Women's conference focuses on how to run a business

Since she was a child, Clara Thomas has found herself immersed in the sights and smells of the kitchen.

Always challenging herself with difficult recipes like cheese cake, Thomas knew she wanted to cook her entire life. With the cooking industry always being a part of her family, Thomas said she knew she had to chase after her dreams.

"I've been cooking since I was 12 and I love seeing people eat my food when I cook. That's my love language, it's cooking," Thomas said.

Owner of Mama's Hands Food Truck, Thomas shared her entrepreneurial story Friday at the New Mexico Commission on the Status of Women and the Small Business Development Center, which hosted a Listening & Tour event at Clovis Community College.

The event served to bolster local New Mexico women to find their place within the workforce.

Focus of the gathering: What does it take to run a business?

Panelist and owner of The Embassy Warehouse Venue Rhonda Bargman said it only takes three main components -- passion, patience and support from the community.

"With women, if we network together and we mentor each other we can develop everlasting relationships. You know, develop the relationships with the people around you and take advantage of the resources that you have," Bargman said.

Owner of Forever Blooms in Clovis, Sharla McDonald Sharbutt said it is also important to figure out a work/life balance. Despite your responsibilities as a business owner, McDonald Sharbutt said you always want to remember who or what you're doing this for.

"My family always comes first; my daughter is No. 1 through everything. ... It's a little more challenging, but I've learned as long as my home life is in check and in balance then my work life tends to be," she said.

Executive Director Jenifer Getz said the goal of the Commission on the Status of Women is to assist women within politics, business, finance and in healing from sexual abuse. Getz said the Commission strives to bring a future where women will not face discrimination within the work force and get equal benefits.

In 2021, the NM Commission conducted a survey over six regions within the state. Getz said the survey revealed women are mainly affected by economic security. She said in a 2023 study it showed that 50% of working-age women in New Mexico are not in the workforce.

Though the pandemic played a big role in the percentage, Getz said many women were not able to find their way back to the workforce and economic security for their families due to some barriers.

Also on Friday, attendees were able to learn about local resources that can assist them in the entrepreneurial career such as Clovis/Curry County Chamber of Commerce, SBDC, Main Street and New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions.

Guests were offered a myriad business strategies, employee look up and financial plans in starting their business. Getz also presented some legislation that has been passed to better educate women the rights they have within the workforce.