Paradigm Shift NYC Presents “No Excuses: 9 Ways Women Can Change How We Think About Power” with Gloria Feldt, Feminist Icon

TWM is proud to be a Co-Sponsor of this Women's History Month event and honored that our founder, Kristina Leonardi will be one of the panelists.  Hope to see you on March 19th! 

Click here for more information and place to register.

Vision Quest

TWM's Visioning Workshop

When the Universe speaks, I listen. Not in a burning-bush-on-a-mountain kind of way, but through some combination of random Facebook postings, TV shows/commercials, signs both literal and figurative and people, known and unknown.  Always repetitive.

In fact, most of the time I try to think as little as possible, and instead pay very close attention to the world within and around me to get the answers/direction I need. I find that the best information we have often exists in this 3D experiential form more so than in the grey matter between our ears, and that there is much wisdom in receiving and perceiving what comes our way. (Plus it's more fun and takes less effort to operate like this!)

Anyway, after the stock market crashed, 'it' hinted to me in several ways that I should start some sort of group thing; when a third person, point blank raised his hand in my breakout session at an NYU symposium for laid-off financial professionals and asked "Can you put a group together?" I could no longer ignore the request. So exactly 5 years ago this month, Thursdays at Three was born and has been going strong without a break ever since - first weekly afternoons during the height of the recession, and then eventually bi-monthly with an evening session for folks who had found employment but asked to continue with coaching and support, and for others who wanted to make a career change or simply manage their work and life better.
 
It's been quite the journey - and one of the most rewarding and important things I've done to grow both personally and professionally. It has made me a far better coach and facilitator, so thank you to all have participated, especially those four brave souls who ventured out and trusted me that first day! (Click here for info about the next session)

As many of you know, my path has been a long and varied one. In January 2001 I founded a nonprofit organization called The Women's Mosaic (TWM) after a lot of soul searching and the result of a random workshop I picked from a Learning Annex catalog out of sheer desperation four months earlier. Among other things, that workshop was exactly what I needed to confirm and crystallize an idea that was floating around in my subconscious - 13 years,100 events, a coaching and speaking career later, the rest is history!

Of course when I told people how I started TWM, they all wanted to do the workshop, so we began offering it twice a year with amazing and profound results, attracting many repeat attendees with incredible stories throughout. The last one was in September 2012 and had been on indefinite hiatus since. But, the past month, after various signs, in combo with not one, not two, but then a third person within a few weeks asked me when we were doing another I knew it was time - which means that many of you out there need this experience and it's no coincidence that you are reading this right now!

I've already gone on too long in this PGG, so I will just let the video, invite and blog posts speak for themselves as well as these participant descriptions:

"TWM's Visioning Workshop is a great way to spark personal growth by getting in tune with your inner-most desires. By putting aside what you think you want for yourself, and, instead, going with your gut, it is amazing what you fill find! The Visioning Workshop came for me at a time when I was trying to decide where to go with my life, and I am so glad I did it. Throughout the workshop, I was forced to believe in what I was doing and trust myself completely, and since then I have been able to look back on my collage for more guidance, for which I am very grateful. I highly recommend the Visioning Workshop for anyone trying to answer the simplest or most complex questions for themselves." Sally M. 

"When I was doing my collage I was thinking about my future and about my job search...and it actually happened. I got a job in a fashion industry where everybody smiles and are very happy with their lives - as it was on my collage!!!! ...I cannot really believe that it actually worked for me so well and cannot wait to see what happens next!!! Thank you so much for this wonderful experience!" Joanna G. 

"I think of the collage I created at the Visioning Workshop as a map of my unconscious mind. At the time of the workshop, I was in a transitional phase and in need of guidance. The collage helped me to gain a sense of calm and clarity. I especially enjoyed taking a break from the intellectual, thinking side of my brain and opening up the side that is more intuitive. The visual representations of my thoughts and ideas gave me a sense of peace that I could move forward with confidence. I look forward to doing another collage soon. Suzanne G. 

"Great!  The workshop helped me to clarify what success looks like to me." Sheraun B

 Are you one of those folks who are supposed to be there on Saturday, April 26th?  You don't need some shamanic ceremony or 80's movie to help you decide.  Just listen to your Self, pay attention to the signs and heed the call to make some big changes in your life - this is simply a way to fast-track the process!

P.S. Yes, there are only women in the video, but men are most welcome to attend as well. You need some visioning, too!  :)

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The following was originally posted on April 8, 2014 on Kristina's blog. 

CHICKS ROCK! is happy to have Kristina back as a guest blogger this week. Kristina Leonardi is the founder of The Women’s Mosaic. She is a coach and speaker in the areas of career development, work/life wellness and personal growth.  

You can follow her @clearlykristina and like her Personal Growth Gab (PGG) page on Facebook to get more thought-provoking, inspirational and motivational tidbits like this!

Paradigm Shift NYC Interviews TWM Founder Kristina Leonardi - Pt. 1

We're excited to let you know that Paradigm Shift NYC  recently featured an interview with TWM Founder Kristina Leonardi on their blog where she talked to writer Kristen Verge about women’s empowerment, creating a nonprofit and the experience of being a career/life coach. Below is Part One of that interview, click here for the entire piece on Paradigm Shift  and Part Two on CHICKS ROCK!
 

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What inspired you to create The Women’s Mosaic®?
I really wanted to use all of my talents, skills, abilities, and passions in one place and combine my interest in intercultural understanding, women’s empowerment, and personal growth. But I couldn’t find it out there, so I created it. All the programs contain one or more components of those aspects…TWM was a way to share my knowledge of different cultures and express myself in a variety of ways, which has inspired and educated other women in the process. This is what I try to explain in my speaking and coaching–if everyone just shared who they are, other folks will automatically benefit!

Can you tell us about some of the earliest programs that TWM offered?
Initially, The Women’s Mosaic was about having ethnic dinners with guest speakers and highlighting a women’s issue in that particular culture. The goal was to have women learn in an informal, but structured way. Instead of having to go to a lecture in some big auditorium, we were having an intimate authentic experience in a relaxed environment, with food being one of the main attractions – something that everyone can automatically connect and relate to!

How has The Women’s Mosaic® evolved since its inception?
TWM grew from small ethnic dinners to include more comprehensive panel discussions, film screenings and workshops. For instance, we hosted a discussion with women from all branches of the military in “My Life as a Female Soldier in Iraq.” Other examples of panels were “Girls, Gods & Goddesses: Women’s Relationship to Religion & Spirituality,” “Politics Schmolitics” (where it was very hard to find a Republican woman in NYC!), and “Health & Nutrition: Perspectives from Around the World,” all of which brought together diverse voices to educate attendees about the topic from a variety of viewpoints and experiences. It’s always about bringing a human face and stories to a variety of issues so that we can all learn from, connect to and be inspired by one another. You can see a list of all past events on our website. We’ve been in transition the past two years and are evolving yet again, so stay tuned for what’s next…

What was your favorite TWM program?
In 2002, just a year after 9/11, we did a program called “My Life as a Muslim Woman.” We had nine ethnically diverse, mostly American, Muslim women represented. They were phenomenal. You have to remember the ignorance of your average American at that time—most knew very little or nothing about Islam except for the most extreme fundamentalist version of it, so the intent was to dispel the prejudice and myths that existed (and unfortunately, still do in many respects). Even just walking into that room, a lot of people arrived thinking they were going to see all of these submissive, weak women covered from head to toe— but only three of the nine women were covered—in varying degrees—and they could not have been more accomplished and articulate about their identity and understanding of their faith. They absolutely shattered so many stereotypes and misconceptions that were particularly pervasive at that time.

The most surprising thing, though, was that we had about fifty people there—half the attendees were non-Muslim, and the other half were Muslim. Because there is so much diversity within the religion itself, they had never really come together like this. It was fascinating and significant to help unite that community at such a pivotal time. To me, I think that was the far greater benefit: that the Muslim women got to talk to and connect with each other and share their individual and collective experiences. In my life, it’s one of the things that I’m most proud of.

What is the role of The Women’s Mosaic® in the feminist movement?
The funny thing is that I never considered myself a feminist per se—this organization was completely born out of my own desire to be who I am and empower myself, to educate women about different cultures and balance out all the testosterone that had run amok in the world. We’re at a tipping point now that acknowledges the fact that the empowerment of women and girls leads to a better life for everyone, but twelve years ago, no one was talking about that so directly. At the time we started most women’s organizations were profession-specific and issue-specific; there was nothing out there that was just for women to continue to develop themselves on a personal level. The women that we appealed to are the majority, regular working woman who is still looking to learn and grow and be exposed to unique ideas and people. The Women’s Mosaic provided a very palatable way for women to continue to expand their horizons and interact with women they might not have the chance to otherwise.

Have you encountered any negativity or difficulties along the way?
Well, not really negativity but more that it has been a challenge sustaining and funding the organization through foundations, partly because we’re offering something so intangible. How do you quantify changing someone’s perception about Muslim women? We didn’t easily fit into any traditional funding category because, for instance, we weren’t serving women with survival needs—yet these ‘average’ women are the ones who could actually have the best chance to make change in their lives and the lives of those around them. A lot of the women who went to events got involved in the issues we talk about…but to quantify and measure inspiration, motivation, dispelling of prejudice, identity and personal growth… it’s something invaluable that wasn’t as recognized in that sense. The good news is that there are other sources to tap into, and in recent years new funders are starting to support more transformational programs like ours.

How did you find out about and become involved with Paradigm Shift NYC?
I met Lisa [the Co-Founder of Paradigm Shift NYC] at a presentation about website design and she introduced me to Meredith. I dig Meredith. I’m really impressed with what she does with her programming and outreach. She’s really collaborative, which is great.

Click here for the entire interview on Paradigm Shift's blog. 

Notable Women of TWM.. are YOU one of them?

 

Have a TWM story to share?  Be a guest blogger and tell us all about it!

Contact us for more info :)

 

Women's History Month 2013   At the beginning of March we sent this blast celebrating International Women's Day. There have been hundreds of women with stories of how TWM has impacted and empowered them over the years - whether they were inspired, motivated or educated by an event they attended, a person they met, or the exposure and skills they were able to develop as a volunteer or intern with us. So before the month is over we thought we'd share with you 12 notable ladies (+1 for good luck!) who got their start, shared a unique milestone, or have been connected to TWM over the 12 years we've been around. Please be sure to check out their links and support them in all the relevant ways! :) Regina Calcaterra - A panelist at our 2004 Politics Schmolitics event who shared her very personal story for the first time that night, and went on to run for State Senator and just published her memoir Sandra Endo - Was an anchor for NY1 News at the time she moderated our Politics Schmolitics event and is now a correspondent with CNN Galia Gichon - One of TWM's first official members, spoke at our inaugural ESP Conference at the start of her business and is now a nationally recognized personal finance expert Kirsten Gillibrand - Was a fan and friend of TWM as a lawyer, and was planning on speaking to our group as a Congresswoman in Spring of 2008 before she was catapulted into the national spotlight replacing Hillary Clinton as New York's Senator Sarah Jones - Gave her first private 'talk back' to our group after performing her highly acclaimed one-woman show Bridge & Tunnel Daisy Khan - A panelist for our 2002 My Life as a Muslim Woman event while she was still working in corporate America, she has gone on to become a recognized and sought-after voice for the Muslim community on the national stage Kekla Magoon - Came to us as a volunteer right out of college and contributed greatly to TWM in numerous ways before becoming an award-winning YA author on the rise Lindsey Pollak - A friend and early member of TWM has become a nationally recognized Gen Y Workplace expert and LinkedIn Spokesperson Bridgette Raes - Gave one of her first presentations as a personal style expert at our 2004 Be Your Best Self event and went on to publish a book and make several TV appearances Terrie Williams - This well-known author, mentor, and businesswoman moderated 2006's My Life as a Black Woman event and has always been a supporter of TWM's work Adaora Udoji - A friend of TWM, this award-winning journalist moderated 2008's My Life as a Female Soldier in Iraq event Alisa Vitti - One of her earliest speaking engagements was a TWM ESP Conference in 2006; she just came out with a book and made her national debut on Dr.Oz Randi Zuckerberg - Was a volunteer with TWM in 2005, helping to organize our Spotlight on Sri Lanka event and One Hot Havana Night fundraiser and then went on to work with her brother when Facebook took the world by storm... And here are just some of the other fabulous women we've met in person along the way who are proud owners of a CHICKS ROCK! button, TWM key chain or INSPIRER Newsletter: Hillary Clinton, Gloria Steinem, Jane Fonda, Sally Field, Madeline Albright, Pat Mitchell, Geena Davis, Brooke Shields, Helen Gurley Brown, Kathy Griffin, Soledad O'Brien, Martha Beck, Eve Ensler, Arianna Huffington, Elizabeth Gilbert, Candace Bushnell, Erica Jong, Marie Wilson, Maria Shriver, Donna Karan, Elizabeth Lesser, Rosario Dawson, Marlee Matlin, Sherri Shepherd, Barbara Walters, Phylicia Rashad, Ivanka Trump, Rachel Ray Who did we forget? Do YOU have an experience, success story or ah-ha moment to share because of your connection with TWM? Email us or post it on Facebook so we can send another blast with more stories! The Women's Mosaic® (TWM) is proud to be a part of the women's empowerment movement for over a decade. Since January 2001 we have offered more than 100 unique opportunities for women of every background to connect to themselves, each other and the world around them. Please show your support for TWM by becoming a member or renewing at the $50 level today! Use the button above for the special $50 TWM Women's History Month Membership. You can always become a member or donate any amount by visiting our website. (Scroll down for a great opportunity to take a discounted luxury Caribbean vacation when you support TWM at the $250 level or higher!) TWM Top 10 Fun Facts & Highlights Upcoming Mosaic and Non-Mosaic Events Click here for all Past Events Become a Member Donate Thank you to all our past, present and future members and donors for your support

My Life as a Female Soldier in Iraq

In honor of Veteran's Day, we thought we'd share this TWM Spring 2008 eNewsletter article where we reviewed our special TWM Signature Panel Series event marking the 5th anniversary of the war in Iraq featuring women who had recently served in our armed forces both there and in Afghanistan. You can read about the event itself in more detail as it was featured in Women's eNews, on Divine Caroline and TWM's Inspirer Newsletter.

MY LIFE AS A FEMALE SOLDIER IN IRAQ

Tuesday, March 11th, 2008

Our panelists left to right: First Lieutenant Jennifer Karakat (Army), Sergeant Chrissy DeCaprio (Marines), Sergeant Carolyn Schapper (Army); Specialist Petty Officer Emily Stroia (Navy), Staff Sergeant Luz Gonzalez (Army) and our moderator Adaora Udoji, co-host of The Takeaway on WNYC/PRI

On Tuesday, March 11th TWM brought together a diverse panel of women who have served in the armed forces for an intimate look at the military culture from a female perspective, exploring the issues that these women have had to deal with abroad, and how they have been able to integrate and re-adjust back to their life at home.   Thanks to all who participated in this conversation!

 Below you can read some of the responses from those who attended and link to published articles about it as well. 

My Life as a Female Soldier in Iraq is by far one of the best programs I've ever attended. Not only was I able to develop a greater appreciation for these women as strong, competent role models, but the personal tone was much more refreshing than the usual political one. Even when questions were posed that might at first seem political were really still about the women's personal experiences and the thoughts they have about the lives of their fellow soldiers. - Sally M.

This event was excellent. I thought that it would be anti-American and a lot of griping - but instead I took away a feeling of admiration and respect for these women. The format gave both speakers and audience a chance to participate. It was very enlightening - Great job!  -  Carol Anne P.

 The opportunity to hear women of such varied backgrounds was really eye-opening.  - Linda K.

I just wanted to send out a small note expressing how touched I was last night. I found myself reflecting on my grandmother throughout the whole evening - she served in the military in the 1940's during World War II, where she met and married my grandfather, who was in the military as well. Last night, I looked at the women who serve today, and the struggles they encounter and barriers they conquer. It made me so proud of what my grandmother had accomplished. I look back on what a strong a women she must have been to serve when it was extremely uncommon for women to enlist; I also realized how far women have come in society, and how much further we still have to go. - Lisette M.

I am honored to be my mother's child, who served as a Lieutenant in the Indian Army as a nurse.  Seeing her struggles and what she went through to become the success she is today has influenced me to be the woman I strive to be, or at least half of what my mother is.  That said, having the opportunity to sit on a panel and speak openly and honestly about my own experiences in the military has made me realize that sharing our stories allows us to speak of our shining moments.  SSG Luz Gonzalez and I spoke of who and what we would be if it were not for the military and I felt such a connection with her (and the other women, who I could not be more in awe of).  I knew I was meant to meet her and relate to her and vice versa.  - Jenny K.

While most of the mainstream media continue to focus on scandals and corruption, it was a welcome relief to see and hear from some of the women who have lived un-glamorous and dangerous lives in service to this country. Regardless of how any of us feel about the War in Iraq, it is important to have events like "My Life as a Female Soldier in Iraq" to remember and honor that small, but significant minority of women who continue to change attitudes about gender in the U.S. military.  - Pauline K.

 

TO READ MORE ABOUT THIS EVENT:

CLICK HERE FOR THE WOMENSENEWS ARTICLE 

CLICK HERE FOR THE DIVINECAROLINE ARTICLE 

TWM's INSPIRER NEWSLETTER PAGE 1 & 6

              

Iron Jawed Angels

In addition to Sally's helpful post, check out the HBO flick "Iron Jawed Angels" that TWM held a screening of in 2004.  It's a powerful depiction of what the end of the women's sufferage movement experienced to give us this precious right that we hope all of you are exercising today!

Click here for a synopsis on Wikipedia, too.

UPDATE: What's Next For You?

NOW THIS SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 30th - RSVP HERE

You've read about our Visioning Workshops many times on CHICKS ROCK! all these years, but now we've got a video to give you an inside look!

TWM's Visioning Workshops are a great way to spend some quality time with yourself to reflect on who you are and what you want in life right now. You can read about Kekla, Pauline and Sally's and other guest bloggers Visioning Workshop experiences here.

The next workshop is coming up on Saturday, September 29th Sunday, September 30th from 11:30am-5:30pm  CLICK HERE for the invite and a place to RSVP.  Hope to see you then!

TWM's Summer 2012 eNewsletter

If you're not already on our mailing list, we thought we'd share our latest enewsletter with you here.  Please click here for the full version.

Well, hello there!  We hope you are enjoying the summer and making the most of the transformative opportunities this year has presented. It's been a while since you've heard from us, and we thought that doing so on the tail of the XXX Olympiad and right before UN Humanitarian Day and Women's Equality Day was as good a time as any!

Since completing our 10 year anniversary with our celebration last July, we've been in transition deciding what we want the next decade of our existence to look like. In the meantime, we've offered three Visioning Workshops and continue to interact with you on a virtual basis via CHICKS ROCK!, Facebook and Twitter, so be sure you are connected with us there.

When we started TWM in January of 2001, the world was a very  different place. It was pre-9/11, there were still plenty of people without email or cell phones, and the majority of women's organizations were only profession, ethnic or issue specific.  We set out to encompass and embrace all that a woman could be, discovering her own identity by connecting with, learning about and being inspired by the diversity of women around her - and we produced over 100 unique events to help make that happen.

We've come a long way in terms of women's leadership, organizations that have since been created and the more mainstream understanding and hardcore research demonstrating that the empowerment of women and girls are key to making the world a better place. In other words, it's now common knowledge that when women and girls benefit, the entire planet does. It's very rewarding to know that we were a grass-roots part of that effort!

So having accomplished much of what we set out to do, yet knowing there is much more work to be done, we wanted to ask you: going forward, what is it that you would like to see TWM do more or less of?  What kind of programs do you want to participate in, on or off-line experiences you would like to have and existing needs we might be able to fill?  Send us your suggestions, feedback and comments via email or on Facebook.

Until then, we hope to see you at our upcoming workshops and we'll be sharing some video clips of relevant past events with TWM Flashbacks both here and in emails to come. If you're new to TWM, there are plenty of links in this newsletter to catch up on what we've been up to thus far. 

And last, but certainly not least, if you've been on this journey with us especially as a TWM Member or donor- THANK YOU!  We wouldn't be here without you!

TWM Flashback: Girls, God & Goddesses

In the wake of the recent tragic events at the Sikh temple in Wisconsin and mosque fire in Missouri, we got to thinking about the role of interfaith dialogue in the world today, which is one of The Women's Mosaic's core focus areas.

We thought we'd share these excerpts from our May 2006 Girls, God & Goddesses: Women's Relationship to Religion and Spirituality Panel Discussion, including an introduction and clips of our Sikh and Muslim panelists speaking about the role of faith in their lives.

The Girls, God & Goddesses event was extremely successful and meaningful to those who attended. At the time, the effects of 9/11--including prevalent negative stereotypes about Islam, Sikhism, and other non-Christian religions--were being felt very strongly throughout the country.

Today, it seems, these stereotypes remain active in some corners of the nation. And it seems that there is always someone willing to commit irrational violence for the sake of religion. TWM's answer to these tragic truths about our world is to keep the conversation going. Interfaith dialogue, communication, honest questioning, and openness lead to better informed communities and individuals, and, we believe, a more peaceful world.

Raves for TWM's First Book Club*

This piece was originally posted on June 24, 2009. It is being re-posted as part of our CHICKS ROCK! Summer Retrospective, during which we will post a combination of new content and posts from the past. Enjoy!

On June 17, several women gathered together to discuss Indu Sundaresan’s The Twentieth Wife for the first ever TWM Sizzling Summer Book Club meeting. I was fortunate to be one of them, and I am not just saying this because I am affiliated with TWM. I was pleasantly surprised at the instant rapport my fellow book clubbers and I forged as we discussed women’s roles during the height of the Mughal Empire in the Indian subcontinent as we snacked on Italian sweets at Veniero's in New York City’s Lower East Side.

The historical novel is built around a real woman named Mehrunnissa (which means “Sun of Women”), her Persian family, and their lasting impact on the Mughal emperors Akbar and Jahangir. From the title of the book and from history, we all knew the main character would eventually become Nur Jahan, the wife of Jahangir. That fact didn’t take away from the enjoyment we all had from reading about Mehrunnissa’s journey, which Sundaresan created so vividly on the page. We discussed how women exerted their power and influence in the Mughal court, while still having to remain in the shadows as men publicly dominated the world. The discussion took an interesting turn when we discussed how women’s subjugation of one another in history is also alive and well today, which is an unfortunate and sobering reality we all have to deal with.

Even though I love books, I have never been a part of a book club before. I am glad I chose TWM’s as my first. While we definitely bonded over the book, I believe that the friendliness, openness and intelligence of my fellow book club members made it worthwhile. It is refreshing to meet people who love reading and self-discovery through the process. I also feel that my love for reading has been renewed because of the positive group interaction I experienced. I hope the other participants feel the same.

July’s theme is Women and Travel, so I am really looking forward to reading TWM’s book selection. Yes, I am a bibliophile, and proud of it!

Politics Schmolitics 2012*

This piece was originally posted on December 14, 2011. It is being re-posted as part of our CHICKS ROCK! Summer Retrospective, during which we will post a combination of new content and posts from the past. Enjoy!

Like many other Americans, I want to be more enthusiastic about the upcoming 2012 U.S. presidential election. I cannot muster enough enthusiasm at this time, because
This piece was originally posted on December 14, 2011. It is being re-posted as part of our CHICKS ROCK! Summer Retrospective, during which we will post a combination of new content and posts from the past. Enjoy!

I am not happy with those who are currently taking the lead. Politics has always frustrated me, but I think I feel it now more than ever because of how our economy continues to suffer, and will apparently continue to do so for a few more years, at least. Major reforms, from global to local private and public entities to prevent similar economic downfalls, have yet to be implemented in most cases. Apparently the recession is over, but I have heard and can feel for myself that we as a country are still struggling, and may never be the same again. How do I get myself excited for the national race if both candidates leave a less than stellar impression on me?

I think one way to start is to look beyond the two candidates from the two main political parties to recognize and research those lesser known or completely unknown people who are running for public office. I would like to think that one day, we as a nation would elect someone as president who is not a Democrat or a Republican in our lifetimes. I wish it could be easier to learn more about lesser known candidates, so we can know as much as we can about those running for office from their records, apart from meeting them in person. All of my other suggestions have to do with taking initiative, and for it not to be overwhelming to do so.

I hope The Women’s Mosaic will host another Politics Schmolitics event to mark the 2012 races. It would be a great way to engage those interested in learning more and to possibly be more active in public life themselves. I also love the name "Politics Schmolitics," and would love to be a part of a new TWM event with that same name again.

What are your thoughts on politics?

Be There For Yourself

There are still spots left for TWM's Visioning Workshop this weekend! Get the details and RSVP today!

Map Your Vision

TWM's Visioning Workshops have gotten so popular that even now that they're offered more times throughout the year, they still sell out! Get the details here and save your spot today!

VISIONING WORKSHOP: Using Your Creativity and Intuition to Gain Clarity, Find Focus and Manifest Your Dreams
Saturday, April 21st, 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Feeling a little confused with all that's going on with your career and the economy? Not sure what to do next with your life? Maybe your just a bit unsatisfied overall but can't exactly pinpoint what it is...

Our Visioning Workshop can help you sort it all out!

Come to our popular and powerful semi-annual workshop for a creative, transformative afternoon where you will make a collage to manifest your heart's desire - and you may be surprised as to what that turns out to be.

It's not unusual for participants to start new businesses, relationships, families or career paths as quickly as weeks or months after the workshop. If you are looking for both answers and results to help figure out where you are right now in your life and where you want to go next, this could be thing exact thing you need to push you forward and take you there.

COST: $85 for TWM Members*; $135 for Non-Members
*TWM Members can bring a friend at the member rate!
LOCATION: TRS Professional Suites, 44 East 32nd St, 11th Floor

RSVP by emailing sally@thewomensmosaic.org.

Shop 'til You Drop

As you're finishing up your holiday shopping, or adding yourself to your gift list (as everyone should!), be sure to check out everything the 2011 TWM Holiday Bazaar and Silent Auction have to offer. This online shopping event is just what you've been looking for.


The vendors TWM lined up offer a great variety of products. Browse through their sites and start shopping.

sweetriot makes all-natural chocolate treats called "peaces," and works to create a more just and celebrated multicultural world for our next generation.

Style Your Life with Stella & Dot! Shop the collection; Host a Trunk Show; Run your own Social Selling Business.

Goods of Conscience is an apparel and accessories line made of handwoven cotton that uniquely benefits women both in the US and Guatemala.

Innovation. Convenience. High quality. Affordability. This is what Avon brings to its customers. And it's not just beauty -- it's clothing, products for baby, kitchen necessities, and more!

Shop Indego Africa: Purchase a gift that supports women artisans in Rwanda.

USAdopt, LLC is a domestic adoption consultancy that helps people navigate the complex world of domestic adoption. As a bonus, TWM members receive 10% off a custom consulting program.

Mary Shackelford of Wellness Solutions is a Wellness Strategist who transforms the lives of busy women by helping them lose that unwanted weight and ignite a passion for healthy living.

Kerry Cunniffe is a Professional Organizer who believes a healthy life includes a clutter-free home! She offers organizing services (paper, clothes, possessions, etc.) and is a member of NAPO (National Association of Professional Organizers).

Essential Self Consultation with TWM Founder & Career/Life Coach Kristina Leonardi. Gift the gift of clarity, balance and direction to yourself or a loved one! Save $80 now until 12/31/11

Be a part of women's professional sports as a fan of the WNBA's NY Liberty! Buy one full season ticket plan and receive a set of pint glasses signed by Kym Hampton.

Forget the mall. This year, give your friends and family a world without street harassment by shopping Hollaback!

And get something for every feminist in your life to support the Feminist Majority Foundation.


BONUS: Join/Renew or Donate to TWM at the $50 level or higher between now and December 31,2011 and be entered to win a 7-night luxury stay at the Verandah Resort & Spa, Antigua! ($4200 VALUE)

Don't forget to check out another trip you can win, this one a romantic 7-night stay at Palm Island, The Grenadines. Make an offer or buy it now!

Politics Schmolitics 2012

Like many other Americans, I want to be more enthusiastic about the upcoming 2012 U.S. presidential election. I cannot muster enough enthusiasm at this time, because I am not happy with those who are currently taking the lead. Politics has always frustrated me, but I think I feel it now more than ever because of how our economy continues to suffer, and will apparently continue to do so for a few more years, at least. Major reforms, from global to local private and public entities to prevent similar economic downfalls, have yet to be implemented in most cases. Apparently the recession is over, but I have heard and can feel for myself that we as a country are still struggling, and may never be the same again. How do I get myself excited for the national race if both candidates leave a less than stellar impression on me?

I think one way to start is to look beyond the two candidates from the two main political parties to recognize and research those lesser known or completely unknown people who are running for public office. I would like to think that one day, we as a nation would elect someone as president who is not a Democrat or a Republican in our lifetimes. I wish it could be easier to learn more about lesser known candidates, so we can know as much as we can about those running for office from their records, apart from meeting them in person. All of my other suggestions have to do with taking initiative, and for it not to be overwhelming to do so.

I hope The Women’s Mosaic will host another Politics Schmolitics event to mark the 2012 races. It would be a great way to engage those interested in learning more and to possibly be more active in public life themselves. I also love the name "Politics Schmolitics," and would love to be a part of a new TWM event with that same name again.

What are your thoughts on politics?

Holiday Cheer ... And Shopping!

The holiday season is upon us and that means it's time for another great TWM Holiday Bazaar!


TWM's Virtual Holiday Bazaar is a great way to find out about local, women-owned, conscious/green, and other small businesses that support TWM now and all year long!


This is the first blast of the bazaar so please let us know if you or someone you know has a fabulous product or service that should be included to share with our targeted audience throughout the month of December!


Contact us for more info on how to participate!

Find Your Vision

You've been asking about the next Visioning Workshop, and we've got answers for you. Get the details for TWM's next workshop in just a few weeks and reserve your spot today.

VISIONING WORKSHOP: Using Your Creativity and Intuition to Gain Clarity, Find Focus and Manifest Your Dreams
Saturday, September 24th, 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Feeling a little confused with all that's going on with your career and the economy? Not sure what to do next with your life? Maybe your just a bit unsatisfied overall but can't exactly pinpoint what it is...

Our Visioning Workshop can help you sort it all out!

Come to our popular and powerful semi-annual workshop for a creative, transformative afternoon where you will make a collage to manifest your heart's desire - and you may be surprised as to what that turns out to be.

It's not unusual for participants to start new businesses, relationships, families or career paths as quickly as weeks or months after the workshop. If you are looking for both answers and results to help figure out where you are right now in your life and where you want to go next, this could be thing exact thing you need to push you forward and take you there.

COST: $85 for TWM Members*; $135 for Non-Members
*TWM Members can bring a friend at the member rate!
LOCATION: TRS Professional Suites, 44 East 32nd St, 11th Floor

RSVP on Facebook or by emailing sally@thewomensmosaic.org

CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS

TWM Turns 10... in Style!

We're going from one event to another here at CHICKS ROCK! Thanks so much for supporting TWM's World of Wellness -- we hope you got a lot out of it. Now we're moving on to the major event of the summer: TWM's 10th Anniversary Fundraiser! Check out the details below and be sure to RSVP today.

TWM's 10th Anniversary Moroccan Magic Fundraiser!
Tuesday, July 26 · 6:30pm - 9:00pm

Come on out for an evening to celebrate a decade of TWM's work to educate, inspire and motivate women of every background to rise up and rock the world!

Mix and mingle with friends old and new while honoring the opportunities we've provided throughout the years for women to connect to themselves, each other and the world around them with programs that promote intercultural understanding and personal growth.

Held in a private room at the exotic Katra Lounge, the event includes your first drink, authentic cuisine and music, a belly dance lesson, silent auction and more! Moroccan or Middle Eastern-inspired/Festive attire suggested.

Cost: $65.00 in advance; $75.00 at the door (cash or check only)

Location: Katra Lounge, 217 Bowery Street (at Rivington)

RSVP on Facebook, Meetup, or email sally@thewomensmosaic.org

There's Still Time

TWM's World of Wellness is in full swing. There's still time to become a sponsor and be featured in the weekly blasts. Plus, you get to reach even more people by writing a guest post for CHICKS ROCK!

Check out last week's email blast and get in touch with us today to join in on the fun!

Another World of Wellness!

Two years ago, TWM held their Focus on Fitness and Health with three live events, and last year they took the celebration online with World of Wellness. It was such a success, that it's back again this year from May 25 - June 22. Check out the details below:

This year's event includes:
*Virtual Health Fair of five blasts beginning 5/25 (plus up to 2 additional dedicated blasts depending on sponsor level)
*Screen Shot and Link to Video – your own personal commercial/demo clip!(YouTube, Vimeo or Blip.tv)
*Dedicated week of guest posts about health and fitness on our blog CHICKS ROCK!,
*TWM World of Wellness Resource Guide to be distributed online to our membership and in print where possible.
*Passport to Wellness Coupon Blast

Benefits to your business include:
*exposure of your business to over 5000+ women and men
*opportunity to educate women about the variety of ways to live a healthy life
*demonstrate support for and be associated with a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering women

Sponsorship investment ranges from $55 to $500. For more information and to request a registration form, send an email to info@thewomensmosaic.org