What does community mean to you?
For the FMC24 Virtual Small Business Grant Winner, Diana Najera, her journey embodies the profound significance of community in overcoming adversity and finding empowerment through her business, Femm Strong. Following the unexpected loss of her husband, Diana found solace and strength through various means, including her children, her faith, and her rediscovered passion for fitness and wellness. However, it was through the creation of Femme Strong that she truly realized the power of community.
In December 2020, Diana launched Femme Strong as more than just a clothing brand—it became a symbol of resilience, unity, and shared experiences. By sharing her own story of overcoming obstacles, Diana aimed to create a platform where women from all walks of life could find support and inspiration. Femme Strong became a beacon of hope for women who had faced challenges, encouraging them to embrace their strength, both physical and emotional.
As a previous recipient of the Virtual Small Business Grant from the Flourish Media Conference 2024, Diana shared her insight on effective community building.
Read her thoughts below!
“Through this experience, I've discovered a newfound sense of initiative within myself. It's empowered me to embrace challenges as opportunities and to continuously strive for greatness in both my personal and professional endeavors.” Diana noted.
“I applied to the Virtual Small Business Grant because I wanted to get out of my comfort zone and try a new funding opportunity. I’m so thankful I had the tools and mindset to put myself out there. Now, I can deepen the connection with my community with the grant I received.”
Central to Femme Strong's mission is the belief in the collective power of women supporting each other. Through the brand, Diana seeks to inspire and motivate women to feel confident, strong, and bold not only in their appearance but also in every aspect of their lives. The brand's message extends beyond fashion—it's about embracing one's journey, acknowledging the struggles, and celebrating the triumphs.
By fostering a community where women can share their stories, struggles, and successes, Femme Strong creates a sense of belonging and empowerment. Together, these women form a network of support, encouragement, and understanding, demonstrating that strength is found not only in individual resilience but also in the unity of a community. Femme Strong embodies the idea that by embracing our strength together, we can overcome any challenge and thrive in every aspect of life.
“After winning the Virtual Small Business Grant, it has boosted my confidence and now I won’t hesitate to jump at an opportunity if it is in alignment with my mission.”
As a business owner, it’s important to check in with yourself from time to time. Note how you can better show up for your community (both in person and online), what your target audience is needing now and in the future, along with checking in on your personal goals.
We asked Diana, “What is the next milestone you’re looking forward to?”; she shared:
“I’m looking forward to landing more speaking engagements this year. I have also been planning events + workshops locally and out of state to continue my efforts in fostering community nationwide!”
An Orlanda, FL native, Diana soaks up the sun while embracing mom-life, balancing her business, and actively working with small business owners to help them flourish. Despite the unforeseen curveballs thrown her way, she is fiercely strong.
Femm’s Strong motto is: You Need Love Too
The self-love lifestyle promoted by her business, Femme Strong, offers unwavering support and encouragement to women. Femme Strong strives to create a space where women can thrive, finding strength and inspiration in their unique journey toward a balanced and fulfilling life.
Through the FEMME apparel, it is a reminder that you're beautiful and enough, despite your flaws. Customers feel a boost of confidence and self-love in the everyday comfy pieces that Diana curates.
Throughout the uplifting atmosphere of the Flourish Media Conference, attendees are immersed in the empowering mantra: "Growth happens through collaboration!" This sentiment resonates deeply, reminding us of the transformative power of unity. Embracing feedback as a catalyst for improvement is vital to our collective success as women business owners.
“Women should apply because the FMC Virtual Business Grant presents a valuable opportunity for woman-owned small businesses to access financial support, gain visibility, fuel growth, and contribute to women in entrepreneurship.”
If you’re like Diana and feel ready to apply for the Small Business Grant, you can do so by clicking here.
Good luck:)