We had the good fortune of connecting with Ebony Karim and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ebony, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I’ve always been an entrepreneur at heart. Since I was a young child, I’ve had a passion for helping others. Initially, I thought that would come in the form of pursing a career in Pediatric Medicine. However, after getting married while still in undergrad, I ended up moving into the business world. After almost 15 years in the public sector, providing information technology management consulting services , I decided to branch out back in October of 2013 and began my own practice.

Then I began to ask myself “how can I use the knowledge and skill sets that I have and serve my community?”. I was able to partner with a nonprofit organization within Bowie State University in Maryland that provides STEM education to underserved communities. Being a small woman-owned business allows me to utilize my expertise in government consulting while also serving my community. I encourage all young people to pursue their passion no matter how big or small.

What should our readers know about your business?
I am the proud owner of Embarkus Solutions. A small-woman owned IT management consulting firm currently based out of Washington,D.C. Our core capabilities include; Acquisition & Contract Management support, Business Development and Program and Project management support services. We service both the public and private sector and also provide federal contracting support to small and medium sized businesses looking to create and leave their footprint into the federal marketplace. After about 11 years of being a consultant, I had the desire to branch out on my own. So in October 2013, I launched Embarkus Solutions. Since then I have created an executive wellness company, Embarkus Wellness which focuses on a 360 degree approach to wellness where we focus on your physical being, nutrition and mental health. I also have a non-profit, The Embarkus Project which provides “wellness in schools’ to underserved communities.

What sets me apart is my devotion to my community. I am always looking for innovative ways to expose our children to opportunities that they would not otherwise be exposed to. I am fortunate to use my platform and connections within the federal government to advocate for our community.

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.
If we were in DC, I’d definitely take them to 12 Stories at The Wharf in SE D.C. for drinks. Then we may scoot on over to Mr. Braxton’s for some of their delicious shrimp and grits or lamb chops. For brunch, we’d check out Tupelo Honey in Arlington, VA for their famous sweet & spicy chicken, fried pickles and southern hospitality spritzer. In Atlanta, we’d go to Casi Cielo in Sandy Springs for some of the best authentic Mexican food and the most amazing selection of Mezcal in the city. Then we’d go to Whiskey Mistress to check out a live band and hit up The Garden Room for brunch.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would completely be remised if I didn’t give thanks and gratitude to my tribe who keeps me humbled and focused; a special shoutout to my Mom, Doris, my big sister Sadiyah, and my besties Tianna, Nina and Antoinette.

Website: www.embarkussolutions.com

Instagram: @embarkussolutions

Linkedin: @ebonykarim

Facebook: @embarkussolutions

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