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READY, SET, GO...GLOBAL!

2011 has come in fast and furiously and is shaping up to be a spectacular year. By far, this will be our most global yet, and we’re only in the second quarter. If, like us, you’re looking for ways to expand your reach into emerging markets, read on about a must-attend event in Brazil this summer. In this issue, you'll also get to view images from Julian’s December trip to Dakar, Senegal for the World Festival of Black Arts & Cultures, as well as learn why it’s important to regularly evaluate and tweak your business strategy for long term success of your brand.

 

   
 
 
 
 


BUSINESS + GOLF + TROPICAL = BRAZIL!

Where can you gain access to 200 million consumers in the world's ninth largest economy (soon to be fifth), and the largest in Latin America? Where can you expand your business globally in a fun-filled, tropical setting? Brazil, of course! As the host of the 2014 FIFA World Cup and 2016 Summer Olympics, the country is already one of the most dynamic, emerging markets in the world. If you’re serious about networking with savvy executives and creating strategic partnerships in South America, then the 2011 International Networking Golf Event is for you.

Join us as we head south to Buzios, Brazil this summer from June 27 – July 3, 2011 as a proud sponsor of this groundbreaking event. Hosted by Grammont Worldwide LLC/Kerygma Eventos e Viagens at the beautiful Breezes Resort & Spa in Buzios, this extraordinary affair will pair CEO's and entrepreneurs from the around the world with Brazilian counterparts on one of the region's leading golf courses. This is a must-attend event if you want to:

  • Meet key members of Brazil's government and gain an edge on doing business in Brazil;
  • Position your business for rapid expansion over the next decade;
  • Explore opportunities to thrive in a sluggish domestic economy;
  • Learn how to effectively brand & market your business internationally;
  • Get a great tax write-off while doing business in a spectacular setting!

So practice that golf swing and register today for an opportunity to gain access to one of the best global markets for foreign investment and business development. Go to www.brazilgolfevent.com and get ready for a networking event like no other! Stay tuned for regular updates...



© Breezes Resorts





TAKING IT TO THE SOUTH...

We took our message to the Historically Black Colleges and University (HBCU) community this March as a participant in Alabama State University’s First Annual HBCU Conference. Sponsored by DST Incorporated, this power-packed conference, provided an opportunity for HBCU’s and small businesses to learn how to enhance competitiveness in today’s economy—particularly in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines.

As a featured speaker, VDG President & Creative Problem Solver, Julian Kiganda shared her winning recipe for building a dynamic brand. Starting with the key ingredients of: Vision, Passion, Purpose, Plan, and Unique Selling Proposition, she set the stage for entrepreneurs to make greatness their goal. Added to the buffet of strategies were what we call the other four P’s of marketing: People, Persistence, Passion, and Partners. Ultimately, branding is about creating a compelling vision, message, and customer experience. From your logo, and your web site, to your brochure and your phone greeting—every aspect impacts public perception. Contact us today to find out how we can help you enhance or create a dynamic brand for your business or organization. Read more about our services and download our latest promotional brochure.



A WIN FOR WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESSES

After hosting the center’s first workshop, we were invited to testify on behalf of the Rockville Women’s Business Center (RWBC) during a hearing with Montgomery County Executive Isaiah “Ike” Leggett in February. VDG's President joined an esteemed group of business leaders from the county, to share her personal experience on how she has benefited from the programs offered by women’s business centers in the metro region. The testimonials, combined with the hard work of the center’s leaders, helped to secure $15,000 in funding for the RWBC—a major win at a time when budgets are being cut. This is a great example of how you can leverage your brand to effect a positive outcome of a situation. Learn more about the RWBC.


 

ARTS, CULTURE & OPPORTUNITY

Although the World Festival of Black Arts and Culture—billed as the largest global gathering to date of black artists, writers, journalists, filmmakers, intellectuals, scientists, civil rights leaders, elected officials and youth leaders from around the world—was a celebration of the diverse cultures in Africa and its Diaspora, what was also prevalent was the opportunities that abound for businesses ready to take the leap into this market.
After being invited on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Dakar, Senegal with a high-powered U.S. Delegation including Dr. Johnetta B. Cole, Dr. Julius Garvey, John Franklin, Howard Dodson and many other luminaries, VDG’s President returned in December, excited about the emergence of Africa as a major player on the world stage.

With almost 1 billion consumers and the highest rate of return on investment of any region in the world, the African continent is the next frontier for global development and expansion; so take the time to learn about what could be a very profitable emerging market. Read the article about this historic trip here and see below for a look at some of the images of the opening ceremony, scenery, performances and visits with President Wade.





 



Consider this: Borders lost market share and has had to close down 30% of its stores because it was a late adopter to changing trends in book-buying. Barnes & Noble adapted and is still relevant among the many on-line and e-reader businesses that have emerged. Will your business or organization be like Borders or Barnes & Noble? Are you prepared to “adapt or die?” A business is like a living organism—constantly evolving and transforming. Take time to evaluate emerging trends that may impact your business and develop a strategy that ensures your brand remains relevant for the long term.





It has been said that those who survive this economy can survive anything.
You may have to revise your original plan, but if the vision is big enough,
then you’ll work through the challenges and come out on top
!




  Stay tuned to see who will be joining us in Brazil this summer...

 


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© 2011 Vibrant Design Group LLC