By Shawn Stuldivant, Founder/Editor in Chief, Bronze Magazine
Established entrepreneurs and aspiring business owners recently leveled up at Zedoj Red Tie and Stilettos Entrepreneurship Conference, where Bronze Magazine had the pleasure of being a media partner. The 3rd annual, 3-day long weekend event took place at the luxurious Moon Palace Resort in Jamaica. RTS Founder and Bronze Magazine’s September 2019 cover star, Jodianne Murdock’s vision transformed into an amazing tropical oasis where black business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs were encouraged not only to Dream, but to Plan and Do!
On night one, the “All White Beach Party” at Pearly beach set a welcoming tone for the upcoming weekend’s festivities. Stylish guests mingled with one another and were treated to delicious food, the latest dance sounds by ZJ Rush, DJ Flames & Hyperactive Sound Station and an all-white fashion show by Polka Dots. The highlights of the evening were the celebratory bonfire and a special appearance by RTS guest of honor Vivica A. Fox and her team.
Day two introduced the conference’s first ever VVIP brunch, featuring Guest of Honor – Actress, Producer, TV Host, Author, Entrepreneur, Philanthropist and “all around homegirl,” Ms. Vivica A. Fox, who brought her vibrant energy to the room as she sat down with Jamaica’s media darling Debbie Bissoon for an intimate chat in front of attendees. Fox spoke candidly about her journey in the entertainment industry and as an entrepreneur, dropping several gems along the way; including staying true to self despite what others expect of you, always looking towards what’s next, positively embracing change and evolution, and my personal favorite, having more than one hustle. The brunch closed with Fox signing copies of her recent book, Everyday I’m Hustling and taking a personal photo with each attendee. Such an amazing time!
Later that evening, an elegant red-carpet cocktail hour preceded the main conference. At the conference, various local business leaders gathered in three separate panels (“Boss Entrepreneurs,” Entertainment and Branding,” and Corporate Sustainability) led by host Debbie Bissoon, to inspire attendees with their insights and keys to business success. Jamaican born and New York’s own Essence of a Boss Founder and Author of Boss Enough to Start, Jodi Prendergast was one of the amazing panelists to participate. Following the panel discussions, Guest Speaker Krystal Tomlinson brought down the house and moved attendees by challenging them to be accountable for their own growth and development while going after their goals. Following, Ms. Vivica A. Fox “Set it Off” with an empowering discussion and Q&A session, while leaving attendees with the following words of wisdom, “Let your haters become your congratulators.” The ever so gracious RTS Founder, Jodianne Murdock closed the evening honoring her key team members.
RTS Founder Jodianne Murdock
On the final morning, RTS weekend concluded with two Coffee & CEO sessions led by International retail strategist Jeanel Alvarado and PR Chick CEO and Author Naomi Garrick. Alvarado dropped several gems on how to better present and sell your products online, which online platforms offer the best tools for entrepreneurs, and advice on how to gear up for the holiday season. Naomi Garrick truly moved attendees with her personal and intimate testimony towards becoming a successful PR Chick; so much so that several people stood and shared their own challenges and triumphs along the way to becoming entrepreneurs. RTS Founder Jodianne Murdock officially concluded the amazing conference weekend with a closing statement of gratitude to attendees, guests, sponsors, and partners.
RTS was an amazing event and Jodianne Murdock is the epitome of the perfect host. Her positive spirit and professionalism are unmatched. My husband/business partner Barry and I are still talking about the first class treatment we received during the conference, and we will forever be grateful to have been a part of Jodi’s beautiful vision.
SPONSORS:
Presenting Sponsors:
Zedoj Events
Moon Palace Jamaica
Ascend Innovations
Media Partners:
Hybrid Media Concepts
Bronze Magazine
Media Sponsors:
Sheen Magazine
Industry Rules Magazine
Participating Sponsors:
YA IndieGround House Mgmt LLC
The Gleaner Jamaica
Live Fast
Sleek Jamaica
Bushtrails Excursions & Tours
Luxuria Voyage
Think’ed Media
Bissoon Productions
Pearly Beach (Beach Party Venue Sponsors)
St. Ann Development Company
Hyperactive Sound Station
Booze Fusion Sound Station
Island Favors
Kustoms House Printery
Image Nation
Elite Conceptz Solutions
Kloset Euphoria
Phoenix Health Complex
Jamaica Tours Limited
Allure Elite Tours
Deez Rentals
Hunny Bay
Gillette Venus
Kendel Teas
Shazz Service Station
Sharkies Seafood Restaurant
Racoon Restaurant & Lounge
Solid Rock Productions
876 Streets
Morgan’s Creek
MSW Events
Balloons By Jaki Jade
Set the Stage Planning & Events
The New Greenhouse
Marquee Letters Jamaica
Social Butterflies
JMMB
Hibiscus Lodge
CVM TV
TVJ
