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Happy Hour: Messy Journeys Built with Purpose

Welcome to August Brook's First Networking Event!

We're excited to be sharing more about what we do, connecting you with other like minded individuals and hearing actual real and raw stories from those who have / are in your position as a leader and founder.

What exactly are you getting into? Here’s a sneak peek of what we have lined up:

​✨ The Real Side of Entrepreneurship: Our featured speakers are diving into the raw, messy, and beautiful reality of building a business. Whether you’re in the early startup stage or just have a spark of an idea to start your own space, this is for you.

​🌱 The Story of August Brook: Founder, Michelle will be pulling back the curtain on her own 7 years of experience running a non-profit, and exactly why August Brook exists to support journeys just like yours.

​🤝 Genuine Connections: We’re creating a genuinely safe, welcoming environment to network. Come as you are, meet your next collaborator, or just find comfort in a room full of people who "get it."

RSVP today! Limited capacity due to space for this event. We hope to see you there!

Our website: www.augustbrook.com // @augustbrookco

Meet Our Speakers! P.S You’ll also hear from our Founder, Michelle!

Lisa Cheng, Founder and Executive Director at ProjectEmpowerHER + Co-Founder at Asian Mental Health Collective

Lisa Cheng, LMSW, is a nonprofit founder, pageant queen, athlete, and lifelong advocate for Asian American women. She earned her Master of Social Work from the University of Chicago and has dedicated her career to breaking barriers in mental health access and representation. As Cofounder of the Asian Mental Health Collective, Lisa helped build one of the largest global communities for Asian mental health. She is also the CEO and Founder of Project EmpowerHER, the first Asian women’s leadership initiative of its kind, blending mentorship, innovation, and advocacy to inspire the next generation of leaders.

Having launched not one, but two groundbreaking initiatives to serve the Asian American community, Lisa’s mission is clear: to break barriers, uplift women, and create a world where every voice has the power to shine. At her core, Lisa is passionate about helping others step into their power—because she believes that when one woman rises, the whole community rises with her.

Jana Paranyo, Founder at Lago Farm and Blank Space Studio

Jan Parayno is the founder of Blank Space Studio and Lago Farm, where she’s building multiple businesses while balancing a full time corporate career. With over four years of experience in marketing and advertising, she’s passionate about building brands, creating meaningful communities, and helping businesses grow. She believes success isn’t about having everything figured out, it’s about starting before you’re ready, staying consistent, and growing through the messy middle.