Studer Community Institute

G.A.I.N. Night brings businesses together for networking

June 24, 2015
/ Brooke Johnson
/ economy

Studies have produced empirical evidence supporting the fact that there is power in networking. The myriad benefits of networking include creating contacts, gaining information, learning skills, enhancing reputations, getting support, gaining knowledge, improving self-esteem, learning new ideas, locating new joint venture partners or strategic alliances, utilizing resource mentors who can cut the learning curve, developing leadership skills, making friends and associating with positive influences. All of these networking benefits were available at the Gulf Coast African American Chamber of Commerce monthly G.A.I.N (Gain, Awareness, Intelligence, and Networking) Night on June 16. G.A.I.N Night, formally known as the general body meeting, was an opportunity for citizens of the community to become familiar with local business owners, different organizations, corporate entities, governmental entities, and many other resources that the city of Pensacola and the state of Florida have to offer. The community and participants acquire in-depth knowledge from the networking opportunity made available on G.A.I.N Night. However, one of the best aspects of this event is that there is no cost associated with attending. G.A.I.N night is open to members and nonmembers, and is held every third Tuesday every other month at the Pensacola Improv Event Center, 375 Pace Blvd. It begins at 5:30 p.m., and light refreshments are served. The Gulf Coast African American Chamber aims to foster relationships not only among business owners, but with business professionals and those who are seeking to establish an alliance with potential employers. Overall, the relationships established will create a positive business climate and contribute to local economic growth and job opportunities. Previous guest speakers and presenters have included Stan Connally, president and CEO of Gulf Power, Kay Mitchell of Florida Blue, Monique Addison of MLA Image Solutions, Pat and Charles Knight of Primerica, Sanakofa, Museum and Resource Center, along with representatives from FEMA, SBDC, Florida Energy, GCAACC Board of Directors, Big Brother Big Sister of Northwest Florida and the Epilepsy Foundation of Florida. Another of the many benefits of networking at this event and becoming a member of GCAACC is the opportunity to become a presenter at G.A.I.N Night. This opportunity gives members a platform to display and to demonstrate the services that they offer as business owners and business professionals. This month’s presenters were GCAACC members Octavia Hopkins and Jibril Sulaiman. Octavia is a seller and buyer agent of Keller Williams Realty. She presented home-buying and selling tips. “I want to inform people about the home ownership process—to educate and to empower them,” Hopkins said. “By sharing a little knowledge, I would like to take the fear out of becoming a homeowner.” Gulf Coast Chamber board Jibril Sulaiman also was a presenter. Sulaiman is no stranger to the technology business world. He recently launched another new company in Pensacola, AwSnapp.Co. The technology company allows GCAACC members to create a mobile app for their church, restaurant, store, club, and more. Come and gain awareness, intelligence and networking with the Gulf Coast African American Chamber of Commerce. The experience will be priceless and well worth your time. Don't forget to "Like Us" on Facebook.

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G.A.I.N. Night brings businesses together for networking

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