I had the pleasure of attending WIBO and the experience was truly transformative. From the moment I stepped into the classroom, I could feel the passion and dedication of the teachers. They were not only knowledgeable but also genuinely committed to helping each student succeed. Their guidance was always practical, actionable, and tailored to the realities of running a small business. They created an environment where questions were encouraged, mistakes were treated as learning opportunities, and each student felt supported in their entrepreneurial journey.
Equally inspiring were my classmates. The collaborative atmosphere at WIBO was incredible. Everyone was willing to share their experiences, insights, and advice. Whether it was brainstorming marketing strategies, giving feedback on a business plan, or simply offering encouragement, the community of learners was cooperative and genuinely helpful. It felt less like a classroom and more like a network of peers who were all invested in each other’s growth. This sense of camaraderie made the learning process not only more effective but also much more enjoyable.
During my time at WIBO, I was exposed to so many new concepts and strategies that I had never encountered before. I learned about bird-dogging deals, which gave me a fresh perspective on sourcing opportunities and networking within the industry. I gained practical knowledge of public relations and marketing techniques, learning how to position my brand effectively and reach the right audience. These concepts were not just theoretical; the instructors provided concrete examples, real-world exercises, and actionable steps that I could apply directly to my business. The emphasis on hands-on learning and practical application was one of the things that set WIBO apart from other programs I had experienced.
“I left WIBO not only with new skills and knowledge but also with a renewed sense of purpose”
What I appreciated most about WIBO was how the program’s mission is reflected in every aspect of the experience. WIBO exists to empower small business owners and budding entrepreneurs from underserved communities, helping them build financial success, create jobs, and positively impact their communities. The program doesn’t just teach business concepts; it instills confidence, fosters creativity, and encourages students to think about the broader impact of their ventures. I left WIBO not only with new skills and knowledge but also with a renewed sense of purpose and a stronger belief in my ability to contribute to my community through entrepreneurship.
In short, WIBO is more than a business program; it is a supportive, empowering, and inspiring community for anyone looking to grow as an entrepreneur. The combination of passionate teachers, cooperative classmates, and practical, real-world learning made my experience unforgettable. I am incredibly grateful for the knowledge, tools, and confidence I gained at WIBO, and I would highly recommend it to anyone—especially entrepreneurs from underserved communities—who is looking to take their business and impact to the next level.
Conlyn Chan graduated from the WIBO program in the early 00s. Since then she has launched several successful businesses including an Image Consultancy, a Real Estate Technology company and now a Fashion brand and boutique. August Designs is located at 17 Olcott Square Bernardsville, NJ and can be found online at https://augustdesigns.co/ or on Instagram at @edits_august