Brooke Gillis’ Post

🌟 Community Participation in Tech Takes Action! 🌟 In Toledo, Ohio, we're witnessing some incredible developments in the tech space. However, it all starts with someone taking the initiative to shine a spotlight on these advancements.  When individuals stand up and actively engage with their community, magic happens! By raising awareness and fostering collaboration, we can uncover the amazing potential our city holds.  Let’s continue to support each other, share our stories, and ensure that Toledo becomes known as a hub of innovation and opportunity. It’s time to amplify our voices and celebrate the amazing work being done! What initiatives are you passionate about in our tech community? Share in the comments below! 💬👇  #ToledoTech #CommunityEngagement #Innovation #TechHub #Collaboration #TomBush #EmpoweredAI

The Hudson Valley is a rich tapestry of communities - each town, each industry, each creative scene with its own unique flavor and energy. But how do we weave these individual threads into a stronger whole? That's the vision behind ConnectHV: to be a "network of networks" for the Hudson Valley's creative ecosystem. Rather than replacing existing communities, we're creating bridges between them. A filmmaker in Beacon can find a composer in Rhinebeck. A tech startup in Kingston can connect with a graphic designer in Poughkeepsie. By linking these diverse networks, we're not just growing a community - we're fostering serendipity. We're creating space for unexpected collaborations, cross-pollination of ideas, and the kind of creative collisions that spark innovation. This approach preserves what makes each Hudson Valley community special while amplifying our collective creative power. It's not about homogenizing our region, but about celebrating its diversity and making it easier for anyone to plug into the incredible energy here. What networks are you part of in the Hudson Valley? How could connecting with other networks enhance your work or spark new ideas? #HudsonValley

The power of community lies in its network effects. The more people who join and contribute, the more valuable and impactful the community becomes. This realization has been a striking epiphany for me, especially in the aftermath of Raleigh-Durham Startup Week. As I continue to connect with individuals and engage in conversations, I'm beginning to see the immense potential of the second derivative of growth. By fostering integration, interconnectedness, and mutual support within our community, we can accelerate our collective progress and achieve remarkable things. So, my challenge to you is this: When was the last time you reached out to someone in your network or an adjacent network? Have you made an effort to connect with people from different regions, groups, specializations, or levels of expertise? By actively growing our network and supporting one another, we contribute to the community network effect and unlock the magic of collaboration. Here in the Triangle area, we are fortunate to have a welcoming and inclusive community. By reducing the friction in making connections, we create an environment where ideas can flourish, and innovation can thrive. I'm eager to hear your thoughts and learn about the projects you're working on. How do you believe you can contribute to the community network effect? Let's embrace the power of community. #networking #community #collaboration #innovation

I had the privilege of hosting a Philly Tech Council lunch this week, where tech leaders from key stakeholder organizations in the city came together to envision a future where Philadelphia emerges as a thriving technology hub. 🚀 Our discussion was deep. I’ve listed some key takeaways to begin moving the needle in the industry. What are your thoughts on this topic? Let's keep the conversation going. 1. Expand opportunities for women and people of color within the tech sector. Diversity drives innovation. Open doors for those with a sincere interest in a career in this field. 2. Invest in the Next Generation. Find funding to create new pipelines and partnerships. Devise programs to provide them with inside access to established tech companies, cultivating future tech leaders. Strengthen connections with our local universities. E-gaming presents a promising avenue for accessibility. 3. Eliminate Barriers to Start a Business & Support Small Business. They are the backbone of our community. Oftentimes it’s too hard to get off the ground. 4. Collaboration is Key. Break down silos and foster collaboration among different groups is essential for progress. We're encouraging businesses to incorporate technology into their daily conversations. Innovation thrives through dialogue. This only scratches the surface. There is hope to compete with cities like Boston, Pittsburgh, and other true tech hubs that are within driving distance where people are flocking to work, live and start a business. Special thanks to our friends at firstPRO, Inc for being the sole sponsor and to the staff at Harper’s Garden who welcomed us throughout the year. I appreciate the time and participation from my friends working with great orgs and groups such as Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA), The Franklin Institute, Barnes Foundation, Latinas in Tech, City of Philadelphia, Community Council Health Systems Comcast and more. I always have space for local practitioners who want to share their thoughts and companies interested in sponsoring. 💡🌆 #PhillyTech #TechHub #Innovation #Collaboration

Wednesday December 13th, from 6 pm to 9 pm, at Gold Coast Social's stunning venue 🙂 Chicago-area Tech Industry Professionals… Tony P's Networking Events is honored to announce: * Dándole Tech as the Charity Partner of our December Tech Industry Networking Event & Fireside Chat…taking place on the night of Wednesday December 13th. https://lnkd.in/dZCZE-Dh In August 2020, Marisa Díaz-Arce and Alex Calderón, two lifelong friends, embarked on a transformative journey by founding Dándole Tech. The impetus for their endeavor was the stark realization of the technological disparities laid bare by COVID-19, especially in low-income families during the shift to remote learning. Dándole Tech's mission crystallized: bridge the Digital Divide by providing repurposed technology, digital literacy, and app development education to students, not just as a means of enlightenment but as a comprehensive tech learning journey. Recognizing the impact of accessible technology on education, the organization collaborates with community entities to narrow the gap, emphasizing the integration of technology into curriculums to enhance student learning and engagement. The focus of Dándole Tech is on the West Humboldt Park (WHP) community, an underserved area with a diverse demographic, where 48% of residents are Latino and 47% are African-American. The median household income is a mere $20,038, starkly contrasting with the Chicagoland area's median income. Despite these challenges, the community's strength lies in its rich history, partnerships, and residents' resilience, who continually find innovative ways to combat oppression, addiction, and poverty. The organization aims to empower these students to become future tech leaders and bridge the socioeconomic gaps prevalent in their community. Looking ahead three to five years, Dándole Tech envisions a dedicated space offering tech classes, workshops, mentorship programs, financial resources, job opportunities, and a robust support system. The goal is to create an environment where students can thrive, breaking free from the constraints of the Digital Divide. . . #DándoleTech #GivingTech #FreeTechnology #HumboldtPark #FreeTechClasses #TechMarketplace #Technology #Business #Innovation #Marketing #Networking #Events #FiresideChat #NetworkingEvent #GoldCoastSocial #GoldCoast #Chicago #TonyPsNetworkingEvents

🚀 Empowering Our Community with Tech: A Must-Attend Event Tonight! 🚀 Tonight 4/4 at 5:30 PM, join us at Valley Improvement Projects (1229 K Street, Modesto, CA) for an unparalleled Tech Talk that will light up your ambition and fuel your dreams. Together with Women Techmakers, Google Developer Group, and yüda.io, we’re showcasing the remarkable journey of a Riverbank High graduate who leaped from our beloved community to the innovative corridors of Microsoft. 🌟 Why This Matters: It’s FREE: An open invitation to everyone passionate about technology and community empowerment. Be Inspired: Hear firsthand how dedication and education can pave the way to tech success. Network: Connect with like-minded individuals driven to make a difference in the tech landscape. This event isn't just about hearing a success story; it's about creating your own. Whether you're exploring a career in tech, seeking to switch paths, or simply curious about the digital world’s possibilities, tonight is for you.

Wednesday December 13th, from 6 pm to 9 pm, at Gold Coast Social's stunning venue 🙂 Chicago-area Tech Industry Professionals… Tony P's Networking Events is honored to announce: * Dándole Tech as the Charity Partner of our December Tech Industry Networking Event & Fireside Chat…taking place on the night of Wednesday December 13th. https://lnkd.in/gpMNEpSD In August 2020, Marisa Díaz-Arce and Alex Calderón, two lifelong friends, embarked on a transformative journey by founding Dándole Tech. The impetus for their endeavor was the stark realization of the technological disparities laid bare by COVID-19, especially in low-income families during the shift to remote learning. Dándole Tech's mission crystallized: bridge the Digital Divide by providing repurposed technology, digital literacy, and app development education to students, not just as a means of enlightenment but as a comprehensive tech learning journey. Recognizing the impact of accessible technology on education, the organization collaborates with community entities to narrow the gap, emphasizing the integration of technology into curriculums to enhance student learning and engagement. The focus of Dándole Tech is on the West Humboldt Park (WHP) community, an underserved area with a diverse demographic, where 48% of residents are Latino and 47% are African-American. The median household income is a mere $20,038, starkly contrasting with the Chicagoland area's median income. Despite these challenges, the community's strength lies in its rich history, partnerships, and residents' resilience, who continually find innovative ways to combat oppression, addiction, and poverty. The organization aims to empower these students to become future tech leaders and bridge the socioeconomic gaps prevalent in their community. Looking ahead three to five years, Dándole Tech envisions a dedicated space offering tech classes, workshops, mentorship programs, financial resources, job opportunities, and a robust support system. The goal is to create an environment where students can thrive, breaking free from the constraints of the Digital Divide. . . #DándoleTech #GivingTech #FreeTechnology #HumboldtPark #FreeTechClasses #TechMarketplace #Technology #Business #Innovation #Marketing #Networking #Events #FiresideChat #NetworkingEvent #GoldCoastSocial #GoldCoast #Chicago #TonyPsNetworkingEvents

Big News Alert! 🌚 Our Tech Events Community just made history after 7 months of incredible growth! We're now co-planning events for other communities that crave physical meet-ups but lack the strategy. Hear us out; it's more than just branding. When Tech Campus Founders reached out, wanting monthly meet-ups for tech founders and fresh graduates, they chose us not just to promote but to handle the planning. We brought the energy, they brought the funds – a perfect match! Leveraging our community resources, we made planning a breeze. Discounts, accountability, and value flowed easily within our Tech Events Community. 7-Month Report: - 60+ events promoted - Co-organized 2 events for other communities - 1300+ active members - 3 community partnerships - 1 community member landed a job - Amazing member-to-member patronage - Secured our first paid partnership in January - Unveiled our logo in January This is our January recap in #Techeventscommunity. Open for more exciting community partnerships in February! Let's keep the momentum going. #TechCommunity #EventPlanningSuccess

New York Tech Week was quite interesting. Navigating this space by myself & as a black woman was challenging. NYC is home, where I grew up, but it didn’t feel like home this time. While my experience wasn't perfect, I learned a lot about myself. I've discovered aspects of myself that I wasn't aware of before. Unconsciously, I've grappled with feelings of inferiority and not belonging in this space, despite having attended a PWI for college & overcoming these feelings back then. These psychological barriers have resurfaced as I’ve entered the real world, particularly when navigating the tech space. On a conscious level, I know I belong and I'm not inferior, but imposter syndrome remains a significant challenge, especially when intersected with race. My initial goal at #nytechweek was meeting investors & fundraising, but I realized that I need to do more groundwork. I have a groundbreaking idea, a prototype, and a vision for Travel Hotline's transformative potential. Whether anybody can see it or not, I know Travel Hotline is the kind of innovation that forces competitors to adapt or become obsolete. However, I'm struggling to convey this to others effectively. I'm excited to be back in Atlanta, doing the work I love. Fundraising isn't fun, but building my business is. My next steps involve developing the MVP and seeking an accelerator to enhance my business acumen as a founder and future CEO. Knowledge is truly power & I'm seeking the education; investment is an added bonus. If anyone can recommend free accelerator programs, I'd greatly appreciate it. Finally, shoutout to Travel Hotline – we've officially reached 10,000 people on our waitlist. We're on our way.

We are building a community of the brightest Tech minds-based companies in Austin.   Members of our community get a host of benefits with no cost associated at all :  ✔Monthly free networking events.  ✔Round tables with world-class speakers  ✔Bi-weekly newsletters regarding the latest tech news and trends in Austin  ✔Messaging groups giving 24 access to 100's like-minded professionals    Information is power, and never more so than now. Networking, associations, and sharing are the new norm both for individuals and businesses. With this in mind, we believe in helping our community build strong relationships. Austin Tech is booming, there will be many companies going through the same growing pains, that’s why we believe community is everything. #austintech #communityfirst #austintechleaders