We had the good fortune of connecting with Cindi Sayles and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Cindi, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
The Industrious Women’s Network Inc was prophesied to me and my other co-founders, Ashley Price and Gary Price II during a Sunday service presented by Pastor Gary C. Price. After suffering from and then surviving Covid-19, Pastor Price received a vision from the Lord about bringing a resource to thousands of college women around the world. We were told to build a business model around these women becoming productive young women coming out of college and not knowing what to do. As an act of faith, we hit the ground running, talked with ladies across multiple college campuses, and saw that this problem was evident. In addition, on average, it takes between 3-6 months for a student to obtain a job after graduation. Furthermore, 53% of college graduates are unemployed or working in a job that that does not require a bachelor’s degree.
Therefore, we solve this problem by offering workshops that teach students how to properly articulate their skills onto a resume, professionally brand themselves using online professional careers profiles, and successfully conduct interviews to gain practical hands-on experience while in school to be equipped for employment after college. We desire to see every student begin and prosper in their career field of choice.
We are currently operating at Kennesaw State University where we have a collegiate chapter that has been established for 1+ year that has helped students build their resumes and gain internships, and we are just getting started.
What should our readers know about your business?
The Industrious Women’s Network is a college mentorship program that prepares women for life after college. We foster professional development and personal growth to build a network of accomplished women through various teaching series. The difference between IWN and other programs is that we create and grow a personal relationship with all of our mentees. We understand that people don’t fit just one mold, and so through these one-on-one relationships we are able to cater to the individual needs of those that we are serving. Yes, we set these young ladies on a path to reaching their goals once they graduate, but we are also invested in developing their character. What we have learned is that life is so much more than a career. We believe that seeking Jesus for yourself and finding out His will for your life is what matters most. If He comes first, everything else will fall in place. The Lord will open doors that no man can shut. Keeping this in mind, we approach these young ladies knowing that they have so much to offer. So to get them where they need to be, we pour out ourselves. Has the journey been easy? No, but it has definitely been worth it. In 2024, we are looking to bring IWN to Clayton State University and to local Henry county high schools. It has been such a blessing to see this organization grow, and we are excited to be moving forward in this mission.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Atlanta has grown so much over the last few years, and it has been exciting to visit so many of the new places. If we had a friend to visit, we would definitely have to check out the brunch scene. We absolutely love to try new brunch restaurants on the weekend. A few of our favorites are Two Urban Licks, Buttermilk Kitchen, and Sun in My Belly. For dinner, we would have to take them to try one of the best steaks in the city at Little Alley Steakhouse or to Antico’s to try some unbelievably delicious pizza. For experiences, we would take them to a Braves baseball game on a Friday night. I’m sure it will be an experience they won’t forget. And of course, we would hit the Beltline to take in the views as we cruise through the city on scooters.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
We would like to shoutout and recognize Pastor Gary C. Price for his contribution in starting The Industrious Women’s Network Inc. He has been a great source of inspiration and support throughout the conception, gestation, and manifestation of IWN. Pastor Price desires to see people be maximized in their God-given talents and abilities. He sees the potential in people and challenges them to break the hinderances and barriers in life to become all they are called to be. Thank you Pastor Price! We appreciate you!
Website: https://www.theiwninc.org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theiwninc/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theiwninc/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theiwninc
Image Credits
The Conception Studio & Right Time Solutions