Building a Thriving Business and a Balanced Life

Building a Thriving Business and a Balanced Life

Success as an entrepreneur requires more than business growth - it depends on sustaining your energy, health, and relationships.  Prioritizing boundaries, self-care and time for family strengthens resilience and decision-making.  When women intentionally balance ambition with well-being, they avoid burnout and model sustainable leadership.

About our speaker: Patrice Blakemore

Patrice Blakemore is the Senior Vice President of Equity and Inclusion of the Greater Cleveland Partnership (GCP).

Patrice leads two principal equity and inclusion strategies.  These priorities include scaling minority business enterprises and supporting efforts that promote diverse leadership in middle to high-wage positions.  

Before joining GCP, Patrice served as the Executive Director for the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses at Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C). The 3-month curriculum provides entrepreneurs with practical business education, access to capital resources, and business support services.  Patrice increased overall diversity in the program on average by 15 percent. She joined Tri-C in 2013 as a business advisor, where she has assisted more than 500 business owners during her tenure.  Approximately 800 owners have graduated from the program since her departure in 2022.

Patrice received her undergraduate degree from Spelman College in 3 ½ years and her law degree in 2 ½ years from the University of Dayton School of Law.  After graduating from law school, Patrice worked for the Montgomery County Prosecutor’s office before moving to Cleveland, Ohio.  

In 2009, Patrice pivoted, using her experience as an attorney to create a consulting practice where she managed diversity programs for organizations.  She also provided companies with the knowledge and sustainable practices necessary to grow and expand their businesses.  Additionally, she provided executive coaching, customized training, and support for employees.   

Patrice believes to stay globally competitive, companies must create a culture where differences are celebrated. She maintains that a region’s ability to thrive depends on its ability to harness innovation by leveraging experiences of all people. 

Free for ALL- Walk-ins no longer accepted. Please reserve your seat today by registering online. 

$25 lunch buffet is available including vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options.  Lunches must be selected and pre-paid before the meeting. Please order online when you register.