll contribute by educating and mentoring, amplifying voices often overlooked, and fostering a collaborative, safe environment. Serving as a role model, I'll inspire the next generation to believe in their potential for success and lasting influence.
Empowering Boss Life
What advice would you give to women who are just starting out in your industry?
Victoria Franklin: My advice to women starting in our industry is to build a supportive network and embrace risks. Every industry has challenges, and it's crucial to approach them with the right mindset. Stay motivated, seek mentors, and surround yourself with a supportive community – they'll be your pillars in tough times. Be fearless; taking risks and exploring new avenues provides invaluable learning experiences. Research the industry thoroughly to understand its trends and dynamics, ensuring you're well-prepared for challenges. Don't hesitate to seek assistance. Utilize available resources and never shy away from asking for help. With determination, a strong network, and a positive mindset, you can overcome any obstacle. Best of luck!
Empowering Boss Life
How have you continued to empower and inspire other women in your industry or community?
Victoria Franklin: As a female leader in the nonprofit industry, I have dedicated myself to empowering and inspiring other women within and beyond the sector. I've fostered meaningful connections and cultivated a community of resilient women. Mentorship plays a vital role in my approach. I connect women in the nonprofit industry with mentors who amplify their voices and instill confidence and knowledge to achieve their aspirations.
I've been a staunch advocate for fostering inclusive and diverse workplaces, emphasizing equitable pay and resources for women. Through various initiatives, I've facilitated access to essential resources, including free educational workshops, mentorship programs, and financial assistance. These efforts have contributed to a more equitable and supportive environment, enabling women to thrive in the nonprofit sector. My commitment remains unwavering, and I aspire to continue empowering and inspiring women in the industry for years to come.
Empowering Boss Life
Lastly, what message would you like to share with the Empowering Boss Life community and its readers?
Victoria Franklin: In the Empowering Boss Life community, let's acknowledge the impactful work done for positive change. Together, through collective effort, we can normalize female empowerment and create a world where women thrive. Every contribution, whether through donations, volunteering, or support, matters. It's vital to uplift one another and remember the significant impact we can make together. Let's foster a supportive, strong, and resilient environment for all women.
