Julia Deaver: Winner of the 2024 Great Companies International Women Entrepreneur Award

Name: Julia Deaver

Business Name: Utah's 40 Over 40

Location: San Jose , USA

Establishment (Year): 2022

Category: Social Enterprise and NGO

Profession/ Specialty: Women Over 40 Empowerment

Website : https://utah40over40.com/

Social Media : LinkedIn

Company Detail:

Utah's 40 Over 40 stands as the sole award system of its kind, recognizing women over 40 who have made remarkable contributions to their communities and industries. Against the backdrop of Utah ranking 50th in the nation for women's equality and gender wage gap, their initiative takes on added significance, championing inclusivity and diversity. The annual awards ceremony and publication not only celebrate the achievements of these exceptional individuals but also serve as a platform for highlighting the importance of embracing talent and experience regardless of age or gender. Through Utah's 40 Over 40, the aim is to inspire positive change and foster a more inclusive and equitable society.

Unique Selling Proposition or Competitive Advantage:

What sets Utah's 40 Over 40 apart is its commitment to recognizing the often overlooked talent, wisdom, and experience found among older women. The ultimate goal is to dismantle sexism and ageism, creating a more equitable and inclusive society. Through the recognition program, they strive to challenge stereotypes and biases that marginalize individuals based on their age or gender. By celebrating the achievements of individuals over 40 and promoting their talents and contributions, they aim to break down barriers and foster a culture of respect, appreciation, and equal opportunity for all. The commitment to recognizing and honoring individuals regardless of age or gender is a crucial step towards achieving the vision of a world free from discrimination and prejudice.

People are drawn to the organization's product and service over others because of its dedication to inclusivity and diversity. In a society that often values youth over experience, they provide a refreshing perspective by highlighting the achievements of individuals regardless of age or gender. The recognition program resonates with those who value fairness, equity, and the celebration of lifelong accomplishments. Additionally, the mission to promote positive change and foster a more inclusive society appeals to individuals who seek to support organizations with a meaningful impact on their communities.

Challenges Faced During the Journey:

In response to the question about the struggles and challenges faced, Julia Deaver can attest to overcoming numerous obstacles on her journey to where she is today. As a recently divorced mother of three, she's navigated the complexities and messiness life sometimes offers while balancing family responsibilities in pursuing her entrepreneurial aspirations. Additionally, she's confronted past experiences of sexual abuse and battled with dyslexia, which presented significant hurdles in her learning path. However, through sheer determination and resilience, she's managed to overcome these challenges. Her journey has been marked by unwavering strength and perseverance, enabling her to rise above adversity and achieve her goals and dreams. Each obstacle encountered has only fueled her determination to succeed, and she's proud of the progress made despite the challenges faced.

Supporting other women who have faced even greater challenges than herself has become her greatest calling in both life and work. She's discovered profound fulfillment in honoring those individuals who are making significant impacts and driving positive change despite facing immense adversity. By lending her support, empathy, and resources to these remarkable women, she not only uplifts their spirits but also contributes to the collective empowerment of women everywhere. Witnessing their resilience, determination, and triumphs inspires her to continue her efforts in championing their causes and amplifying their voices. In doing so, she finds purpose and meaning in her journey, knowing that she's part of a larger movement toward equality, justice, and empowerment for all women.

Advice for Women Entrepreneurs:

For young women aspiring to become entrepreneurs or already pursuing their entrepreneurial dreams, the emphasis is on the importance of resilience, determination, and unwavering belief in oneself. It's crucial never to give up, even when faced with obstacles or setbacks along the way. Cultivating a burning drive to succeed and a passion for one's endeavors is key to overcoming challenges and achieving goals. Believing wholeheartedly in what they're doing, perhaps even more than anyone else, fuels the motivation to persevere through the toughest times. And equally important is sharing their story with the world. By articulating the vision, mission, and impact of their endeavors, they have the power to inspire change, make a difference, and leave a lasting legacy. So, to all young women entrepreneurs, the advice is to embrace their journey with courage, tenacity, and conviction, and never underestimate the transformative power of their own story.