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\u201cMy pastor, Jason Scales, and my current boss, Keith Weaver, have influenced me greatly. They have both played pivotal roles with my positive outlook on life. They\u2019ve also shown me how to handle adversity. My mother also raised me to be resilient, so that played a big role in who I am as a person. I\u2019ve been shaped by many people \u2014 some poured positivity into me, and the actions of others have taught me what not to do. Both kinds of influences are invaluable. I\u2019ve learned lessons from mentors, colleagues, and even through tough experiences, all of which have contributed to my growth as a person,\u201d Washington said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Though Washington isn\u2019t currently a business owner, he and his wife plan to open a business of their own one day, and the SBYPG is the ideal place to start. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Washington said, \u201cOur monthly meetings often feature incredible guest speakers \u2014 from seasoned business leaders to rising professionals. These events offer both networking opportunities and chances to learn directly from people who\u2019ve achieved real success. We host panels featuring successful entrepreneurs and business owners who speak candidly about the highs and lows of their journeys. We\u2019ve also featured panels on industries like real estate, which have been well attended and incredibly insightful.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The SBYPG is currently undergoing a restructuring phase with the goal of strengthening its foundation. Washington estimates that within the next five years, the group will double in attendance. \u201cOur committee is working tirelessly to enhance every part of the organization. In the long term, our goal is to build a dynamic, diverse, high-energy group that plays a major role in the continued growth and success of our community.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n In May, the group volunteered at the much-anticipated Community 5K. Washington said, \u201cWe focus on educating our peers about what civic involvement actually looks like. Speaking from personal experience, I didn\u2019t know just how many ways there were to serve our community until I got more involved. Through planned initiatives and community projects, we aim to spark that same awareness and passion in others.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n According to data released by the U.S. Small Business Administration in 2024, our country has 33.3 million small businesses, and each employs fewer than 499 people. Nearly all businesses in our country \u2014 99.9% \u2014 are considered \u201csmall,\u201d and almost 20% of these employ fewer than 20 people. We hear slogans like \u201cShop Local\u201d and see signs promoting \u201cShop Small.\u201d These numbers confirm that our local and national economy, our community, and our future are only as secure as the foundations of our local \u201cmom-and-pop\u201d businesses. As we rally behind and strengthen groups like the SBYPG, we are doing our part to ensure the future remains bright for everyone in Bedford County.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Washington said, \u201cCommunity support means everything. People can help by attending our events, following us on social media, and sharing our content. Every bit of engagement helps spread our mission further.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n For those who dream of one day being their own boss by starting a business, Washington advised, \u201cNever be afraid to ask questions. People appreciate authenticity, so be yourself, stay curious, and always look for ways to keep learning. We are here to help you. Whether you\u2019re looking for professional development or just a sounding board as you navigate your career or business idea, we\u2019re here for you.\u201d GN<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n For more information, visit: www.shelbyville-bedford.com\/pages\/young-professionals or find them on Facebook at Shelbyville Bedford Young Professionals Group.<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" SUCCESS IS often found in who you know and those you meet along the way. For those who own a business or dream of launching one, networking opportunities provide a space to dig deeper roots within the community. Have a new idea? Want to start a unique business? Are you searching for seasoned entrepreneurs who\u2019ve […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":15,"featured_media":24205,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[6],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-24202","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-feature"],"yoast_head":"\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/goodnewsmags.com\/shelbyville\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/09\/2-6-1024x683.jpg\")