August is Black Business Month and we’d like to introduce you to our member, Westbridge Solutions CEO Berthine Crèvecoeur West. To learn more about this business, visit https://westgrouptraining.com/.
What inspired you to begin your business?
I was inspired to start my business because I saw the need for connecting people to solutions, resources and processes. By making these connections, Westbridge Solutions has been able to empower individuals, teams and companies to achieve organizational actualization, an engaged workforce who show up as their authentic selves and a renewed commitment to their companies’ vision and mission.
Who was your first client?
My first client was Emory University School of Medicine.
Where did you begin your business?
I began my business when I was an expectant mother, with an office in my basement. I served clients both internationally and domestically, all from that wonderful space. After two years, as my business grew domestically, it was time to set up our current office in Duluth. Our Duluth office allows us to add even more value to the work that we do. We are proud to serve individuals, teams and companies in-person training at our offices or onsite at their locations, as well as in the virtual space.
What piece of advice would you tell your self when you started out? Any success tips you want to share?
My best piece of advice for others when they are first starting out is to educate yourself on your intended market, empower yourself by having a good support system and deliver more value to your client than they ever expected. Set the standard high and your work will speak for itself.
What are you most proud of?
I am most proud of the relationships that I have helped people cultivate within their organizations. Helping them resolve conflicts by being a catalyst for change on the core competencies of planning and organization, cultural awareness and collaborative working. Engaged and happy employees show up as their authentic selves, with a greater commitment to their companies. Helping them achieve these goals makes me proud every day.
Anything else interesting that you want to share?
I love the work that I do! No two days are ever the same. Westbridge Solutions has grown and evolved in ways I could not have imagined 10 years ago. The reward is the hard work. Empowering people for success and helping them have difficult conversations to achieve their personal and professional goals in a way that is innovative, engaging and sustainable is the work that my team and I are blessed and grateful to do!