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In December, the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE) made its mark at the Walt Disney World resort. For a 3-day intensive programming session at Disney’s Yacht Club Convention Center, over 80 Black entrepreneurs and Atlanta’s RICE stakeholders gathered. The session encompassed pitch practicing, presentations, networking, Disney immersion, and a panel of small business experts and supply chain industry speakers.
According to RICE’s website, the program participants, known as “stakeholders,” were actively involved in the event. They shared their personal journeys in entrepreneurship, learned about scaling their businesses, and gaining corporate contracts. The organization aimed to create a sense of ownership, covenant, and belonging among these stakeholders.
President and CEO of ACY Constructors, Michael D Young, and founder and CEO of World of Epi, Dr. Lisa Williams, provided insights during panels on social media best practices, Disney Institute quality service sessions, and a Disney small business vendor panel, culminating in inspiring closing executive remarks that led to these valuable experiences.
Each participant, from stakeholders to executives, speakers, and program leaders, expressed their own reasons for attending the event.
RICE is pleased to introduce Dr. Lisa Williams.
RICE’s photo courtesy shows Dr. Lisa Williams and Michael D. Young.
The intentional involvement of the Walt Disney Company with helping small businesses grow through encouragement and inspiration was discussed by Ralph Sagaille, the executive director of Supplier Diversity & Strategic Sourcing.
Speaker on the small business vendor panel, Williams, the creator of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever collectible dolls, shed light on the benefit of preparedness.
“When the opportunity to work on the Wakanda project came forward, I was ready. My main focus had always been on creating the best dolls possible that would empower both children and adults,” Williams said.
Disney approached Williams and inquired about various aspects of their project, including distribution, international distribution, software, certification, and insurance.
Williams confirmed that the answer to every question posed was a resounding “yes”. Taking the opportunity to collaborate and “create this magical doll” was the next best step for her well-prepared company.
Williams’ great feat for a small business resonated with stakeholders, as her message was well-received.
For more information about the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs, visit russellcenter.org to explore its history and mission.
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