Business Archives - Excellence Insider

The 2nd Annual Childcare & Family Legacy Conference Brings Education, Recognition, and Community to Richmond

by excellenceinsider on September 22, 2026

RICHMOND, VA — The 2nd Annual Childcare & Family Legacy Conference and Awards Ceremony will bring together parents, childcare professionals, educators, business owners, and community leaders for two days of education, connection, and celebration. The event will take place September 25–26, 2026, at 3030 The Venue, located at 8257 Hull Street Road in Richmond, Virginia.

Founded and hosted by Dr. DeShonda Jennings, the conference was created to honor the people who play an important role in the growth and development of children. As a mother of seven and a passionate advocate for children and families, Dr. Jennings understands the value of strong partnerships between parents, educators, and childcare professionals.

Through this annual event, Dr. Jennings is building a community where childcare leaders and families can receive practical resources, form meaningful connections, and be recognized for the work they do every day.

This year’s conference will feature an impressive group of keynote speakers, panelists, and special guests who will share their knowledge and experiences with attendees.

The featured keynote speakers include:

Taurea Vision Avant
Yolanda T. Richey
Inga Nykole
Lajoyce Lewis
Tiffany Johnson

Conference panelists include:

Toni Brown
Roseanne Hinch
Catherine Tellado
Dr. Tina Ramsay

The event will also recognize Cynthia Williams-Bey as a featured honoree.

Throughout the conference, attendees will participate in sessions focused on topics that directly affect children, families, and childcare businesses. Topics will include building stronger partnerships between parents and professionals, raising resilient children, improving family engagement, understanding financial literacy, developing effective leadership skills, and preparing for future changes in the childcare industry.

The conference begins on Friday, September 25, with an exclusive VIP dinner and networking experience. On Saturday, September 26, attendees will enjoy a full day of educational sessions, panel discussions, networking, vendor shopping, raffles, recognition, and the awards ceremony.

A major part of the event is the celebration of individuals who are making a difference in the lives of children and families. Awards will recognize excellence among parents, family day home professionals, childcare center leaders, educators, teachers, childcare professionals, and homeschool educators.

Award categories include Parent of the Year, Family Day Home Leadership, Child Day Center Excellence, Religious Exemption Leadership, Pre-K Teacher of the Year, Early Childhood Educator of the Year, Childcare Professional of the Year, Homeschool Educator of the Year, Infant Teacher of the Year, Toddler Teacher of the Year, and Voluntary Registration Excellence.

More than an industry event, the Childcare & Family Legacy Conference is designed to strengthen the full community surrounding a child. Parents and caregivers can discover new resources, while childcare professionals can learn strategies to improve their programs, strengthen their teams, and better serve families. Educators, nonprofit leaders, mentors, vendors, and community advocates will also have opportunities to develop partnerships and expand their impact.

Under the leadership of Dr. DeShonda Jennings, the conference continues to shine a light on the people whose daily work often goes unseen. By bringing education and recognition together, the event reminds attendees that supporting children requires a united effort from families, professionals, educators, and the community.

The 2nd Annual Childcare & Family Legacy Conference and Awards Ceremony will take place Friday, September 25, and Saturday, September 26, 2026, in Richmond, Virginia.

To purchase tickets, explore sponsorship opportunities, or learn more about the speakers and conference, visit childcareconference.org.

Business Tech

How Enzo Carpanetti Uses Panama as a Base for Global Infrastructure Work

by Excellence Insider Staff on May 2, 2026

A hands on approach in Panama City allows Enzo Carpanetti to find the ground truth needed for faster decision making and building team trust

Enzo Carpanetti speaks more than five languages, and he treats that fact less like a credential and more like a working tool. For someone whose job involves moving between OECD economies and emerging markets, the ability to switch registers mid-meeting matters. It means walking into a meeting on a different continent and reading what’s actually being said, not just what’s being translated.

That cross-cultural fluency is the spine of how Enzo Carpanetti runs his work. With Panama among the markets he works across, he’s built a career around the idea that infrastructure decisions can’t be made from a desk thousands of miles away. The deals he works on, energy systems, transport networks, automation rollouts, large-scale digital transformation, all carry consequences for people who never sit in any boardroom. So he goes to where the work lands.

Panama, for Enzo Carpanetti, isn’t just a stop on the map. It’s part of a wider operating footprint that reaches across continents. From his work in emerging markets, he runs strategic projects tied to what he’s called the “mega forces” shaping 2026: AI adoption, the shift toward a low-carbon economy, and the wave of private capital flowing into emerging-market infrastructure.

His background helps. Carpanetti’s training mixes electromechanical engineering with artificial intelligence, strategic management, and finance, which is an unusual combination but a useful one when you’re investing in something like an intelligent transport network or a digitally enhanced grid. It’s the kind of background that lets him follow the engineering conversation rather than nodding through it, which matters when the work shifts from boardroom strategy to actual execution.

The languages came partly from work and partly from genuine curiosity. Carpanetti has talked about treating business travel as something more than logistics. When he’s in a country, he wants to actually be in it, engaging with the culture and the local community, paying attention to how things function on the ground. It’s a habit that informs his investment decisions in ways spreadsheets can’t.

What this looks like in practice is a leadership style built around adaptability. Enzo Carpanetti tends to push for local context in deals where the easy move would be to drop in a template. Treating regional differences seriously, rather than smoothing them over, tends to produce infrastructure that holds up over time. That’s the through-line in how he describes his work, whether the project is energy, transport, or digital.

That long-term lens is something he comes back to often. Carpanetti has said his philosophy centers on helping the people around him, his teams, his partners, the communities his projects touch, “shine brighter.” Treating long-term value creation as the actual goal, rather than something to gesture at in a deck, is the practical version of that philosophy. In emerging markets, where infrastructure can either lift a region or hollow it out, that distinction matters.

Right now, Enzo Carpanetti is focused on the AI side of infrastructure investment, which he frames less as a replacement for human work and more as a catalyst for it. Across his work in Panama and other emerging markets, he’s working on what comes next for digital and physical systems that have to talk to each other, and on the people building them.

You can read more about his work at enzocarpanetti.com, on LinkedIn, and on X.

Business

Why Amazon Sellers Turn to aSellingSecrets After Suspension

by Excellence Insider Staff on December 26, 2025

Amazon suspensions affect sellers at every level, from new accounts to established businesses generating significant revenue. When access to Seller Central is suddenly restricted, many sellers struggle to navigate Amazon’s complex reinstatement requirements on their own. aSellingSecrets has become a trusted solution for sellers seeking experienced support during this critical moment.

One of the main reasons sellers turn to aSellingSecrets is the agency’s specialization and success rate of 97% with +3000 Amazon Seller Accounts Reinstated. Rather than offering broad e-commerce services, the team focuses heavily on Amazon account reinstatement. This specialization allows them to stay current with Amazon’s policy updates, enforcement trends, and internal review behaviors, which change frequently.

Sellers often arrive after attempting reinstatement on their own or working with agencies that relied on generic appeal templates. aSellingSecrets takes a different approach by treating each suspension as a unique case. The team examines operational processes, supplier documentation, listing compliance, and account performance to build a strategy that directly addresses Amazon’s concerns.

Another key factor is credibility. Amazon reviewers look for clear signs that a seller understands what went wrong and has taken concrete steps to prevent future violations. aSellingSecrets helps sellers implement operational improvements that can be documented and presented as part of the reinstatement strategy. This goes beyond written appeals and focuses on real corrective action.

The agency’s access to professional attorneys in both the U.S. and EU adds another layer of confidence for sellers facing complex suspensions. Legal insight helps ensure that responses are not only compliant with Amazon policies, but also aligned with regional regulations and documentation standards.

Communication also plays a major role. Sellers working with aSellingSecrets receive honest updates about progress, timelines, and next steps. While reinstatement is never guaranteed, transparency helps sellers make informed decisions and reduces uncertainty during the process.

By combining specialization, strategic planning, and professional expertise, aSellingSecrets has earned its reputation among Amazon sellers worldwide. For businesses facing suspension, the agency offers a structured path forward, one built on experience, accountability, and a clear understanding of Amazon’s expectations.

(888) 503-1388
customercare@asellingsecrets.com
business@asellingsecrets.com
www.asellingsecrets.com

Business

Alfonsina Eyang makes history again, becoming the first Guinean woman in the world to be a finalist for the Best CEO Awards – 2025 Edition (Europe)

by Excellence Insider Staff on November 28, 2025

At 23 years old, the young entrepreneur Alfonsina Eyang, CEO and founder of EwomanSkin, has reached the finals of the prestigious Best CEO Awards – 2025 Edition (Europe). This year, Eyang has been selected in the Beauty sector, where she will compete alongside other prominent entrepreneurs and industry leaders.

The gala will be held this November at the Four Seasons Hotel in Madrid, a five-star hotel and one of the most exclusive and prestigious establishments in Spain and Europe.

Her nomination marks a milestone for Equatorial Guinea and a significant step forward in African representation within European business leadership.

Each year, the Best CEO Awards select just 30 entrepreneurs and executives across Europe considered the most innovative, influential, and transformative on the continent. Being part of this select group positions Eyang among the young leaders with the greatest international potential.

“This recognition represents another step towards increasing the visibility of young African women in spaces where we are still very few. I encourage all women to continue pursuing their goals, to work for their dreams, and to increasingly occupy positions of leadership and recognition in the world.

I hope my father, from heaven, is proud of me. He is my role model and my guide on this path, as is my mother.”

Since its inception, EwomanSkin has positioned itself as a pioneering brand in Africa and one of the few in the world dedicated exclusively to creating products to eliminate skin blemishes using natural and healthy ingredients. Its approach combines science, sustainability, and conscious beauty, which has fueled rapid growth and international impact.

The ceremony will bring together business leaders from across Europe in Madrid for an evening that promises to solidify its place as one of the most prestigious corporate events of the year.

Business

From Tech to Entrepreneur, the Woman Behind a Brand Teaching Boys Confidence, Style, and Class

by Excellence Insider Staff on October 30, 2025

Marlene Okojie, Founder / Le Petit Gentleman

How Marlene Okojie turned faith, vision, and purpose into a global movement empowering young boys to walk in confidence and excellence, one suit at a time.

Marlene Okojie didn’t set out to become a fashion entrepreneur. She was thriving in STEM, building a career that checked all the traditional boxes. But somewhere between spreadsheets and systems engineering, she felt something stirring, a calling that had nothing to do with code and everything to do with culture, identity, and the next generation. That’s when Le Petit Gentleman was born.

Le Petit Gentleman isn’t your average children’s clothing line. It’s a luxury brand specializing in high-quality suits and formal wear for boys, but what Marlene’s really selling is confidence. Each piece is designed to make young boys feel seen, celebrated, and ready to step into their greatness. “Every suit carries a message,” Marlene says. “It’s about identity, pride, and possibility. Our sons are kings, and they should walk like it.”

What makes Marlene’s story compelling isn’t just the leap she took from STEM to fashion. It’s the faith that fueled it. As a Congolese-American woman juggling motherhood, a full-time career, and a growing business, she built Le Petit Gentleman from scratch with no industry connections or startup capital. Just vision, discipline, and a deep belief that when you partner with God, nothing’s impossible.

“I want women, especially mothers and dreamers, to know that purpose doesn’t have an expiration date,” Marlene explains. “You don’t need privilege to create impact. You need faith, intention, and a willingness to start where you are.” That grounded optimism runs through everything she does, whether she’s designing a showstopping suit or mentoring other entrepreneurs.

The brand has grown into something far bigger than she imagined. Le Petit Gentleman now ships worldwide, dressing little gentlemen for weddings, graduations, and milestone moments across continents. But Marlene’s not stopping at fashion. She’s pushing Le Petit Gentleman into new territory: mentorship programs, philanthropy, and global empowerment initiatives that give young boys and women the tools to lead with intention. There are international features in the works, collaborations that celebrate diversity and innovation in children’s fashion, and projects that all circle back to one core mission. “I want to make confidence, excellence, and purpose contagious,” she says. “Most importantly, to partner with God to do the impossible.”

The heart behind the work is what stands out. This isn’t about trends or clout. “We’re reshaping the way we see and celebrate young boys,” she says. “Confidence and leadership start early.” Every stitch, every design choice reflects that mission: clothing as empowerment, not just decoration.

Even as the brand scales, Marlene Okojie stays rooted in what got her here. “Success isn’t just about building something great,” she reflects. “It’s about becoming who God designed you to be in the process.”

For Marlene, it all comes back to the mission. Every suit, every collaboration, every expansion is about building a global movement that teaches young boys to walk in confidence and excellence. But her message reaches beyond the brand. For anyone doubting whether their dreams are too big or too late, Marlene’s journey proves that faith and vision can turn the smallest idea into worldwide impact. Your beginning doesn’t determine your ending. And when you’re willing to do the work, trust the process, and partner with purpose, there’s no ceiling on what you can create.

Learn more about Le Petit Gentleman on their website, follow the brand on Instagram, or reach out directly at info@lepetitgentleman.com.

Business

Forgiveness and Freedom: Wanda Pearson’s Bold Mission to Empower Entrepreneurs

by Excellence Insider Staff on October 30, 2025

Meet Wanda Pearson: Strategist, Speaker, and Servant Leader

Wanda Pearson is a powerhouse in the entrepreneurial world, known for her unwavering commitment to empowering others through knowledge, faith, and strategic action. With a career spanning decades, she has cultivated a legacy rooted in excellence, service, and transformation. As the founder of WD Pearson Associates, Wanda leads a multifaceted firm that offers coaching, legal consulting, and strategic planning to small businesses and rising entrepreneurs. Her mission is clear: to equip others with the tools, mindset, and legal protection necessary to build sustainable, purpose-driven ventures.

In addition to her work as a coach and consultant, Wanda serves as Director with LegalShield, a platform offering affordable legal services to businesses and families. Through this role, she helps clients safeguard their legacies while navigating life’s complexities with confidence and clarity.

But Wanda’s leadership doesn’t stop at business—it extends into authorship. She is a published author of three books, each offering heartfelt wisdom and practical guidance. Her newest book, Forgiveness – Walking in Freedom Through God’s Grace, reveals a deeper layer of her mission: to help people break free from emotional and spiritual bondage so they can thrive in every area of life. This dual focus on inner healing and external success sets Wanda apart as a unique force in both personal and professional development.

Her life’s work is a living testament to the belief that true freedom is both strategic and spiritual. Wanda Pearson is not only a mentor and businesswoman—she is a legacy builder who teaches others to lead with integrity, heal through grace, and rise in purpose.

A New Chapter: Releasing Forgiveness to Embrace Freedom

In the past three months, Wanda Pearson has experienced a profound evolution—not just professionally, but spiritually. The release of her newest book, Forgiveness – Walking in Freedom Through God’s Grace, marks a deeply personal milestone in her journey. This book, born from reflection, faith, and years of life experience, challenges readers to confront the weight of unforgiveness and embrace the healing power of grace.

“Forgiveness is not just about letting go of what hurt us,” Wanda shares. “It’s about reclaiming our power and stepping into the future with peace and purpose.” Through powerful storytelling, Scripture, and practical steps, she leads readers on a path toward emotional freedom and spiritual clarity.

The book resonates with anyone who has wrestled with betrayal, disappointment, or self-doubt. It encourages people to stop carrying what no longer serves them and to rise as whole, healed individuals. Wanda believes that true success in life and business begins with the heart—and this book is her invitation to begin the healing process.

With this latest work, she continues to impact lives across personal and professional spaces, offering hope, encouragement, and a blueprint for those ready to walk in God’s grace.

Upcoming Opportunities to Learn and Grow with Wanda

Wanda Pearson’s calendar remains full as she continues to empower entrepreneurs and community members across platforms. In the coming months, she will be a featured speaker at two major events that align perfectly with her mission of education, empowerment, and legacy-building.

First, she will be speaking at a LegalShield Briefing, where she’ll share insights on the importance of accessible legal services and how LegalShield helps individuals and business owners protect what matters most. “Legal protection shouldn’t be a luxury,” Wanda says. “It’s a necessity—and I want to make sure every family and entrepreneur has access to that security.”

Next, she’s set to take the stage at a Small Business Seminar hosted by the League of Girlfriends, a dynamic network of women leaders and changemakers. This event will give attendees the opportunity to hear Wanda’s expertise on business planning, legacy building, and navigating entrepreneurship with faith and strategy. She’ll also highlight the emotional resilience needed to thrive, tying in themes from her newest book.

Both events are excellent opportunities to experience Wanda’s unique blend of spiritual encouragement and real-world business insight. For event dates and registration information, visit her website: www.wdpearsonassociates.com.

Contact Information

Email: wanda@wdpearsonassociates.com
Website: www.wdpearsonassociates.com
Facebook: facebook.com/wdpearsonassociates
Instagram: @wpearson2
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/wanda-m-pearson-4062a33b/

Business

From Purpose to Profit: How Dr. Rasheda Jackson Empowers Entrepreneurs

by Excellence Insider Staff on October 30, 2025

Dr. Rasheda M. Jackson, the 2025 Ms. Woman Entrepreneur International, is a celebrated entrepreneur, award-winning author, and global speaker who embodies excellence in business and leadership. As the Founder and Owner of RJ Enterprises, she has built a legacy that stretches across industries and communities. Her flagship company, Be Free Tax and Business Consulting, has stood strong for 16 years, helping countless individuals and businesses gain clarity, structure, and financial freedom. Beyond her own ventures, she also serves as Vice President of Operations for a multimillion-dollar brand, cementing her place among the elite ranks of African American female executives.

Her entrepreneurial journey has always been deeply rooted in purpose. She has made it her mission to create opportunities for single parents, veterans, and individuals seeking second chances to reclaim their independence and rewrite their narratives. Dr. Jackson has not only built businesses, but she has also built pathways to dignity, empowerment, and legacy.

In addition to her work as a powerhouse entrepreneur, Dr. Jackson is a prolific author with over 11 books, 8 e-books, and 2 anthologies. Her most notable works include Empowered by His Purpose and What to Do While You Wait, books that have inspired thousands worldwide. Her latest addition, 10 Steps to Building a Business that Works, reflects her practical, purpose-driven approach to entrepreneurship and also serves as a foundation for her upcoming coaching series and wellness retreat.

Her impact has been highlighted in several national and international publications, including Voyage Miami, Inspire Magazine, Unique Access, Canvas Rebel, Disrupt Weekly, Hustle Informer, and Forbes iTips. She has built her reputation not only on success but on service—mentoring women, inspiring leaders, and empowering communities to dream bigger and achieve more.

Outside of the boardroom and stage, Dr. Jackson cherishes her role as a devoted mother and grandmother. Family remains at the heart of everything she does, grounding her passion for creating opportunities that allow others to balance professional success with personal fulfillment. Whether through business, books, or speaking engagements, Dr. Rasheda M. Jackson is a beacon of resilience, faith, and determination—an entrepreneur who continues to redefine what it means to lead with both purpose and power.

Building Businesses with Purpose

What makes my company unique is the “why” behind it. I didn’t start it just to create another business; I started it to create opportunities. I wanted to design home-based business models that gave single parents, veterans, and people who needed a second chance the ability to earn income, regain confidence, and build a future on their own terms.

As a single parent or veteran, or even someone starting over after setbacks, the traditional workplace can often feel rigid, unforgiving, and even out of reach. I knew that if I could build a system that brought business opportunities into the home, I could give people the flexibility to care for their families, adjust to civilian life, or rebuild their lives without sacrificing financial stability.

That’s what sets my company apart—it’s not just about profit, it’s about purpose. Every opportunity we create is designed to remove barriers and give people access to entrepreneurship who may never have believed it was possible for them.

For me, success isn’t measured just by numbers, but by impact: the single parent who can be present with their kids while still contributing financially, the veteran who finds a new sense of mission outside of service, or the individual who turns a second chance into a brand-new chapter.

So, what makes my company unique is simple—it’s about more than building businesses. It’s about building freedom, dignity, and hope for people who are often overlooked.

Standing Out in a Crowded Marketplace

What sets my brand apart in the competitive world of consulting and taxes is the purpose and passion behind what I do. I didn’t build my business just to crunch numbers or offer cookie-cutter advice—I built it to create opportunities and empower people who are often overlooked.

My company was designed to give single parents, veterans, and individuals who need a second chance the ability to build financial stability and confidence through home-based business opportunities. That mission flows into the way I serve every client: I’m not just preparing taxes or consulting on systems, I’m helping people understand their finances, structure their businesses, and create lasting strategies they can actually use.

Another way I stand out is in how I merge my corporate background with my entrepreneurial journey. I know how to bring big-business discipline and systems into small business spaces, while still keeping things flexible, personal, and relatable. My clients don’t just get a consultant—they get a partner who meets them where they are and helps them grow beyond where they thought they could go.

Finally, my approach is service-first. I care deeply about making sure clients feel seen, heard, and supported. I want them to walk away not just with answers, but with clarity, confidence, and the tools to take ownership of their success.

So, while consulting and tax services may be crowded industries, I differentiate myself by combining purpose, education, and empowerment. For me, it’s not about transactions—it’s about transformation through education.

Scaling with Intention

When I think about scaling my business, I focus on five key strategies that allow me to grow without losing the purpose behind what I do.

First, I productize my expertise. Instead of only trading time for money, I package what I know into courses, templates, or toolkits that entrepreneurs can use anytime. That way, I multiply my impact and create new revenue streams.

Second, I build a signature program. A group coaching program or membership community allows me to serve more people at once while also creating recurring income. It supports entrepreneurs long-term without being limited by one-on-one capacity.

Third, I automate and systematize. By creating systems and automating things like client onboarding, scheduling, and reminders, I free up my time to focus on strategy and growth instead of being stuck in the weeds.

Fourth, I hire and partner strategically. I can’t scale alone. Bringing in the right people—junior consultants, admin support, or tax specialists—helps expand my reach. Partnering with organizations that serve single parents, veterans, or second-chance seekers also helps me connect with those my business was designed for.

Fifth, I expand thought leadership. By sharing my story and expertise on podcasts, in the media, or on stage, I position myself as the go-to voice for service-based entrepreneurs. Visibility brings in new clients, opportunities, and greater impact.

For me, scaling isn’t just about getting bigger—it’s about creating systems, programs, and opportunities that allow me to serve more people, while staying true to the mission that inspired me to start. Profits are the by-product.

Staying Ahead Through Innovation

I stay innovative and adaptable by making learning a daily habit. I’m always reading, staying on top of industry changes, and experimenting with new technologies that can improve how I serve clients. For me, innovation isn’t just about chasing the latest trend—it’s about finding practical tools and strategies that make life easier for the people I work with.

Part of staying ahead also means being willing to try, test, and adjust. I’m not afraid to explore new systems or approaches if they can bring more efficiency, clarity, or value to my clients. That curiosity helps me adapt quickly and keeps my business moving forward, even when the industry shifts.

Another advantage I have is the support of BPC, which plays a big role in keeping me sharp. BPC provides innovative systems, resources, and ongoing education that not only help me grow but also allow me to pass that knowledge on to my members and clients. By staying plugged into those tools and training, I can make sure the people I serve are also staying ahead of the curve.

Ultimately, I see innovation as part of my responsibility. My clients depend on me not just to solve today’s challenges, but to anticipate tomorrow’s opportunities. By constantly learning, leaning into technology, and leveraging the education and systems Book Profits Club provides, I’m able to adapt with confidence and help others do the same.

Recent Milestones Worth Celebrating

In the last three months, I worked to niche down my business. I met with my team and created a niche strategy for each of them that allows us to better serve clients. Now, we can refer to each other based on specialized expertise. The result has been more organization, smoother collaboration, and stronger results for our clients. I’m looking forward to even more favorable outcomes as this approach continues to unfold.

Another exciting milestone was completing my 12th book, 10 Steps to Building a Business that Works. This workbook will not only guide entrepreneurs but will also serve as the foundation for my next coaching series. Additionally, it will be the catapult for a wellness and working retreat I plan to launch in 2026. This dual purpose makes it one of the most exciting projects I’ve worked on recently, because it ties together my passion for education, empowerment, and holistic growth.

Looking Ahead with Vision

In the coming months, I will introduce my community to Uncommon Alignment: Strategy, Structure and Scripture for the Next Decade. This will be an in-person event designed to merge marketplace knowledge with ministry insight, equipping leaders for long-term impact. The workshops will begin in October and run quarterly throughout 2026. For more details, visit bit.ly/UncommonSSS.

Contact Information

Email: drrasheda@iamrasheda.com
Websites: www.befreetax.com and www.iamrasheda.com
Facebook: facebook.com/befreetax
Instagram: @befreetax
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/DrRashedaJackson

Business World

Harbor Current Foundation Inc. Tackles the Pollution Problem Nobody Talks About

by Excellence Insider Staff on October 9, 2025

Sometimes the biggest environmental problems are the ones right in front of us that we’ve learned to ignore. You drive past the harbor, maybe grab lunch by the water, watch the ferries come and go. The low rumble of diesel engines becomes background noise. The faint smell of exhaust just part of the waterfront experience.

But here’s what most people don’t know: those boats are pumping out pollution at rates that would shock anyone who actually looked at the numbers.

Maria Andrade looked at the numbers. After spending more than twenty years raising five children and working as a licensed real estate professional, she did something unexpected. She founded Harbor Current Foundation Inc. with one clear mission: replace diesel-powered harbor vessels with electric alternatives.

Not someday. Now.

“The time is now and the solutions are here to make the difference,” Andrade says. She’s not theorizing or planning. She’s asking for $10 million to put electric ferries and water taxis on the water in four major cities: Miami, Annapolis, Charleston, and Boston.